With attendance up nearly 40% over last year, this year’s Matco Tools Tool Expo was a high-energy, upbeat show.

Hot items on the show floor were Matco’s new ADV Impact Sockets. Matco reps said this is one of the broadest lines in the industry with many advantages over the competition.

"Matco’s ADV Impact Sockets were designed with professionals in mind," said John Green, vice president of marketing for Matco Tools. "This new line will help technicians work faster, make their jobs easier and will deliver the superior quality, durability and consistent performance that Matco tool users have come to expect." Click here for the Product Preview.

In diagnostic tool news, Matco has partnered with Innova to bring customers the Code Advisor line of on-board diagnostic tools. Offering a wide variety of features and functions, the Code Advisor line appeals to a broad range of automotive professionals — from the entry-level apprentice to the ASE-certified, seasoned veteran.

Attending the expo this year was Matco distributor Donald Oury from New Haven, IN. A former technician, Oury has been a distributor for about six months. “I really enjoy seeing all the new products (at Expo),” Oury said. Distributors received discounts when ordering at the show, “and I can pass those discounts on to my customers.”

Camera crews from Torque TV and HorsePower TV filmed suppliers providing demonstrations of tools at their booths. The team at the Ingersoll Rand booth had fun with their demo, including an air gun “show down.” The videos from Torque TV will be circulated to Matco tool distributors for display on their trucks. 

Celebrities like NHRA driver Antron Brown and Troy Ladd, founder and president of Hollywood Hot Rods in Burbank, CA, were on hand to sign autographs and greet attendees.

Next year’s Tool Expo will be held in Las Vegas at Caesars Palace.


See TechShop’s Facebook page for more photos from the tool shows.