The University of Oregon vendor showcase and travel fair is Wednesday, Feb. 12 in the Erb Memorial Union Ballroom. UO employees involved with purchasing products and services, including those that are travel-related, will have an opportunity to connect with vendors from across the country. No registration is required to attend.

“This year’s showcase is bigger and better than ever,” said Shari Powell, operations manager and event planner. “A record number of vendors will have exhibits and offer giveaways. With food and beverages donated by Sheild Catering available all day and an appearance by the Duck over the lunch hour, it is sure to be an informative and entertaining experience.”

The joint event, hosted by Purchasing and Contracting Services and the travel office, will include a variety of Duck Depot vendors as well as those that provide office furniture and supplies, flowers and event décor, construction services and supplies, scientific supplies, electronics, computer and audio visual equipment, and lodging and catering services. Travel coordinators and travelers will be able to meet with airline travel service providers, UO-contracted travel agencies, ground transportation providers, hotels from around the state and local tourism agencies.

“We have a number of new players this year,” said Laurie Jacoby, travel manager, Business Affairs Office. “United and Alaska Air are making their first appearance, and several new hotels will be showcasing their properties, including remodels and new construction.”

Jacoby added that all three of the state of Oregon rental car providers, Enterprise, National and Hertz, will be joining the event for the first time. 

Purchasing and contracting services and the travel office have historically conducted separate events aimed at connecting UO business representatives with vendors. They are joining forces to host one biannual event. 

“By combining the travel event with the annual vendor showcase during the winter term, those unit representatives with both travel and purchasing responsibilities can compare products and services in both categories at one time,” Jacoby said. 

Together, PCS and business affairs leverage their resources to provide unit partners a more efficient use of their time by offering one high quality event, Powell said.

All faculty and staff members are invited to attend the come-and-go showcase. Attendees at all levels of the purchasing process will find something of interest, Powell said. 

Visit the vendor showcase webpage for more information about this event.