MATS HISTORY
For over 50 years, the Mid-America Trucking Show has set the standard for events in the trucking industry. MATS long-running record as the industry’s largest and most well-attended annual event is rooted in tradition. A tradition of connecting industry stakeholders in meaningful ways that facilitate collaboration and the advancement of the industry.
How it all Began
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THROUGH THE YEARS
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1972
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1984
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1987
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/1991.jpg)
1991
MATS 1991 saw a significant increase in exhibitors as construction on the new South Wing A building was completed and immediately filled with 650 exhibiting companies and over 35,000 attendees. This increase in size and exhibitors established MATS as the largest trucking tradeshow in North America.
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/1997.jpg)
1997
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2001.jpg)
2001
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2006.jpg)
2006
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2009.jpg)
2009
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2012-1.jpg)
2012
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2014.jpg)
2014
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2015.jpg)
2015
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2018.jpg)
2018
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/History-Slider-2022-670x400-1.jpg)
2022
The long-awaited 50th Anniversary was a huge event, as the entire industry celebrated the first MATS since the pandemic and the return of the best show in trucking. Everyone in attendance enjoyed the new MATS Opening Reception, where we welcomed the inaugural nominees into the MATS Wall of Fame and celebrated their accomplishments with live music, food, and reconnecting with friends and colleagues. We honored our trucking heritage with a Photo and Signature Wall, MATS History Showcase, and more.
MATS Wall Of Fame
![](https://truckingshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Wall-Fame-2022-220x200-1.png)