NOVI, Mich. — The Chain Drug Marketing Association recently marked 85 years “of making the connection between buyers and suppliers” at its trade expo in Orlando, Fla.

Executives at the association say this year’s event set records for the number of drug store buyers and representatives from supplier companies in ­attendance.

Buyers gained information at a breakfast meeting at which they exchanged ideas on new or unique items they found on the trade floor.

Many buyers also participated in an idea exchange on “What to Do When Walmart Comes to Town.”

Popular CDMA offerings during the event included a store brand forum, a showroom and a direct import program. Attendees saw new seasonal and promotional merchandise and displays and earned what one buyer described as “incredible savings.”

Also during the expo recognition was given to members who have contributed to CDMA’s success through the years.

“It was a great show with excellent product selection and good prices,” remarked Doug Barnett, a buyer with Brookshire Brothers.

His views were shared by Brenda McGee of Value Drug. “CDMA did a great job of getting a mix of exhibitors with a wide variety of products,” she commented.