ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Association of Chain Drug Stores has launched a new web site for the 2010 NACDS Marketplace Conference that serves up enhanced tools for attendees and exhibitors.

NACDS said the new features on this year’s Marketplace web site will make it easier for retailers to find sales-boosting products and for exhibitors to engage with purchasers with buying power at the conference, to be held June 5 to 8 in San Diego. Participants also will be able to better plan their show agendas and meeting strategies.

The enhanced site includes an updated floor plan with a more user-friendly look and feel, NACDS said, along with easier navigation tools, improved search capabilities and user functionality. Site visitors also can view assigned and unassigned exhibition booths.

"NACDS is dedicated to providing innovative tools and resources to our member companies and conference attendees to ensure they have the most successful and productive conference experience," NACDS president and chief executive Steve Anderson said in a statement. "Redesigning and refocusing our Marketplace Conference web site is no exception. The new web site provides tools that will enhance the efficiency and time management of meeting attendees."

The association added that registration for the 2010 Marketplace conference is on pace with last year’s event — and outpacing 2009 figures in some areas. Exhibitors are up about 12%, with nearly 300 exhibitors representing over 86,000 square feet already scheduled to attend.

"The early projections for Marketplace are exciting, and that is a testament to NACDS’ ability to produce a value-driven meeting experience for suppliers and retailers," Anderson commented.