Crownd,
Hey, I only worked in the forklift industry for 41+ years - '67 - '07. Well aware of the industry changes. Worked for manufacturers, A-C, MCFA (Mitsubishi - Cat), Komatsu in sales & marketing (yep, was involved in trade shows).
At one time (thru ~1982), most lift truck companies did exhibit at this national show when it was called the MHI show but over time it evolved into an exhibit with an increasing emphasis the material handling systems and a name change to ProMat

Sorry, you were disappointed, but you had a great opportunity to visit a great city Chicago with lots to do, see and the best food - lived there for 14 years.
Hint - most trade shows publish, well in advance, a listing of exhibitors.
By the way, Arizona is included in the 20% of the visitors outside the 300 mile radius.