Well, it wasn't a "yawner" but it was less well attended by manufacturers and distributors. This is not a surprise - the CES in Vegas this year was down hugely in attendance and exhibitors. It's just the way the Economy is going right now. Some of the best distributors were there.
In a consumer show like this one, the manufacturers and distributors can be represented by their retailers in the area - in this case, Montreal. Most of the good dealers had rooms, and even though their suppliers were not exhibiting there, they may have contributed to the cost of the room and sent a representative.
There were lots of people cramming into the rooms, as usual. Since the show was smaller, they had time to go back and visit their favourite rooms again.