National Hardware Show (NHS), the premier event for the hardware and home improvement industry, welcomed thousands of attendees and over 1500 exhibitors at its 79th annual show held at the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall. The show floor was buzzing with new and innovative products and upcoming trends in the home, hardware, and outdoor categories. A pioneer in the Home Improvement industry, NHS welcomed familiar faces and new communities with expanded exhibitor categories, robust education opportunities, immersive experiences and events, industry awards, and a large presence of key partners including inventors, industry professionals, press, influencers, retailers and more.

"Our goal this year was to provide programming for the various different groups of attendees in the NHS Community," said Hector Morfin, NHS Event Leader. "As we continually look to innovate programming for NHS, we are eager to develop content that resonates with the community that adds value to their experience."

NHS Expands Exhibiting Categories, Welcoming Innovation

This year, NHS introduced new exhibiting categories, including Gift, Hobby, Craft, Sporting Goods, and Services & Solutions, alongside popular and returning categories including BBQ & Grills, Outdoor & Garden, Building, Electrical, Hardware & Tools, Homewares, Paint, Plumbing, Global Sourcing, and New Technologies. These additions reflect the NHS's commitment to evolving and meeting the industry's needs by offering a diverse showcase of products and services. By listening to the demands of partners and attendees, NHS aims to maintain its position as the industry's leading community for innovative solutions shaping its future.

Engaging Experiences and Lasting Connections

NHS curated a series of captivating experiences and interactive sessions to foster community engagement amongst attendees, exhibitors, and key partners. This year's experiences included a VIP Reception at the Las Vegas Sphere, an After Dark Partnership offering exclusive access to renowned city attractions, a dedicated Influencer Mixer uniting industry content creators, and more, encouraging attendees to have fun and forge lasting connections during and after the show.

"The VIP Reception at the Sphere created an intimate atmosphere and unique experience for our most valuable buyers and key sponsors. Similar to the Sphere we know event goers want to keep connecting beyond the show floor hours, so we figured why not let them use their badge around the city for special perks and access with our After Dark Partnership," said Beth Casson, Group Vice President, RX. "NHS will continue to invest in experiences that build lasting connections both during and after show hours."

Inspiring Inventors Through Immersive Education

NHS continues to empower and guide inventors through tailored education sessions in collaboration with the United Inventors Association (UIA). These sessions were designed to equip inventors with the tools and knowledge needed to scale their businesses effectively while enhancing customer engagement. Noteworthy topics covered included strategies for Bringing Your Products to Retail, Mastering Success on Amazon, and an exciting "Pitch the Pros" session inspired by the dynamic format of shows like "Shark Tank." This immersive pitch tank was led by accomplished entrepreneurs and industry leaders including Christopher Guerrera, Heather Marianna, Betsy Martin, and Chris Annoual, providing invaluable insights and mentorship to aspiring inventors.

"The United Inventors Association 'NEXT' event at the National Hardware Show provided the perfect platform to connect with partners who truly understand the value of innovation and creativity," shared Matt Anderson with Scale Up Tools who participated in the UIA sessions. "Events like these are where futures are forged, and ideas turn into tangible impacts."