Almost 30 months since its last in-person event, the National Hardware Show® (NHS) returns to the Las Vegas Convention Center’s new West Hall this week (October 21-23) for its 75th edition event, featuring new and exciting components, plus advanced health guidelines to ensure a safe experience. New programs and activations designed to serve the hardware and home improvement industry include:

NHS’ new HABITAT platform will come to life both online and on-site, exploring the new ideas and technologies that are impacting the concept of “home” and “living.” In its inaugural edition at NHS 2021, the HABITAT Pavilion will reside at the main entrance, positioned to be the first area attendees experience as they enter the West Hall, featuring three components: 1) The HABITAT innovation showcase – a curated selection of products from companies paving the way in innovation, 2) HABITAT New – a discovery zone for new product launches and 3) HABITAT Next – a spotlight on inventors featuring educational sessions brought to you by the United Inventors Association. 

The NHPA All-Industry Conference features a series of educational programming and networking opportunities that will be held in conjunction with NHS. It is made for cultivating conversations with all industry partners, from retailers and wholesale representatives to manufacturers and vendors. This year’s conference – featuring the theme “Navigating a Changing Industry” – includes presentations and industry-specific panel discussions from industry leaders, subject matter experts and successful retailers who will deliver insights into the current and future state of the industry. The conference will also announce the winners of the Retailers’ Choice Awards and will feature the 2021 Top Guns Award honorees and Young Retailer of the Year honorees. 

NHS is unveiling NHS Backyard – an outdoor component where the industry will come alive through brand activations, live demonstrations and grilling competitions. At NHS Backyard, exhibitors can leverage the extensive NHS media network to reach beyond their B2B network and connect with consumer media and influencers. NHS Backyard will also host a Welcome Back Reception on Thursday evening and the NHPA Retailers’ Choice Awards on Friday evening.

Last year, NHS launched an online platform, NHS Connects, marking its evolution from an annual merchandise market to a year-round industry guidepost. NHS Connects is the digital home of NHS and a hub for insight, discovery, information and connection. The platform allows members to source the newest products and vendors, connect with new and current customers and stay up to date with the latest industry education and content. 

NHS also launched PUNCHlist, a bi-weekly editorial newsletter that features educational content, interviews with thought leaders and coverage of the most innovative companies, products and ideas. PUNCHlist is distributed to key industry leaders, decisions makers and influencers in the industry. 

For the full rundown of education and events taking place at this year’s Show, please click below: