Top 10 Plumbing Events for 2024 to Consider Attending

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the plumbing industry stands at the forefront of innovation and growth. However, there are several misconceptions that often overshadow the true value and potential of plumbing events.

• Contrary to popular belief, these gatherings are not just for seasoned professionals or large-scale businesses.
• They are dynamic platforms brimming with opportunities for learning, networking, and business development for all scales of operations.
• From cutting-edge technology showcases to invaluable workshops, plumbing trade shows offer a unique blend of knowledge, technology, and community engagement. 

In debunking these common myths, we open the door to a world where the latest in plumbing intersects with the future of business growth and sustainability.

If you can only attend 3 plumbing events – attend these 3!

1. Flow Expo 2024
2. WWETT 2024 Trade Show
3. Service World Expo 2024

The Definitive List: Best Plumbing Events for 2024:

• Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS): As North America’s largest trade show dedicated to kitchen and bath design, KBIS attracts a wide range of professionals, including those from the plumbing industry. Exhibiting here would give you access to a diverse audience and high visibility​​.

• WWETT 2024 Trade Show: This is the world’s largest annual trade show for wastewater and environmental service professionals. Given its size and scope, it provides an excellent platform for reaching a broad audience in the plumbing sector, especially those involved in more technical and specialized services​​.

• Service World Expo: This expo is described as a must-attend event for contractors in various fields, including plumbing. Its focus on business growth and development makes it a suitable venue for connecting with growth-oriented plumbing companies​​.

• AHR Expo: While it’s primarily focused on HVACR technology, the overlap with the plumbing industry is significant, especially in terms of technological innovations and sustainable solutions. Exhibiting here could open doors to cross-industry opportunities​​.

• ServiceTitan Pantheon: This conference is specifically for skilled trades professionals and focuses on working smarter and faster. Exhibiting at this event would put you in front of a tech-savvy, forward-thinking audience, which aligns well with a growth-oriented approach​​.

• Flow Expo: Being the largest trade show in the Western United States dedicated to plumbing and related industries, the Flow Expo would offer excellent exposure to a large and relevant audience​​.

• BuildExpo USA Shows: These shows are spread across multiple cities and target a broad audience in the building and construction industry. Exhibiting at one or more of these shows can provide regional exposure and networking opportunities with a wide array of professionals, including those in the plumbing sector​​.

• PHCC West: This event focuses specifically on plumbing, heating, and cooling contractors. Its smaller, more focused scale could provide a more intimate setting for in-depth interactions with attendees​​.

• The EXPERIENCE Conference & Exhibition: While primarily focused on cleaning, restoration, and remediation, this event attracts a diverse set of professionals and offers hands-on and interactive educational experiences. It can be a good opportunity for networking and showcasing innovative solutions​​.

• Illinois PHCC Expo North: This is a more region-specific event, but it could be a good opportunity to make inroads into the local market, especially if you are looking to establish a presence or connections in the Illinois area​​.

Do plumbing events even matter or should I just focus on building my business?

As we navigate the bustling landscape of the plumbing industry, it’s essential to recognize the power and potential that lies within attending these top-tier events. These platforms are not merely gatherings; they are incubators for innovation, networking hubs, and learning centers. By attending, you’re not just participating; you’re actively engaging in shaping the future of your business and the industry at large.

Here are five tips to get the most out of these events:

1. Plan Ahead: Research the events, identify key sessions, and set clear goals for what you want to achieve, whether it’s learning, networking, or finding new products.

2. Engage Actively: Participate in workshops, ask questions during sessions, and engage with speakers and exhibitors. Active engagement leads to deeper learning and more meaningful connections.

3. Network Intentionally: Seek out connections that align with your business goals. Prepare an elevator pitch and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself. Remember, every conversation is a potential opportunity.

4. Follow Up: Collect business cards and contact information, and make sure to follow up post-event. These connections can evolve into fruitful business relationships.

5. Reflect and Apply: After the event, take time to reflect on what you learned and how it can be applied to your business. This ensures that the knowledge and connections gained are effectively integrated into your business strategies.

Plumbing events are more than just trade shows; they are gateways to growth, innovation, and community.

By attending these events and employing these strategies, you are placing yourself at the forefront of an industry poised for advancement and success. So, embrace the opportunity, dive into the experience, and watch as your business reaches new heights in the ever-evolving world of plumbing.