The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) was honored as the fastest-growing show in attendance in both percentage growth and sheer numbers from Tradeshow Executive Magazine, which hosted its annual event in Chicago recently. The event honored the 50 fastest growing events in North America for 2014. The designations recognize KBIS among the trade shows that grew faster than 99% of the trade shows held in the U.S.
“In 2008, our country saw the worst recession in more than two generations, hitting the kitchen and bath industry hard,” said Brian Pagel, VP Kitchen and Bath Group, Emerald Expositions. “Even in the wake of this economic downturn, each year KBIS continues to achieve double-digit growth and thrive through our partnership with exhibiting brands and the support of the kitchen and bath industry. The show’s success is a testament to the dedication of the industry and the shared vision for the KBIS brand.”
Produced by Emerald Expositions and owned by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), KBIS was recognized in the top spot as a Growth Leader in Attendance for 2014 (based on sheer numbers) with an increase of 12,284 qualified attendees versus 2013, as well as Growth Leader in Attendance for 2014 (based on percentage growth) for a 65.3% growth in qualified attendance over 2013. KBIS also came in eighth for Growth Leader in Paid Net Square Feet (NSF) for 2014 (based on percentage growth) with a 29.2% growth in paid NSF over 2013.
During the 2015 show, more than 33,119 industry professionals were in attendance. The 2015 event attracted more than 500 exhibitors, including 96 new presenters and 87 Loyalty Leaders — the group of exhibitors recognized for their commitment to consecutively exhibiting at KBIS for at least the past six years.
“Speaking on behalf of the National Kitchen & Bath Association, we are all honored by these accolades,” said Bill Darcy, CEO, National Kitchen & Bath Association. “As the owners of KBIS, the NKBA is excited to see the growth in the show over the past few years. With major brands investing in space at KBIS, and with other manufacturers returning to the show after a hiatus, it is a testament to the level of confidence in our industry. The NKBA continues to invest in KBIS, enhancing the experience for exhibitors and attendees alike through our Voices From The Industry conference programming, learning opportunities, awards, events and networking.
“Moving forward the NKBA will keep the show on the cutting edge, working with manufacturers to provide the best possible experience, programs and technology. We’ll take our inspiration from both inside and outside of our industry. Tradeshow Executive Magazine’s recognition clearly positions KBIS as a leader — a reputation we will tirelessly work to maintain.”
Emerald Expositions credits part of the continued success of KBIS to the creation of Design & Construction Week (DCW). KBIS, in conjunction with the International Builders’ Show (IBS), owned by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), anchor the week-long mega-event, established in 2014. DCW 2016 will also include the International Window Coverings Expo and The International Surface Event.
