4 minute read
[ASSOCIATION CONNECTION] BizCon 2026: A Season of Connections
The 2026 BizCon season delivered strong attendance, practical education and meaningful connections between retail and associate members.
BizCon North
BizCon North welcomed 308 attendees, growing to 335, including students. The exhibit hall featured 58 booths representing a wide range of LBM products and services, creating steady traffic and productive conversations throughout both days.
The Exhibitor Speed Showcase gave suppliers a fast-paced opportunity to highlight their companies and solutions. The duckie scavenger hunt and Last Person Standing contest added energy to the floor, while the Women in the Industry gathering during Happy Hour created space for encouragement and connection.
Educational sessions focused on real-world takeaways. Sam Richter addressed authentic sales strategy, David Wells shared practical concepts for better lumberyard design, and Steve Bench offered insight on communicating across generations. The new Rapid-Fire Idea Panel at the Membership Lunch sparked conversation around culture, leadership, AI, marketing and sales.
Brews and Bites wrapped up day one with live music from Mike Bustin and plenty of time for members to strengthen relationships.
BizCon South
BizCon South saw significant growth, increasing from 353 attendees in 2025 to 432 in 2026, including 92 students. The exhibit hall featured 63 booths and strong participation across both days.
Sales speaker Dustin James energized attendees with a framework for building stronger relationships, while David Wells and Steve Bench returned with operational and communication strategies members can apply immediately. The Rapid-Fire Idea Panel once again delivered practical ideas in a high-energy format.
Brews and Bites, featuring live music from Ted Gaunt, provided a relaxed setting for dealers and suppliers to connect beyond the booth.
“It felt like there was better attendance and the whole atmosphere seemed more positive,” said Craig Brotherton of Wall Lake Lumber Co. “Many vendors relayed that it was the best one they had been to this year. I think the show moved in a more positive direction. Hats off to a job well done.”
Stronger Together
From exhibit hall conversations to education sessions and networking events, BizCon continues to reflect what BLD Connection is all about: a strong network of support where retail and associate members build relationships, share ideas and strengthen local lumberyards across the region.
Increased attendance, strong exhibitor feedback, and full education sessions made one thing clear: members value the opportunity to connect face-to-face and do business together.
Save the Dates
Planning is already underway for next year’s BizCon season. Both BizCons will feature a brand-new agenda featuring more exhibit hall time, more networking and more fun while continuing to bring our members important industry education opportunities. Stay tuned for additional details this summer.
• BizCon North – NEW LOCATION: Tuesday & Wednesday, Jan. 19–20, 2027, Minneapolis Marriott NW Hotel & Conference Center, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
• BizCon South: Monday & Tuesday, Feb. 1–2, 2027, Prairie Meadows Event Center, Altoona, Iowa.
Thank you to Robin of A Memory Of Time and Mariah of Hanian Photography for helping us tell the story of BizCon through their incredible photography.
