The International Builders’ Show (IBS) is the construction industry’s most influential conference and trade show. Nearly 70,000 industry professionals attended last year’s event, which featured more than 1300 exhibitors and more than 100 educational sessions.
How did this big gathering, produced every year by the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB), come to be? As one would expect, it evolved over time to reflect changing industry priorities.
IBS traces its origins back to the 1950s, a period of post-war growth. A precursor event emerged in 1954 in the form of the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) Show, which represented the interests of home improvement companies.
In the 1960s, the NHIC Show merged with NAHB’s National Home Builders’ Show, marking the inception of the International Builders’ Show as we know it today and setting the stage for its continued growth.
As the years rolled by, the IBS entered the 1970s with unwavering momentum. It rapidly grew in stature, capturing the attention of builders, contractors, suppliers and professionals from diverse sectors. It was no longer merely an event, but had matured into a prominent fixture within the construction landscape.
The following decades witnessed IBS expansion both in terms of attendance and exhibitors. It garnered a reputation for showcasing cutting-edge innovations and pioneering building technologies.
In the 21st century, the IBS continued to evolve along with the industry’s changing dynamics. For example, sustainability now features heavily at the event, which has become a platform for the exploration of sustainable and energy-efficient building practices and technologies.
IBS has also eagerly embraced advancements in digital technology. There are many exhibitors showcasing smart home technologies, energy-efficient solutions and state-of-the-art digital construction management tools.
So far, the 2020s has witnessed an amplified emphasis on sustainability, resilience and the seamless integration of novel technologies, including 3D printing and virtual reality, into the construction process.
The show also serves as a nexus for networking, knowledge exchange and product discovery, keeping attendees abreast of the latest trends and innovations. The discussions and meetings that happen during the show serve as an incubator for the industry’s future.
As you might have guessed, I consider IBS an event that’s not to be missed. This year’s show, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, runs February 27-29. I hope to see you there.
