If 2025 tested your resilience, you’re not alone. It was a year that pushed the industry to adapt, rethink, and dig deep. As we step into 2026, PPAI Expo isn’t just another trade show. It’s a reset button and a chance to reconnect, rediscover inspiration, and kick off the new year with clarity and confidence.
At Pacesetter, decades in this industry have taught us one thing. Tough years sharpen smart businesses. Here’s how to make Expo count and turn the page with purpose.
Start Strong
Kick things off at the New Product Pavilion. This is where fresh ideas live and after a challenging year, newness matters. Your clients are hungry for what’s next, and this is where you’ll find it.
Reconnect with Your Core
Prioritize your top suppliers early. These relationships carried you through 2025, and strengthening them now sets the tone for growth ahead. Ask what’s new, what’s changed, and what opportunities 2026 holds.
Pace Yourself
Expo is a marathon. Comfortable shoes, water, and quick snacks will keep your energy up so you can stay present and focused. Capture notes and photos as you go. Future you will be grateful.
Make Time for People
Lunches, quick coffees, and evening meetups matter just as much as the booths. Some of the best ideas and partnerships come from casual conversations and shared stories about what the last year taught us.
Explore What’s New
Once you’ve covered your must-sees, wander. New suppliers and unexpected products can spark ideas that redefine your year.
Slow Down at the End
The final day is your chance for deeper conversations. The crowds thin, the noise fades, and real connections happen. Stay curious. You never know what final insight might shape your strategy.
Looking Ahead
PPAI Expo 2026 is about more than products. It’s about momentum. After making it through a tough 2025, this is your opportunity to reset, refocus, and rise. Show up with intention, leave with inspiration, and let this be the start of a stronger, smarter year ahead.
Leave a Reply