National Hardware Show 2026: New Name, New Mission—Same Las Vegas Energy
Reimagined as “NHS Concept to Commerce,” the 2026 show is all about speed, strategy, and shelf-ready innovation.
The National Hardware Show is making its biggest shift yet. When it returns in 2026, the event will debut NHS Concept to Commerce—a reimagined trade show built to speed product discovery, improve private label development, and connect retailers with manufacturers in ways that directly drive growth.
“We’ve redesigned the show to reflect our customers’ needs today, who have more pressure and less time to bring new products to market in order to stay competitive,” said Hector Morfin Chong, event director. “This event is about helping attendees move smarter and faster—so they leave with connections, products, and partners that actually drive business.”
Set for March 31–April 2, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall (with an international summit kicking things off on March 30), the revamped event is RX’s boldest overhaul of the show in its 80+ year history. This is more than a rebrand. It’s a complete pivot to help hardware retailers, wholesalers, inventors, private label teams, and manufacturers close the gap between idea and execution.
Not Just Browsing—This Show’s About Smart Buying
Where past shows often focused on inspiration and networking, Concept to Commerce is about measurable outcomes: discovering what’s next, sourcing directly, and building competitive assortments with speed and purpose. The show will unite the entire product lifecycle under one roof—from early-stage concepts to factory-direct private label opportunities to shelf-ready product launches.
What’s New: Focused Pavilions and Fast-Track Tools
The show floor will be divided into three focused exhibit hubs:
- Inventor Pavilion (Expanded): Dozens of early-stage innovations seeking retail feedback and partnership.
- Private Label Pavilion: Direct access to manufacturers from Mexico, Vietnam, India, and beyond—no passport required.
- Brand Showcase: Curated new products from both trusted names and up-and-comers.
Other new features include:
- The Product Journey Experience, where attendees can explore how AI and rapid design tools are transforming idea-to-shelf workflows.
- The Meetings & Recommendations Zone, designed to pair decision-makers with aligned suppliers or inventors through curated matches.
- Hosted Attendee Program, helping qualified buyers attend with travel and hotel support.
More Than a Trade Show—A Supply Chain Strategy Session
From retailer merchandising teams to distributor category managers, attendees will find not just products, but strategic insights. The show will feature educational programming on consumer trends, go-to-market agility, and private label execution. Innovation zones will spotlight sustainable manufacturing and next-gen production tech.
And the awards and networking events are getting a makeover too—with updated categories and more meaningful opportunities to connect with peers.
Why NHS Concept to Commerce Matters to Hardware Retailers
The 2026 NHS Concept to Commerce format reflects shifting priorities in the home improvement industry. As private label programs expand and retailers seek earlier access to product innovation, the event aims to provide more direct connections between manufacturers, buyers, and developers. The new layout and programming are designed to streamline sourcing, product development, and merchandising strategies across the supply chain.
Mark Your Calendar
NHS Concept to Commerce will debut March 31–April 2, 2026, with a Day 0 International Exhibitor Summit on March 30. The reimagined event promises a streamlined, purpose-driven experience for retailers, manufacturers, and innovators looking to move products from idea to shelf more efficiently. For ongoing updates, previews, and retailer insights leading up to the show, keep an eye on Hardware Connection.
For more details, visit www.nationalhardwareshow.com
