HPBExpo25 Highlights Innovation and Leadership in New Orleans

Published by Christy Reed on

HPBExpo25 Highlights Innovation and Leadership in New Orleans

HPBA

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As the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living industries prepare for an exciting year ahead, the spotlight shines brightly on HPBExpo25. This premier marketplace event, scheduled for March 26-29, 2025, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, promises to prepare your business for the year ahead with cutting-edge innovations, expert insights, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

From the inviting warmth of a hearth to the sizzle of grills, HPBExpo25 embodies the theme of “Bring the Good Times Home,” inviting industry professionals to discover groundbreaking products, engage with peers and industry leaders, and embrace the future of the industry.

A Dynamic Start in The Big Easy

The opening session, themed “Leading Through Times of Change,” will feature inspiring discussions and compelling personal stories that challenge attendees to transform their approach to business in a rapidly evolving industry. This TED Talk-style session, designed with motivational energy, aims to unite industry leaders from the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living sectors. Brian Smith, the newly appointed President of Hearth and Home Technologies (HHT), will deliver the keynote address, “If You’re Finished Changing, You’re Finished.”

Other speakers in the opening session will be HPBA Board Chair Henry Hall, Chairman of the HPBA Board of Directors and President of Skytech II, Jill McClure, President and CEO of the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association (HPBA), and Tim Reed, Founder of The FireTime Network. Together, this dynamic lineup will deliver transformative stories, valuable insights, and actionable strategies to help businesses thrive in a competitive market, highlighting the event’s commitment to driving innovation and growth across the industry.

The Marketplace of the Year

HPBExpo25 is more than just a trade show; it is a vibrant hub where industry professionals converge to explore the latest in hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living. With over 5,500 attendees, including 300 top brands and 1,300+ buying entities, the event provides a unique opportunity to stay ahead of trends and build meaningful connections.

Innovative Product Showcases

  • New Products Pavilion: Witness the future of the industry with groundbreaking innovations, from state-of-the-art barbecues and grills to sophisticated outdoor kitchens and hearth accessories.
  • Expanded Indoor Burning Area: Feel the power as we “double the demos” this year as natural gas appliances showcase their efficiency and elegance in more live-action demonstrations.
  • Outdoor Burn Area: A must-see feature, this area hosts three days of live demonstrations highlighting the latest in heating and cooking technologies. New for 2025, the area also includes an education classroom with expert-led sessions on outdoor fire features, barbecue techniques, chimney safety, and more.

With over 5,500 attendees, including 300 top brands and 1,300+ buying entities, the event provides a unique opportunity to stay ahead of trends and build meaningful connections.

Educational Opportunities

HPBExpo25’s robust education program offers attendees free sessions on the exhibit floor, with 36 CEUs to choose from covering crucial topics such as:

  • “Getting the Most from Your Customer Communication: The Power of Human-Centered AI to Close More Sales”  
  • “10 Keys to the Successful Hearth Professional” 
  • “Tax Credits, Building Codes, and Product Certificates: Policy That Impacts Your Sales” 
  • “Outdoor Fire Pits, Fireplaces and Heaters—Planning, Safety, Design “
  • “Barbecue 101—Live Demonstration”

Attendees can also enhance their credentials through the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) certification review courses, including Core Exam Review, Hearth Design Specialist Review, and Gas Exam Review. These certifications underscore a commitment to safety and expertise, elevating professional standards across the industry.

Networking Opportunities That Spark Connections

HPBExpo25’s dynamic networking events set the stage for collaboration and long-term business growth.

  • Retailer Roundtables: These facilitated discussions bring HPBA members together to exchange ideas and solutions on pressing business challenges.
  • Attendee Peer Meetups: Informal gatherings where professionals share experiences and build relationships.
  • Affiliate Receptions: Regional networking events that connect industry peers from across North America.
  • Ultimate Awards Show and Bayou Bash Industry Party: A night of celebration and camaraderie in the heart of New Orleans, recognizing industry achievements with awards such as Emerging Leader and Retailer of the Year.

Industry Testimonials: The Impact of HPBExpo

Professionals who attended HPBExpo24 emphasized its transformative impact.

  • Brian Eskew of Dometic: “Just a tremendous opportunity for us to be able to see distribution partners, sales reps, and a lot of friendly faces. This is the best resource we have to engage with professionals.”
  • Jerry Scott of RH Peterson Co.: “The HPBExpo provides an unsurpassed opportunity to network with customers, new buyers, industry colleagues, and friends—at one time, in one place.”
  • Rebecca Ward Carnes of Fireplace Editions: “As a retailer, nothing beats comparing products and making winning decisions in this environment.”

Why Attend HPBExpo25?

The statistics speak volumes about the value of HPBExpo:

  • 97% of attendees come to discover the latest in emerging technology and unique products.
  • 94% recommend the event to colleagues for its incredible ROI and valuable insights.
  • 92% highly rate the expo’s value for their business, citing opportunities to gain CEUs, build relationships, and explore innovations.
  • 90% of retailers affirm that HPBExpo is the ideal place to meet business partners and forge strong relationships.

Meet Your Peers

As the exclusive niche showcase spanning barbecue technology, fireplaces, chimneys, accessories, and outdoor living, HPBExpo25 is the ultimate destination for professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve. With a lineup of events and opportunities designed to inspire, educate, and connect, it’s no wonder that this expo has become a must-attend event for industry leaders.

Network with industry leaders at exclusive events like the Retailer Roundtables, Peer Meetups, and the Bayou Bash Industry Party, or join the After Dark Networking Events. The After Dark Networking All Access Package ($29) includes entry to Sidecar Patio and Oyster Bar (no open bar), nightlife access to Saddle Bar, and concierge services. The After Dark Networking VIP All Access Pass ($89) adds a three-hour open bar at Sidecar.

New Orleans Awaits

HPBExpo25 is your gateway to a thriving future, offering product innovations, educational sessions, and networking opportunities. Whether you’re a retailer, manufacturer, or service provider, this event is key to growing your business.

Explore a wide range of products and services, including those on the list below.

  • Barbecue and grill accessories
  • Game room products
  • Outdoor kitchens and living
  • Hearth accessories and chimney venting
  • Stoves, space heaters, and catalytic combustors
  • Lawn and garden products, pergolas, and structures
  • Fireplaces, fire pits, and fire starters
  • Professional services and maintenance
  • Spas, hot tubs, and saunas
  • OEM products and outdoor furniture

Join us in New Orleans for HPBExpo25—where innovation meets opportunity!

Visit www.hpbexpo.com for more information on attending, exhibiting, or sponsoring. Don’t miss your chance to be part of an event that defines the future of hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living.

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HPBA

HPBA

The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), based just outside of Washington, DC, is the North American industry association for manufacturers, retailers, distributors, representatives, service firms, and allied associates for all types of fireplace, stove, heater, barbecue, and outdoor living appliances and accessories. HPBA provides professional member services and industry support in government relations, events, market research, education, certifications, consumer education, and industry promotion.

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Categories: HPBA