HPBExpo25: The Must-Attend Event for the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Industry
HPBExpo25: The Must-Attend Event for the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Industry
HPBA
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The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo (HPBExpo25) is gearing up to be one of the most significant events in the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living industry in 2025. Set to take place from March 26 to 29 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in the vibrant city of New Orleans, this year’s expo promises to be an unforgettable experience for professionals across the industry. Whether you’re a retailer, service technician, or distributor, HPBExpo25 provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in cutting-edge innovations, network with industry leaders, and learn the latest trends in hearth, outdoor living, and barbecue technologies.
Unparalleled Networking and Business Opportunities
HPBExpo25 brings together over 5,500 industry professionals, 300+ top brands, and more than 1,300 buying entities, creating an unparalleled platform for networking and business development. Meet your peers at key events such as Retailer Roundtables, Affiliate Receptions, and the Ultimate Awards Show and Bayou Bash Industry Party.
These events are designed to help attendees forge strong business relationships and provide valuable industry insights and opportunities for collaboration. With such a large gathering of professionals from various sectors of the industry, the expo is truly a hub of innovation and strategy.
Discover the Latest Innovations
At HPBExpo25, attendees will have the chance to discover some of the latest breakthroughs in the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living technologies. The event’s comprehensive showcase features:
- New Products Pavilion: A centralized area dedicated to new product launches, featuring the latest advancements in barbecue technology, fireplaces, outdoor heating solutions, and related accessories.
- Outdoor Burn Area: A three-day immersive experience where the newest heating and cooking technologies are demonstrated in real-time, allowing attendees to see these products in action.
- Expanded Indoor Burning Area: This year, the number of live-action product demonstrations has doubled from the previous year, giving attendees an even more extensive look at cutting-edge products and innovations.
HPBExpo25 Education: Sponsored by Copperfield Academy
The education program at HPBExpo25 is a highlight for many attendees. It’s designed to provide hands-on learning and valuable industry knowledge through a diverse range of expert-led sessions. The education track covers everything from tax credits to building codes, electric fireplaces, outdoor fire features, and customer service strategies. The sessions offer up to 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for attendees looking to enhance their professional credentials.
The education program offers a variety of tracks to cater to different needs:
- All Audiences Track: This track is ideal for individuals who want to improve their skills in sales, safety, customer service, and industry trends. It provides practical strategies for business growth.
- Business Track: This track focuses on the industry’s business aspects, providing insights into marketing, finance, operations, and customer interactions.
- Technical Track: Aimed at those in the technical field, this track offers in-depth technical knowledge on servicing, troubleshooting, and safety standards for hearth and outdoor living products.
- Manufacturer Training Sessions: These sessions give attendees the chance to learn from select industry manufacturers, gaining valuable sales, marketing, and technical insights.
In addition, the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) will offer certification review courses and on-site exams. Attendees can enhance their credentials by taking the NFI Core Exam Review, NFI Hearth Design Specialist Review, CSIA Sweep Review and Exam, and CSIA CDET Review and Exam.
Keynote Speakers and Industry Insights
HPBExpo25 is proud to present a stellar lineup of keynote speakers, each bringing unique perspectives to the theme “Leading Through Times of Change.” The opening session, co-hosted by Jill McClure (president and CEO of HPBA) and Tim Reed (founder of The Fire Time Network), will feature prominent industry leaders such as Brian Smith (president of Hearth & Home Technologies) and Henry Hall (HPBA chairman of the board and president of Skytech II, Inc.). This powerful session will offer valuable insights into how businesses can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing market.
Celebrate Innovation and Industry Excellence
The New Product Pavilion at HPBExpo25 will showcase some of the most groundbreaking innovations in the industry, making it a must-see for all attendees. The exhibit space will highlight the products and trends that are poised to shape the future of the hearth, patio, and barbecue industries. Attendees will also be able to vote for the Attendees’ Choice Awards through the HPBExpo25 mobile app, selecting the top products in various categories. The winners will be revealed live at the Ultimate Awards Show on Friday, March 28, at 5pm. Other industry awards will be announced for the following categories:
- Retailer of the Year
- Affiliate of the Year
- Advocate of the Year
- Emerging Leader
- Trainer of the Year
- Excellence in Education
After the awards ceremony, don’t miss the Bayou Bash Industry Party—the ultimate industry celebration. This lively event will feature live music, delicious food, and ample networking opportunities as industry leaders gather to celebrate the achievements of the year. The Bayou Bash Party is an essential part of the HPBExpo experience, offering a fun and relaxed atmosphere to unwind and connect with peers.
Why You Can’t Miss HPBExpo25
- 87% of buyers attend to discover new suppliers and resources, highlighting the expo’s value as a platform for sourcing new products and services.
- 74% of attendees come to explore the latest technology and trends, making HPBExpo25 the place to stay ahead of the curve in the hearth and outdoor living space.
- 90% of attendees come with the intent to finalize business deals, underscoring the event’s role as a crucial business platform.
- Over 300 brands will showcase their products across 400,000 square feet of exhibit space, giving attendees a vast array of products and services to explore.
- Live-action burn demonstrations will be double the number compared to 2024, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all attendees.
Experience New Orleans Like Never Before
New Orleans is the perfect backdrop for HPBExpo25, with its vibrant culture, world-class cuisine, live jazz, and historic landmarks. The city offers a unique atmosphere that will enhance your expo experience, providing plenty of opportunities for attendees to explore its rich history and lively nightlife.
For those looking for something fun on Saturday night, the After Dark Networking Event at the Sidecar Patio and Oyster Bar is the perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with peers. Whether you choose the All Access Package or the VIP All Access Pass, this event offers exclusive access to the nightlife of New Orleans while fostering connections with industry professionals.
Use the HPBExpo Mobile App to Plan Your Experience
The official HPBExpo25 mobile app will be your ultimate guide to the event. The app provides easy access to schedules, exhibitor lists, floor plans, and other essential information. Attendees will be able to stay connected, plan their schedules, and maximize their time at the expo. The app has been available since mid-February, so be sure to download it before the event to stay informed and prepared.
Your HPBExpo25 Schedule
The four-day event is packed with exciting activities, including registration, certification courses, keynote sessions, exhibits, and more. Be sure to check out the full schedule here and register early to secure your spot at this must-attend industry event.
Suitcasing and Outboarding Policy
HPBExpo requires sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees to adhere to our Suitcasing and Outboarding policy. This policy, strictly enforced, ensures exhibitors can showcase their products without unauthorized marketing disrupting official programming. Manufacturers and vendors of the industry are required to participate as sponsors or exhibitors to attend.
Register Now and Book Your Housing
Registration for HPBExpo25 is now open, and hotel accommodations are filling up fast. Be sure to register early and book your housing through onPeak to secure your spot at the event. The hotel booking cutoff is March 5, 2025, so don’t wait!
For more information—and to register for HPBExpo25—visit www.hpbexpo.com today!
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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.
