Trade Talk (Season 2, Ep. 6) - Inside IBS/KBIS: Trends, Takeaways & Trade Show Lessons Learned

In this episode of Trade Talk, the full Beespoke Consulting team—Sarah, Erin, Lindsay, and Kelly—recaps their first experience attending the International Builders Show (IBS) in Orlando.Six weeks after the event, they sit down to break down what stood out, what surprised them, and what they’ll do differently next time. From massive, high-production booths to meaningful conversations with brands and innovators, IBS delivered both inspiration and practical insight.The team dives into standout exhibits like Kohler’s immersive setup, creative marketing wins like Daltile’s viral tote bag strategy, and emerging trends shaping the future of construction—especially the growing focus on wellness, sustainability, and smarter use of space.They also share candid lessons learned—from overpacking and under-planning to the importance of scheduling ahead and maximizing networking opportunities. Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of trade show life, including long lines, missed moments (yes… the puppies), and a few funny missteps along the way.Whether you’ve attended IBS before or are considering it for the future, this episode gives a real-world look at what it’s like—and why it matters for builders, trades, and industry professionals looking to stay ahead.Key Topics Covered:First impressions of IBS and event scaleStandout booths, brands, and productsMarketing takeaways from top exhibitorsEmerging trends: wellness, sustainability, and design innovationNetworking opportunities and industry connectionsLessons learned for future trade showsBehind-the-scenes moments from the team’s experienceListen & Subscribe:New episodes drop every other Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Amazon Music. Like, subscribe, and leave a review to support the show.Got a topic idea or feedback? Email us at [email protected] or submit them at contractors-connect.com/podcast.