The National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) has announced a strategic shift in its approach to industry trade show participation. Following 2025, NWRA will transition to an every-other-year format for exhibiting at major industry trade shows, replacing its annual presence at WasteExpo. This decision, unanimously approved by the NWRA Board of Trustees at the Industry Conference in San Antonio, reflects industry trends, multi-year innovation cycles, and rising participation costs.
The change comes in response to the longer innovation cycles within the waste and recycling industry, where new product development often follows a multi-year timeline. By adopting an every-other-year format, NWRA ensures that trade show exhibitions highlight significant advancements rather than incremental updates. Rising costs associated with trade show participation, including travel, freight, and exhibit expenses, have also played a role in the decision, as many members evaluate the financial returns of having trade shows annually. This shift allows for a more strategic allocation of resources while still maintaining a strong industry presence.
In alternating years, beginning in 2026, NWRA will introduce a new association-led event tailored specifically for its members and industry professionals. The new event will feature a multi-day program focused on networking, industry discussions, and recognition of outstanding professionals through the Annual Awards Gala.
鈥淭his new approach allows us to deliver greater value to our members by aligning with industry trends and financial realities,鈥 said NWRA President and CEO Michael E. Hoffman. 鈥淏y optimizing our event schedule, we can provide more impactful experiences that better support our members鈥 business goals while continuing to offer valuable opportunities for networking and education.鈥
Further details on NWRA鈥檚 future trade show participation and the new association event will be shared as plans progress.
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Response from David Biderman, President of Biderman Consulting and former Executive Director of SWANA: 鈥淢oving to an every other year format has been a long-time goal of many Waste Expo exhibitors. Congratulations to Michael Hoffman and NWRA for getting an outcome that reduces costs for members.鈥