This year, the Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers® (AWFS®) is the largest national trade association in the U.S., similar to the British Woodworking Federation, which is the trade association for the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry. It has a wide reach of members drawn from manufacturers, distributors and installers of timber doors (including fire doors), windows, conservatories, staircases, all forms of architectural joinery including interior fit out, as well as suppliers to the industry. This year, event goers are in for a treat as they will see newest custom trade show booths in Las Vegas.
Woodworking’s most innovative and exciting trade event of 2017 brings the future into focus. For the products, equipment, tools, and solutions that will propel your business forward, attend AWFS®Fair 2017, July 19 – 22 in Las Vegas. Show schedule at the Exhibit Hall will start from Tuesday, July 18, 2017, 9: 00am-5:00 pm and Wednesday, July 19, 2017, 9:00am-5:00 pm (first official show day).
Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers (AWFS) is a trade association with an international, corporate membership that includes manufacturers and distributors of machinery, hardware, lumber, upholstery materials, bedding components, wood products and other supplies to furnishings and wood products manufacturers. From its headquarters in Southern California, AWFS works closely with other industry associations on issues of mutual concern. AWFS is the owner and direct producer of the biennial AWFS Fair, the largest industry show in the United States in odd numbered years and which celebrated its inaugural show in Las Vegas.
If you are a supplier or a manufacturer, it is where the material processing and design industries come together to meet and greet the people in the trade. In addition to the tool dealers, there are a bunch of great seminars, given by nationally renowned woodworking experts. This is a great chance to spend some time with woodworkers you know well but has never had the chance to meet. Finishing, cabinet making, router inlay, furniture building, setting up shop, hand plane rehab, and a host of other interesting topics are featured in the seminars and most of the presenters are on hand all day long. Local woodworking organizations and schools are also typically well represented; a great way to meet other woodworkers in your area.
Whether you are a retailer or a wholesaler, there are many advantages to attending trade shows. While cost is, of course, an issue since you typically will have to travel to attend these shows and pay for registration fees (though some retailers attend for free depending on the show), there are many reasons to participate in trade shows that include gaining valuable experience, knowledge, product exposure and more.
So, do yourself a favor and plan on spending a day or so with us at the show. Check out the tour schedule and make sure you mark your calendar. Don’t forget to check out more information on our website if you want to know more about newest trade show booth designs.