This year’s Traders Market is the fall event for professionals looking to strengthen partnerships, discover new business opportunities and stay ahead of industry trends. Taking place November 5–7 in Kansas City, Missouri, Traders Market 2025 offers a revamped attendee experience with new features and more tradeshow floor time.
We’ve rounded up some of the top questions about Traders Market 2025 to help you get ready for the connections, conversations and Kansas City barbecue you won’t want to miss.
Q: What exactly is Traders Market—and why should I go?
A: Great question. Traders Market isn’t just another event—it’s the event of the lumber industry. With 1,400+ industry professionals and 200+ exhibitors, it’s where business gets done, partnerships are built and trends are identified. Whether you’re a buyer, supplier, decision-maker or new to the game, this is your chance to be where it all happens.
Q: What’s new this year?
A: We’re glad you asked! This year’s schedule has been reimagined by removing the luncheon, creating three more hours of time on the show floor. This means more time for what really matters: networking, deal-making and picking up those real-world insights that you can’t find anywhere else. Plus, this year’s tradeshow floor features brand-new activations designed to spark conversation, and foster connection.
Q: Who will I meet?
A: Everyone. Okay, not literally everyone, but close! NAWLA represents the entire lumber and building materials distribution channel, so you can expect to find traders, mill representatives, logistics providers and technologists all in one place. It’s the best place to reconnect with long-term partners and shake hands with your next big opportunity.
Q: Is it really worth traveling for one event?
A: Absolutely. In a world full of Zoom calls, in-person meetings are where the magic happens. Traders Market gives you space to talk, clarify and connect in a way that emails and phone calls can’t. NAWLA Executive Director Matt Bruno says: “Our members value connection, and Traders Market provides the perfect space for members of every facet of the industry to meet, collaborate and drive their business forward.”
Q: Will there be anything else happening during the week?
A: The week is jam-packed with everything from 10 Group and committee meetings to special networking events like the Welcome Party. Plus, this year, we’re cranking up the energy on the tradeshow floor with exciting new activations including a beer garden, competitions and more fun ways to connect with industry peers. There are endless ways to keep the conversations going.
Plus, don’t miss the featured education session, “Innovating the Business: Real-World Tools, Smarter Operations and Leading Through Change.” It’s your chance to gain actionable insights for navigating today’s challenges and driving your business forward in a rapidly evolving industry.
Q: Can I mix a little fun into my trip?
A: 100%. Traders Market is in Kansas City, and this town knows how to host. Think about world-famous barbecue, vibrant jazz clubs and some great breweries. The relationships you build on the tradeshow floor can easily continue over ribs and live music.
Q: Will I get to connect with NAWLA leadership?
A: Yes! Traders Market is a great time to meet NAWLA’s Executive Committee, Board of Directors, volunteers and staff. Share your feedback, ask questions and let us know what you want to see next—your voice helps shape the future of NAWLA.
Q: How do I sign up?
A: Registration for Traders Market 2025 is now open! Visit nawla.org/Events/tradersmarket to learn more and register today.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the lumber industry’s premier event. Renew your company’s membership or become a member company today to secure your spot at Traders Market in Kansas City. If you have any questions, reach out to info@nawla.org. We can’t wait to see you in Kansas City this fall!
