Why contractors should attend industry shows

By Emma Peterson. 

A conversation with Heritage Pool Supply's Chris Hill highlights why in-person events remain essential for learning, relationship-building and business growth. 

In the outdoor contracting industry, there are countless tradeshows ranging from market specific (like the Irrigation Association’s Show) to more all encompassing (such as the Pool Spa Patio/Deck Expo). With so many shows throughout the year, it can be easy to dismiss them or tell yourself you’ll attend the next one. But it’s important to not forget how valuable these shows are.  

For example, the Florida Swimming Pool Association’s Everything Under the Sun Expo offers contractors a great way to network with their peers, level up their careers with learning opportunities and explore the newest technology on an extensive expo floor. We got the chance to attend this show back in March 2026 and had a great time.  

As Chris Hill, the regional vice president at Heritage Pool Supply put it, “We love attending shows like this. It’s a great way to connect with our customers, get our team together, see new products and more!” He went on, “It's really cool to have everyone all in one place. At these shows, you can just go take a two-minute walk down to someone’s booth, they can show you what's new and you get to learn about what’ve happening in the industry.”  

We couldn’t agree more with Chris’ sentiments – we love attending as many expos and shows as possible so we get to see our community in person!  

Hear more from Chris about the value of trade shows in our Everything Under the Sun Expo interview with him.