Equip Exposition, the industry's largest trade show and educational event for landscapers, contractors, dealers and outdoor power equipment manufacturers, was recently named a finalist in three categories for Trade Show Executive's Gold 100 Grand Awards: "The Marketing Genius Award," "The Best Attendee Acquisition Model" and "The Stickiest Show Floor in 2025."
"TSE's Gold 100 awards recognize the best trade shows in the country and these nominations are a testament to the hard work our team puts in to deliver gold standard programing and events for our attendees and exhibitors," said Kris Kiser, president of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), which owns and manages Equip Exposition.
Since OPEI took management of the trade show and rebranded it in 2022, Equip has been nominated for 16 grand awards, and has brought home trophies for "The Greatest Trade Show of 2024," the "Against All Odds Award," the "Most Innovative Show" and "Best New Idea."
As the fifth largest trade show in the United States, Equip drew in 30,000 registered contractors, dealers and manufacturers last year to its 1.2 million sq.ft. of indoor and outdoor exhibit space. Last year, the show grew its landscaper attendance by 12 percent and dealer attendance by 17 percent, according to Equip Exposition.
This year Equip Exposition will be held Oct. 20-23, 2026, at the Kentucky Exposition Center.
"Nowhere else can you see all the industry's technology in one place," said Kiser. "The most efficient way to see the latest innovations is to come to Equip — from the latest smart technologies for outdoor power equipment to developments in hardscape, irrigation, safety and more."
In the show's unique 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard, attendees can get behind the wheel and try out the latest four-wheel workhorses on the UTV Test Track, which offers a track with mud, rocks and curves.
Trade Show Executive's prestigious Gold 100 Awards & Summit recognizes the top trade shows held in the United States and offers associations and independent show organizers an opportunity to highlight their achievements. The awards will be presented in Palos Verdes, Ca., at a Summit being held Sept. 22-24, 2026.
