OPTIONAL EVENTS
SUNDAY, MAY 31
10:30 - 3:00 PM
SUNDAY, MAY 31
10:45 - 2:30 PM
10:45 - 2:30 PM
IWDC NEXT GENERATION GROUP (INGG) RECEPTION
MEMBER - DISTRIBUTOR (BUYER) ONLY
MEMBER - DISTRIBUTOR (BUYER) ONLY
SUNDAY, JUNE 31
Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: 2nd Floor, Bluegrass 1 & 2
This event will provide a great networking opportunity for future leaders to build and foster professional relationships within IWDC Member companies. The IWDC Next Gen Group is an excellent platform for learning and contributing to discussions, whether you're new to the industry or continuing to advance your career.
Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: 2nd Floor, Bluegrass 1 & 2
This event will provide a great networking opportunity for future leaders to build and foster professional relationships within IWDC Member companies. The IWDC Next Gen Group is an excellent platform for learning and contributing to discussions, whether you're new to the industry or continuing to advance your career.
OPENING RECEPTION
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
MONDAY, JUNE 1
Todd Cohen, CSP – The Sales Culture Architect®
Todd Cohen is a dynamic keynote speaker and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) who teaches organizations a powerful truth: when everyone embraces a sales mindset, it becomes a multiplier of growth and success. As founder of Sales Leader LLC and known globally as "The Sales Culture Architect," Todd has spent four decades proving that sustainable business growth happens when entire organizations—not just sales departments—take ownership of customer relationships and revenue generation.
Learn more about Todd Cohen here.
Todd Cohen, CSP – The Sales Culture Architect®
Todd Cohen is a dynamic keynote speaker and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) who teaches organizations a powerful truth: when everyone embraces a sales mindset, it becomes a multiplier of growth and success. As founder of Sales Leader LLC and known globally as "The Sales Culture Architect," Todd has spent four decades proving that sustainable business growth happens when entire organizations—not just sales departments—take ownership of customer relationships and revenue generation.
Learn more about Todd Cohen here.
TUESDAY, JUNE 2
Dr. Colin Dees
Dr. Colin Dees is a consultant, educator, and keynote speaker with deep roots in wholesale distribution and a rare ability to bridge executive leadership, academic insight, and real-world execution. With more than two decades of hands-on industry experience, Colin has helped many distributors with their supply chain replenishment strategies, customer pricing and profitability, warehouse and transportation operations, and the deployment of business intelligence systems that drive measurable performance.
Learn more about Colin Dees here.
Dr. Colin Dees
Dr. Colin Dees is a consultant, educator, and keynote speaker with deep roots in wholesale distribution and a rare ability to bridge executive leadership, academic insight, and real-world execution. With more than two decades of hands-on industry experience, Colin has helped many distributors with their supply chain replenishment strategies, customer pricing and profitability, warehouse and transportation operations, and the deployment of business intelligence systems that drive measurable performance.
Learn more about Colin Dees here.
SPEED DATING
NEW SUPPLIER BOOTH FORMAT!
ALL MEMBERS & VENDORS PARTICIPATION
ALL MEMBERS & VENDORS PARTICIPATION
Connecting Members & Supplier Partners at IWDC 2026
Vendors are an essential part of our Cooperative, and we are always looking for meaningful ways to strengthen the connection between our Members and valued Supplier Partners.
At this year’s IWDC Sales & Purchasing Convention, we are excited to host a Speed Dating Networking Session—a fast‑paced, high‑impact opportunity designed to spark conversations, uncover opportunities, and build lasting relationships.
Each participating Member company will be paired with four (4) Vendor partners for 12‑minute sessions focused on collaboration, discovery, and partnership opportunities.
To support productive discussions, each Member and Vendor company is asked to designate two (2) representatives to participate. Let’s make the most of this exciting opportunity to connect, collaborate, and grow—together.
Event Details
Tuesday, June 2
10:05 AM – 11:05 AM
2nd Floor | Marriott Foyer
How It Works
This will be a structured Speed Dating format in which Vendors remain at their booths, and Members rotate through according to pre‑designed pairings. Bring your business cards and be prepared to make meaningful connections.
We look forward to seeing Members and Vendors come together for an engaging and productive session!
CLOSING RECEPTION
(Beer & Wine ONLY)
(Beer & Wine ONLY)
Toast to Memories as we celebrate the unforgettable moments shared during this year’s convention. While this marks the official end of our scheduled events, we encourage you to keep the connections going and continue the evening with fellow attendees in vibrant downtown Louisville, KY!
MEMBER - DISTRIBUTOR (BUYER) INFORMATION
MEMBER WORKSHOPS - MEMBERS ONLY
Monday, June 1
10:15 - 11:40 AM
Monday, June 1
10:15 - 11:40 AM
ESAB - Premier Sponsor Presentation
ESAB Corporation is a world leader in fabrication and specialty gas control technology, providing our partners with advanced equipment, consumables, automation, robotics, and digital solutions that enable the everyday and extraordinary work that shapes our world.
ESAB Corporation is a world leader in fabrication and specialty gas control technology, providing our partners with advanced equipment, consumables, automation, robotics, and digital solutions that enable the everyday and extraordinary work that shapes our world.
- Tier 1 and Value Tier Pricing for a successful Dual Brand Go To Market Strategy
- New Products – Bring Innovation and Value to your customers
- Ruffian 270 Engine Drive Welder
- GCE Spec Market Gas Regulators
- Ultimate Line Up Portfolio
- How to create demand with merchandising and customer events (DemoBus)
- Pricing enhancements for 2026 for IWDC membership
Weldmark Workshop - Member Panel Discussion
You can expect the following topics of discussion:
- Weldmark products
- Weldmark positioning in the market
- Member buying habits
- Driving distributor purchasing decisions
GOLD SPONSOR PRESENTATIONS - MEMBERS ONLY
Monday, June 1
1:15 - 3:50 PM
Monday, June 1
1:15 - 3:50 PM
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM
2:10 PM - 2:55 PM
3:05 PM - 3:50 PM
SHOW SPECIAL BOOK REQUESTS
Important Information
- One (1) book will be mailed to each REGISTERED Member Company.
- We will begin mailing the Show Special Book the week of April 20th to those registered for the convention—please check your mailbox around that time.
- No PO Boxes: We cannot ship to PO Box addresses; please provide a valid street address.
- For Canadian & Mexican Members: Due to shipping delays through customs, you will receive an electronic copy via email. A hard copy will be available for pickup at on-site registration check-in.
- If you would like the digital copy, please contact Jenne Carney at jenne@iwdc.coop.
VENDOR - SUPPLIER (EXHIBITOR) INFORMATION
Friendly Reminder to Our Valued Vendors: Please remember that Show Specials are to be offered exclusively to IWDC Members attending the Convention in person. These specials are a benefit for Members who have committed to attending the show, and we appreciate your partnership in honoring that commitment.
We’re excited to welcome you to the 2026 IWDC Sales & Purchasing Convention! Please review the following important information regarding your booth assignment, setup logistics, and event schedule.
We’re excited to welcome you to the 2026 IWDC Sales & Purchasing Convention! Please review the following important information regarding your booth assignment, setup logistics, and event schedule.
BOOTH INFORMATION
Booth Fee: $2,500 (10' x 10')
Booth Fee Includes:
1 (one) 6' x 30" Draped Display Table
2 (two) Chairs
1 (one) Wastebasket
1 (one) Company I.D. Sign
Order carpet for your booth, if you choose, through Fern. Exhibit Hall is already carpeted.
FERN COMPANY
Have a question? Reach our Exhibitor Services Team at 1-800-774-1251ext. 1.
IMPORTANT: All booth services, including shipping and materials handling, are managed through our official exhibitor decorator, Fern Company.
Booth Fee: $2,500 (10' x 10')
Booth Fee Includes:
1 (one) 6' x 30" Draped Display Table
2 (two) Chairs
1 (one) Wastebasket
1 (one) Company I.D. Sign
Order carpet for your booth, if you choose, through Fern. Exhibit Hall is already carpeted.
FERN COMPANY
Have a question? Reach our Exhibitor Services Team at 1-800-774-1251ext. 1.
IMPORTANT: All booth services, including shipping and materials handling, are managed through our official exhibitor decorator, Fern Company.
VENDOR BOOTH SET UP
Monday, June 1
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Marriott Ballroom + Foyer
Tuesday, June 2
7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Marriott Ballroom + Foyer
SPONSORSHIP RECEPTION (Sponsors & Members Only – No Displays or Setups)
Tuesday, June 2
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Pre-Function "Race Track"
Please note that this year’s Sponsorship Reception has a new format. There will be no tabletop displays or booth setups at this event. It will serve exclusively as a networking opportunity for sponsors and IWDC Members. There’s no need to bring or set up materials—just bring yourself, plenty of business cards, and be ready to connect!
TRADESHOW
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Marriott Ballroom + Foyer
VENDOR BOOTH TEAR DOWN
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Marriott Ballroom + Foyer
Monday, June 1
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Marriott Ballroom + Foyer
Tuesday, June 2
7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Marriott Ballroom + Foyer
SPONSORSHIP RECEPTION (Sponsors & Members Only – No Displays or Setups)
Tuesday, June 2
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Pre-Function "Race Track"
Please note that this year’s Sponsorship Reception has a new format. There will be no tabletop displays or booth setups at this event. It will serve exclusively as a networking opportunity for sponsors and IWDC Members. There’s no need to bring or set up materials—just bring yourself, plenty of business cards, and be ready to connect!
TRADESHOW
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Marriott Ballroom + Foyer
VENDOR BOOTH TEAR DOWN
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Marriott Ballroom + Foyer
SUBMIT SHOW SPECIAL BY MARCH 17 to showspecial@iwdc.coop
ARTWORK GUIDEBOOK
Please carefully refer to the Artwork Requirements Guidebook provided. This guidebook contains essential details, including instructions, template dimensions, and examples to help you prepare and submit your artwork correctly.
Page Limitations:
Adhering to the guidebook ensures a smooth and efficient submission process. Thank you for your cooperation!
All IWDC Vendors MUST turn in a Show Special to attend the IWDC Sales & Purchasing Convention.
LATE FEES:
Please carefully refer to the Artwork Requirements Guidebook provided. This guidebook contains essential details, including instructions, template dimensions, and examples to help you prepare and submit your artwork correctly.
Page Limitations:
- Regular Vendors: Maximum of 2 pages.
- Premier, Gold, and Silver Sponsors: Maximum of 4 pages.
Adhering to the guidebook ensures a smooth and efficient submission process. Thank you for your cooperation!
All IWDC Vendors MUST turn in a Show Special to attend the IWDC Sales & Purchasing Convention.
LATE FEES:
- Show Specials submitted after the deadline,
- MARCH 17, you will be charged a late fee of $500.
- No submission by MARCH 24 will be assessed a late fee of $1,000 and will not be included in the book.
SPONSORSHIP GUIDEBOOK
We strongly encourage you to thoroughly review our Sponsorship Guidebook. This valuable resource provides comprehensive details on all aspects of sponsorship, including:
We strongly encourage you to thoroughly review our Sponsorship Guidebook. This valuable resource provides comprehensive details on all aspects of sponsorship, including:
- Available Sponsorship Opportunities
- What’s Included in Each Sponsorship Package
- Sponsorship Matrix
- Contributing Sponsorship Opportunities
- Speed Dating Information
- Important Deadlines
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Louisville Marriott Downtown
280 West Jefferson St., Louisville, KY 40202
Central reservation number: (888) 236-2427
Room Rates: $215 Standard Room plus tax per night
Special room rates are available through May 4, or until the group block is sold out.
Room rates will increase after this date. IWDC is NOT responsible for making your hotel reservations.
Please make your reservation at our meeting hotel, where we have negotiated a contract to give you the best value and service. If you book outside our block, we will not be able to stay within our contractual obligations and must pay fees to make up the difference, which will harm our organization and the benefits we provide.
280 West Jefferson St., Louisville, KY 40202
Central reservation number: (888) 236-2427
Room Rates: $215 Standard Room plus tax per night
Special room rates are available through May 4, or until the group block is sold out.
Room rates will increase after this date. IWDC is NOT responsible for making your hotel reservations.
Please make your reservation at our meeting hotel, where we have negotiated a contract to give you the best value and service. If you book outside our block, we will not be able to stay within our contractual obligations and must pay fees to make up the difference, which will harm our organization and the benefits we provide.
