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100% Growth in Attendance: How NDA Transformed its Flagship Event with Smithbucklin

by Jeff Lambert

April 07, 2025

The National Demolition Association (NDA) is the leading voice of the demolition industry, representing nearly 500 companies engaged in a wide range of demolition activities. In 2018, NDA wanted to enhance attendee and exhibitor engagement at its flagship event, the NDA Annual Convention & Expo. NDA partnered with Smithbucklin to create a more interactive and valuable event experience.

Key Actions

NDA needed to address the challenges of helping attendees make more informed equipment purchasing decisions and reducing costs associated with extensive product testing in different locations. Together, NDA and Smithbucklin developed the LiveDEMOlition Event®, a hands-on experience designed to transform how industry professionals interact with and evaluate demolition tools and technologies. This initiative was seamlessly integrated into the Annual Convention & Expo and included:

Live Equipment Testing: Chances to operate the latest demolition tools, such as excavators, shears, and hand tools, to assess performance, compare products, and make well-informed purchasing decisions.
Technology Showcases: Featuring robotics, concrete processing, and material handling advancements.
Vendor Engagement: Direct interactions with vendors for in-depth insights on how products could drive efficiency and innovation on demolition sites.
Education Sessions: Insights from industry experts into emerging trends and technological advancements in demolition.

Outcomes

100% Growth in Attendance: The NDA Annual Conference & Expo attendance doubled from 2017 to 2024.
Mutual Benefits for Members and Exhibitors: Live equipment demonstrations streamline the purchasing process for members, saving them $10,000+ and hundreds of staff hours spent visiting dealerships. Exhibitors gain unparalleled access to high-value buyers and sell multiple machines—each valued at over $1M—with four or more typically sold per event.
Increased Industry Recognition: Named one of the “Fastest Growing Trade Shows” by Trade Show Executive in 2019 and 2023, and Trade Show Executive’s “NEXT 50” by Net Square Feet of Exhibit Space.
Stronger Industry Connections: Facilitated networking between 1,500 demolition processionals, including vendors, contractors, and business owners.

A New Standard for Industry Events

By integrating the LiveDEMOlition Event®, NDA redefined its Annual Convention & Expo, creating an unparalleled experience for attendees and exhibitors alike. Smithbucklin’s expertise helped NDA foster industry collaboration, drive event growth, and elevate its flagship event to new heights. This underscores Smithbucklin’s commitment to delivering innovative event solutions that generate long-term impact and success.