Must-Attend Trade Shows in the United States
The United States hosts some of the largest trade shows in the world.
Each sector has its flagship events, which often shape business development for several years.
Technology, Innovation & Electronics
CES – Las Vegas
Las Vegas
https://www.ces.tech
The CES (Consumer Electronics Show) is the world’s largest trade show dedicated to technological innovation and consumer electronics.
Held annually in Las Vegas, it brings together startups, major corporations, investors, and international media to showcase the latest advancements in AI, mobility, health, smart home, and future technologies.
Ideal for:
- innovative product launches
- international visibility
- investor & partner meetings
To learn more about CES, discover:
- The Arkamys case study
- The CES trade show page
SXSW – Austin
Austin, Texas https://www.sxsw.com
The SXSW (South by Southwest) is an international festival and conference that brings together the worlds of technology, music, film, media, and culture. Held annually in Austin, Texas, the event gathers entrepreneurs, creatives, artists, investors, and major brands for conferences, concerts, screenings, immersive experiences, and networking.
The main difference from CES is that CES focuses on technological innovations and products (AI, electronics, mobility, hardware, tech startups), while SXSW places more emphasis on cultural trends, creativity, media, marketing, and the interactions between technology and creative industries. CES is primarily a business and product show, whereas SXSW functions more as a festival of ideas and influence.
Ideal for:
- innovation, digital, AI
- branding and storytelling
- strategic networking
Retail, Distribution & E-commerce
NRF Retail’s Big Show – New York
New York https://nrfbigshow.nrf.com
The NRF Retail’s Big Show is the world’s largest trade show dedicated to retail and commerce.
Held annually in New York, it brings together retailers, brands, startups, and experts to showcase the latest innovations in customer experience, e-commerce, AI, logistics, and retail technologies.
A true industry benchmark, the event combines conferences, demonstrations, networking, and the discovery of trends shaping the future of commerce.
Next edition: January 10 to 12, 2027, in New York
Ideal for:
- retail & e-commerce solutions
- retail tech
- key account meetings
Health, Medtech & Biotech
HIMSS – USA (location varies)
The HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition is one of the world’s largest events dedicated to digital health and medical technologies.
Held annually in the United States, it brings together healthcare professionals, hospitals, startups, industrial players, and IT experts to discuss innovations in e-health, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, health data, and the digital transformation of the medical sector.
Ideal for:
- medical software and solutions
- health data & information systems
- B2B and institutional players
Industry, Manufacturing & Engineering
IMTS – Chicago
Chicago https://www.imts.com
The IMTS (International Manufacturing Technology Show) is the largest trade show dedicated to manufacturing technologies and the manufacturing industry in North America. Held in Chicago, the event brings together industrial players, engineers, manufacturers, and innovators to showcase the latest advancements in automation, robotics, machining, additive manufacturing, AI, and the digital transformation of the industry.
Ideal for:
- industrial manufacturers
- equipment manufacturers
- B2B suppliers
Agrifood & Food
Fancy Food Show – New York / Las Vegas
New York & Las Vegas https://www.specialtyfood.com
The Fancy Food Show is the largest North American trade show dedicated to specialty food products and culinary innovation.
Organized in New York and Las Vegas by the Specialty Food Association, it brings together producers, distributors, buyers, chefs, and brands from around the world to explore the latest food trends, new products, and business opportunities in the premium agrifood sector.
Ideal for:
- food & beverage brands
- producers
- distributors & importers
Cosmetics, Fragrances & Ingredients
NYSCC Suppliers’ Day – New York
New York https://nyscc.org
The NYSCC Suppliers’ Day is the premier North American trade show dedicated to cosmetic science and ingredients for the beauty and personal care industry.
Held annually in New York by the New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists, it brings together researchers, brands, suppliers, and industrial players to discuss innovations, trends, and advancements in formulation, with a strong scientific, educational, and networking focus.
Ideal for:
- ingredients & raw materials
- laboratories
- cosmetic innovation
Sports, Outdoor & Lifestyle
Outdoor Retailer – USA
USA https://www.outdoorretailer.com
Outdoor Retailer is the largest B2B trade show in North America dedicated to the outdoor industry.
Held annually, it brings together brands, distributors, buyers, and experts to showcase equipment, apparel, and innovations for outdoor activities (hiking, camping, skiing, cycling, etc.), creating business opportunities and discovering new industry trends.
Ideal for:
- sports & outdoor brands
- equipment manufacturers
- specialized distribution
Drones, Robotics & Defense
XPONENTIAL is the largest North American trade show dedicated to drones, robotics, and autonomous systems, organized annually by AUVSI. It brings together industrial players, governments, and researchers to discuss civilian, commercial, and defense applications of autonomy, with a dedicated zone for military technologies.
The 2026 edition was held in Detroit (we were there!), and the next one will take place from May 17 to 20, 2027, at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
How to Choose the Right Trade Show in the United States?
Before registering, ask yourself the right questions:
- What is my primary objective (leads, visibility, partners, sales)?
- Is the audience truly qualified for my offer?
- Do I have the capacity for sales follow-up after the show?
- Does the show fit into a 2–3 year strategy?
Exhibiting in the United States is a foundational project, not an improvised test.
The Merci Gustave Approach
At Merci Gustave, we support French and European companies:
- in choosing American trade shows
- designing booths adapted to US standards
- logistical and operational preparation
- and post-show business performance
Are you preparing for a trade show in the United States?
Speak with a Merci Gustave expert
Complimentary booth design & quote
A French-speaking contact, expert in the North American market