Wednesday I drove to the Las Vegas Convention Center with the intent of visiting the National Hardware Show. Parking was easy, but I wasn’t aware the show was in the convention center’s West Hall, so a good deal of walking was required.

The walking was worth it, however. I learned a great deal — including some basics that I should have known previously. For example, at Quebec’s Lambert booth which showcased a number of kinds of “soil”, I was told that Lambert is actually the largest producer of peat moss in the world. Not being a gardener, I was unaware of much about peat moss and how many different varieties are available for purchase. Exhibitor Steve had lots of talking to do before I felt up-to-date on peat moss.

I had problems with “clam shells,” too, but that’s a different story.

The National Hardware Show is produced by RX, formerly Reed Exhibitions. The show was definitely high tech with self-serve pre-registration stations that would quickly issue badges, On the show floor, each booth had an electronic device that could quickly scan the QR code on an attendee’s badge to let the exhibitor know who has visited their booth. No more does an exhibitor need to collect a valise full of business cards. And finally because the National Hardware Show was located in the new West Hall, Tesla cars were available at the West Hall and at the Central Hall to haul visitors back and forth through the new underground tunnel. A quiet beautiful ride that saves visitors a long walk was quite impressive.

The National Hardware Show has been around since 1945. I have attended in the past, but this year found many new items. My video is attached.