HPBExpo25 in New Orleans brought together professionals from across the hearth, barbecue, and outdoor living industries for four days of innovation, education, and connection. One of the most talked-about changes this year was the dramatic increase in burning displays. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many burning displays before; there are more than twice as many fireplaces and firepits than I’ve ever seen,” said Tim Reed, co-founder of The Fire Time Network.
The increase wasn’t just noticeable—it was intentional. “We had about 4 million BTUs in Nashville last year, and this year we more than 8 million and more than double the number of burning appliances on the floor,” said Jill McClure, President and CEO of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA). “That’s due to a change in our burning restrictions, and we think it’s paid off for attendees to see more products in action.”
This shift created a more immersive and engaging environment, allowing attendees to experience products exactly as consumers would. For many exhibitors, retailers, and distributors, this kind of interactivity was invaluable.
Firsthand Experience, Real Results
From product demos to face-to-face conversations, HPBExpo25 showcased the unmatched energy and connection that happens on the show floor.
“It’s so nice to have a one-stop shop where everyone is here,” said Carol Tweed, Owner of Mace Energy Supply in Smithsburg, Maryland. “I can go from one booth to the next and learn what I need to find out what’s a good fit for us.”
With over 300 brands and over 1,300 buying companies in attendance, HPBExpo25 provided fresh ideas, expert insights, and valuable opportunities for peer-to-peer engagement—all aimed at helping businesses build momentum for the year ahead.
“Expo is a great opportunity to get hands-on with the product since we’re so isolated,” David Brooke, Owner of Maui Fireplace in Kula, Hawaii said. “And, getting the whole team together—it’s a great opportunity for us.”
Education at the Core
HPBExpo25 wasn’t just about exploring new products—it was also about learning. With 36 expert-led sessions, the show offered a comprehensive and free education program, sponsored by Copperfield Academy.
“I love coming to Expo. It’s an awesome opportunity to catch up on your CEUs, to get new certification, and network,” said Melissa Womack, owner of CDR Fireplaces in Alvarado, Texas. “There are so many wonderful speakers and educators here. Everyone should be taking advantage of what they are giving us.”
For many, the educational sessions were transformative. “I’ve been an NFI instructor for years, and the way I learn is through these programs at Expo,” said Tom Parks, General Manager and Vice President at COASTROAD Hearth & Patio Supply in Shallotte, North Carolina. “It’s made a difference in my world, made running a business easier, and was a game changer to learn from such talented people.”
The Return of Woodburning and the Outdoor Burn
A major highlight of HPBExpo25 was the return of woodburning appliances to the outdoor burn area. Eight companies showcased the latest in wood burning technology in a special Outdoor Woodburning Pavilion sponsored and organized by the HPBA’s Solid Fuel Hearth Appliance Section. John Crouch, HPBA’s Director of Solid Fuels, shared his excitement: “For the first time in years, woodburning is back, along with some super grills and an outdoor classroom.”
The Outdoor Burn area also featured high-energy cooking demos. “I’ve seen some incredible things on this first day of the show. Charcoal grilling is really big,” said Steven Raichlen, Author and TV Host of Project Fire and Barbecue University.
The Outdoor Burn Classroom offered a full slate of education classes including sessions on troubleshooting draft problems, pellet stove service, electric fireplaces, chimney safety, and strategies to boost grill profits.
New Features for First Timers
HPBA introduced a new feature this year—the Expo Highlights Tour, led by HPBA’s Senior Manager of Codes & Standards, Eric Adair. Designed for first-time attendees, the tour offered a curated walkthrough of the Expo’s best features, with stops that included the Outdoor Burn area and First-Time Exhibitors Pavilion, New Products Pavilion, on-floor Education Classrooms, the HPBA Backyard and others.
“We wanted to show new attendees what Expo has to offer,” Adair said. “It’s important to us that first-timers feel welcome and confident navigating the show, make connections, and discover the opportunities that make this Expo so valuable.”
A Place of Collaboration
HPBExpo25 wasn’t just about showcasing products—it was about building relationships. “This is such a heartwarming industry— to see competitors hanging out with competitors and sharing tips. The sense of camaraderie and connection is what continues to set this event apart.” McClure said.
Exhibitors found real value in the face-to-face opportunities. For many, the Expo opened doors to new relationships and untapped markets.
Mark Cliffe, Director of International & Commercial Sales at Berlin Gardens, said HPBExpo offers access to a different kind of audience. “It’s a unique show,” he said, noting that many fireplace and grill retailers also carry outdoor furniture—something not typically seen at other trade events. That crossover gives Berlin Gardens the chance to connect with new customers and build relationships with “great people and great accounts.”
For Daniel Rosato, National Sales Manager of Glen Dimplex Americas, direct customer interaction was the highlight. “We’ve been getting great feedback,” he said. While internal teams often make assumptions about product success, the opportunity to speak with hundreds of customers daily can quickly shift that thinking.
“All of a sudden, our mindset can switch,” Rosato said, emphasizing how valuable real-time insights are for shaping product direction and market strategy.
Looking Ahead
Save the date for HPBExpo26, March 18–21, 2026, at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Get ready for more fresh ideas, real connections, and serious business in the heart of the Big Easy.
Cliffe put it best: “This show is a fun show… It’s a fun way to network and love what you do while you are working.” That’s the magic of HPBExpo—serious business, fueled by passion, and made unforgettable by the people who make it all happen.