TRG | The Bottom Line – 1/24

TRG attended the 51st Annual World of Concrete in fabulous Las Vegas this week. The show draws more than 60,000 attendees and over 1,400 exhibitors from across the globe. TRG’s key takeaway from this years show – there was a lot to take in beyond concrete at the World of Concrete! Heavy machinery, safety equipment of every type, new battery powered tools, 3D printing, virtual reality software, lots of chemicals, and industry related clothing brands were all well represented. In addition, we noted a variety of industry end-market participants present. A flooring company executive shared he had never seen such a diverse make-up of industry participation in his 25 years of attending industry shows. We believe the interest underscores the upbeat outlook for construction in the U.S. from near/re-shoring, increased funding (both public and private), and a solid economic outlook. The only uncertainty TRG noted at the show were questions surrounding the impact of artificial intelligence in the out years. TRG will be heading back to Vegas for the International Builder’s Show (IBS) in February, focusing on residential construction trends.