Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM DECEMBER 2025 32 A s the appliance service industry continues to evolve at a breathtaking pace, one thing remains constant: the United Appliance Servicers Association's Annual Service Training Institute (ASTI) is the essential gathering for professionals committed to growth, connection, and the future of our trade. In January 2026, we're bringing ASTI to the heart of America in Kansas City, Missouri, and we invite you to register early for what promises to be our most accessible and dynamic convention yet. Visit www.asti.us for all the details. A CENTRALLY LOCATED DESTINATION FOR THE ENTIRE INDUSTRY Kansas City is the perfect location for ASTI 2026. Situated in the center of the United States, it offers easy travel logistics for attendees from every region – East Coast, West Coast, South, Midwest, and beyond. With two major airports, strong highway access, and plentiful lodging options, getting to ASTI has never been simpler or more affordable. And yes, Kansas City in January may bring cooler temperatures, but let's be honest: we have had cold conventions in Florida, and when it comes to ASTI, the weather doesn't matter. What matters is the training, the networking, the business development, the factory expertise, and the irreplaceable connections you leave with. No matter where ASTI takes place, it remains the one event that moves your company forward. ASTI is the place to be – period. UNMATCHED NETWORKING AND INDUSTRY COLLABORATION If you've attended before, you already know that ASTI is where connections happen. If you haven't, 2026 is the year to experience it firsthand. From the moment you arrive, you'll be surrounded by business owners, technicians, manufacturers, distributors, trainers, consultants, and solution providers who speak your language. Whether you're looking to share best practices, troubleshoot recurring issues, form new partnerships, or talk shop with people who truly understand the challenges and opportunities of appliance service, ASTI offers countless opportunities to expand your network. TECH CONNECT: REAL ANSWERS FROM REAL EXPERTS Our popular Tech Connect program returns, offering technicians and owners the chance to sit down with OEM representatives, top trainers, and seasoned experts for direct Q&A, diagnostics support, and product-specific insights. This is where problems get solved, clarity is gained, and technicians leave with solutions they can implement immediately in the field. A TRADESHOW DESIGNED FOR YOUR SUCCESS The ASTI trade show is the largest and most comprehensive appliance service tradeshow in North America. Whether you're searching for new partners, tools, software, accessories, or OEM relationships, the show floor is an energizing environment filled with hands-on demonstrations and face-to-face interactions. And new this year, we are strengthening our commitment to OEM engagement – because we know that sourcing safe, reliable, factory- authorized parts is essential to serving customers with confidence. WORLD-CLASS TRAINING: BUSINESS, TECHNICAL, AND OEM FACTORY SESSIONS ASTI 2026 will again deliver a roster of high-caliber educational tracks: • Technical Training: Covering diagnostics, electronics, installation, troubleshooting, and model-specific updates. • Factory OEM Training: Direct sessions from leading manufacturers committed to ensuring accurate, efficient, warranty-compliant service. • Business Training: Recruiting, pricing, dispatching, inventory strate- gies, leadership, marketing, profitability, and operational excellence. Whether you're new to the field, building a company, or running a multi-tech operation, ASTI provides training that produces real, measurable improvement. A NEW "TECHNICIAN TICKET" OPTION We know that attending a national convention can be a financial decision, especially for shops sending multiple technicians. That's why we introduced our Technician Ticket – a discounted registration option designed specifically to make ASTI more accessible for service teams. This helps owners bring the people who benefit most directly from hands-on training and face-to-face OEM access – without straining the company budget. REGISTER NOW – ASTI IS WHERE THE INDUSTRY GROWS The location may change each year, but the mission never does: ASTI is the place where appliance service professionals get better – together. Join us in Kansas City for a week that will strengthen your business, sharpen your skills, and elevate your entire team. Registration is open now. Please visit www.asti.us to secure your spot, and we'll see you in Kansas City for ASTI 2026! S E R V I C E D E P A R T M E N T JOIN US IN KANSAS CITY FOR ASTI 2026 THE INDUSTRY EVENT YOU CAN'T AFFORD TO MISS David Smith President, United Appliance Servicers Association RO

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