Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM FEBRUARY 2026 30 A S S O C I AT I O N [ N E W S ] K BIS continues to raise the bar each year, and 2026 promises NKBA's most dynamic experience yet. Across all three days, you'll discover expanded programming, exclusive events, and immersive activations that showcase the future of kitchen and bath design. This year, NKBA | KBIS is embracing new opportunities through- out the Orange County Convention Center, including an elevated presence across South and West Halls. These locations position the association alongside a vibrant mix of emerging partners, international brands participating in NKBA's Global Connect program, and designers and manufacturers pushing innovation for the whole home. For those shaping the high-end client, the third-annual LUXURY Lounge, sponsored by Ferguson Home, brings together leaders defining the next chapter of luxe kitchen and bath design. Here are just a few highlights at KBIS 2026: • The NEXTStage amplifies the conversations that matter most, covering whole-home design, research, business strategy, emerging technologies, cultural insights, wellness, and sustainability. See more than 20 forward-looking programs delivered by energetic daily hosts, including the Best of KBIS awards and Thirty Under 30 introductions. NKBA's Thirty Under 30 program is sponsored by Fabuwood and Kohler Co. • The Discovery District, located inside the Rosen Centre Hotel and connected directly to West Hall via skybridge, is home to a plethora of fresh ideas. This lively destination blends innovation, food, lounge areas, and hands-on experiences. • The Voices From the Industry Conference offers more than 50 on-site and on-demand sessions with CEU credits and actionable insights across business, design, technology, and professional development. Enjoy the new daily Wine & Design events from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm for VFTI attendees who pre- register. These educational, interactive presentations offer a relaxed atmosphere for networking and continued learning. VFTI is sponsored by Fabuwood. • State of the Industry keynote, following the State of the Association address on Wednesday, Feb. 18 starting at 8:30 am in Room S320 E at the Convention Center. This year, we are thrilled to welcome keynote speaker Jaye Anna Mize, vice president of advisory + partnerships at global trend forecasting agency Future Snoops. Mize will provide a broad look at the major forces influencing kitchen, bath, and whole-home design today, while highlighting cultural, technological, and economic dynamics shaping our lives. She will point out key paradigm shifts and translate them into practical considerations for the year ahead. Her presentation will set the stage for 2026 strategies. • The NKBA Booth (#S25058) will offer free professional headshots courtesy of Ferguson Home, available all three days with no pre- registration required. Also in the booth, participate in engaging programming and NKBA Global Connect activations featuring international brands eager to introduce their products to North America. Don't miss these opportunities to interact and network with our staff and Global Connect members. • Wednesday night, unwind at the best party in town – The Bash, sponsored by Ferguson Home, SKS, and Cosentino – at Mango's Tropical Club, and wrap up KBIS on a high note at the IBS Closing Concert on Thursday featuring award-winning country duo, Brothers Osborne. NKBA looks forward to seeing you at an inspiring future-focused KBIS 2026, celebrating the ideas, partnerships, and innovation that continue to elevate our industry. A WELCOME TO KBIS 2026! RO

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