October is here, and that means one thing for all of us in the shooting sports industry: it’s time for the NASGW Expo.
In just a few short days, we’ll be kicking things off in Grapevine, Texas; starting with the Annual Appreciation Dinner on Tuesday evening. It’s one of my favorite events of the year, not just because it brings us all together under one roof, but because it serves as a reminder of why this association exists in the first place.
The NASGW Expo is about business, plain and simple. No distractions, no wasted time just focused conversations between manufacturers, wholesalers, and sales professionals looking to move the industry forward. It’s a unique event that delivers real value through meaningful meetings, relationship building, and strategic planning for the year ahead.
If you’ve been to the Expo before, you know what to expect. If this is your first time joining us, get ready for a productive and fast-paced week.
Built for Business
What makes the Expo special is that it’s not just about showcasing products, it’s about building partnerships. It’s the conversations behind the scenes, the alignment of goals, and the honest feedback that shapes how we all do business. Whether you’re finalizing purchase plans, launching new products, or discussing marketing strategies for Q1, the Expo creates space for the right people to connect in the right way.
This year, we’re also seeing the continued evolution of SCOPE and the launch of the new VAULT program, two of the most important initiatives NASGW has ever undertaken.
SCOPE is helping us better understand the market, track real-time trends, and make data-driven decisions. For both manufacturers and distributors, that visibility is more important than ever in a landscape where customer demand can shift quickly.
VAULT will simplify how we manage and share product information across the supply chain. It’s about cutting down on redundancy, improving accuracy, and saving time and money for everyone involved.
Planning for the Future
As we prepare for another great Expo, I also want to encourage everyone to think beyond the show floor. We’re not just here to make deals, we’re here to build something that lasts.
That means strengthening relationships, embracing new technology, and planning for a future that brings even more complexity and opportunity. Our industry is changing. The way we do business is changing. But the strength of our community remains the same.
Now is the time to stay involved. Use the tools, ask questions, and share ideas. This association belongs to its members and the more we show up and participate, the stronger we all become.
I’m looking forward to seeing many of you in Grapevine, whether it’s at the Appreciation Dinner on Tuesday night or walking the show floor throughout the week. Let’s make the most of our time together, keep building momentum, and keep pushing this industry forward..
See you in Texas,
Bill Sumner
NASGW Chairman of the Board