Show Review Trends: IBS-KBIS 2025
Steven Kleber
President, National Remodeling Foundation and Founder, Kleber & Associates Marketing Communications (K&A)
This year’s International Builders’ Show (IBS) and Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Las Vegas lived up to their reputations as the premier event for the North American home construction and remodeling industries. With record-breaking attendance, the show floor was packed with industry leaders – including product innovators and design enthusiasts – eager to explore the latest in builder products. Our team was front and center… connecting with brands, scouting trends and discovering the most exciting new product introductions.
Here are five standout “challenger brands” that made their unique selling propositions clear among some of the industry leaders.
Sauder Building Products: A Comprehensive Cabinetry and Closet Solution
Sauder Building Products made a bold statement at IBS 2025, showcasing its expertise in cabinetry, closet systems and component manufacturing. With a focus on innovation and efficiency, Sauder continues to be a major force in building material sales for single family residential, build-for-rent and multifamily opportunities.
Expanding in the Kitchen Building on the success of its Evolve cabinetry line, Sauder Cabinetry introduced Evolve Shaker Doors… bringing a fresh, modern take to the classic Shaker style with:
New Solutions and Aspirations for Organization Sauder Closets debuted stylish and functional solutions, including:
Essential Components for Cabinetry Manufacturers
Sauder Supply remains a critical provider of components such as drawer parts, doors, panels and moldings. IBS 2025 audiences explored a dedicated destination showcasing the company’s capabilities for cabinetry, closet and laminate product manufacturers.
ODL Introduces Shaker Doors at IBS 2025
With over 80 years of industry leadership, ODL continues to push the boundaries of design and innovation. At IBS 2025, ODL unveiled its latest innovation. Combining timeless craftsmanship with modern simplicity, these Shaker style doors offer a clean, versatile design… ideally suited for a complete range of architectural styles. ODL’s commitment to high-quality, design-forward solutions ensures these doors will appeal to builders, architects and homeowners alike.
Hettich’s FurnSpin: A Game-Changer for Corner Storage
Hettich has long been at the forefront of furniture fittings innovation – and this year’s IBS show experience highlighted the brand’s latest advancement – FurnSpin. This cutting-edge corner unit maximizes storage and accessibility… while maintaining a sleek, modern look. The new system transforms traditionally underutilized spaces into highly functional storage solutions, complementing Hettich’s continuing reputation for forward-thinking design.
Earthcore Showcases Isokern and Xcelux Fireplace Systems
Earthcore’s Isokern products have been a staple in modular masonry fireplace and chimney systems for decades. At IBS 2025, the company introduced several cutting-edge offerings, including:
HydroBlok’s HB ONE Board: A New Standard in Waterproofing
Since 2009, HydroBlok has been a leader in waterproofing and shower installation solutions. This week, the company introduced the HB ONE Board… a ?-inch panel designed for superior durability – moisture resistance – and energy efficiency. With its large-format design allowing for faster installation, the brand continues to revolutionize building materials… providing builders and contractors with smarter, more efficient solutions.
The Future of the Industry
IBS/KBIS 2025 set a new benchmark for innovation in the building materials and home construction industry.
From cabinetry and closets – to fireplaces and waterproofing solutions – the show floor overflowed with exciting advancements that promise to shape the future of home design and construction.
As “Challenger Brands” continue to push boundaries for disruption, the opportunity is clear: bold innovation and smart design are driving the next era of builder products.
If you’d like to learn more about maximizing trade show experiences and delivering more impactful regional activations in targeted markets, we’re here to help. Send an email to Steve at [email protected] to get the conversation started.
Sorry I missed you at the booth….but glad you got to see Hydroblok in action! See you soon