Each November, the Convention brings together more than 4,000 industry leaders for educational, business, and social activities. The meeting always features a full trade show and provides a cost-effective way to meet with policy-level supplier executives. Since the show is a buying show, distributors can take advantage of exhibitor show specials and prize drawings. Founded in 1976 by 18 industry leaders who sought to create an organization where manufacturers and distributors of construction/industrial products could interface.