Five Key Themes at World of Concrete Trade Show 2024
The World of Concrete trade show, held in early February, offered a comprehensive exploration of the latest innovations, trends, and practices in the concrete and masonry industries. Attendees from around the world gathered to engage in a variety of educational sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Our COO, Jake Finnegan, and VP of Construction, Brad Hoffmann, were in attendance this year and found that there were five big, key themes that they saw during their time at the show:
1. Innovation in concrete production and technology are not slowing down. Many sessions were devoted to advancements in concrete production techniques, including mix design, batching, and quality control. The experts discussed the latest technologies shaping the future of concrete manufacturing, such as automated processes and sustainable materials.
2. Construction techniques and best practices continue to evolve. Workshops provided insights into construction techniques for various applications, from residential projects to large-scale infrastructure developments. There were many presentations focused on best practices in concrete placement, finishing, and curing to ensure durability and structural integrity.
3. Sustainability and environmental considerations are top of mind. The tradeshow highlighted the importance of sustainable practices in the concrete industry, with sessions addressing topics such as recycled materials, carbon footprint reduction, and LEED certification. We could see innovative approaches to minimizing environmental impact throughout the lifecycle of concrete products and construction projects.
4. There is a lot of hype around concrete design and decorative applications. Design-focused sessions showcased creative uses of concrete in architectural and decorative applications, including stamped concrete, stained finishes, and textured surfaces. There were a lot of ways to learn about the latest design trends, techniques, and materials for enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of concrete structures.
5. Digital tools and project management continue to be a popular talking point. Discussions centered around the integration of digital tools and technology platforms for project management, scheduling, and communication were plentiful and several presenters demonstrated software solutions and mobile applications designed to streamline workflows, improve productivity, and optimize project outcomes.
In addition to educational sessions, the trade show provided ample opportunities for networking and collaboration among our industry professionals, suppliers, and stakeholders.
The World of Concrete trade show served as a dynamic platform for exploring key themes and topics shaping the concrete and masonry industries. From production and construction techniques to sustainability, safety, and design, the event provided valuable insights and resources to support professional growth, innovation, and collaboration within the industry. We’re happy to continue to be a presence within the industry.
Want to engage with a commercial concrete contractor who is staying at the forefront of innovation and technology in the concrete industry? If you are, then let’s chat about your next commercial concrete project.