CEDIA Expo/Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX) opened here today with palpable positive energy, busy aisles, and compelling narratives that span a broad array of residential and commercial technologies, as well as the business of integration.
“This show is all about energy and opportunity,” explains Jason McGraw, Group Vice President and Show Director of CEDIA Expo/CIX. “Integrators are actively exploring ways to strengthen their businesses and looking for insights and direction on technology throughout home and commercial environments, but also business insights on entrepreneurship, succession, valuation, and more. The narratives have transcended previous shows as our community has evolved, and so we’ll look to build on them in a formalized manner going forward. That’s the value integrators only get from coming to CEDIA Expo/CIX.”
The show opened with an inspiring keynote from HGTV designer and Emmy-winning host Chip Wade, who highlighted collaboration as a force multiplier that helps small businesses scale without needing large in-house teams. Before Wade took the stage, CEDIA’s Daryl Friedman shared key industry insights and data points underscoring the growth and opportunities integrators are already tapping into this year. Attendees left day one with actionable takeaways and fresh perspectives, and day two promises even more – packed with education sessions, new product showcases, and can’t-miss conversations on the Smart Stage.
Show floor narratives that integrators say help them sell to existing and new customers — whether new builds or retrofits — include work from home, age-in-place, outdoor entertainment, automotive connectivity, and, unsurprisingly, home theater and luxury audio. Technology realms include home theater, 8K video, immersive audio, UHD displays, security and access control, networking and control, and more.
“Integrators see opportunity in so many zones around the home and workplace,” McGraw says. “That’s fascinating on the growth front, but they’re also looking to how they manage their businesses, and they’re getting advice and mentorship from peers here on the show floor, at the events, and in the various sessions from the CEDIA organization and exhibitors.”
