RETAILOBSERVER.COM NOVEMBER 2026
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BIS 2027 is returning to Las Vegas February 2-4, and there's
one experience you'll definitely want to make time for: the
Voices from the Industry Conference (VFTI).
This year's VFTI will feature even more opportunities to expand
your network as you learn from respected industry leaders – including
more panel discussions and workshops.
Get ready for a brand-new roundtable format, the return of the
popular "Wine & Design" event, and a keynote featuring Laura Kohler.
Sessions are organized into six tracks, each designed to address
the evolving challenges and emerging opportunities shaping the field:
• Building & Remodeling
• Leadership & Management
• Design
• K&B Trends
• Marketing
• Technology
Your VFTI registration gives you full access to the entire conference.
There are dozens of sessions to choose from. Here are just a few:
The Problem-Solving Designer: 40 Years of Real-World Case Studies
With Elizabeth Walther, Partner, DESIGN STUDIO, LLC
Successful projects are not the ones without problems; they are
the ones with teams that know how to solve them. Through engaging
residential and commercial case studies drawn from more than 40
years of professional practice, this session explores real project
challenges and the practical systems used to overcome them.
Let's Talk About Client Experience
With Mark Haddad, Founder + President, Principal Interior
Designer, Interiology Design Co.
Join this interactive roundtable as we explore the client journey
from first contact through project completion and beyond. Share
challenges, discuss solutions, and learn practical strategies for
managing expectations, improving communication, and creating
lasting client relationships.
Can You Spot the Failure Before It's Built? The Building Science
Challenge
With Chris Laumer-Giddens, Principal Architect, LG Squared, Inc.
In this highly interactive session, attendees will evaluate real
kitchen and bathroom details, vote on whether they'll succeed or fail,
and discover the building science behind each outcome.
Whether you're looking to solve business challenges, sharpen your
leadership skills, or stay ahead of the latest design and tech trends,
VFTI delivers real-world insights you can put into practice right away.
And if you're an NKBA-certified designer, you'll also have the
bonus opportunity to earn CEUs!
"I like that I can take an hour each day to earn my CEUs, then spend
the rest of the day walking the show floor."
– Sophie D., Florida
VFTI Conference registration includes a free Expo pass to KBIS &
IBS exhibits. Visit www.kbis.com/conference/vfti-schedule to see the
full VFTI schedule and register.
VOICES FROM THE INDUSTRY CONFERENCE
UNLOCK YOUR 2027 POTENTIAL AT VFTI
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