FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Industry Week 2026 Brings High Energy and Strong Connections to San Diego
ISG members and supplier partners come together for education, business opportunities
and a celebration of the independent channel
ROSEMONT, Ill., November 9, 2026 — Independent Suppliers Group (ISG) brought the independent business products community together for a successful Industry Week ’26, held November 2–5 at the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in Chula Vista, California, with Pinnacle meetings beginning November 1. From focused business discussions to a lively tradeshow floor and memorable networking events, the gathering reflected the energy, optimism and relationships that help
independent businesses move forward.
“The energy at Industry Week was incredible. Everywhere you looked, members and supplier partners were connecting, sharing ideas and talking about what’s next for their businesses. That willingness to work together is one of the greatest strengths of our community, and it was on full display in San Diego,” said James Rodgers, President & CEO, ISG.
Members, suppliers, wholesalers and industry leaders connected throughout a program designed to turn time together into practical value. Pinnacle one-on-one meetings on November 1–2 provided dedicated time for members and supplier partners to discuss priorities, review opportunities and plan next steps. That spirit of collaboration continued throughout Industry Week’s general session, educational programming and tradeshow.
Futurist and keynote speaker Mike Walsh offered a forward-looking perspective on leadership in the age of artificial intelligence. His presentation explored how businesses can combine human judgment with machine intelligence, rethink traditional workflows and redesign roles to create new value. His message challenged attendees to consider how they can prepare their organizations for a changing business environment.
Business development seminars and educational tracks connected that broader perspective to the everyday needs of independent businesses. Programming addressed sales strategy, AI applications, category expansion, public sector opportunities, operations and leadership, offering members ideas to bring back to their teams. Discussions of the wholesale landscape added context to the changes and decisions shaping the channel.
The November 4 tradeshow brought that momentum onto the show floor. Members met directly with supplier representatives, explored products and solutions, and discussed opportunities across their businesses. The atmosphere was energetic and welcoming, with established relationships strengthened and new introductions opening the door to future collaboration.
“We came to Industry Week looking for ideas and opportunities we could bring back to our business, and we left with both. Having dedicated time with suppliers, hearing how other members are approaching shared challenges and exploring products on the show floor made the trip worthwhile,” said Stacy Duke, President, Butler Business Products.
The connections continued beyond the meeting rooms and tradeshow floor. The NEXT Young Leaders Mixer, sponsored by Global Furniture Group, and the OPWIL Networking Reception created additional opportunities to meet peers and exchange perspectives. The Bayfront Bash Welcome Celebration, sponsored by ACCO Brands, brought attendees together in a lively waterfront setting, while the closing celebration aboard the USS Midway Museum, sponsored by The HON Company, offered a memorable finish to the event.
The program also included a presentation highlighting City of Hope’s impact, industry award recognition and opportunities for members to engage with ISG leadership. Throughout the event, attendees had time to learn, do business and build relationships that support continued success long after returning home.
About Independent Suppliers Group
Independent Suppliers Group (ISG) is a member-owned purchasing cooperative serving independent business products distributors. Through supplier partnerships, purchasing programs, business resources and opportunities for collaboration, ISG helps members compete and succeed while
strengthening the independent channel.
Media Contact
Jamie Mennicke | Director of Marketing
Independent Suppliers Group
847.699.3330 | ISG.coop
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