IBWA and NEBWA Announce 2026 Bottled Water Conference & Trade Show

IBWA and NEBWA Announce 2026 Bottled Water Conference & Trade Show

International Bottled Water Association | News Release | May 20, 2026

IBWA and NEBWA Announce 2026 Bottled Water Conference & Trade Show

ALEXANDRIA, Va. - The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) and the Northeast Bottled Water Association (NEBWA) announced today that registration is officially open for the joint 2026 Conference & Trade Show. Taking place September 28 through October 1, at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, the bottled water industry's premier annual event will unite professionals from across the country under the theme "STRONGER TOGETHER."

For the first time, this industry-focused event is being co-hosted by IBWA and NEBWA, creating unprecedented opportunities for connection, education, and collaboration. The conference will bring together executives, sales teams, plant operators, route managers, bottlers, distributors, and suppliers to shape a bold, dynamic future for the industry.

"Partnering with NEBWA for the 2026 Conference & Trade Show perfectly captures our theme: we are truly Stronger Together," said IBWA President and CEO Matt Herrick. "As the bottled water industry continues to lead the beverage sector in growth, circularity, and consumer trust, this conference is where our bottlers, distributors, and suppliers gather to align our strategies, spark new innovations, and chart a bold, proactive future for healthy hydration."

"Bringing NEBWA and IBWA together for this important event underscores the power of partnership across our industry," said Jason Hutzley, Executive Director of NEBWA. "The 2026 Conference & Trade Show will provide a platform for attendees to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships, and explore new opportunities for growth. Coming together in this collaborative environment means we are supporting our businesses while also advancing the entire bottled water industry, demonstrating that we are indeed Stronger Together."

What to Expect at the 2026 Event

Designed to energize, engage, and elevate bottled water operations of all sizes, the four-day event features an expansive trade show floor showcasing leading suppliers, innovative products, and new manufacturing solutions. Attendees will also have the opportunity to deepen their technical expertise with dedicated education sessions on water treatment, filtration, plant sanitation, and much more.

The conference program features a powerful lineup of top industry leaders and analysts, including:

• Matt Herrick, President and CEO of IBWA
• Judd Larned, President of Culligan North America
• Chris Costagli, Vice President of Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverage Insights at Nielsen IQ
• A CEO Roundtable, co-hosted by NEBWA Executive Director Jason Hutzley and IBWA President & CEO Matt Herrick
• Thought leaders in Artificial Intelligence, Extended Producer Responsibility, Supply Chain Innovation, and more
• Numerous Honorees celebrated at the IBWA Awards Ceremony

An expanded conference and trade show program brings together exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees for the following:

• Connecting with hundreds of industry leaders and professionals for sales and leads
• 4 hours of dedicated exhibit time
• Targeted sponsorship opportunities including on-site advertising, pre-event marketing, session and event sponsorship opportunities, and more

Attendees will leave equipped with actionable information to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market while expanding their professional networks through daily receptions, meals, and social gatherings.

To register for the 2026 IBWA-NEBWA Conference & Trade Show and explore exhibit and sponsorship opportunities, visit https://conference.bottledwater.org/.

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Media Contact:
Jill Culora
[email protected]
703.647.4609

About the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA)

Founded in 1958, IBWA is the leading voice for the bottled water industry, which supports more than 617,000 jobs that generate $42.5 billion in wages and $163 billion in overall U.S. economic impact. IBWA provides members with professional services focused on advocacy, communications, technical services, and education to advance safe, healthy hydration and sustainable business practices. IBWA's membership consists of bottlers, distributors, and suppliers across the U.S. and around the world working to deliver the #1 packaged beverage to consumers everywhere.

About the Northeast Bottled Water Association (NEBWA)

The Northeast Bottled Water Association serves water bottlers, distributors, suppliers, and associates throughout the Northeast region of the United States, with the purpose to provide educational opportunities and open communication, while monitoring relevant trends, exchanging ideas, and supporting those involved in the bottled water industry for the benefit of the industry and the protection of the consumer.

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