Rosemont, IL – Connexions, presented by IS Contract, returned to Chicago’s iconic Merchandise Mart for its eighth annual gathering, held September 27–30, 2026. Bringing together over 50 Connexions member representatives, 28 furniture suppliers and industry partners, the event paired focused business conversations with product discovery and leadership insights to help independent contract furniture dealers build stronger partnerships and identify new opportunities for growth.

Building on last year’s format, the 2026 program put direct access to suppliers at the center of the experience. Dedicated vendor presentations in THE MART’s showroom areas, along with permanent showrooms and tabletop displays, gave members opportunities to explore products, ask questions, and discuss solutions for their customers. The General Session complemented the supplier sessions, with a keynote address from Adrian Leal bringing a focus on leadership, communication and business growth.

Outside the scheduled supplier sessions, networking events gave members more time with manufacturer representatives and peers to exchange ideas, discuss shared challenges and explore ways to work together. Sunday’s Welcome Reception in the Lacasse showroom helped attendees reconnect, meet new participants and begin conversations they could build on throughout the show. Monday’s Grand Gala at THE MART’s River Park brought members and suppliers together over cocktails and entertainment, offering time to get to know the people behind the products and programs. Tuesday’s cocktail party at the Tarkett rooftop provided an opportunity to follow up on showroom discussions and exchange perspectives with fellow members. The wrap-up networking party at Punch Bowl Social in Fulton Market gave attendees a final chance to discuss potential opportunities and arrange follow-up conversations after returning to their businesses.

For new participants, that sense of connection was especially evident throughout the event. Jimmy Green, CEO of NDI Office Furniture, reflected on the experience:

“Joining CNX is an exciting new chapter for our NDI Family, and our time at the Chicago show really confirmed that we made the right decision. What stood out most was the genuine sense of family within the dealer community—the conversations, the willingness to help one another, and the excitement about what we can build together.”

The event also celebrated the members, suppliers, and partners helping move the Connexions community forward. The 2025 awards, presented at this year’s show, recognized achievements in sales growth, product innovation, service, and partnership. Honorees included:

• 2025 Tradition of Excellence: 9 to 5 Seating
• 2025 Vendor of the Year: Special-T
• 2025 Vendor Innovation Award: Lacasse
• 2025 Outstanding Service Partner of the Year: THE MART
• 2025 Member of the Year: Broadway Business Interiors
• 2025 Sales Growth of the Year: Canfield Business Interiors & OEC Workplace Environments
• 2025 Rising Star of the Year: Ideal Office Worx

By bringing members and suppliers together for focused discussions and shared experiences, Connexions 2026 reinforced the value of its network: access to the people, products, and partnerships that support independent business success.