The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) and the Northeast Bottled Water Association (NEBWA) announced that registration is officially open for the joint 2026 Conference & Trade Show. 

Taking place Sept. 28 through Oct. 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 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 in a statement. “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.”

Jason Hutzley, executive director of NEBWA, added: “Bringing NEBWA and IBWA together for this important event underscores the power of partnership across our industry. 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 also will 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 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/.