Why do the biggest names in custom integration continue to make CEDIA Expo their biggest event of the year?
In this special CE Pro Podcast, Executive Editor Zachary Comeau sits down with CEDIA Expo leadership and two leading manufacturers to explore what attendees can expect at CEDIA Expo 2026 in Denver.
Joining the conversation are Jason McGraw, Group Vice President of CEDIA Expo; Brian Pagel, Executive Vice President of Business Development at Emerald; Alex Capecelatro, CEO of Josh.ai; and Nick Berry, CEO of Origin Acoustics. Together, they discuss why in-person events remain essential for the custom integration industry despite the rise of AI-powered tools and digital communication.
The panel covers:
- Why manufacturers continue to center major product launches around CEDIA Expo
- How Josh.ai and Origin Acoustics are approaching immersive booth experiences this year
- The role of education, networking, and hands-on product demonstrations
- How attendee and exhibitor feedback has influenced changes to the show
- Why CEDIA Expo is emphasizing experiences over traditional trade show exhibits
- What defines a successful industry event for organizers, manufacturers, and integrators
- The importance of community, collaboration, and face-to-face conversations in the custom integration channel
The discussion also touches on changes to the show’s schedule, experiential programming, and why manufacturers view CEDIA Expo as much more than a venue for generating leads. Instead, it’s an opportunity to strengthen dealer relationships, gather real-world feedback, showcase new technology, and help move the industry forward.
Whether you’re planning to attend CEDIA Expo 2026 or simply want insight into where the residential technology industry is headed, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the priorities driving one of the industry’s most important annual events.
