The International Fastener Expo, North America’s largest fastener industry trade show, opened in Phoenix.

The October 7-9 event includes seminars and a two-day exhibition.

Founded in 1981 as the National Industrial Fastener Show & Conference (NIFS), IFE had been held in Las Vegas since 1997. Show management announced the venue change in July.

“After years of incredible growth and momentum in Las Vegas, we’re excited to bring IFE to a vibrant new location that supports our continued expansion and your evolving business goals,” IFE stated.

Why Phoenix? IFE listed the city’s “modern, walkable downtown,”direct flights from major  cities, and a growing manufacturing and industrial sector.

“Phoenix offers more space, upgraded facilities, and a fresh opportunity to connect with buyers in one of the fastest-growing regions for manufacturing and distribution.”

In August, IFE owner Emerald Holdings sold IFE and its other trade shows to private equity firm Apollo Funds. The all-cash acquisition of Emerald’s 160 B2B events is merging with another 2026 acquisition by Apollo – Questex, which holds 125 events.

Emerald acquired IFE in 2015 from founders James Bannister and Mike McGuire. The fastener trade show was started in 1981 in Columbus, OH. A second show was introduced in 1997 in Las Vegas. The last Columbus show was held in 2011.