Thirty years ago, when we started ANME, we honestly had no idea what it would become.
At the time, we were simply trying to create a space where people in this industry could come together, meet face-to-face, build relationships, discover products, and support one another. There was no blueprint for what we were building. We just believed this industry deserved a place where people could connect in person and do business together.
Over the years, ANME became so much more than a tradeshow.
We watched brands launch here. We watched small companies grow into major names. We watched partnerships form, friendships develop, and careers take shape. Some of the biggest opportunities in this industry started with conversations that happened right on our show floor.
What has always made ANME special to us was never just the business itself. It was the people who came together year after year.
And if the last few years have taught us anything, it’s how much those moments matter.
The industry has changed. The world has changed. Business has changed. Many people have faced challenges, uncertainty, and difficult seasons. Some longtime faces haven’t been able to attend in years. Some relationships drifted simply because life got busy, and the way we all connect changed.
And with that, we know there have also been a lot of conversations, assumptions, and rumors surrounding this year’s show and what the future of ANME looks like.
So we want to say this clearly and personally:
ANME 30 is happening, and we are incredibly proud of what this year represents.
For all of us involved, it’s an honor to celebrate 30 years of creating a place where this industry can come together, build relationships, discover new opportunities, and continue moving forward together.
This year is not about losing what made ANME special. If anything, it’s about reconnecting with it.
More than anything, we want this year to feel like a reunion.
A chance to reconnect with people you haven’t seen in a long time. A chance to shake hands again, have real conversations again, and remember why this industry became such an important part of so many of our lives and businesses in the first place.
ANME is where so many stories started.
Deals were made here. Brands were born here. Partnerships were built here. For many people, this show became part of their journey.
And now, 30 years later, we would truly love to bring the industry together again, face-to-face.
Whether you’ve attended every year or it’s been a long time since you last came, we want you to know that there is a place for you here.
For more information please visit, go.anmefounders.com/attend
