If you’re managing or operating in food, beverage, or fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) warehousing and distribution, the IWLA Convention & Expo in Tucson is the one event designed for you. Hosted by the International Warehouse Logistics Association, it gathers warehouse managers, facility operators, supply chain pros, and service providers to share ideas, build skills, and connect face-to-face.
Expect practical sessions, hands-on demos, great conversations, and a warm desert setting that brings both focus and relaxation.
When & Where It’s Happening
- Dates: September 27–30, 2025
- Venue: Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Tucson, Arizona
- Event Flow:
- Day 0: Optional golf, resort check-in, welcome gathering
- Days 1–2: Full programming includes education, expo hall, and networking dinners
- Day 3: Final sessions, award breakfast, and official close
This gorgeous resort tucked into the Catalina foothills gives you a mix of productivity and relaxation—ideal for deep work by day and casual chats by pool at sunset.
What Makes This Event Stand Out
- A focus on daily challenges in FMCG warehousing—think temperature control, space optimization, safety, compliance, and cost
- Content designed by warehouse leaders who face these same issues
- Real-world demos of equipment and systems—like racking, material handling, robotics, and seasonal space designs
- Peer-led roundtables and “common problem” discussions where honest advice flows freely
- Industry awards that honor excellence in warehouse management, innovation, and people leadership
It’s a conference built by and for professionals who run the places where products get stored, sorted, and shipped.
Who Should Attend
- Warehousing and distribution center directors
- FMCG facility managers focused on storage, replenishment, and throughput
- Safety, compliance, and HR professionals in warehouse environments
- System integrators, operations engineers, and logistics specialists
- Vendors supplying forklifts, racking, automation, WMS software, and labor tools
- Consultants, trainers, and analysts specializing in warehouse operations
If your work centers on where FMCG goods live before they reach stores or homes, this event is full of focused value.
What You’ll Experience
1. Educational Sessions
Workshops and panels cover topics like warehouse layout planning, labor optimization during peaks, safety training, cold storage, and performance metrics.
2. Peer Roundtables
Small-group sessions led by warehouse managers where attendees share solutions for issues like staff turnover or space constraints.
3. Expo Hall
See live demos—from pallet racking and order pick solutions to robotics, packaging systems, and warehouse management software.
4. Awards & Recognition
Celebrate industry excellence and connect with peers during award ceremonies that honor innovation in warehousing.
5. Networking Events
Enjoy meals, evening receptions, and relaxation spots around the resort where those crucial hallway conversations happen.
6. Resort Extras
Start your day with a walk on desert trails, unwind at the spa, or end a busy day with golf or stargazing—your choice.
Why It’s Worth Attending
- Learn from leaders: Hear strategies that have improved efficiency, safety, or cost in real warehouses
- See products you need: Demo equipment and systems you may be considering investing in
- Get honest feedback: Small-group talks uncover practical, not theoretical, solutions
- Make helpful connections: Real conversation sticks more than a slide deck
- Celebrate your team: Award moments boost morale and spotlight best practices
- Balance learning & rest: Tucson’s setting supports both inspiration and calm
Cost & Registration Info
- Full Conference Pass: Includes sessions, meals, expo access, and receptions
- Early‑Bird Rates: Offered well in advance—registering early saves money
- Group Discounts: Available for teams or multiple registrations
- Add‑Ons: Some pre-conference workshops, resort activities, or extra tours may cost extra
Registering early not only saves money—it also helps you secure spots in limited workshops or roundtables.
Where to Stay
The event is centered at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort:
- On-site lodging includes rooms and suites with spa and golf package options
- Resort restaurants and bars offer casual and upscale dining
- Shuttle service provided to conference meeting areas
- If alternate lodging is needed, nearby hotels and rentals are available—but booking through the resort adds convenience
Getting There & Getting Around
- Airport: Tucson International Airport is a 20-minute drive from the resort
- Ground Transport: Rental cars, shuttles, and ride-share options are easy to arrange
- On-site mobility: The resort is walkable, though golf carts are available for longer walks
- Off-resort travel: For anyone extending their stay for personal travel, rental cars are recommended
Smart Tips for Attendees
- Review your agenda early—choose sessions that match your current warehouse challenges
- Bring a notebook or device—these sessions are packed with takeaways
- Come ready to share: Peer sessions work best when you add your experience
- Plan expo visits: If you’re exploring a certain supplier or tool, schedule your time
- Use downtime wisely: A quiet poolside chat can spark new solutions
- Make networking count: The people you meet in Tucson may become key collaborators
- Post-event follow‑up: After the conference, share learnings with your team and plan next steps
Final Thoughts
The IWLA Convention & Expo in Tucson gives you more than just sessions and booths—it delivers a focused, nuanced, and deeply useful experience tailored to FMCG warehousing and distribution. Here, you’ll find solutions you can implement, people who face the same operational challenges, and insights that will help you do your job better.
If you’re looking to improve your warehouse, optimize your facility, or tap into a peer-driven community of warehousing professionals, this event is one you’ll wish you attended.
To learn more and reserve your ticket, visit:
https://www.iwla.com/convention