Report: Exhibiting at the NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS), Las Vegas

After six months of preparation, our exhibit at the Japan Pavilion of the NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) in Las Vegas has wrapped up—in a flash, looking back. Because IBS gathers people in building and materials from around the world, we needed to understand not only the U.S. market but also the broader context: English, units, customs, codes and regulations, web/SNS, logistics, and phytosanitary/heat treatment requirements, among others. We had attended twice before as visitors, but this was our first time exhibiting, which was demanding—yet the learning was even greater. We also met many wonderful people. Our sincere thanks to everyone at Japan’s Forestry Agency for their support.
Once again, we felt the potential of Japanese wood. Truth, Goodness, and Beauty cross borders. As a Japanese company, we believe it is meaningful work to communicate Japan’s culture and sensibilities clearly.
For three days, in my imperfect English, I kept saying things like:
“Yes—wood changes over time. Colors shift, pieces shrink and swell; your concerns make sense.
But in Japan, we find beauty in those changes. Do you know the word wabi-sabi? It’s a beautiful idea.
Wood and family both age and change together—isn’t there something shared there?
At KYOEI LUMBER we call this KYŌNEN BIKA—beauty that deepens with the years we share. What do you think?”
We’ll keep pushing forward—one conversation, one project at a time.