Chairman's Perspective: Why iFAT matters for NWRA members
- dpross17
- May 15
- 2 min read
Attending the iFAT 2026 Trade Fair in Munich, Germany reinforced something I have long believed: the future of our industry is increasingly global, and staying competitive requires seeing innovation firsthand. With more than 142,000 attendees and 3,400 exhibitors from around the world, iFAT is not simply a trade show—it is the leading global forum where the next generation of waste, recycling, environmental services, and fleet technologies are introduced, tested, and debated.
What has been especially encouraging is watching NWRA’s engagement with iFAT grow over time. In 2022, just ten NWRA members attended, bringing back valuable insights on emerging technology, automation, electrification and hydrogen, and operational trends to share with colleagues across the United States. Those early attendees helped spark broader interest by demonstrating the practical value of seeing global innovation firsthand and understanding where our industry is heading.
That momentum grew in 2024, when NWRA hosted an American Reception that welcomed more than 50 attendees, strengthening relationships between North American operators, manufacturers, and international partners. This year, in 2026, we expanded that engagement even further, 110 members registered and NWRA proudly hosted more than 75 attendees at our American Reception—reflecting the growing influence and curiosity of the North American market.
For NWRA members, the value of attending iFAT extends well beyond equipment displays. It provides a unique opportunity to see emerging technologies years before they become mainstream in North America. From AI-enabled fleet systems and automation to advanced recycling technologies and new approaches to urban collection, members gain firsthand exposure to ideas that may shape future operations, investment decisions, and competitive strategy.
As Chairman, I believe international engagement gives our members perspective—and perspective drives leadership. In a rapidly evolving industry, exposure to global innovation is not optional; it is an investment in the future success of our businesses and our industry.
— Don Ross, Chairman, NWRA