RETAILER ASK THE WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM THE 2026 NAMM SHOW?
“While The NAMM Show is always a highlight of the year, this year’s focus on adaptation to a changing world was both salient and instructive. Everyone in the music industry experienced massive disruption in 2025 and, while it at times feels scary and
overwhelming, NAMM reminded me that the exis- tence of change is the only constant in our world. Tariffs, AI, post-COVID shopping patterns and all the new technologies we’re introduced to require shops to pivot: both online and in-store. This year’s show offered so many new tools to handle the changes, but also reminded us that we as an industry have shown resilience and strength as we pivot from one new reality to the next.” Kathy Reilly, Owner Vermont Violins South Burlington, Vermont
“The 2026 NAMM Show reminded us once again that the music industry is built on relationships. It’s inspiring to see the full ecosystem — manufacturers, brands, retailers and artists — come together so closely. What stands out most is the openness: People share truly valuable insights and prioritize collaboration over competition.”
Laura Bults-Van Der Linde, COO The Fellowship of Acoustics Dedemsvaart, Netherlands
“Our biggest take- away was seeing how AI has evolved from a ‘cool concept’ to an es- sential, daily tool for mu- sic retailers and creators. The sessions involving the use of AI were par- ticularly eye-opening, focusing on how AI can instantly turn a single concept into dozens of high-performing TikToks and Instagram Reels.” John Jarvis, Owner Music Man West Palm Beach, Florida
“This NAMM show was my 20th time attending. My biggest takeaway was the inspiration that our music industry is ‘hard fun.’ We do all this because we love it. That feeds us individually to all work really hard and something I will try to build up in my business. I came back from NAMM with a boosted sense that we will handle rough roads ahead in stellar fashion because people are hardwired to make — or further share — music. It’s always exciting to see old friends, check out new ‘toys’ and nail a couple deals along the way.” Joseph Fox, President Fox Music House Columbia, South Carolina
66 I MUSIC INC. I APRIL 2026
Powered by FlippingBook