Thank You
Thank you for registering for the MWHPBA Annual Meeting! Additional event details will be emailed to you as we get closer to the meeting. If you have any questions about your registration, please email egeil@midwesthpba.org or call (314) 256-9926.
JOIN US FOR THIS REGION'S MUST-ATTEND EDUCATION AND NETWORKING EVENT
Our last Annual Meeting shattered attendance records — and we’re bringing that momentum with us into 2025!
While St. Louis may be familiar territory, this year’s event is turning up the heat with the same high-impact education, hands-on experiences, and unforgettable moments you loved in Springfield. Here’s what you can look forward to:
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Expert-led education sessions that tackle today’s industry challenges
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Hands-on training to sharpen your skills and boost your confidence
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A product showcase featuring the latest innovations
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A delicious dinner prepared by our grill sponsors
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Special visit to a local retailer member’s showroom
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Unmatched networking with fellow members and industry leaders
…and so much more!
ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025*
TECHNICAL TRACK
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Hands-On Gas Fireplace Training
Presented by Regency
Space is limited for this event, register early. This interactive, hands-on training session is designed for service technicians and industry professionals looking to enhance their skills in maintaining and troubleshooting gas fireplaces. The session will also cover common repair scenarios, safety protocols, and best practices for efficient servicing. Gain practical experience and confidence in delivering high-quality gas fireplace maintenance and repairs.
BUSINESS TRACK
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
State of the Industry: Insights from the Top
Panel of Industry Leaders
Get a front-row seat to the future of the fireplace industry. In this powerhouse session, top leaders from the nation’s leading manufacturers will break down the latest trends, emerging technologies, and evolving consumer demands that are shaping the market. From supply chain shifts to product innovation, this is your chance to hear directly from the decision-makers steering the industry. Bring your toughest questions—this interactive session is designed to give retailers the answers and insights they need to adapt, grow, and thrive.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | Lunch With Our Sponsors
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Ventilation and Make-up Air: What it is and Why it Matters for Hearth Systems
Brian Barclay, RM Manifold Group
All fireplaces require makeup air, but most homes today at too tight or have too much negative pressure. What, why, and how do we compensate for the inadequate air required for our appliance to operate correctly and most beautifully.
2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
Navigating Government Affairs: Key Issues Impacting Your Business
Jason Tolleson, HPBA & Andrew Hasek, Hearth & Home Technologies
Stay informed and prepared as we break down the latest regulatory and legislative developments affecting the hearth industry. This session will explore national and regional policy trends, upcoming compliance requirements, and proactive strategies to safeguard and grow your business. Gain valuable insights from industry experts and learn how to stay ahead in an evolving regulatory landscape.
3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Protecting Your Business Through Smart Advocacy
Jason Tolleson, HPBA
This will be the most important session you will participate in this year! We’re bringing a condensed version of the Government Affairs Leadership Academy directly to you. GALA Lite offers essential training on navigating government affairs issues and advocating for the fireplace industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights on how to effectively engage with policy, regulations, and advocacy efforts that impact your business and the industry as a whole.
BARBECUE COOKOUT
6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Hosted by Forshaw's
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2025*
TECHNICAL TRACK
8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
CounterStrike® & Poly Pipe Certification:
Line Sizing & Installation
Presented by Chris Wolfe, Ray Murray
Space is limited for this event, register early. This certification course provides in-depth training CounterStrike® and poly gas piping systems. Participants will learn proper installation techniques, safety standards, and compliance requirements. Hands-on demonstrations will prepare attendees to install and service these piping systems safely and efficiently. Certification will be awarded upon successful completion of the course and exam.
BUSINESS TRACK
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM
MWHPBA Update Breakfast
Jake Hunter, MWHPBA President
Start your day with breakfast with our sponsors and a concise update on your association’s latest initiatives, achievements, and future plans.
8:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Dealer Roundtable Discussions
Join fellow hearth retailers for an open, honest, and interactive roundtable discussion focused on the real challenges and opportunities facing dealers today. From staffing and service strategies to inventory management, marketing, and customer experience—no topic is off the table. This is your chance to share insights, ask questions, and learn directly from your peers in a collaborative setting designed to spark ideas and strengthen connections. Whether you're a seasoned dealer or new to the industry, come ready to contribute and leave with fresh perspectives you can apply to your business right away.
10:15 AM - 11:45 AM
Hiring & Retention Strategies from a Top Hearth Retailer
In today’s competitive labor market, attracting and retaining skilled employees is more critical than ever. Hear firsthand from a top-performing hearth retailer about what’s working—and what’s not—when it comes to building a reliable, high-performing team. This session will cover practical approaches to recruitment, onboarding, training, and employee engagement, all tailored specifically to the hearth industry.
*Schedule subject to change.
BARBECUE COOKOUT
Tuesday, August 6 | 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Connect with Members & View Grills in Action
The Barbecue Cookout is back and better than ever! Enjoy a delicious dinner hot off the grill, prepared by our amazing grill sponsors, see the latest outdoor cooking products in action, and tour one of our standout member stores. This is your chance to relax, connect with fellow members, and soak up the fun in a laid-back, festive setting. Don’t miss this crowd favorite—good food, great people, and a whole lot of hearth industry flavor!
HOTEL ACCOMODATIONS
HOST HOTEL:
Hilton St. Louis Frontenac
1335 S Lindbergh Blvd
St. Louis, MO 63131
ROOM RATE:
$144 per night, plus tax and fees
TO RESERVE A ROOM AT THE HILTON ST. LOUIS FRONTENAC:
Online: Click here to book your room online.
By Phone: Call (314) 993-1100 and let them know you are with the MWHPBA 2025 Annual Meeting.
If you should have any issues reserving your room, please call our office at (314) 256-9926.
The cut-off date for hotel reservations is Thursday, July 17, 2025. After July 17, MWHPBA and the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac Inn cannot guarantee the discounted room rate.
Reasons To Join Us
Top 5
Learn new ways to grow and improve your business from industry experts
View the latest products and services offered by our participating sponsors
Earn up to 9.5 CEUs towards your NFI or CSIA recertification
Brush up on your skills and train your new techs and installers in our Hands-On Training
CONNECT with members in our 4-state region - Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, and Missouri
OUR SPONSORS
Things to do in St. Louis
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Experience the Gateway Arch
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Explore Forest Park featuring one of the largest free zoos in the US, the Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, and Science Center.
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Watch a Cardinals Game
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Stroll through the Missouri Botanical Garden
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Visit Grant's Farm, the historic home of the Busch family
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Take a drive into Augusta and explore the wineries
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Visit the sharks at the St. Louis Aquarium
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And much more!