SAN ANTONIO – Texas – Commodity Classic opened its 2026 gathering in San Antonio with stronger attendance, a sold-out trade show and a return to its traditional midweek format, organizers said.
The annual farmer-led convention, which brings together growers, agribusiness leaders and policy experts from across the country, is reporting a 12% increase in attendance compared to last year, according to event co-chair Rob Schaefer.
“We have 433 booths, and they are sold out,” Schaefer said in an interview with Your Ag Network’s Lorrie Boyer. “Registrations are up year over year, and it’s been very good to see that, even with challenges in the ag economy.”
Schaefer noted that nearly 9,800 registrants were reported early in the event, underscoring continued producer engagement despite tighter margins in parts of agriculture. While livestock markets have remained relatively strong, some crop producers continue to face headwinds from commodity prices and input costs.
This year’s show also marks a return to the Wednesday-through-Friday format after a schedule adjustment last year. Organizers said the event is now booked out for the next decade under the restored format, with the trade show opening Wednesday afternoon and concluding Friday at 3 p.m.
To accommodate demand, the 2026 event expanded its footprint inside the San Antonio convention facility. In addition to the main exhibit floor, a second level is being utilized for additional booths and programming space. Schaefer said a waiting list of vendors hoping to secure exhibit space reflects sustained interest in connecting directly with farmers.
“We had a lot of people on a waiting list to get booths,” Schaefer said. “It’s good to see companies still want to come and talk to farmers.”
Educational programming remains a central focus of the conference. Organizers are offering 20 new learning sessions this year, all refreshed annually to reflect current issues and innovations. The event also features its “See For Yourself” presentations, where companies provide brief, 15-minute overviews of new products and technologies.
Beyond product showcases, Commodity Classic serves as a forum for broader industry discussions. Topics range from agricultural trade and policy to emerging issues affecting specific commodities and production regions.
A full schedule of speakers and events, along with trade show vendor information, is available at commodityclassic.com.
The 2026 Commodity Classic report from San Antonio was provided by Lorrie Boyer of Your Ag Network and sponsored by Syngenta.