Annual National Independent Flag Dealers Association Convention

I recently had a fantastic experience at the Annual National Independent Flag Dealers Association (NIFDA) convention in Bristol, TN/VA. I look forward to this event each year—one member even described it as “Christmas for Flag people,” which perfectly captures the camaraderie and spirit of our gathering.

Nearly 150 flag dealers and manufacturers participated for three days of programming and networking this year. A highlight was the welcome reception at Bristol Motor Speedway, where we had the unique opportunity to drive around the track on a school bus. It’s always a joy to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new people who understand the challenges we face in our industry.

The convention provided a wonderful mix of education and networking. As small business owners in a niche market, the NIFDA convention is a rare occasion for us to talk to each other about our daily challenges and successes. Engaging speakers discussed leadership styles and employee motivation, and we received valuable insights from the Flag Manufacturers of America (FMAA) and NIFDA members about the challenges in our industry, particularly the issue of foreign-made U.S. flags being misrepresented online. They discussed the current efforts to combat false advertising and promote the purchase of U.S. flags from certified FMAA dealers. In addition, they encourage all dealers and manufacturers to reach out to their representatives to garner support of H.R. 4317, the Make American Flags in America Act of 2023.

Manufacturers showcased their products at exhibit tables, offering an opportunity to find new suppliers and reconnect with existing ones. Learning about new products I can share with my customers and advances in manufacturing existing products is always a convention highlight for me.

We also toured Concord American Flagpole, HAPCO, and Tri-Cities Extrusion, which was an educational experience. It was eye-opening to see the entire process of creating a flagpole—from aluminum pellets to the finished product. While we’ve toured flag factories before, this was our first visit to a flagpole factory.

The convention concluded with an award banquet, where the Betsy Ross Award was presented to a member nominated by the NIFDA membership. This award honors someone who contributed significantly to NIFDA, the flag industry, and the community. I was also humbled to be recognized for my six-year tenure on the Board, during which I helped plan the convention, contributed to a new website for members, and served as Treasurer for four of those years.

I look forward to next year’s Safety Harbor, FL, convention!