EMS World Expo 2025 - Trade Show Recap

EMS World 2025 Show Summary

Tom Vrydaghs recently walked the 2025 EMS World Expo for Austin Hardware and has submitted a summary of the event.

Tom reports that the event felt larger than in previous years, with noticeably higher attendance and more overall activity on the show floor. One very noticeable trend was the strong focus on remounted ambulances. Many exhibitors highlighted their remount capabilities, suggesting this segment continues to grow in importance for both OEMs and fleet customers.

Most OEMs had smaller displays than at other industry events, such as FDIC, typically showing one vehicle each at EMS World Expo. Displaying vendors were primarily focused on EMT-use products rather than OEM components.

During the event, Tom met with multiple REV business units, including AEV, Horton, and REV O. These discussions covered ongoing business and a review of a potential new product line. While the new opportunity did not develop further, the meetings were positive, and the teams expressed continued appreciation for Austin’s support and product quality. Additional conversations with REV leadership reinforced our strong working relationship.

Austin’s visibility across the show was high. Dealers and OEM representatives frequently stopped to ask product questions or share feedback. Our products—especially LifeDefender™ interior systems and Lift N' Stow™—were widely recognized and well regarded. Several customers specifically mentioned their satisfaction with our hardware and interior framing solutions, and our branding was recognized throughout the event.

Tom also met with other customers, including Medix, Braun, Crestline, Demers, Excellance, Osage, Malley, FR Conversions, OnDemand, GTB Custom Shop, and A-Tec. The overall sentiment about business conditions in the EMS vehicle market remains positive. A new company, Wright Industries in Indiana, is entering the remount market, and we have a follow-up meeting scheduled with them to discuss potential product opportunities.

The takeaway from EMS World 2025 is that the event remains worthwhile for maintaining customer relationships and market awareness. While exhibiting is not recommended at this time, Austin should continue sending a representative to walk the show, meet with customers, and stay informed on industry developments.