The 2025 NATDA Trailer Show marked a record-breaking year, highlighted by its largest-ever Innovation Showcase, spotlighting breakthrough technologies and forward-thinking solutions that are shaping the future of the trailer industry, according to a press release. The show saw a sold-out exhibit hall, expanded training and education programs and a 10%+ increase in dealer attendance, the organization said.
A new text-to-vote technology introduced at the show boosted dealer participation and engagement, organizers said, allowing attendees vote for their favorite entries across three categories: the TRAILmakER Trophy, TRAILblazER Award, and TRAILsettER Award. The Best Overall TRAILmakER Winner was selected by NATDA’s Dealer Advisory Council.
“Our dealers, manufacturers, and tech partners are driving a future defined by smarter solutions, stronger connections, and a bold commitment to progress. The Innovation Showcase is no longer just a highlight of the show — it’s a launchpad for what’s next,” commented Corey Langley, director of exhibits and partnerships at NATDA.
TRAILmakER Awards – Best in Show for Trailers
Celebrating the most innovative new trailers across cargo, heavy-duty, livestock, utility, recreational, and vehicle categories:
- Cargo: Leer Inc. – 5×10 Multi-Temp Refrigerated Trailer — Trusted for truck caps and tonneau covers that enhance cargo management and vehicle protection.
- Heavy Duty: Black Rhino Manufacturing, Inc. – Black Rhino Tilt — Known for rugged trailers built to endure the toughest jobs.
- Livestock: Hillsboro Industries, Inc. – Hillsboro Endura XD — Leaders in aluminum livestock trailers offering strength and lightweight towing.
- Utility: Viper USA – Venom VLO-2282 — Versatile and reliable utility trailers for work and recreation.
- Vehicle: EQ Outdoors – Flexhauler — Powersports and outdoor trailers that combine safety, style, and functionality.
Best Overall Award: TRAILmakER Trophy
Voted on by the NATDA Dealer Advisory Council
TRAILmakER™ Trophy Recipient: Brian James Trailers Ltd.- Race Transporter 7 — A UK-based manufacturer renowned for premium car transport trailers, Brian James Trailers impressed the Dealer Advisory Council with its engineering excellence, safety features, and design innovation.
TRAILblazER Award – Best in Show for Products
Honoring components and accessories that enhance the end-user experience:
- 1st Place: Matrack Pingmaster GPS – PingMaster3000WT — Advanced GPS tracking and telematics for trailer security and insights.
- 2nd Place: Trailer Gearbox – Trailer Gearbox Multi-Mount — Specialized accessories improving trailer performance and safety.
- 3rd Place: Valcrum – VALCRUM – PUSH-TO-CONNECT (PTC) Idler Hub for 3,500-lb Axle -5×4.5 — Premium aluminum hubcaps offering superior durability and reliability.
TRAILsettER Award – Best in Show for Services & Software
Recognizing services and software that elevate dealership operations:
- 1st Place: RawMaxx Trailers – 3D Configurator — Manufacturer expanding into dealer-focused programs with performance and support.
- 2nd Place: Remote Finance Group – Virtual Finance Department — Flexible financial solutions streamlining approvals and boosting purchasing power.
- 3rd Place: Matrack Pingmaster GPS – Service Boomerang — GPS-based fleet management tools for visibility and control.
“The energy and innovation we witnessed at the 2025 NATDA Trailer Show is just the beginning.” said Andria Gibbon, CEM, executive director of NATDA. “As we look toward 2026, we’re seeing a trailer industry that’s not only evolving—but accelerating.”
Winner’s Row at the Trailer Tech Expo
All Innovation Showcase winners will be featured in the Winner’s Row display at the 2026 Trailer Tech Expo powered by NATDA, taking place Feb. 17-19, 2026, in Reno, NV. Winners will also be honored at the expo’s awards luncheon.
