Academy Award–winning filmmaker Ron Howard will headline The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) Show 2026, taking place April 22–24, 2026, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. 

The annual trade show is the largest gathering for the convenience services industry, a $40 billion sector that powers everyday retail experiences through micro markets, vending unattended retail, and workplace coffee and pantry services. Each year, The NAMA Show brings together thousands of business leaders, technology partners and innovators exploring how consumers access food, beverages, and in-demand products.

Howard’s participation reflects the event’s continued focus on leadership, innovation, and creativity, NAMA says—the same values that drive collaboration and excellence across industries. One of Hollywood’s most respected and prolific filmmakers, Howard directed acclaimed works such as Apollo 13 and A Beautiful Mind, among many others. He is also the co-founder and co-chairman of Imagine Entertainment alongside his partner Brian Grazer, a company whose productions have amassed 63 Emmy awards, 10 Oscars, and 11 Golden Globe wins. 

Howard began his career in film as an actor, first appearing in The Journey and The Music Man. He later starred as Opie in The Andy Griffith Show and as Richie Cunningham on Happy Days. He has earned a place in the Television Hall of Fame and two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and his career reflects the teamwork, creativity and vision driving both art and enterprise.

“There’s a shared DNA between storytelling and service innovation,” says Kristen Griffith, NAMA’s senior vice president of member experience. “The NAMA Show is where those ideas meet: where creativity, technology and human connection come together. Ron Howard’s perspective captures that energy perfectly.”

The 2026 program will feature technology showcases, product launches, and education sessions shaping the future of convenience services. Registration is open at thenamashow.org.

Related: ABA announces Jon McNeill as Convention keynote speaker