The 2023 International Roofing Expo kicked off with a bang. Show coordinators touted it as the "biggest one ever" with more than 580 exhibitors and 175,000 square feet of exhibit space.

This is the National Roofing Contractor Association's 136th convention, and the IRE is shaping up to be one of the most-attended iterations. Thousands of people line up to register and take in the sights, catch up with old and new friends alike, and educate themselves on how to better their businesses.

"It's an exciting time in our industry, and for the next three days, we know you'll have an amazing time finding new products, networking with colleagues and participation in top-notch education," said Rich Russo of Informa Markets, the company organizing IRE and this year’s show director.

Here are just a few of the images RC captured on Day 1 of the International Roofing Expo. See any familiar faces? Or perhaps some companies you'd like to connect with? Be sure to visit our IRE page for information about the show.