Questex Merges IBS and IECSC into One Trade Show
Questex is merging two of its flagship beauty industry events—the International Beauty Show (IBS) and the International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference (IECSC)—into a single integrated platform called Be+Well | Beauty and Wellness Show, launching in 2026.
The consolidated event will debut March 8–10, 2026, at the Javits Center in New York City, followed by shows in Las Vegas (June 27-29) and Florida (August 23–24). The move reflects growing convergence across the personal care industry, where beauty, spa, wellness, and fitness services are increasingly integrated.
Questex is merging two of its flagship beauty industry events—the International Beauty Show (pictured) and the International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference.
An overview of the trade show floor at the International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference
Market Forces Drive Integration Strategy
The timing aligns with significant expansion in the wellness economy. The global wellness market is projected to reach $9 trillion by 2028, according to the Global Wellness Institute’s 2024 Global Wellness Economy Monitor. As of last year, 82% of U.S. consumers cited wellness as top or important priority in their everyday lives, per McKinsey research.
“Fitness clubs are adding spa services, spas are adding beauty products, and salons now offer a spa-like experience,” said Questex Wellness Market Leader and VP Jess Tyler. “It’s a growing ecosystem serving consumers who are more invested in their overall wellbeing than ever before.”
Strong Foundation Sets Stage for Unified Platform
More than 32,000 beauty and spa professionals attended Questex’s New York shows in March 2025, and organizers expect Be+Well to build on that momentum with expanded programming and a more integrated experience. The three-market approach—New York, Las Vegas, and Florida—maintains geographic accessibility while leveraging Questex’s established venue relationships and attendee bases in key markets.
The integration brings together more than a century of years of combined event history. The first International Beauty Show was held in 1917, and the International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference launched in 1998. Both IBS and IECSC have been industry cornerstones, with IBS focusing on hair and salon services while IECSC has served the spa and esthetics market.
An exhibitor at the the International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference, which launched in 1998
The first International Beauty Show was held in 1917.
Be+Well Targets Evolving Beauty and Wellness Professionals
Be+Well is positioned as a one-stop destination for professionals working in hair, skin, body care, spa management, wellness programming, and fitness services. “People everywhere are seeking more than products and services—they want transformation, balance, and empowerment,” said Tyler. “The professionals guiding them on this journey deserve a place to be inspired, to learn innovative techniques, share wisdom, and access the tools that will help them make a difference.”
Elizabeth Fantetti Trevorrow, partnership and event director at Questex’s Wellness Group, said the rebrand is “both a challenge and an incredible opportunity.” She added, “For years, these two brands have stood side by side. Now, under one powerful banner, they’ll move forward together—stronger, more relevant, and more inspiring for our beauty and wellness professionals.”
Show Floor Redesign Emphasizes Cross-Category Experience
Be+Well will feature a redesigned show floor organized into themed “neighborhoods”—Hair & Salon Essentials, Spa & Wellness, Nails, Cosmetics & Lashes, Business & Education District, Retail Zone, and a new TechZone highlighting personalization technology and digital wellness platforms.
“As someone who has been part of the spa and wellness industry for 38 years, I am beyond thrilled to welcome these exciting changes,” said Allan Share, President of the Spa Industry Association. “It’s the first time we are truly coming together to offer a holistic and integrated experience for our attendees, and I’m confident the benefits will have a lasting, positive impact.”
Questex Wellness Market Leader and VP Jess Tyler said: “It’s a growing ecosystem serving consumers who are more invested in their overall wellbeing than ever before.”
“As someone who has been part of the spa and wellness industry for 38 years, I am beyond thrilled to welcome these exciting changes,” said Allan Share, President of the Spa Industry Association.
Plans Include Media Portfolio Consolidation
The Be+Well platform extends beyond the show floor to include Questex’s related media portfolio and hosted-buyer programs. The integration will unite American Salon, American Spa, Spatec, Sibec, and former Club Industry events under the Be+Well umbrella, creating what Questex describes as the industry’s largest integrated event and media network serving beauty, spa, wellness, and fitness professionals.
This media consolidation strategy reflects broader industry trends toward cross-category marketing and content, as professionals increasingly serve clients across multiple wellness disciplines.
Industry Response Is Enthusiastic
The consolidation comes as traditional sector boundaries continue to blur. Participant feedback showed demand for a unified platform, according to Tyler: “Our attendees told us they wanted one place to discover everything they need to serve today’s wellness-focused consumer.”
Elizabeth Fantetti Trevorrow, partnership and event director at Questex’s Wellness Group, said the rebrand is “both a challenge and an incredible opportunity.”
Be+Well 2026 Events
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New York City: March 8–10, 2026, Javits Center
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Las Vegas: June 27-29, 2026, Las Vegas Convention Center
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Florida: August 23–24, 2026, location has not been announced
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