Lost Pines, Found Connections: ABMA 2025 Headed To Austin
By Marion Keller
Is the daily grind of winter making you want to escape? Come get lost with fellow members of the brushware industry at the 2025 ABMA Convention at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa in Austin, Texas, March 25-28.
Business Not as Usual?
The 108th annual meeting of the American Brush Manufacturers Association is happening at an interesting time. The new administration in Washington, D.C., is making all sorts of changes that may affect the brush industry, be they tariffs or regulatory adjustments. 
“Trying to run a business with uncertainty can be difficult. We don’t know exactly what to plan for,” says Chris Monahan, ABMA President. “When you get people in person, you can ask questions and discuss the latest events.”
Other topics likely to be explored include the industry’s role in sustainability, the impact of inflation, and, of course, the potential effects of artificial intelligence. “Last year, we had a speaker on AI, and that will continue to be a topic of discussion this year,” Monahan says. “We’ll be going into the different trends in technology and how AI might be changing everything involved.”
Size Matters
This year’s keynote speaker for the ABMA Educational Institute will be author and columnist Gene Marks, focusing on “Tactics and Strategies to Navigate and Grow in 2025.” Marks owns and operates The Marks Group PC, a provider of technology and consulting services for small- and medium-sized companies — very applicable to the brushware industry.
“Though consolidation continues to be a trend, many of our members are strong small and/or family-owned businesses,” says Donna Frendt, ABMA Director. “Gene has extensive experience in factors that affect small businesses.”
Marks’ books include “In God We Trust: Everyone Else Pays Cash” and “Want More Cash? 100+ Ideas and Strategies for Increasing Your Company’s Cash Flow.” His speaker profile indicates he’ll touch on how businesses inclined to adapt can find paths to grow even as factors such as the national debt and deficits remain challenges. Listeners will hear how to position their companies for prosperity amid constant change.
Get With the Program
The program will start at 8:00 am Central time on Tuesday, March 25, with registration and committee meetings open to all members. Group meetings will include the Convention Committee, Membership Committee, Public Relations Committee, Safety & Standards Committee and Statistical Committee. Lunch will be on your own, presumably at one of the many dining options available at Lost Pines.
The official convention kickoff will occur at 1:30 pm on Tuesday, followed by a “Minute to Win It” team-building activity at 2:30 pm, in which teams will compete in short challenges. At 6 pm, the Emerging Leaders/New Members reception will take place for half an hour, followed by the Paul M. Miller Welcome Reception at 6:30 pm.
Wednesday, March 26 begins with a General Business Meeting at 8 am, Gene Marks’ address takes place 9:30-11 am. After an independent lunch, attendees are free to attend the annual Golf Scramble tournament or enjoy some of the many other pastimes at Lost Pines. After a cocktail reception from 6:30-7:30 pm, participants can make use of one of the multiple dinner reservations at local restaurants if they want group meals or head off on their own to enjoy Austin’s eclectic food scene.
Thursday, March 27 offers suppliers and manufacturers a chance for 15-minute one-on-one discussions, with Face 2 Face Meetings starting at 8 am and lasting until 12:30 pm. Meetings should be scheduled in advance starting in mid-February by using a request form. “Where else do you get a chance as a supplier to meet with up to 20 customers in one day?” Monahan asks. “That really provides a lot of value for everyone.”
If you’ve brought a loved one along on the trip, there’s a companion program at 9 am that same day involving a horseback trail ride. After lunch, optional activities will include pickleball and a vehicular tour of McKinney Roughs Nature Park, but attendees may want to save their energy for the suppliers’ reception and closing dinner event.
Country-western attire is encouraged for the Trail’s End Chuckwagon Dinner and Party, which will pair nicely with barbecue, cornbread, mechanical bull rides, quick-draw contests, armadillo races and much more. Come dance the night away and sip a country cocktail as a DJ spins some boot-scootin’ tunes.
Lost in the Pines
If you’re headed to the convention, leave some time free to enjoy your surroundings. Lost Pines is set just outside of the city of Austin, on the banks of the Colorado River in Bastrop. At the resort, you can relax amid hills dotted with bluebonnets while enjoying 405 acres of wilderness with all of the comforts of civilization. Book early for the ABMA discounted group rate.
“Lost Pines is a little different from our usual convention setting because it’s not a beachfront location, but it’s a great property,” Monahan says. “Since our last meeting there, we’ve had a ton of requests to go back.”
Golfers (as indicated before) might want to bring their clubs to sneak in a little downtime on the greens – the 7,200-yard, par-72 course at Lost Pines offers options for all levels of golfing skill. Those who golf can enjoy beautiful views culminating in a final hole with the river on one side and trees on the other. Be prepared to travel up and down hills along the way.
Those who wish to (in the words of Mark Twain) “spoil their good walk” in other ways have many options. Lost Pines offers horse and pony rides, fishing, trap shooting, hayrides, archery and much more for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. If you prefer water over ground, rafting options are available.
If you also want that good walk after all, a guided stroll through nature can make sure you get the most out of your experience. Guides can also shepherd you through a utility-task vehicle ride through the trails of McKinney Park.
Need to relax after some invigorating outdoor fun? Check out the popular Lost Pines Resort and Spa. Calming possibilities include: massages, aromatherapy, body scrubs and facials. Step into the spa and leave your worries behind for a while!
What to Wear
For ABMA events, comfortable and casual dress is appropriate. Daytime attire is casual and sportswear is customary (golf shirts and slacks or shorts for men; slacks, shorts or skirts/dresses for women). Evening activities are “nice” informal or daytime business casual attire, and may include sport coats for men and pantsuits, slacks or skirts/dresses for women.
If you’re wondering how many layers you’ll need (or not), keep in mind that Austin’s average daytime temperatures in March are in the mid-70s (F) (20°-25°C). Nighttime temperatures average in the mid-50s (F) (15°C).
Looking Ahead
Convention attendees will get a glimpse into the future. The newest recipient of the ABMA Innovation Excellence Award will be announced, and the specific dates and location for the 2028 World Brush Expo will be revealed.
Attendees will be able to fill out surveys at the end of the event to indicate what they enjoyed, and what they’d like to add going forward in future years. “People at the convention are looking for take-home value,” Monahan says. “The biggest thing in our industry is the networking, and this is a special event. We hope everyone enjoys their trip.”
Hotel Information
Hyatt Regency
Lost Pines Resort and Spa
575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd, Cedar Creek, TX 78612
Phone: (512) 308-1234
Convention Activities
Golf Scramble Lost Pines Golf Club
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Network and enjoy a day on an 18-hole, Arthur Hills–designed course known for its scenic views and challenging layout. The tournament fee of $299 per person includes greens, cart, range balls and prizes. Sponsor a Hole In One for extra recognition at $500.
Pickleball Optional Group Activity
Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Bring your own equipment and join a fast-paced, fun game that blends tennis, badminton and ping pong. Cost: $50 per person.
Team Building: Minute To Win It! Optional Group Activity
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Take on quick, hilarious challenges that reveal hidden talents. Join the fun or cheer on your colleagues—this event is free!
ABMA Networking Dinners
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Choose a group dinner at one of our reserved local restaurants and connect with fellow ABMA members. Sign-ups available at registration.
Optional Companion Program: Renegade Horseback Riding
Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Enjoy a leisurely, one-hour trail ride suitable for all levels. Minimum age 6 (with parental requirements for minors) and weight restrictions apply. Cost: $125 per person.
UTV Tour
Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Experience an exhilarating UTV ride through McKinney Roughs Nature Park. Drivers must be 21+ with a valid license; cost is $125 for drivers and $75 for passengers.
Trail’s End Chuckwagon Dinner & Party
Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cap off your day with a festive dinner featuring a DJ, dancing, fun contests and a southern-style feast. Dress in casual, western-inspired attire for a true country experience.
Learn more about ABMA 2025 at www.abma.org.
