Eva-Last Showcases Pioneer at IBS 2026, Challenging Attendees to Tell the Difference Between Composite and Real Wood
Composite building materials manufacturer, Eva-Last, impressed at the 2026 International Builders’ Show (IBS), held February 17-19 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, presenting an immersive exhibit that highlighted the brand’s innovation across decking, cladding and fencing as alternative outdoor living solutions.
Leading the display was Pioneer, Eva-Last’s flagship decking range and the benchmark for the company’s next generation of composite innovation. Engineered to capture the refined aesthetics of rare hardwoods while delivering enhanced durability and structural performance, Pioneer set the tone for the stand. Surrounding this hero range, Eva-Last also showcased its Infinity and Apex Plus board technologies, Evolver and Oasis fencing systems, and Vistaclad cladding, demonstrating the brand’s comprehensive offering across multiple exterior applications.
At the heart of the experience was a compelling comparison challenge centered on Pioneer’s newly launched Indigenous collection colors of True Ipe and Weathered Ipe. Attendees were invited to compare Pioneer boards directly against real hardwood and answer a simple question: Is it wood, or is it Pioneer?
The result? Many couldn’t tell the difference.
Throughout the three-day event, contractors, builders, and distributors engaged in visual comparisons between real Ipe and Pioneer’s composite alternatives. The overwhelming response confirmed what Eva-Last envisioned Pioneer to be: an authentic replication of rare hardwoods in both look and feel, without the environmental impact or long-term maintenance concerns.
“Our goal at IBS was not just to showcase a product, but to create an experience,” said Marc Minne, CEO of Eva-Last. “When industry professionals struggle to distinguish Pioneer from natural hardwood, it validates the technology, design precision, and craftsmanship behind our innovation. At the same time, showcasing our portfolio, from decking and fencing to cladding solutions, allowed us to demonstrate the depth and versatility of Eva-Last. IBS is one of the most important platforms for our industry, and this year’s response reinforces the strong momentum we’re seeing across North America and Canada.”
The Eva-Last booth quickly became a focal point on the show floor. Architecturally bold and meticulously detailed, the stand highlighted grain realism, color variation, span performance, and installation versatility across the ranges on display. The craftsmanship of the build, completed by Ravin Builders with the help of Northeast Deck Solutions and Malkin & Daughters, was widely praised by attendees. Revered contractors within the industry, these builders executed the stand with precision and attention to detail, further elevating the presentation.
Visitors frequently commented on the quality of the installation details, curved deck features, integrated design elements, and seamless transitions between finishes. The stand not only demonstrated product aesthetics but also showcased structural integrity and installation versatility in real-world applications.
Beyond product exposure, IBS provided invaluable real-time feedback from the market. Direct conversations with contractors and dealers allowed Eva-Last to gain insight into evolving performance expectations, installation preferences, and design trends shaping the decking industry.
“Being face-to-face with customers is critical,” Minne added. “You can analyze data and market reports all year long, but nothing replaces live feedback from the professionals installing and specifying your products. IBS gives us that opportunity. It sharpens our focus, confirms what we’re doing right, and helps guide future innovation.”
As Eva-Last continues expanding its presence across the Americas, the strong reception at IBS 2026 signals sustained growth and brand recognition in the competitive composite materials sector.
For more information about the International Builders’ Show, visit: https://www.buildersshow.com/
