Roofing innovation on display

By Jesse Sanchez.

A new booth, a breakthrough machine and a reminder that precision and efficiency still drive the roofing industry forward.

At the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2025, SOPREMA didn’t just show up — they redefined what a modern trade show experience can look like. Ryan Knippel, South Central regional sales manager for Tropical Roofing Products, a SOPREMA company, walked attendees through the booth's hands-on layout and digital integrations. His message was clear: good design supports great products.

He highlighted SOPREMA’s commitment to quality and warranty support. “Every product is displayed and highly visible for proper installation,” Ryan shared.  The booth mirrored the concept of SOPREMA’s U.S. headquarters in Ohio, giving visitors a seamless connection between brand identity and product performance.

Outside the walls, Kelly Piero, strategic marketing & PR representative for SOPREMA, noted new high-temperature self-adhering roof systems and advanced silicone coatings. Inside, QR codes gave immediate access to technical data and samples, showing how SOPREMA blends traditional craftsmanship with modern convenience.

But it was the Mini Macaden machine that turned heads. Described by SOPREMA's Jim Hanson as a “force multiplier,” the device allows a small crew to match the productivity of a team three times the size. Jim stated, “It doesn’t call in sick, doesn’t have an attitude — it just works and works every day.”

Equipped with laser-guided steering and a touchscreen control panel, the Mini Macaden promises not only faster installations but near-factory levels of precision — a game-changer for contractors facing labor shortages.

With its focus on boosting efficiency without cutting corners, SOPREMA’s IRE 2025 presence served as a reminder that smart tools, smart designs and smarter systems are shaping the next era of roofing.

Watch the full interview to learn more about how the right technology can transform a rooftop — and a business!