John Zipay Takes an Alaskan Cruise
Recently, I took a much needed vacation from the trade show world and visited southeastern Alaska via a cruise ship.
The Life Cycle of a Portable Hybrid Display
In general, first generation (new) products are introduced with mid-level quality. Meaning, while the materials may be of a higher quality, there are always bugs, features, etc. that lessen the “perceived” value. Those are remedied quickly, and the quality improves. Think first generation smartphones, cars, or footwear.
Trade Show Tips to the Beat of the 2010s
The two biggest mistakes regarding trade shows? People not planning ahead of time, and people not following up once they get home. Some people claim trade shows aren’t worth the cost — but if you don’t continue the relationships you start at shows, you haven’t fulfilled the potential of the show. No wonder some people get so stressed out.
Trade Show Tips to the Beat of the 2000s
It’s exhilarating and tiring, and by the end of the trade show, you are ready to escape. Your own bed, your family, your car, your pets, your routine — everything you want is at home. But before you take off, be sure to wrap things up right. Check all the small things before heading out.
10 Big Trade Shows October 2016
October 2016 is a busy month for trade shows in North America. Maybe they are on your radar. Maybe not. But it’s always nice when you don’t have to go hunting for information.
So sit back and enjoy 10 BIG Trade Shows happening in October.
Trade Show Tips to the Beat of the 1990s
As a smart marketer, you attend as many trade shows as you can, all while managing the day-to-day operations of your business. Eventually, you may feel as if you’ve been everywhere. You may question if another one is worth it.
Trade Show Tips to the Beat of the 1980s
What do customers want? It’s not complicated. They expect you’ll be good to them. How you respond makes all the difference, and saying and showing them that I’ll be good to you sets the right tone. However, even when you are paying attention and putting customers first, unexpected things can and will happen. Being human means that errors will occur.
Trade Show Tips to the Beat of the 1970s
Taking care of business means taking care of your customers. Giving them your time and attention and always being courteous. It can all be done — or at least started — at trade shows. You want your customers to look at your booth and think that nobody does it better.
Trade Show Tips to the Beat of the 1960s
Eventually, you will find yourself at a trade show in Las Vegas. Before you hit the road, make sure your booth is up to the magic moment.
It’s time to consider a new exhibit, new graphics, and an updated approach to your trade show marketing. If you are truly honest with yourself, you know the same old song won’t attract customers.
Five (5) Sober Mid-Year Resolutions
Perhaps it’s time to start a new tradition — Mid-Year Resolutions. Now, you’re probably saying to yourself, “I never keep my resolutions, so why should I make more in July.” Think back for a second. Did you make those 2016 resolutions around 11 pm December 31st? With a drink in your hand?
Filter by Category
Filter by Year
Recent Posts
Final Days of 2012: Word on the Street — Dec. 24th thru Dec. 28th
As we all prepare to ring in 2013, I am working on the Annual State of the Company letter which will be emailed in the next two weeks. To be honest, this year was positive for so many reasons that the letter is taking some time to pull together.
100 Things to Watch in 2013 (JTW Intelligence)
Annual Forecast of Trends — JTW Intelligence released their eighth annual year-end forecast of key trends that will shape or significantly impact consumer behavior in the near future. According to JTW:
Display Your Holiday Spirit: Word on the Street — Dec. 17th thru Dec. 21st
Who does not like this time of the year? It’s my favorite, especially with having little kiddos running around. This past week I have been preparing to play Santa on Monday night, and I have been enjoying our kid’s programs at school and church. And of course shopping for loved ones.
Classic Exhibits Distributor Feedback in 2012
About two or three times a month, we send “Customer Feedback” emails. On average about 20-30 emails a month, more during February, fewer during July. If you’ve received one, you’ll recognize the subject line: “Feedback on your recent order | #12345 Sacagawea Portable Hybrid (PM XYZ).”
Happy Holidays from Your Friends at Classic Exhibits Inc.
Happy Holidays from Your Friends at Classic Exhibits Inc. May your Holiday and New Year be filled with joy and prosperity.
EXHIBITOR 2013 — What Else to Do in Vegas (from a Las Vegas local)
EXHIBITOR is celebrating its 25th year. While there aren’t many certainties in life, one thing is certain. Vegas reinvents itself more often than Madonna. Living in Vegas, I’m constantly asked about what to do here. So, here’s the inside scoop of what’s new!
‘s in a Name?: Word on the Street — Dec. 10th thru Dec. 14th
Over the past couple of years, one of my favorite things is when people outside of the Pacific Northwest tell me how much they love Sacagawea Portable Hybrid Displays from Classic.
Not only does it generate a sense of pride in our company, but it also just makes me laugh to be frank
Innovative iPad Solutions for Trade Shows, Events, and Retail Environments
You hit the jackpot! The iPad Kiosks shown below are cost-effective and well-designed iPad stands designed specifically for trade shows, events, and retail environments. They are lightweight, assemble fast, and include lockable security features. Most units have a clamshell frame that rotates effortlessly from portrait to landscape. There’s even a roll-able case. All ship from the USA.
EXHIBITOR 2013 — Other Places to Eat (from a Las Vegas local)
You gotta eat. You can eat cheap, which your stomach will regret later, or you can eat expensive, which your wallet will regret for weeks. It doesn’t have to be that way. Instead, why not truly dine, i.e. To eat a good dinner in good company and eat it slow
Shopping with Social Misfits at the Supermarket
No matter where you live, you’ll find yourself in a supermarket several times a week. Supermarkets reflect society, particularly regional differences. But how people behave in a supermarket is . . . well . . . “revealing.” I’m not going to point out regional differences, that would get me in trouble, but I will say that supermarkets are a mirror of how we treat others and how we view our social responsibilities.
CEIR Index: After Nine Quarters of Good News . . . Exhibitors are Cautious
In an article by Rachel Wimberly for the Trade Show News Network, she writes:
For the ninth quarter in a row, the trade show industry still is growing, according to the Center for Exhibition Industry Research’s latest CEIR Index, albeit at a slower rate in the third quarter of this year, with concerns over not only the looming fiscal cliff, but also the global economy.
Post EDPA ACCESS 2012 Report: Word on the Street — Nov. 26th thru Nov. 30th
I LOVE this industry! And events like EDPA ACCESS only make me love it more!
Palm Springs provided an amazing setting this past week for Education, Advocacy, Networking and Strategy. To those who were there, it was great to see you and get caught up professionally and personally.
Become an Exhibit Design Search Expert — Tips, Tricks, and Techniques
Become an Exhibit Design Search expert in 45 minutes! Just in time for the Q1 2013 trade show season. Attend on either Dec. 11 at 7 am PST (10 am EST) or Dec. 12 at 10 am PST (1 pm EST).
‘re More Than You Think We Are: Word on the Street — Nov. 5th thru Nov. 9th
For the past two years, Classic Exhibits has pursued “alternative” markets such as retail, environments, events, etc. with our distributors. Our CNC production capability, skilled workforce, and ClassicMODUL aluminum inventory make these natural fits. This week, I want to share pictures and a video that show some of those projects. It’s our hope, quite selfishly, that your view of Classic will broaden.
What is the Deal with Hybrid Displays?
I challenge you to search Google for “Hybrid Displays” or “Hybrid Exhibits.” Five years ago, your search would turn up a handful of links. Now . . . Yikes a Momma! Hybrid Exhibits have gone from curiosity to mainstream for trade show exhibitors. But why?