Our HUGE thanks to Marlys Arnold from the Exhibit Marketers Cafe for the discussion with Mel White on Post-COVID exhibit design. The conversation didn’t stop there. They discussed new technologies, the blending of real and virtual tradeshows, and rental exhibits as options. In addition, Marlys and Mel talked about how COVID represents an opportunity to reset the North American trade show experience for everyone. Enjoy!
Search for PPE Safety Solutions from Classic Exhibits. Complete the word search and send your answer to mel@classicexhibits.com by November 7 for a chance to win a $15 Starbucks Gift Card. For a full range of Safety Divider Solutions, CLICK HERE.
Recently, IFES published an international survey on the impact of COVID-19 on the Exhibition and Event Service Industry. In total, 86 participants from around the world filled out the survey. The results were aggregated into global totals and also broken down into geographic regions: Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America.
Many trade shows have shifted to the virtual world because of the COVID-19 pandemic. So, what does that mean for exhibitors who want to continue to connect with existing and potential clients via trade shows? They need a presence via a trade show virtual exhibit.
Unfortunately, most virtual solutions are not “fully baked” by show organizers. What they offer is limited and proprietary to their show and doesn’t allow the exhibitor to fully show their products and services nor does it provide the attendees with an engaging and immersive experience.
First, it’s comprehensive, allowing exhibitors to embedded media, social media, chat, polling, Zoom, and even tracking.
Second, it’s portable, meaning the virtual exhibit can be taken from show to show since it’s URL based.
Lastly, it’s both immersive and cost-effective.
For more information, www.classicexhibits.com or call us at 503-866-2100. With over 200 Distributors in North America, Classic can put you in contact with an virtual exhibit expert right in your backyard.
MOBIUS STRIP: A surface with one continuous side formed by joining the ends of a rectangular strip after twisting one end through 180°.
The Pandemic is an Opportunity
My Advice to #EXHIBITORS. Let’s Not Finish Exactly Where We Started.
Recent announcements from Las Vegas and other cities about capacity increases are a positive sign for the #tradeshow industry. Everyone wants our lives and our businesses to return to normal. However, the #COVID pandemic also represents an opportunity for REAL CHANGE — for Exhibitors, Show Organizers, General Show Contractors, and Convention Centers.
To return to the status quo would be more than disappointing. It would be a disaster for the long-term viability of our industry and trade shows in North America. We can no longer bury our heads in the sand and pretend there aren’t problems that affect everyone committed to trade shows.
You are Not Powerless
#EXHIBITORS… You are NOT POWERLESS. Not now. Use your collective influence to advocate for more transparency and flexibility. For too long, the “competitive environment” of a show has prevented individual exhibitors from banding together to force change. Yes, you want to crush your competitor, before, during, and after the show. But, don’t let it blind you to cooperating with other exhibitors to create a more positive, productive, and profitable experience for all stakeholders.
There’s no better time than right now to rewrite the rules of North American trade shows. At great place to start is NAB Show Cares.
I’d love to hear your comments and ideas: mel@classicexhibits.com.
