Trade Show TalesBlog

Archive for March, 2025

Thoughts on EXHIBITORLIVE 2025

March 25th, 2025 2 COMMENTS
EXHIBITORLIVE 2025

“Where are you going this time?”

It’s a frequent question for trade show people, like you and me. Vegas? Orlando? Chicago? This week it was San Antonio, TX to attend the trade show about trade shows... EXHIBITORLIVE.

Here’s how my trip started. My supportive wife dropped me off at LAX, but the trip took longer than normal because the recent Los Angeles fires had shut down the Pacific Coast Highway. It now takes longer to drive to the airport than it does to fly from LA to San Antonio. Sorry, Sue. You’re the best Uber driver ever.

Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center

After checking in to the hotel, I quickly headed over to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. I grabbed my badge and walked on to the chaotic show floor. We’ve all seen this before. It doesn’t look remotely possible that this cavernous and disheveled hall overflowing with crates and bodies will ever be ready for the show opening in two days. But it will. We’re show folk. It’s what we do.

EXHIBITORLIVE: Day 1 and 2

EXHIBITORLIVE 2025

Day One. Once the doors opened, the foot traffic in the Classic Exhibits’ booth was busy. Not as busy as it used to be 4-5 years ago, but busier than I’d expected. The number of exhibitors at EXHIBITORLIVE continues to shrink. Exhibition companies that were regulars are no shows, even if they still walk the floor. As a result, EXHIBITORLIVE is now a 2-day, not a 3-day show that starts at midday, so fewer show hours. Everyone is trying to wring as many leads out of the diminished show hours and attendees as possible.  

Wednesday morning… the second/last day of the show. I was too busy on day one so the first thing I walked the show floor to check out everyone else’s booth. There were some real beauties this year. Our industry dresses up quite well.

I eventually found myself standing in front of The Exhibitor Advocate booth. Staffing the booth was Amanda Helgemoe. It was the first time we’d had a chance to chat in quite a while. For me that’s probably the most enjoyable part of attending EXHIBITORLIVE… getting to see/blab/hang with friends we only get to see once or twice a year.

After our chat, Amanda asked to take my picture with her swanky Polaroid camera. The Exhibitor Advocate team was snapping pix and asking folks to write in how many years they’d been in the biz on the bottom of the Polaroid. They then posted it on their backwall along with hundreds of other industry peeps.

45 Years?

TS2 2006
TS2 2006

And that’s when I kinda froze. How long have I been in the biz? My first real job out of college was working with CES, at the time the largest trade show in the country. That was in 1980. Well, it’s now 2025. In my head I started calculating… 1990, 2000, 2010, 2020, 2025… 45 years? 45 YEARS??! How is that even possible? I don’t feel like I’m that old. Have I become… one of them?

Them… you know who I mean. No matter how old you are or how many years you’ve been in the business, you can recall walking your first EXHIBITORLIVE or TS2 or Exhibit Builder… and seeing them sprinkled around the show floor. The industry vets. The iconic pillars on whose backs this creative, intimate, unique industry was built. The ones who’d already walked miles and miles of aisles.

Jack Wayman (CES), Larry Crumlish and Rick Kent (The Exhibit Store), Joan Carol (The Joan Carol Group), Pat Rodgers (Exhibigrafix), Bruce Deckel (Deckel and Moneypenny), Trudy Graham (TG and Associates), Gordon Savoie (Skyline), Brenda Keiner (Grondorff, Field and Black), Irving Sacks (Sacks Exhibits). These were my industry icons. I’m sure you have your own.

Susan Mintz, Judy Watson, Ted Zeigler, and Harold Mintz

Significant Changes Over the Years

I’ve witnessed significant changes in our industry over the past 45 years.

  • I watched in awe as the first Gerber machines started cutting a roll of bright red vinyl eventually replacing the steady-handed sign painters and silk screeners.
  • I saw portable exhibits go from folding panel systems to pop-ups to modular systems.
  • I sold 10’ pop-up displays back in the day when you could ask $8000 for one and get it!

And probably my favorite observation, I’ve watched dozens and dozens of young people that I’d hired and/or trained over the years still running around the show floor and still working in this nutty biz. THIS provides me with immense pleasure. To have helped open the door to so many is immeasurably gratifying. 

Over time, everything changes. Show hours, the hottest trends, technology and the faces of our industry. All different today than they were yesterday. But one thing stays the same… that’s the feeling you get when you step foot onto the show floor.

For those icons who paved the way for me, the ones who spent extra time teaching me the ropes, the ones who always made me feel part of a special club, the word thanks doesn’t nearly come close enough to express my gratitude. Whether this was your first EXHIBITORLIVEor your 36th I hope you continue to find that same joy that you did on your Day One.

Classic Exhibits Inc.

For over 30 years, Classic Exhibits has been designing and building creative custom solutions for our Distributor Partners and their clients. As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands. 

Find success on the trade show floor with an exhibit that reflects your marketing message. For more information, see www.classicexhibits.com and explore Exhibit Design Search or request a meeting with a Classic Distributor Partner.

Your Guide to Renewable Energy Conferences & Trade Shows

March 3rd, 2025 COMMENTS
renewable energy conferences

An Introduction to Sustainable Energy Conferences

Whether you are new to sustainable energy or an expert, renewable energy conferences are a perfect deep dive into the latest technologies, policies, and trends. These conferences can vary in size and focus. Some are large international events with thousands of attendees, while others are smaller regional gatherings. There are even international shows like EnergyTech in Vienna, Austria. 

Many renewable conferences will focus exclusively on sustainable technologies like wind and solar, while others cover a broader range of energy topics. 

No matter the size or focus, renewable energy conferences are important events for anyone who wants to stay informed about the latest developments in this rapidly growing field and contribute to the transition to a clean energy future.

Renewable Energy Conferences & Trade Shows: An Industry Overview

The renewable energy sector is a rapidly evolving field, and conferences and trade shows play a crucial role in its growth. These events serve as vital platforms for:

Technology Showcase:

  • Companies display their latest innovations in solar, wind, energy storage, and other renewable technologies.
  • Attendees can see firsthand the advancements driving the industry forward.
  • Eco-friendly trade show displays are becoming more prevalent, as exhibitors seek sustainable ways to present their products while reducing environmental impact.

Networking and Collaboration:

  • These events bring together industry professionals, policymakers, investors, and researchers, fostering valuable connections.
  • They provide opportunities for businesses to form partnerships, secure funding, and expand their reach.

Knowledge Sharing:

  • Conferences feature presentations and workshops by industry experts, covering topics such as market trends, policy developments, and technological advancements.
  • Attendees can gain insights into the latest research, best practices, and emerging challenges.

Policy and Market Insights:

  • Many events include sessions on government policies, regulatory frameworks, and market analysis, providing valuable information for businesses and investors.
  • These discussions help shape the future of the renewable energy industry.

renewable energy trade shows

Key Trends:

Energy Storage Integration:

  • Energy storage solutions are increasingly important to ensure grid stability and reliability.
  • Advancements in battery technology and other storage systems.

Digitalization and Smart Grids:

  • The role of digital technologies in optimizing renewable energy generation and distribution.
  • The development of smart grids to improve energy efficiency and resilience.

Sector Coupling:

  • The integration of renewable energy with other sectors, such as transportation and heating.
  • The rise of electric vehicles and heat pumps.

Hydrogen’s Role:

  • The growing interest in green hydrogen as a key vector for the energy transition.

Top Renewable Energy Trade Shows & Events to Attend This Year

Below are some of the most popular renewable energy trade shows. But, not all of them. When searching for an energy trade show or conference, consider these trade show directories: 10times.com and thetradeshowcalendar.   

North America

Intersolar & Energy Storage North America (February 25-27, 2025): This major event in San Diego focuses on solar, energy storage, and EV charging infrastructure. Expect a large expo hall, educational sessions, and networking opportunities.

Energy Storage Summit USA (March 26-27, 2025): Held in Dallas, this conference is dedicated to the energy storage market, bringing together industry leaders to discuss challenges and opportunities.

Global

Energy Storage Summit 2025 (February 17-19, 2025): London hosts this summit focused on the booming energy storage sector in Europe.

Pulse 2025 (April 3-4, 2025): Madrid is the location for this event that brings together global renewable energy professionals.

WindEurope Annual Event 2025 (April 8-10, 2025): Copenhagen will host this major wind energy event.

World Hydrogen 2025 Summit & Exhibition (May 20-22, 2025): Held in Rotterdam, Netherlands, this is the largest dedicated hydrogen event, attracting professionals from around the globe.

solar energy trade shows

Popular Solar Energy Trade Shows & Events

Solar & Energy Storage Summit (April 23-24, 2025): This summit in Denver gathers senior leaders from across the US solar and storage industries.

Intersolar and Energy Storage North America (February 25-27, 2025). Held at the San Diego Convention Center, InterSolar is a leading solar and energy storage event in the United States

Solar & Storage Live London 2025 (April 2-3, 2025): This event explores the thriving solar and energy storage industry in the UK.

Attending a solar energy trade show can be incredibly beneficial for individuals and organizations. Here are 5 key reasons:

  1. Networking Opportunities: Trade shows bring together industry professionals, creating a valuable space to connect with potential partners, clients, and investors.
  2. Stay Updated on Industry Trends: These events showcase the latest advancements in solar technology, including new products, services, and innovations.
  3. Discover New Products and Technologies: Trade shows provide a platform to see and experience cutting-edge solar products and solutions firsthand.
  4. Gain Market Insights: Attending industry-specific conferences and workshops provides valuable insights into market dynamics, competitive landscapes, and regulatory environments.
  5. Learn About Solar Energy: Trade shows offer educational sessions and workshops that provide information on solar energy technologies, applications, and benefits.

Finally, Solar energy conferences are an excellent opportunity to explore career opportunities in the solar energy industry. Networking with industry leaders can open doors to potential employment and advancement. 

How to Power Up Your Presence at Clean Energy Conferences & Trade Shows

  • For Attendees:
    • Best practices for networking and making meaningful industry connections.
    • How to prepare questions for panel discussions and workshops.
    • Tips for leveraging social media and event apps to enhance engagement.
  • For Exhibitors:
    • Strategies for designing an engaging trade show booth.
    • How to attract and retain visitor attention with interactive displays.
    • The importance of sustainability messaging in booth design.
  • Encourage attendees to set clear goals for their participation—whether networking, learning, or exhibiting.
clean energy conferences

Eco-Friendly Displays for Renewable Energy Events

Sustainable or eco-friendly trade show exhibits are no longer a niche within the exhibit industry. Exhibitors have spoken and are demanding greener solutions that fulfill their company’s sustainable mission. Some exhibitors assume an eco-friendly trade show booth should be chunky, clunky, and crunchy. They can be, but most are contemporary designs that are indistinguishable from any other exhibit on the trade show floor. For example, Eco-systems Exhibits are modern, modular exhibits with choices ranging in both price and size. 

At renewable energy events, eco-friendly displays are more of an expectation. But don’t feel like you have to jump into the sustainable pool headfirst. It’s not an either/or choice. There’s a middle ground where you can make sustainable choices that align with your marketing goals and budget without going 100 percent granola. Whether you opt for 75-, 50-, or even 30-percent sustainable components, you’re still making a big impact. Here are several eco-friendly, mix-and-match ways to decrease the environmental impact of your exhibit.

Green Printing. There’s a wide range of sustainable options for direct prints and on recycled fabric, even backlighting. 

Rentals: Rentals exhibits are the ultimate sustainable solution. And very cost-effective. However, your booth doesn’t need to be 100% rental. Consider adding custom exhibit components for the best of both worlds. 

Modular Wall Systems:  Aluminum modular wall systems dominate the trade show floor. They’re lightweight, reconfigurable, attractive, and even recyclable. As a bonus, the modularity makes it perfect for an exhibitor with a heavy trade show schedule that includes a range of inline and island sizes. 

LED Lighting: Halogen, incandescent, and fluorescent lights have largely disappeared from the trade show floor. And no one misses them. The switch to LEDs has expanded the lighting possibilities to backlit graphics, accent lighting, and logos. It’s even gotten easier to backlight hanging signs. If you have a booth with energy-intensive lighting, it’s time to upgrade. The cost is reasonable, and the lights will almost always outlast your exhibit.

Most exhibit builders have access to sustainable building materials. And designing and building with those materials is no different than using the non-sustainable options. An eco-friendly booth will look the same, have the same build quality, and be equal in performance. 

renewable energy trade show

Get Ready for the Next Big Renewable Energy Conference

When choosing a Renewable Energy Conference, consider your specific interests within the renewable energy sector (solar, wind, storage, etc.). Think about the geographic focus of the conference and whether it aligns with your market. Finally, embrace the networking opportunities and the participation of  industry players when making a decision. And if you’re ready to begin the process of designing a sustainable exhibit, the Classic Exhibits Distributor Network has more eco-friendly exhibit experience than anyone else in North America. 

The Classic Exhibits Distributor Network includes over 200 exhibit houses and display professionals in North America. Find success on the trade show floor with an exhibit that reflects your marketing message. For more information, see www.classicexhibits.com and explore Exhibit Design Search or request a meeting with a Classic Distributor Partner.