Trade Show TalesBlog

Portables are Perplexing

No category of displays is more perplexing than portables. Prices, capabilities, and quality vary considerably, and the differences are often opaque. As a result, buyers sometimes make hasty decisions based on attractive renderings, professional websites, and low prices.

The (3) Types of Portable Displays

Nearly all portable displays fit into three groups: Good, Good Enough, and Good God No! We’ll skip the last category, although it represents 25-30% of all “point, click, and regret” portable purchases. Most have the lifespan of a mayfly.

Good Enough Portables are the largest segment. The quality of the hardware, graphics, and packaging is acceptable. They perform as advertised with minimal hiccups but have two shortcomings: replacement parts can be challenging, and modularity is more theory than reality.

The smallest segment is Good Portables, representing about 10-15% of sales. They’re reconfigurable and durable, and replacement parts are readily available. In addition, Good Portables have a wider assortment of accessories like counters, shelves, monitor options, and lighting. Calling them Portable Modular Displays would probably be a more accurate and helpful description for buyers.

At Classic Exhibits…

We design and build primarily Good Portables. That’s our niche. Not every exhibitor needs a Good Portable. Most need a display that’s Good Enough for local or regional shows and events. But for larger, professional trade shows, where a modular or a custom design isn’t an option, then a Symphony, Sacagawea, or SEGUE is the perfect choice.

Why Classic Exhibits

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.