Most marketing professionals are juggling online and offline campaigns, developing internal resources, managing the website(s) and social media presence, and a host of other responsibilities. And then there’s the trade show program. It’s often overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. One option is a turnkey booth.
Most exhibit houses offer complete turnkey services, where they manage not only storage and shipments but many facets of the trade show services. Turnkey services, when put in the hands of exhibit professionals, can pay for itself through lower freight costs, early bird specials, and by preventing ‘surprises’ on the show floor. And these can apply whether it’s a turnkey booth purchase or a turnkey booth rentals.
Benefits of a Turnkey Booth for Trade Show Ease
Opting for a turnkey trade show booth can significantly simplify the entire process and enhance your return on investment. Here are some of the key advantages:
Simplified Budgeting: Instead of facing numerous, often hidden, costs for design, construction, shipping, and labor, a turnkey solution provides a single, upfront cost. This makes it much easier to budget and manage your expenses. You avoid costs related to storage, maintenance, and refurbishment, as the provider handles all of that.
Less Stress: The biggest benefit is the elimination of logistical headaches. A turnkey provider manages everything from design and fabrication to installation and dismantling. This frees up your team to focus on what truly matters: preparing to engage with attendees, perfect your sales pitch, and network with potential clients.
Professional Design: Turnkey exhibits are designed and built by professionals who specialize in creating visually appealing and functional spaces. This ensures your booth has a high-quality, professional look that accurately reflects your brand identity and stands out on the busy trade show floor.
Flexibility and Customization: While the term “turnkey” implies a ready-made solution, many providers offer a high degree of customization. You can choose from various layouts, add your own branding and graphics, and incorporate different elements like digital displays or interactive features to create a unique experience tailored to your specific goals and target audience.
Scalability: For businesses that attend multiple shows of different sizes throughout the year, a turnkey rental is an excellent solution. You can easily adjust the size and configuration of your booth to fit different venue requirements without the high cost of owning multiple exhibits.
Expert Support: A dedicated project manager or team will oversee every detail of your exhibit. They are familiar with the specific rules and regulations of different venues and can handle any challenges that arise, from coordinating with show services to ensuring your booth meets all specifications. This expert guidance is invaluable, especially for first-time exhibitors.
Many turnkey exhibits are part of a rental program, which promotes the reuse of materials. This can be a more sustainable option than building a custom exhibit from scratch for every show. For a comprehensive review of turnkey exhibit management, see Exhibit Management and Turnkey Services.
What is a Turnkey Booth?
Do you have a mental image of a turnkey booth? Hopefully, you’re not picturing one of the “easy” or “no hassle” booths shown in the typical showbook. Those are meant to be easy (and highly profitable) for the General Show Contractor. A turnkey booth can be anything. It can be a $20,000 modular inline, a $250,000 custom island, or a rental inline or island exhibit. Before we dive into “what is a turnkey booth,” let’s review what turnkey means as a comprehensive service.
A turnkey exhibit provider handles all the intricate details of a trade show exhibit from start to finish, allowing the exhibitor to focus on their core purpose: engaging with attendees and showcasing their brand.
Turnkey Services typically include:
Design and Fabrication: The provider works with the company to design a custom or pre-existing booth layout that fits their brand and objectives. They then handle the construction and fabrication of the exhibit.
Logistics and Shipping: They manage the complex process of transporting the exhibit to the trade show venue.
Installation and Dismantling (I&D): A professional team sets up the entire booth on-site before the show begins and then efficiently breaks it down once the event is over.
Show Service Coordination: The provider coordinates with the show’s organizers for necessary services like electrical hookups, internet, and material handling (the process of moving materials on the show floor).
Included Furnishings: Turnkey solutions often include furniture, flooring, lighting, and audio/visual equipment.
Project Management: A dedicated team oversees the entire process, ensuring deadlines are met and the project stays on budget.
By opting for a turnkey solution, businesses can avoid the logistical nightmares and significant time investment associated with planning, coordinating, and managing a trade show presence on their own. It provides a hassle-free, professional, and often more cost-effective way to exhibit.
Turnkey Trade Show Booth Options: An Overview
Let’s start by defining the term “turnkey.” The term “turnkey” refers to something that is ready for immediate use, with all necessary components and services already in place. The idea is that you simply “turn the key” to get it started, without any further effort or preparation.
Our turnkey trade show booth options almost always start with an existing rendering or kit. These are preexisting designs which have been previously detailed, built, and assigned an msrp. Classic has over 1500 “turnkey” designs in Exhibit Design Search, ranging from table tops to 30 x 50 islands and counters to charging station solutions.
However, with the exception of Rapid Rentals and Quick Ships kits, these are not pre-built displays sitting on a shelf waiting for an order. Nearly every order is modified, customized and personalized to each exhibitor’s specifications. Sometimes they are simple modifications, like replacing a modular counter with a custom counter. Other times, the original booth design is a starting point for extensive changes.
In other words, a turnkey trade show booth doesn’t have to be a compromise or a take it or leave it choice when you choose a Classic Exhibits display. It’s the best of both worlds, meaning you have an extensive library of exhibit designs, all of which can be customized to your preferences.
For example, Exhibit Design Search includes galleries like:
Contemporary Purchase, Rental, and Sustainable Islands
Modern Purchase, Rental, and Sustainable Inlines
LED Lightbox Booths
Portable and Portable Modular Inlines
Custom, Modular, and Portable Counters
Charging Tables and Counters
Monitor Stands
Overhead Signs
Plus, 12 additional trade show booth galleries
Taken from a wider perspective, “turnkey” means a complete service where a provider handles every aspect of the booth, from design and construction to shipping, installation, and dismantling. This allows the exhibitor to focus on their primary goal of engaging with attendees, rather than the logistics of the event.
10×10 Turnkey Trade Show Booths
Because a 10 x 10 turnkey trade show booth can be anything, let’s explore three possibilities.
VK-1369 | Quick Ship Booth. This purchase portable display includes a tension fabric graphic, monitor mount, and a backlit reception counter with locking storage. It ships in 8-10 business days.
VK-1356 | Lightbox Booth. Clean and inviting, the VK-1356 balances backlit graphics, casual seating, A/V options, and wireless charging. Plus, it can easily be reconfigured to a 10 x 20 inline.
VK-1105 | Hybrid Booth. Available in either a 10 ft. or 20 ft. inline, the VK-1105 has (6) product shelves, large format graphics, a monitor mount, and locking storage.
10×20 Turnkey Trade Show Booths
These 10×20 turnkey trade show booth kits demonstrate the custom possibilities of creating an inline booth that elevates your trade show marketing.
VK-4054 | Gravitee Inline Booth. Every exhibitor wants a custom-looking exhibit that also reconfigures. The VK-4054 does that… and so much more! The Gravitee Modular structure easily reconfigures from a 20 ft. inline to a 30 ft. to a 10 x 10 display.
VK-4046 | Custom Lightbox. The reconfigurable VK-4046 combines practical product shelving, meeting space, and closet storage into an attractive exhibit designed to showcase products and promote conversation.
20×20 Island Turnkey Trade Show Booth Kit
Classic Exhibits has over 200 20×20 island turnkey trade show booths available for purchase and to rent. View them as “idea generators” which you can mix and match to create the ideal island booth for your marketing requirements.
VK-5187 | Island Booth. Canopies paired with backlit LED graphics are guaranteed to draw a crowd on the show floor. This island booth design features multiple backlit double-sided towers, custom counters, genius bars, and charging tables.
Turnkey Trade Show Booths Rental Solutions
A turnkey trade show booth rental should look and perform just like a purchase exhibit. Same features, design options, installation, and quality. With one of the largest exhibit rental programs in North America, Classic Exhibits has the depth, flexibility, and experience to handle most rental requests, ranging from a Rapid Rental 10 x 10 to a sales conference with 40 monitor stands and 30 counters.
RE-1064 | Gravitee Rental Booth. The RE-1064 has extensive product shelves, storage, and captivating backlit images. SEG fabric graphics are a breeze to install and allow for quick changes from show to show.
RE-2153 | Gravitee Modular Booth. The RE-2153 uses Gravitee Modular panels, tension fabric graphics, and custom counters to create an inviting space on the trade show floor. Plus, assembly is fast and easy with the no-tools assembly.
RE-9095 | Gravitee Rental Island Booth. This rental island combines a casual meeting space with a more formal semi-private meeting room. There are two functional workstations with large monitors.
FAQs About Turnkey Booths
What’s included in a turnkey service booth package?
Because each booth and every client is different, most exhibit houses offer a range of services and packages. The following article Exhibit Management and Turnkey Services is an excellent overview of the most common services.
How much does a turnkey booth cost?
Turnkey booth pricing is the same as the price for any purchase or rental exhibit at Classic Exhibits. Basic 10 ft. inlines are typically in the $3K to $6K range and larger islands run from $45K to $450K. We encourage you to explore your options in Exhibit Design Search. Use it as a starting point to identify booth designs, prices, and features.
Can turnkey booths be customized?
With the exception of the (7) Rapid Rentals and (7) Quick Ship booths, every turnkey booth can be customized. In fact, we encourage you to customize it. That way, your booth reflects your unique branding and facilitates your distinct trade show marketing goals.
Discover Turnkey Booth Solutions from Classic Exhibits
Your choice of a trade show booth shouldn’t be limited by the turnkey designs available from an exhibit builder or their willingness to customize an existing design. You’re not buying a lawn mower. You’re purchasing a marketing asset to increase sales. At Classic Exhibits, our turnkey booth selection is not only extensive but also fully customizable. As it should be. Contact us for more information.
Who We Are
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.
What are the biggest and best convention centers in the United States? And does overall size and location matter when it comes to a convention center? Unless you’re a trade show nerd (like me), you’ve probably never wondered if the Las Vegas Convention Center is bigger than McCormick Place in Chicago. Or if the Orange County Convention Center is in FL or CA?
In this article, we’re going to do a deep dive into fun facts and important information about convention centers in the US. You’ll sharpen your exhibition trivia while storing valuable knowledge for the Jeopardy category “USA Convention Centers,” which is likely to be a Daily Double. Along the way, we’ll connect these venues to some of the biggest trade shows in North America, so you can see how scale and location shape the events that dominate the industry.
First, what is a Convention Center? A convention center, also known as a conference center or exhibition hall, is a large building(s) designed to host a variety of large-scale events. These events can include conventions, trade shows, conferences, exhibitions, and other large gatherings where groups of people come together to share common interests, promote businesses, or learn about specific topics.
The 5 Benefits of Convention Centers to Cities in the USA
While the direct financial performance of the center itself can sometimes be a challenge, the broader economic and social benefits it generates often far outweigh the operating costs.
#1. Tourism and Visitor Spending: Convention centers are primary drivers of business tourism. They attract thousands or even hundreds of thousands of out-of-town attendees who would not have otherwise visited the city. These delegates spend significant amounts of money on hotels, restaurants, transportation, retail, and entertainment.
#2. Job Creation: The presence of a convention center creates both direct and indirect jobs. Direct jobs include those related to the center’s operations, such as event managers, security, catering, and maintenance staff. Indirect jobs are created in the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors to support the increased visitor traffic.
#3. Increased Tax Revenue: The spending by convention attendees generates significant tax revenue for the city and state through various sources, including sales tax, hotel occupancy tax, and property taxes from the surrounding businesses that benefit from the center.
#4. Catalyst for Development: A new or expanded convention center often acts as a catalyst for urban development. It encourages private investment in nearby hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues to accommodate the influx of visitors. This can revitalize downtown areas and create a more attractive and walkable environment for both tourists and residents.
#5. Elevated City Profile: Hosting major conventions and trade shows raises a city’s profile on a national and international scale. It positions the city as a major business destination and a hub for specific industries, such as technology, medicine, or the arts. This enhanced reputation can attract new businesses and talent.
The 11 Biggest Convention Centers in the US for Trade Shows
Measuring the size of convention centers can be done in a few ways, but the most common metric is the total square footage of exhibit space. This is often more telling than the overall “campus” size, as it represents the usable area for trade shows and exhibitions.
Note the location of the 10 biggest convention centers. Some are obvious, like Las Vegas. Others, however, may seem surprising, like Louisville.
List-style breakdown of each venue, including:
Name & Location
Exhibit square footage
Notable events or industries hosted
Why it stands out for exhibitors
Based on exhibit space, here are the 10 largest convention centers in the USA:
Best Convention Centers in the US (Beyond Just Size)
While the largest convention centers get most of the attention, many other venues across the U.S. offer unique and compelling features that make them “fun” or interesting destinations. They often stand out for their architecture, location, or the specific types of events they host. Here are more of the best convention centers in the US.
Music City Center (Nashville, Tennessee): This center stands out for its unique architectural design that pays homage to the city’s musical heritage. The building’s exterior features curves and lines that mimic a guitar, and its interior incorporates musical themes throughout. It’s also known for its sustainability efforts, including a green roof that’s shaped like a guitar.
Colorado Convention Center (Denver, Colorado): Located in downtown Denver, the center is known for its stunning mountain views, and its modern, open design allows for plenty of natural light. It also has an adjacent theater complex, the Bellco Theatre, making it a versatile venue for a variety of events, including concerts and corporate meetings.
Miami Beach Convention Center (Miami Beach, Florida): This convention center is not just a venue; it’s a centerpiece of a major cultural and entertainment destination. It’s a short walk from famous beaches, world-class restaurants, and the vibrant South Beach nightlife.
Oregon Convention Center (Portland, Oregon): A landmark in the Pacific Northwest, this convention center is known for its twin glass spires that light up at night. It’s conveniently located on Portland’s light rail line, making it easy for attendees to explore the city’s famous food scene and quirky neighborhoods. The center is committed to sustainability and has a reputation for its local, organic, and farm-to-table food options.
Anaheim Convention Center (Anaheim, California): While not in the top 10 by size, its location makes it one of the most fun and family-friendly convention centers. Situated directly across from Disneyland and next to several major hotels, it’s a perfect spot for events that attract a younger or family-oriented demographic.
Seattle Convention Center (Seattle, Washington): The Seattle Convention Center is a unique venue that seamlessly blends with the city’s urban landscape. With the recent opening of its new Summit building, it’s become a major player in the convention world, praised for its innovative and sustainable design.
How to Choose the Right Convention Center for Your Brand
As a trade show exhibitor, you may have little input on the location of your major trade shows. Those are determined by your industry association and its members. Many trade shows have been at the same convention center for years, like the International Auto Show in Detroit. Smaller shows may be in multiple locations, like Comic-Con or auto shows, so you can decide which trade shows are a better fit for your business model.
Strategic Tips:
Location and Industry: Trade show organizers often claim the location doesn’t matter, which is why so many are held in Las Vegas, Chicago, or Orlando. But location does matter in certain industries. Farm shows for example. The larger shows are held in the Midwest, with smaller ones in regional agricultural centers. RV Shows are less location based with shows across the country. Medical show locations, like HIMSS Global Health, tend to be dictated by their members, who are more willing to travel to new locations each year.
Support Services and Regulations: Cost varies depending on the convention center. Sadly, there’s no one uniform set of rules across the country. For example, in Orlando, you can install your own lights, but in Chicago, you must hire electricians. The regulations for hanging signs vary significantly by location and the cost can be 3-4X higher. Consult with your exhibit house about the specific regulations for your show.
Budget: No one has an unlimited budget for trade show marketing. Choices have to be made about which trade shows to attend. Your decision shouldn’t be about which show costs more or costs less. It should be based on your planned or historical Return on Investment. While a show in Boston may be significantly more expensive, if your sales opportunities are 3-4X compared to a show in Indianapolis, then it might be worth the added cost.
Timing and Opportunities: The ebbs and flows of every business depend on a myriad of factors. Some shows may not match your sales cycle. If you’re in the toy business, the annual Toy Fair in February is ideal. ConEXPO-CON/AGG, a construction trade show held every three years in Las Vegas, depends less on the date than the general health of the economy. If your business is experiencing a financial downturn that year, it doesn’t matter if the show is held in March or in September.
Competition: Sometimes it pays to be seen, especially at a major trade show in the larger convention centers. Trade shows are one of the few instances where competitors stand toe-to-toe in one location. Larger locations like the Las Vegas Convention Center are specifically designed to be a petri dish of capitalism, where companies can showcase their latest products and services and gain insights on their competitors.
Tips for Exhibiting at Top Convention Centers
Exhibiting at large convention centers in the US requires a strategic and well-planned approach to stand out and achieve your goals. These massive venues, like McCormick Place in Chicago or the Las Vegas Convention Center, present unique challenges and opportunities. Start by meeting with your exhibit house partner and approach each trade show like it’s your most important marketing event of the year.
1. Plan Plan Plan
Start Early: Begin your planning 6 to 12 months in advance for major shows. This is crucial for securing a prime booth location and avoiding rush fees.
Set Goals and Objectives: Before you do anything else, define what you want to achieve. Are you focused on lead generation, brand awareness, or launching a new product? Your goals will inform every decision, from your booth design to your staff’s talking points.
Create and Track Your Budget: Costs can spiral out of control. Create a comprehensive budget that accounts for booth space, exhibit design, shipping, labor, travel, accommodations, and marketing.
2. Strategic Booth Selection and Design
Location: Aim for high-traffic areas. This includes corner booths, spaces at the end of aisles, or locations near main thoroughfares, restrooms, food courts, or key conference rooms. Avoid spots with obstructions like pillars.
Motion, Lights, and Colors: Use bold visuals, oversized signage, and vibrant colors to make your booth visible from a distance. Keep your messaging concise and easy to understand.
Use Your Space Strategically: Avoid barriers like tables blocking the entrance. Incorporate interactive elements, such as product demos, digital displays, games, or charging stations, to draw attendees in. Provide seating areas for more in-depth conversations.
3. Master the Logistics
Shipping and Material Handling: Understand the specific rules and deadlines for shipping your materials. Many venues have official contractors for drayage (the movement of materials on the show floor). Using them can simplify the process, even if it comes at a higher cost.
Label everything: Label every box, crate, and container with your company name, the event name, and your booth number. Include an inventory list inside each box.
Understand the On Site Services: Familiarize yourself with the process for ordering electricity, internet access, and other services. Bring a “trade show survival kit” with essential items like power strips, zip ties, and a basic toolkit.
Ship to the Advanced Warehouse: Many venues offer the option to ship your materials to a local warehouse in advance. This can help you avoid on-site delays and fees.
4. Staffing and Engagement
Booth Staff Training: Don’t send rookies. Ensure your staff is knowledgeable about your products/services and understands the event’s goals. Conduct a practice run to rehearse talking points and lead-capture methods.
Capturing Sales Leads: Have a system in place for capturing leads, whether it’s badge scanning, a mobile app, or a simple notebook. Take detailed notes so you can personalize your follow-up.
5. Pre- and Post-Show Marketing
Pre-show Promotion: Use email campaigns and social media (with the event hashtag) to let your network know you’ll be there. Offer incentives like exclusive demos or giveaways to drive booth traffic.
Networking: Study the event schedule, floor plan, and list of exhibitors. Reach out to potential clients or partners beforehand to schedule meetings.
Post Show Marketing: The most critical part of the process is following up on your leads. Aim to send personalized emails to hot leads within 24-48 hours of the show’s end. This is a key factor in converting leads into sales.
Evaluate Your Data: After the show, debrief internally to review what worked and what didn’t. Track your ROI by comparing the cost of exhibiting against the value of the leads and sales generated.
Exhibiting at One of The Largest Convention Centers in the US? Let’s Talk!
Congratulations! You are now a trivia expert on the largest convention centers in the US. While that may win you a bar bet, it won’t ensure your next trade show is a success. It’s time to elevate your trade show marketing strategy and ROI to historic levels. Marketing professionals rely on exhibition experts to guide them through the nuances and landmines of trade shows. No show, no industry, and no convention center is the same. Smart exhibitors use that knowledge to their strategic advantage.
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.
“There’s no limit to how creatively LED walls can be used on the trade show floor.” –Eitan Magid, CEO, Popshap
“LED technology gets attendees to look—but it’s the content that makes them stay.” – Dahlia Lopez, Marketing and Logistics, Popshap
LED video walls are everywhere—sporting events, concerts, product launches, and trade shows! In fact, LED video walls for trade shows have become a must-have visual centerpiece for many exhibitors. They’ve gone from novelty to necessity. Fortunately, the newest tiles are brighter, more vivid, and offer higher resolution graphics than LCD monitors. As a result, exhibitors are choosing LED video wall panels because they’re scalable in size and shape, allowing them to be configured into almost any size and shape imaginable. Here’s an LED video wall example to see this versatility in action.
LED video walls offer numerous advantages over traditional signage and displays. When paired with dynamic and engaging content, they increase foot traffic, boot engagement, and visually demonstrate complex products and services. LED video walls at trade shows are not just about displaying content; they are also about creating an unforgettable experience that drives interest, engages visitors, and ultimately helps achieve your exhibition goals.
However, LED video walls are not for everyone. Let’s explore the pros and cons of this technology.
How LED Video Wall Panels Are Changing Trade Show Booths
Trade show designers have always known that “movement and light” attract attendees. And while backlit fabric graphics transformed exhibition design over the past 10 years, the next evolution is LED video panels, which combine the benefits of light and movement, turning a static exhibit into a dynamic, interactive experience.
LED Video walls allow exhibitors to lean into visual storytelling and real-time engagement. Smart exhibitors are using this creative freedom to:
Design engaging, well-designed visuals
Tap into the flexibility and scale of video walls to showcase their brand
Create targeted content for a specific audience
Update the content not just between shows, but also throughout the show.
Support engagement on the show floor with case studies, product demonstrations, and 3D visuals
In addition, LED video walls and tiles elevate audience experience by creating:
Interactive Experiences: Many LED video walls now integrate touch capabilities, motion sensors, and other interactive technologies. This transforms passive viewing into active participation who can browse catalogs, play games, access detailed product information, and view social media feeds.
Deeper Product Understanding: Complex products or services can be visually explained through animated infographics, detailed simulations, or step-by-step video tutorials. This helps attendees grasp concepts more quickly and effectively than a salesperson simply talking about them.
Memorable Experiences: Interactive and visually stunning LED displays create a lasting impression. Visitors are more likely to remember a booth that offered a unique, engaging experience, leading to better brand recall.
LED video wall panels have moved trade show booths beyond simple display areas and transformed them into dynamic marketing platforms that inform, entertain, and connect with attendees in powerful and memorable ways. Designs like the VK-5200 are now a crucial tool for exhibitors looking to make a significant impact in a competitive trade show environment.
Choosing the Right LED Wall Panels for Your Booth
We can’t all be experts at everything, including LED wall panels. However, a working knowledge of LED technology will make choosing the best option for your situation much easier. Here are nine key factors to consider:
1. Application and Environment (Indoor vs. Outdoor)
Indoor LED Wall Brightness: 600-1000, smaller pixels, and no weatherproofing
Outdoor LED Wall Brightness: Much higher 5000-10,000, larger pixels, and weatherproofing
2. Resolution and Viewing Distance
For trade shows, the pixel pitch is smaller for individual displays, but larger for displays viewed from a distance.
3. Brightness
Brightness measures the luminous intensity of the display. The level will depend on the amount of ambient lighting in the show hall, like large windows or skylights
4. Refresh Rate
This measures the number of times the display’s image is refreshed. Higher refresh rates reduces flickering and optimizes smoother motion
5. Viewing Angle
The maximum angle the display can be viewed with image, brightness, or color degradation.
This is important at trade shows since attendees are approaching you booth from multiple angles
6. Physical Requirements
Consider the overall dimensions and weight of the panels. Lighter is better for installation and panels that can be assembled from the front are preferred.
7. Control System and Software
In other words, is the control system (sending card, video processor) compatible with the content source (HDMI, DVI, etc)? And can the panels be calibrated for color and brightness.
8. Budget
Cost vs. Quality: Often there’s an inverse relationship to cost and quality. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Weight the options of renting vs. purchasing the LED video tiles and software
Warranty and Support: Ask lots and lots and lots of questions. And get it all in writing
9. Manufacturer or Service Provider
In most cases at a trade show, you’ll be renting the video tiles from an exhibition supplier. Do your research on A/V suppliers. If you are considering video panels in the future, ask other exhibitors who they recommend.
By carefully evaluating these factors against your specific needs and budget, you can choose the right LED video wall panels to create a truly impactful and memorable experience at your next trade show or event.
LED vs. Traditional Video Wall: What’s the Difference?
LED Monitors (Traditional Displays)
These are typically off-the-shelf, self-contained displays, similar to large TVs or computer monitors. They come in fixed sizes (e.g., 55″, 65″, 85″) and are generally a more straightforward plug-and-play solution.
Pros:
Cost-Effective (for smaller setups): For a single display or a small arrangement of monitors, they can be more budget-friendly upfront.
Higher Pixel Density/Resolution (often): Individual monitors often have a higher pixel density for their size, meaning sharper images at close viewing distances.
Easier to Set Up (individual units): Less complex to install if you’re only using a few.
Readily Available: Easier to find for purchase or rental.
Cons:
Visible Bezels: When multiple monitors are combined to create a larger display, there will be noticeable seams (bezels) between each screen, interrupting the seamless flow of content. This can be distracting for viewers.
Limited Scalability and Customization: You’re limited to standard monitor sizes. Creating unique shapes, curves, or very large, seamless displays is not feasible.
Brightness Limitations: While bright, they generally don’t reach the same brightness levels as dedicated LED video walls, which can be an issue in brightly lit exhibition halls.
Less Impactful for Large Spaces: For a truly immersive or commanding visual presence, individual monitors often fall short.
LED Video Tiles (Modular LED Walls)
LED video tiles are individual, smaller LED panels that can be seamlessly connected together to create a display of virtually any size, shape, or resolution. They are the building blocks of what is commonly referred to as an “LED video wall.”
Pros:
Seamless Display: The biggest advantage is the absence of bezels, creating a single, continuous, and immersive visual experience.
Unlimited Scalability and Flexibility: You can build a video wall of almost any size or shape – from massive backdrops to curved walls, columns, or even flooring. This allows for highly creative and customized booth designs.
High Brightness and Contrast: LED video walls are significantly brighter than traditional monitors, making them highly visible even in well-lit environments and ensuring your content pops. They also offer excellent contrast ratios.
Durability: Designed for rental and event use, LED tiles are generally more robust and durable than typical monitors, built to withstand frequent transport and assembly.
Cons:
Higher Upfront Cost (especially for large displays): The initial investment for an LED video wall, especially a large one, is generally higher than using a few standard monitors.
More Complex Installation: Setting up a large LED video wall requires specialized knowledge and often a dedicated team.
Resolution Considerations: While highly customizable, achieving extremely high pixel density (like a 4K TV) over a very large area can still be costly. Viewing distance needs to be considered for optimal resolution.
Potential for “Pixelation” Up Close: If the pixel pitch (distance between LED pixels) is too large and viewers are very close to the wall, the individual pixels might be discernible. This is less of an issue with fine-pitch LED tiles designed for close viewing.
Which to Choose for Trade Shows?
Choose LED Monitors if:
You have a smaller booth and only need a single display or a small number of screens.
Your budget is limited, and a high-impact, seamless display isn’t the primary goal.
Your content is static or primarily informational, not requiring dynamic, large-scale visuals.
Close-up viewing distance is critical, and you prioritize individual screen resolution.
Choose LED Video Tiles if:
You want to create a truly memorable and impactful presence at your trade show.
You need a large, seamless display that can be seen from a distance.
You want flexibility in sizing, shaping, or curving your display.
Your content is dynamic, involves video, animations, or interactive elements.
In essence, for maximum impact, flexibility, and a truly modern, eye-catching trade show booth, LED video tiles are generally the superior choice. They transform a booth into an immersive visual experience that can significantly draw attention and enhance your brand’s presence. However, if your needs are simpler and budget is the absolute top priority for a basic display, LED monitors can still serve a purpose.
Creative Ways to Leverage LED Wall Tiles or Panels
LED walls and curved LED walls are a fantastic way to elevate your trade show booth. They provide bright, eye-catching visuals that help brands stand out and deliver engaging messaging.
But beyond these traditional formats, modular builds, transparent displays, and fully immersive environments are becoming more accessible—allowing brands to push boundaries and create truly memorable experiences. Companies like Popshap are leading the charge with bold, next-generation applications that take LED technology far beyond simple video walls.
Here are some of their favorite ways to utilize LED wall tiles and panels:
Immersive LED Cubes
LED cubes are redefining 3D storytelling.
These are super popular for drawing attention on all sides.
They’re great in high-traffic areas where people are coming from multiple directions.
Used for storytelling, branded animation, or eye-catching graphics.
3D forced perspective content
Immersive LED Rooms
Think of these as full-scale walk-in experiences
LED rooms are built with panels on all sides—including the floor—transforming standard booths into enclosed, fully branded environments.
Popshap has done a few of these recently and they’ve been a huge success for drawing attendees into the booth.
Transparent LED Displays
These are great when you want digital visuals but also need to keep things open or visible behind the screen.
Useful for product showcases or storefront-style booths.
Transparent LED technology offers a futuristic, layered look
Popshap has utilized this technology to create dynamic overlays for product showcases and branded messaging that complements rather than competes with the overall booth environment.
One of the most exciting trends, according to Popshap, an LED video tile supplier, is using LED walls not just as passive displays but as interactive playgrounds. When you combine LED walls with touchscreen kiosks or interactive floors, the booth experience becomes a game-changer—literally.
LED Video Ideas:
Use a LED wall as a dynamic backdrop for a photobooth, creating fun branded photo experiences that attendees love to share.
Run interactive games where attendees control the action via a touchscreen kiosk, but the gameplay is displayed on the LED wall.
Incorporate interactive LED floors as part of the gameplay, encouraging physical movement and engagement.
Lean into visual storytelling and real-time engagement
Showcase unique booth applications or creative ideas:
Motion backgrounds instead of static backdrops
Interactive product walls or demos
Overhead or ceiling-based LED arrangements
Synchronizing with audio for a stage-like experience
Wayfinding, branded storytelling, or QR integration
Explore Custom LED Video Wall Panels for Trade Shows
LED Video Wall Panels have gone from a curiosity to a viable marketing tool for trade show exhibitors. However, there are three keys to using them successfully. First, the content has to be relevant to your trade show strategy and not an afterthought. Second, the content has to be dynamic, entertaining, and appropriate to your audience. And finally, every exhibitor needs strong LED video wall partners to assist with developing the content and managing the technology.
Fortunately, Classic Exhibits Distributors are experts in LED Video Walls. They’ve assisted clients at every step from development to implementation and have partnerships with the leading LED video wall suppliers for trade shows and events.
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.
Introducing The Big One! — a lightweight, portable 10 ft. curved display with maximum graphic impact. The engineered aluminum SEG frame is durable, assembles without tools, and packs in Classic’s legendary reusable die-cut foam packaging and roto-molded case w/ wheels. At 96” H x 116” W, it’s BIG and the sloping curve gives it an even bigger appearance on the show floor
Elevate Your Trade Show Presence
The Big One! Displays elevate your trade show presence with large
fabric graphics on an elegant, curved frame. Stretching a full 116” width and
96” height on the 10 ft. display (232” width on the 20 ft. version), The Big
One! is designed to attract attendees with bold large-format graphics.
Designed for Looks | Engineered to Last | Guaranteed to Perform
The Big One! portable display assembles without tools. Both the 10 ft. and 20 ft. versions ship in roto-molded case(s) with wheels and pack in reusable die-cut foam inserts for years of care-free use. Discover trade show success with a display that’s impossible to ignore.
For even more impact, The Bigger One! is a 20 ft. inline
which reconfigures to two 10 ft. displays.
Features & Benefits
Durable, Lightweight Portable Display
Large Tension Fabric Graphic(s)
Engineered Aluminum Extrusion
Elegant Curved Designs
Modular Engineering (10 ft. to 20 ft.)
No Tools Setup
Numbered Components for Easy Assembly
Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship
Who We Are
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.
Trade show success hinges on planning and experience. This article will explain common trade show services and how to prepare for the big event. Exhibitors who optimize their trade show marketing, whether they’re a trade show expert or a newcomer, will significantly increase their return on investment. Knowledge is power when preparing for trade shows.
Trade Show Exhibit Services: How to Choose the Right Support for Your Booth
Whether you have a table top display or a 40 x 50 double-deck exhibit, at some point you’ll need to tap into trade show services. It might be as straightforward as ordering cleaning services for your booth space during the show or as immersive as hiring and supervising labor to install and dismantle your exhibit.
If you’re new to trade show services, this may seem both confusing and puzzling, since some of the services would be routine requests if ordered outside a trade show convention center. In the convention center, it’s an alternate universe. Your best defense is knowledge. That knowledge will not only save you money but also ensure a (mostly) organized experience.
Will there be surprises? Of course, because the rules can change from show to show and from convention to convention center. Even the same show can rewrite the rules for trade show services the next year based on new labor agreements or a different General Show Contractor.
Strap on your trade show seatbelt and make sure your airbag is working because we’re going to guide you through the laundry list of trade show services. It could get bumpy… and that’s OK. Ask questions. What you learn today will make your next trade show less stressful (and more successful) both for you and everyone on your team. Whatever your gender, it’s important for you to be your organization’s Trade Show Mama Bear.
Onsite Trade Show Services vs. Offsite Trade Show Services
Onsite trade show services include services available at the convention center, exhibition hall, or meeting space. General Service Contractors (GSC’s) typically provide these services for show management.
Several months before the show, the GSC or Show Management will email exhibitors a link(s) to show services. The website will list the available services prices, ordering, and deadlines. In addition, the site will explain the services the exhibitor must order from the GSC or subcontractor and the union regulations at the show site. Details matter. Not every show or every venue has identical regulations and ordering processes. If in doubt, contact the GSC or show management with any questions.
Finally, the deadlines for ordering services are not arbitrary. The GSC’s have early bird prices to encourage exhibitors to order them weeks, even months, in advance. It allows the GSC to plan for the equipment they’ll need and to schedule the appropriate number of employees. Ordering early not only saves the exhibitor money but it also gives the GSC the opportunity to contact the exhibitor if they see any issues on the order form.
Trade Show Onsite Labor
Show management contracts with the GSC to provide the show site installation and dismantle labor services (I&D). The GSC labor company may also provide the decoration (pipe and drape, aisle carpet, and registration counters). They are responsible for ensuring each installation is completed on time and the facility is cleared after the event.
Using onsite labor is convenient but not mandatory. Exhibitors can contract with any labor company as long as the labor company complies with the local rules and regulations as well as the show policies and procedures. These independent companies are called Exhibitor Appointed Contractors (EACs). For a list of North American EAC’s, see www.eaca.com.
The onsite labor contractor has a service desk onsite, and their labor forms are conveniently included with the show forms. If you need more labor on the show floor, you can easily request it. Many exhibitors use the show labor since it is convenient… Those that don’t use onsite labor generally have a working relationship with an EAC labor company.
At a union-regulated show site, the unions define what you can do during set-up and dismantle. Generally, there is a ratio of a few laborers to one company representative. You are permitted to handle all your products. The labor crew is responsible for handling display components, power tools, and ladders. However, most crews are flexible if you demonstrate good faith.
Planning is very, very important. Remember to schedule time for flooring and electrical before you schedule a set-up crew to assemble your booth. Likewise, plan for a delay in getting your crates delivered to your booth space at the end of the show. It may take the GSC several hours to deliver all of the crates so coordinate labor and freight appropriately.
Trade Show Onsite Electrical / Internet
The GSC also provides electrical services. Only licensed electricians can set up and dismantle electrical wiring and connections in your exhibit. In the most literal sense, this includes screwing in a light bulb, but most exhibitors take this to mean the wiring and circuitry. Electricians review the wire grounding and the breaker loads and look for exposed or unsafe hacker wiring and connections. Electricity is the primary threat on the show floor. High power runs everywhere. Fires are a real danger when you consider all the wood, carpet, and plastic concentrated in an exhibit hall.
Internet services are typically handled by the show hall. Basic Internet service may be available at no charge, but high-speed service, either wireless or wired, must be ordered. A warning regarding Internet connectivity. Exhibitors often assume the Internet connection during installation will be the same speed during the show. It’s not. During the show, the hall will be packed with exhibitors and attendees, all tapping into the wireless connection. If your marketing and sales presentations in the booth rely on a stable Internet connection, you would be wise to spend a little extra for a secure, high-speed connection.
Trade Show Electrical Requirements
The online services website will include a form for ordering electrical services. You will need to specify outlet location(s) with a floor plan, along with the total watts or amps. Most people are unfamiliar with how to add up all their electrical needs, but it’s less complicated than it may first appear. Monitors, LED light fixtures, and computers have published watt and amps. For other equipment, consult with your internal experts or contact the GSC’s customer service team.
Wiring between outlets to fixtures and electronics poses the most obstacles. Exhibits in the US require grounded power cords (3 prongs), which translates into larger wires. Hiding these wires can be challenging if you don’t prepare in advance. Buildings hide wiring under the floor, in the roof, and in the walls. Exhibits don’t always have that option. They hide wires under sub-flooring or carpet padding or drop power from the ceiling overhead.
If you have a lot of electrical requirements in your booth, then consider adding a list of the items to the electrical floor plan you send with your order. Better yet, indicate on the floor plan where the electrical items will be needed. Electricians are very good at reading and extrapolating electrical information. They frequently catch errors and make adjustments on the fly, thereby saving you time and hassle during the exhibit set-up.
If you have questions, call the GSC. These are routine questions for them.
Wiring Your Trade Show Booth Space and Exhibit
You have two options. Power can be run beneath your flooring or dropped from the ceiling. If you choose the floor, you will want your flooring to hide the wiring. Carpet padding combined with plush carpet conceals most wires. Other flooring such as wood and flooring tiles require a channel routed in the underside of the material for the wiring. Whenever possible, request that the electrician use flat cords rather than round cords.
An electrical ceiling drop is more expensive than running wires across the floor but may be necessary depending on the booth configuration and power load requirements. If you are considering a ceiling drop, contact the GSC to discuss the ceiling configuration over your booth space. Also, discuss the option of floor outlets. The GSC can help you determine which is best for you.
When you select an exhibit to purchase, make sure you understand and are comfortable with how the booth will be wired at the show. Just as important, make sure you communicate where you expect electrical devices in the exhibit, including all lighting fixtures. Be proactive about wire management and discuss with your exhibit consultant during the design phase. It’s much, much cheaper to add grommets, electrical covers, and wire management during the build process than at the show.
Onsite Trade Show Audio/Visual (A/V) Rental
You can rent computers, monitors, LED video panels, touchscreen kiosks, projectors, and much more. They’re available from the show A/V contractor, independent A/V providers, and often from your exhibit house. And while renting A/V equipment can be expensive, it’s not nearly as expensive as purchasing the equipment. In addition, A/V providers often have a service desk onsite to assist with any issues before or during the show. For many exhibitors, monitors, video walls, tablets, and touchscreen kiosks are critical elements of their trade show presentation. Finally, shipping any A/V equipment requires custom packaging to prevent freight damage. Renting eliminates that cost and headache.
Your online show forms will have forms from the show A/V contractor. There is typically a discount if the equipment is requested in advance. Better yet, contact your exhibit house and ask them for their recommended A/V provider.
Onsite Trade Show Housekeeping Services
To keep your exhibit looking great throughout the show, there are two options. You can arrange to have your exhibit cleaned during the show with an onsite housecleaning service, or you can bring a vacuum and cleaning supplies and perform the task yourself. Onsite housekeeping companies contract with the show decorator to provide the service to exhibitors. Your online show services website should have a form for ordering this service. Cleaning typically includes vacuuming the carpet and emptying the trash. Cleaning fingerprints from windows and laminate surfaces remains the exhibitor’s responsibility.
Consider having plastic (called Visqueen) placed over the carpet during set-up. It isn’t cheap, but it is effective against spills, trash, and forklift tire tracks. Remember to remove the plastic immediately before the show opens.
Trade Show Booth Cleaning Tips
Vacuuming your booth daily is a good idea if you have any kind of plush carpet, especially if it is very light or very dark in color. If your carpet is new, then plan on heavy fuzzing for the first few uses. Whether you use a cleaning service or do your own booth cleaning, it’s a good idea to have a cleaning kit packed in your booth that travels from show to show. Below is a list of items to include in a cleaning kit.
Trade Show Cleaning Kit Contents:
Glass cleaner
Laminate polish
Paper towels
Scissors
Knife, razor, or box cutter
Velcro
Multipurpose screwdriver with flat and Phillips heads
Finger polish remover (acts like lacquer thinner for removing adhesive gum)
Clear packing tape
Carpet tape (in case you need to tack a corner down)
Duct tape
Onsite Trade Show Exhibit Security Services
Exhibit halls can be a magnet for pilferage and espionage. If you want to guard against either of these, show management or the exhibit hall can assist you in securing your exhibit area. The onsite trade show security provider can post a security officer in your booth for the times you specify.
Pilferage can occur from labor, attendees, or employees. Because shows are known for giving away free stuff (incentives), some folks simply take this invitation a half step further. It’s a nuisance when pilferage involves promotional incentives, but it can be catastrophic if it is a product or prototype that will be missed by attendees if it is gone.
Store your incentives in a lockable storage cabinet. If you don’t have one, the next best place is behind the booth or anywhere out of site.
Wait until just before the show opens to set out your incentives. Many staffers from other exhibits prowl the aisles before the show opens collecting incentives. Pack incentives or any valuable product or electronic equipment in unmarked inconspicuous boxes. Consider sealing them after each opening especially if they are not under lock and key.
Espionage can be the double-edged sword of business-to-business exhibit marketing. While everyone is working to impress attendees with breakthroughs and innovations, they run the risk of providing proprietary technology to direct competitors. Make no mistake about a competitor’s willingness to take a quantum leap at the expense of a rival. There are a number of tips for protecting proprietary information. Consider having a security guard posted in the booth every day before and after show hours. The presence of these security officers will stop wandering competitors from trespassing.
Onsite Trade Show Freight Services
Onsite trade show freight shipping refers to the shipping company subcontracted by the GSC to provide inbound and outbound freight shipping service. Like all show services, onsite freight shipping has the advantage of convenience. The onsite freight company maintains a service desk at the show. They will be most familiar with the receiving and sending aspects of the show and facility. If you use a different shipping company and your company does not arrive to pick up your freight after the show, your freight will be “force shipped” with the onsite shipping company at your expense.
Most major carriers are familiar with shipping to trade shows and the general marshaling process that occurs as trucks line up to unload their exhibit freight on the docks of the show facility. Whatever means you use, you will want to provide clear instructions to ensure that your freight is received at the show facility and delivered to your booth space.
Freight is priced by dimensional and actual weight depending on the service. For exhibits shipped ground freight, the crate contents rarely exceed the dimensional weight formula. However, for exhibits shipped via air freight, there are limits in size and weight. Actual weight can easily exceed dimensional weight just as shipping a large box with light contents can incur an additional oversized charge. Freight companies are set up to provide instant quotes based on the shipment’s size and weight, your zip code, and the final destination zip code. These companies extend significant discounts on standard rates according to a company’s annual shipping volume.
Trade Show Freight Insurance
Regardless of how you ship your exhibit, you will want to insure it for its full retail value. Without insurance, if your booth is lost or damaged, the standard protection from the carrier is approximately .50 per pound. Consider this. If your $100K exhibit is lost in transit and it weighed 3000 lb. and shipped in three crates, you would be paid only $1500. Alternatively, if you paid the insurance, you would be reimbursed the full $100K with proof of value such as the invoice. Don’t take the risk. There is a good possibility you will experience some kind of freight loss or damage over a number of trade shows.
Trade Show Package and Kitting Services
Preparing for a trade show can be time-consuming for exhibitors who have a myriad of non-trade show responsibilities. Most exhibit houses have programs, including storage, staging, and kitting services, to assist their clients with these tasks. Graphic storage, promotional products, literature, and demo kits are ideal for kitting services, especially for exhibitors with active trade show programs.
Kitting services for trade show exhibitors involve the process of bundling multiple items together into a single, pre-assembled package or “kit” for easy distribution at a trade show. Instead of an exhibitor having to gather and organize various individual components on-site, a kitting service handles this preparation beforehand.
For example:
Assembly and Packaging: Organizing promotional materials, product samples, informational brochures, giveaways (swag), business cards, and other items, and assembling them into a cohesive package.
Inventory Management: Managing the inventory of individual items that go into the kits, ensuring that all components are available and accounted for.
Customization and Branding: Incorporating custom packaging, branding, and labeling to reflect the exhibitor’s company image, like custom boxes, branded tape, inserts, or gift wrapping.
Logistics and Shipping: Handling the storage, transportation, and delivery of these kits directly to the trade show venue or the exhibitor’s warehouse. This often includes optimizing shipping to reduce costs.
Benefits:
Increased Efficiency
Reduced Costs
Improved Organization
Enhanced Brand Experience
Focus on Core Activities
Reduced Damage and Loss
Kitting services act as a logistical partner for trade show exhibitors, taking the burden of assembling and organizing various materials so that exhibitors can maximize their presence and impact at the event.
Trade Show Booth Design Services to Elevate Your Brand Presence
Whether you are planning to purchase a new exhibit or simply upgrade your current booth, you’ll probably work with a trade show booth designer at some point. An exhibit designer will save you time and money and they will assist in refining your messaging and creating an attractive and efficient structure to showcase your brand.
Building a trade show exhibit is unlike building any other structure, primarily because it has to be assembled to be deconstructed, packed in crates, and shipped securely. In addition, a trade show exhibit has to attract visitors in a highly competitive environment, communicate a clear and compelling message in seconds, and serve as a practical sales tool for the booth staff and attendees.
Trade show booth designers have spent years specializing in booth design. And in most cases, they’ve worked with other companies that have exhibited at the same or similar trade shows. They know what’s worked. And what hasn’t worked for that audience? For example, a food show, like the Fancy Food Show, requires a very different booth than a display at a consumer electronics show, like CES.
The benefits of working with a professional trade show designer go well beyond their creative skills.
Expertise and Creativity: A professional designer has the knowledge and experience to create a booth that is visually appealing, on-brand, and functional. They can translate your company’s message into a compelling design that will grab attention and stand out from the competition.
Time and Resources: Designing and building a trade show exhibit can be a time-consuming process. By hiring a designer, you can free up your internal team to focus on other aspects of the trade show, such as sales training and lead generation.
Cost-Effectiveness: While there’s an initial investment in design, it can save you money in the long run. A designer can help you avoid costly mistakes, like choosing the wrong materials or exceeding space limitations. They can also source materials and fabrication services efficiently.
Compliance with Regulations: Trade show venues have specific rules and regulations regarding booth size, materials, and construction. A designer with experience will ensure your booth adheres to all guidelines, preventing last-minute scrambling or even disqualification.
Technology Integration: Many designers are familiar with incorporating interactive elements and digital signage into trade show booths. This can enhance the visitor experience and make your company appear more innovative.
Project Management: Often, a designer will handle the entire project, from the initial concept to the final installation and breakdown. This takes a significant burden off your shoulders and ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
Overall, hiring a trade show exhibit designer, like the professionals at Classic Exhibits, can significantly increase your chances of success at a trade show regardless of the size of your booth space. Their expertise can help you create a booth that effectively attracts leads, builds brand awareness, and ultimately delivers a positive return on your investment.
The Value of Offsite Trade Show Services & Support
Given the cost of trade show marketing, exhibitors are tasked with making wise financial decisions to ensure their investment is successful. One of those decisions is whether to use onsite or offsite providers for products and services. Offsite suppliers include rental furniture, A/V equipment, installation and dismantle labor, flooring, lead management, and even the design and build of your display.
In most cases, the service will be comparable between onsite vs. offsite providers. However, onsite providers are focused on that specific show whereas offsite providers are more interested in your long-term business. They want you to contract with them when you have a show in San Diego or one in Chicago or your BIG SHOW every year in Las Vegas.
Let’s use labor as an example. An offsite labor company that handles your exhibit multiple times learns the tricks and tips of your booth and your specific requirements. As a result, there’s a good chance they’ll not only be able to assemble it faster, but they’re also more likely to be extra careful when packing it. After all, they’ll be assembling it again and the last thing they want are surprises when opening your crates. In time, they know what to expect and the experience is less stressful for everyone, which is the gift that just keeps giving.
Trade Show Marketing Services to Maximize ROI
You don’t have to go it alone. For many marketers, trade show marketing is outside their comfort zone and may be a new responsibility for them. Trade show marketing is marketing, but a very specialized form of marketing which requires both experience and a deep dive into the jargon, regulations, and often unstated assumptions about trade shows. Fortunately, there are companies, services, and people who are laser-focused on elevating your exhibition success.
Your Exhibit House. Yes, they’ll design, build, and store your exhibit. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. They want you to succeed. Your success means you’ll continue to invest in your trade show marketing program, which benefits them. Many exhibit houses have A/V services, graphic designers, promotional products experts, and technology integrators. And if they don’t have a specific service or product you need, they’ll know who does have it.
Lead Retrieval Software Partners. Most exhibits default to the show designated lead retrieval services. That could be a mistake. Choosing a lead retrieval software partner for all your shows not only saves you time since your company information, documentation, and data gathering only has to be entered once, but also means you have a database of attendees aggregated across multiple events. In addition, lead retrieval providers have gamification services, CRM integration tools, and event management software.
Technology Partners. Keeping up with technology trends in the exhibit industry, and any industry, can be challenging. LED video tiles, touchscreen kiosks, LED motion lighting, etc. are now commonplace on trade show floors. Thankfully there are technology providers who are experts on the products and have extensive rental inventories.
Trade Show Consultants. Trade show consultants offer strategic guidance and practical support for all aspects of an exhibitor’s trade show program. They act as expert partners, helping businesses navigate the complexities of exhibiting and ensuring their efforts align with overall marketing and sales goals. Key services include marketing and promotion, ROI measurement and analysis, booth etiquette, and sales training at trade shows.
Classic Exhibit Distributors are experts at trade show marketing and have vetted their resources partners over the years. And while searching for a plumber on the web might make sense, searching for a capable trade show service provider is another matter. Consult with the people you trust, whether it’s your exhibit house or an exhibitor in your industry with experience.
Trade Show Management Services
What are “trade show management services”? It’s less straightforward than it appears. We’ve already discussed “services” in earlier sections. Who handles them can vary, not only from show to show but also depending on the venue.
Exhibition, Convention or Show Hall Management: Every exhibit hall or event venue has a team who handles sales and marketing, schedules shows, maintains the facility, and negotiates contracts with unions, food vendors, and janitorial services. They are responsible for the management and success of the building. For smaller shows, meetings, or events, they may even serve as the show management.
Show Management: Whether it’s a local boat show or the annual trade show for the American Cardiology Association, the “show” is owned and managed by a company or an association. They are responsible for everything associated with the show without necessarily handling every activity. For example, they identify the location for the show and negotiate space and services with the facility management. They also contract with a General Show Contractor to handle drayage, electrical, pipe and drape, signage, labor, etc. However, the show management devotes much of their time to marketing the show, developing education sessions, scheduling speakers, creating social events, soliciting sponsors, and registering attendees and exhibitors.
General Show Contractor (GSC); Most exhibitors interact primarily with the General Show Contractor and often confuse the GSC with both Show Management or Show Hall Management. As mentioned before, the GSC handles a variety of functions for exhibitors, depending on the show. These may include moving and storing freight, electrical services, cleaning, labor, sign rigging, rental furniture, and in some cases even renting exhibits. The GSC has a contract with Show Management and when an exhibitor hits a wall resolving a problem with the GSC, they should contact Show Management, who typically has a temporary office in the show hall.
Turnkey Trade Show Services for a Seamless Experience
“Turnkey” means “ready to use” or “ready to go.” For a trade show exhibitor, turnkey trade show services refer to a comprehensive, all-inclusive solution where a single provider handles virtually every aspect of their trade show participation, from start to finish. The exhibitor simply “turns the key” and everything is in place.
Turnkey Services typically include:
Exhibit Design and Fabrication, including graphics
Storage and Staging of the booth property
Logistics and Shipping, which can include material handling forms
Installation and Dismantle, either directly or through an independent labor provider
Show Services Coordination, like order electricity, cleaning, security, and rigging
Furniture and Accessories, like rental furniture, flooring and A/V equipment
Kitting Services
Promotional Products
Pre- and Post Show Support
Staff Training
Benefits:
Stress Reduction: The exhibitor has minimal logistical worries, allowing them to focus on sales and marketing.
Time Savings: Significant time is saved in planning, coordination, and execution.
Cost Efficiency: A single provider can often achieve economies of scale, avoid hidden costs, and prevent costly mistakes.
Professionalism: Ensures a high-quality, polished, and consistent brand presentation.
Expertise: Access to experienced professionals who know the intricacies of trade show management.
Single Point of Contact: Streamlines communication and accountability.
Consistency: Especially beneficial for companies exhibiting at multiple shows, as the turnkey provider can ensure brand consistency across all events.
Turnkey services are particularly valuable for first-time exhibitors, companies with limited internal resources, or those participating in numerous shows where efficiency and consistency are paramount.
Expert Trade Show Services with Classic Exhibits!
If you’ve made it this far and are still confused, you are not alone. It’s very confusing, which is why working with exhibit professionals is a must. Classic Exhibits has over 200 Distributors throughout North America who are trade show pros when it comes to onsite and offsite services. They’ll guide you through the trade show maze so you can concentrate on achieving your marketing objectives. For more information, contact Classic Exhibits at www.classicexhibits.com.
Trade Show Cleaning Kit Contents:
