From Trade Show Stupid to Trade Show Smart in 50 Minutes
TradeshowGuy Tim Patterson, the author of two trade show marketing books, pulls from his 20+ years in the trade show world to share ways to get an edge on your competitors on the trade show floor.
His trade show tips include budgeting, marketing, tradeshow staff training, design, ROI and ROO. Tim shares tricks that you can put into practice right away. Know which metrics to track, what NOT to to in a tradeshow booth, how to pitch the boss on a new exhibit and much more.
The 20 Sales Tips in 20 Minutes Webinar with Harold Mintz.
According to Harold, “Back in the early 90’s I (Harold Mintz) was working for an exhibit manufacturer training salespeople around the country about the best way to sell to the live events industry. At the time, I had never taken a single course on how to sell. Never even read a book about it. I was simply winging it.
Since then, I’ve worked with and learned from numerous sales professionals and trainers. Now, with over 30 years of both sales and sales training experience, I feel more than equipped to share some of the greatest hits I’ve picked up along the way.”
Feel free to
pass the link along to anyone who would benefit from this webinar.
EXHIBITORLIVE
2022
Booth #1219 at EXHIBITORLIVE
As Joe
Friday from Dragnet used to say, “Just the facts ma’am.”
If you are attending EXHIBITORLIVE, please visit us at #1219 (20 x 30). If you haven’t registered yet, use code #4044 for a free show hall pass.
We’ll have comfy chairs and games in our booth. Plus, a chance to win $300 towards a Symphony Portable Display order.
About the games… Have your photo taken in our booth and try to beat us a memory match contest. Oh yes… and some fun tchotchkes.
Classic Exhibits attendees will include Kevin Carty, Mel White, Jim Shelman, Jen LaBruzza, Katina Rigall Zipay, Harold Mintz, Kim DeStefano, and Glenna Martin.
Finally, there’s only a few days left to vote on the People’s Choice Award. Click HERE to cast your vote, once a day until June 22.
Women in Exhibition Breakfast
WIE is hosting its Annual Breakfast Event at EXHIBITORLIVE. Tickets are on sale for $50, but you can save $10 by using discount code WIESPONSOR22. That’s just enough for a bottle of water in LV. Register NOW.
Location, Date, and Time: Wednesday, June 22 from 8-10 am in the EXHIBITORLIVE Connection Zone.
Guest speaker, MaryCay Durrant, will share how women are
uniquely positioned to take on leadership roles at this time, in ways that
fulfill our desires for meaning, connection, health and prosperity.
If you can’t make it to the breakfast, please visit WIE in
booth #1226, just a few feet away from Classic Exhibits. BTW – The WIE display
is a Symphony if you want to take a peek.
EDPA Chapters Collide
When: Monday, June, 20
Where: Skyfall Lounge (Delano Hotel)
Time: 8-10 pm
We’re proud to be a sponsor of the EDPA Chapters Collide Social Event on Monday night. You are cordially invited to attend, but you’ll need to register in advance HERE. It’s a great opportunity rub shoulders with colleagues (not literally please), have a cocktail or two, and nibble on some tasty snacks. All are welcome!
Storage Rates Comparison Chart
Ever wonder what others charge for storage? We did too, so
we asked Classic Distributors to share their numbers. In exchange, we agreed to
publish the data anonymously and by region. Only those who sent us their rates
would receive the chart. They have since gotten a first draft.
The numbers are intriguing (to say the least) with a wide range
in charges. In addition, some distributors charge by sq. ft and others by cu.
ft. Others charge by crate or pallet regardless of the size.
If you would like to participate, contact Harold Mintz (harold@classicexhibits.com). Once you send us your detailed storage rates, we will add them to chart (anonymously and by region) and then provide you with a copy. We’re updating the chart in batches, so the next version will be available in mid to late July. Please send your rates within the next two weeks if you want to be included.
If you’ve ever wondered if you’re charging too much or too
little for storage, you’ll want to get your hands on these Storage Rate Comparisons.
Budget Portable Displays
Budget Portables Gallery
Not every exhibitor needs a counter, monitor, storage, or
even lights. Many just want an affordable display with fabric graphics and
portable assembly. For those exhibitors, we have 33 attractive and modular
solutions.
Budget Portables — a new gallery in EDS. This gallery includes a wide range of designs including curves, peaks, and rectangles. All with beautiful SEG graphics and Classic’s legendary quality and packaging.
What’s even better… Symphony accessories can easily be
added. The client who “only wants” a backwall may also need a workstation,
literature tray, or graphic header. Clicking on the Symphony Accessories Guide
in the additional images makes choosing accessories easy. We’ve even included
the price of a second set of graphics on the most basic kits.
Rama Beerfas of Lev Promotions shares 20 promotional product trends for 2022 in this Fast and FuriousWebinar, sponsored by Classic Exhibits.
For more information about promotional products, tchotchkes, or giveaways, contact Rama at rama@levpromotions.com or www.levpromotions.com. If you are attending EXHIBITORLIVE, schedule an appointment with her at www.levpromotions.com/exlive2022.
For an overview of Promotional Products: 0.00 to 6:39. To see specific products, along with benefits and features: 6:40 to the end.
20 Promotional Product Trends in 20 Minutes (or so)
20 Trending Products
Custom Designed Canister of Mini Gourmet Cookies
Apple Paper Appeel Mid Size Notebook
24 Page 7.25″x8.5″ Note Paper MousePad
Key Tag with ReturnMe Lost & Found Service
Sustainabalm
Smashlight 180
Bag Tag Survival Multi-Tool
QR Code Key Chain Custom Shape
Classic Series Post-it® Custom Printed Flag & Pen
Plantable Seed Card – Vertical or Horizontal
Phone Loops – Petite Loop Cell Phone Strap Holder
Professional 6″ Engineer Pocket Scale Ruler
MicroHalt Toothbrush Cover, Full Color Digital
SoberStick
Post-it® Extreme Notes w/Custom Printing
Cooling Stick
Soothing Stick
Hydra Stick
Retro Lunch Box
Whatever’s the Perfect Promotional Product for You!
Pedestal stands are like middle children of trade show displays. They get less attention than their older or younger siblings so they’re more likely to be independent, resourceful, and accommodating. OK… that metaphor may be a bit of a stretch but in reality pedestals, counters, and kiosks are the unsung heroes of trade show exhibits. They are rarely the main focus of any exhibit design, yet they do much of the heavy lifting in any trade show booth.
Pedestal Stands for Trade Shows
Whether you call them pedestals, counters, or kiosks, trade show booth design would be incomplete without them. The perfect pedestal will complement the overall design, not only by its shape but also by its graphics. In inline displays, like 10 x 10s and 10 x 20s, a pedestal along the aisle is often the first thing an attendee sees. It’s that subtle wink that draws them further into your booth.
As a result, the branding and messaging on a pedestal or counter is critical, which can be challenging since there’s not much graphic real estate. The default branding is often the company’s logo. Which is fine, if attendees recognize what you do and what problem you solve. If not, then it’s time to be creative. You can ask a question? Or design a clever graphic that stops an attendee in their tracks. More than anything, you want a reaction that allows you (or them) to start a conversation.
In an island exhibit, there are usually multiple counters, which can vary from a large reception counter to a small product demo pedestal. Each should have a specific function, which will determine how they’re branded. With all the space available in an island exhibit, it’s tempting to fill that space with pedestals, counters, and kiosks. However, just like with graphics, white space (or empty space) has merit. Clutter just creates confusion, particularly if it doesn’t contribute to your messaging.
Types of Trade Show Pedestal Stands
The range of sizes, functions, and designs is staggering. Classic Exhibits has nearly 400 styles in three galleries in a wide range of prices and materials. There are even assembly options, like fully-assembled, partially-assembled, and unassembled pedestals. Most have locking storage. Others have backlit graphics. Still others include LED accent lighting and wireless charging pads. However, your exhibit design and your budget will dictate your counter/pedestal choices, which (thankfully) makes the decision more manageable.
Let’s explore a few categories:
Custom
Custom pedestals are typically fully-assembled and constructed (primarily) from wood. However, custom can mean a counter customized to your unique design requirements. With custom, anything is possible: any finish, accessories, shape, and size. See MOD-1592 for an example.
Parsons
If you’ve ever been to an Apple store, you’ve seen a basic version of a Parsons counter. In reality, they are more tables than counters but they can include storage, accent lighting, and charging. See MOD-1707 for an example.
MOD-1707 Parsons Charging Counter
Backlit
Backlit pedestals and counters are HOT right now. Many have backlit fabric graphics. Others profile or custom-cut logos. Sizes vary as well from small product pedestals to L-shaped reception counters. See MOD-1716 for an example.
Modular/Hybrid
Modular/Hybrid pedestals are typically partially assembled for easier shipping. And unlike a custom pedestal, the framework is usually engineered aluminum extrusion. This makes them lighter. Also, if a part is ever lost or damaged, it can easily be replaced. See MOD-1552 for an example.
Portable
Portable simply means it packs in a case that can be shipped via UPS/FedEx. It does not mean “tool-less” although many portable pedestals assemble without tools. Nor does it necessarily mean simple or basic. Many portables include locking storage, internal shelves, and wire management. See SYM-408 for an example.
SYM-408 Portable Pedestal
Charging
This can be a bit confusing at first glance. Counters and pedestals with charging pads, wireless or wired, are often called Charging Counters. Which is true. However, charging counters can be custom, modular, portable, and backlit. Practically any design can be a charging counter as long as the design accommodates wire management. See GOD-1558c for an example.
Uses for a Trade Show Display Pedestal
What’s the best use of a trade show pedestal? That’s easy! The one that fulfills your specific trade show marketing goals. The only limitation is your budget. Here are a few ways exhibitors use pedestals.
Product Displays
Reception Counters
Storage
Charging
Tablet Kiosks
Meeting Tables
Literature
Demo Stations
Refreshment Stand
Pedestal Display Examples
We love browsing through the hundreds of pedestal designs in Exhibit Design Search. No other trade show supplier has a larger and more varied selection. But we have our favorites. Browse through the gallery below to explore some of the pedestals and counters available. Don’t see exactly what you need? No problem. Contact us. We’d love the design one that matches your specific requirements.
Classic Exhibits has been designing and building solutions since 1993. We’ve been honored as an Exhibitor Magazine Find-It Top 40 Exhibit Producer and an Event Marketer Fab 50 Exhibit Builder multiple times. Along with numerous Portable Modular Awards.
With over 200 Distributor Partners throughout North America, there’s a Classic representative close by. Contact us today whether you need a custom pedestal, a rental counter, or a sustainable kiosk with all the bells and whistles. At Classic… We’re not just different. We’re better.
Eco-friendly exhibits are the future of the trade show industry. In a consumer survey, 92% reported they are more likely to trust a company that supports social or environmental issues, and 87% have a more positive image of a company that supports social or environmental issues. This means that not only will more sustainable business practices tremendously help our planet, but they’ll also help with your company’s image and sales too!
Eco-System Displays: Getting Started
Since 2007, Eco-System Displays line (Eco) from Classic Exhibits Inc. has been the leader in contemporary eco-friendly displays for trade shows and events. In fact, no other exhibit company has a longer history or built more green displays than Eco-System Displays. The company’s designs have won multiple awards including Buyers Choice and Best of the Best Awards at exhibit industry trade shows.
All Eco products are built using eco-friendly materials, which in most cases cost the same or less than standard displays. Start by exploring the three Eco galleries in Exhibit Design Search, featuring inlines, islands, and accessories. You’ll find hundreds of designs that can be purchased “as is” or customized to meet your specific marketing needs. Want something totally unique? No problem. Our talented designers will be happy to create an exhibit tailored to your custom requirements.
Benefits of Selecting an Eco Display
Historically, trade shows and events have generated mountains of trash. If you’ve ever participated in the installation and dismantling of exhibits on a show floor, you’ve seen the plastic, paper, wood, and metal headed to the landfill. Fortunately, COVID and a general “green awareness” have reduced the brochures, paper products, give-a-ways, and carpeting thrown away. Along with the increase in rental displays. However, non-sustainable materials are still being used by many exhibit builders.
Eco-Systems Sustainable was founded to provide exhibitors with green trade show options that don’t compromise on the design or the quality of the materials. Eco-Systems resources eco-friendly materials similar to Sintra, a fabric made from recycled plastics, aluminum extrusions produced using recycled aluminum, FSC certified wood, Green Guard laminates, and water-based adhesives and inks. As technology has evolved, so has the quality and price of the materials. In almost all cases, it’s equal to or superior to non-sustainable materials.
Aluminum Extrusions: 70% recycled content.
Forest Stewardship Council Wood Products (FSC): Certified grown and harvested sustainably.
Laminates: Greenguard Certified.
Adhesives: Water-based, low or VOC free (Volatile Organic Compounds).
Eco-Board: Biodegradable polystyrene.
ReCo Board: 100% recycled plastics.
Eco-Glass: 100% post-industrial recycled acrylic or plexiglass.
Fabric Graphics: 100% post-consumer material including dye-sub SEG backlit graphics.
LED Lights: Lightboxes, accent lights, stem lights, and downlighting.
Shipping Cases: Made from recycled plastics and 100% recyclable when no longer needed. All wood crates are made using FSC Wood.
Reusable Packing Materials: Made from Recycled Foam
Eco Display Products for Your Next Show
Some exhibitors ask, “Will my exhibit look green?” It can. We can design it to have a funky, crunchy, or recycled look. However, most exhibitors want a modern, contemporary exhibit built with sustainable materials. It’s green but it doesn’t wear its sustainability on its sleeve. See the examples below for a modern approach to sustainable design.
Islands
ECO-4071: The reconfigurable ECO-4071 island offers inviting entrances on all four sides. The backlit graphics and hanging signs attract attention both down the aisle and across the show hall.
ECO-4100: A reconfigurable island exhibit (w/ 10 and 20 ft. inline options) transforms a square 20 x 20 booth space into an inviting island with a round header and comfortable lounge.
ECO-4073: This affordable island starts with an open floor plan with curved headers and layers on a stunning reception counter with iPad mounts and pedestals.
Inlines
ECO-2124: This custom design with modular construction, the ECO-2124 includes downlighting and backlight, closet storage, and multiple monitor options!
ECO-1091: This sophisticated inline blends bright backlit graphics, a large monitor option, multiple shelves, and a clever reception counter into an elegant 10 ft. display.
ECO-1127: The perfect choice for any exhibitor who requires large graphics, a monitor option, and product shelves. The modular construction expands to a 10 x 20 booth.
Accessories
ECO-2C: A beautiful and affordable pedestal with a raised countertop and locking storage. Available in hundreds of laminate colors and finishes.
ECO-42C: This large reception counter (86″ W x 40″ H x 25″ D) makes a bold statement with vibrant backlit graphics, a plex countertop, and dual locking storage cabinets.
ECO-55C: The curved custom counter includes LED accent lights, internal shelves, and convenient wireless charging pads.
How about Eco Display Rental Options?
Renting Eco-System Displays is the greenest of green choices for exhibitors who want to make a difference. Eco rental exhibits are built with sustainable materials, come in a variety of sizes and designs, and can be customized for any exhibitor — even from show to show. Rentals give exhibitors the ultimate flexibility to change their messaging without the hassle of ownership.
An eco-friendly rental from Classic Exhibits looks identical to a purchased exhibit. Imagine a beautiful island display with large LED lightboxes, big overhead signs, conference and meeting rooms, and workstations at a price 40% less than a comparable purchased display.
Because rentals are used again and again, as long as the components are functional and attractive, they are more sustainable for the exhibitor and the builder. Plus, when components can no longer be used, Eco recycles them – the wood, aluminum, and plastic.
Does a “Green Exhibit” Cost More?
Not anymore. The green industry has become incredibly efficient with recycled products. With the exception of wood, all the eco-friendly materials sourced in the construction of an Eco display are either the same cost or less expensive than “virgin” materials. And in most cases, the quality is superior. There are no compromises, either in the construction or in the design options when choosing an Eco display.
Eco-System Displays from Classic Exhibits
As an exhibitor, you can make a difference, and that difference doesn’t have to cost more or compromise your design or marketing goals. Green materials such as Eco-board, ReCo, and FSC wood products are smart choices that are comparable to non-sustainable materials.
However, none of that matters if you can’t get the design and the features you need in your exhibit. As the leader in eco-friendly exhibits, Eco-System Displays by Classic has been designing modern trade show displays since 2007.
With over 200 Distributor Partners throughout North America, there’s a Classic/Eco representative close by. Contact us today whether you need a custom inline, a rental counter, or a sustainable island with all the bells and whistles. At Classic… We’re not just different. We’re better.
