Trade Show TalesBlog

Posts Tagged ‘Classic Exhibits’

Symphony Portable Display Fashion Show (w/ AI Commentary)

April 11th, 2025 COMMENTS
Modified SYK-2016 Symphony Portable Dispaly

If you’ve experimented with AI, you know it can mimic… well, just about anything. For example, imagine a modified Symphony SYK-2016 on a Couture Fashion Show Runway with a snooty AI presenter’s commentary.

Elegant, Chic, and Powerful

“Alright darlings, settle in, the lights are dimming, the music is building… because the next look isn’t just about showcasing a product, it’s about making a statement. Tonight, we’re unveiling the Symphony Portable Display, and trust me, it’s hitting all the right notes.

Imagine, if you will, a silhouette that’s both effortlessly chic and powerfully impactful. The foundation? A sleek, lightweight frame, the supermodel of our collection – strong yet incredibly mobile. But the real drama unfolds with the SEG tension fabric graphics. Think of it as a bold, floor-length gown, stretched taut and flawless, showcasing your brand’s message in vibrant, high-definition color. It’s not just a backdrop; it’s a visual masterpiece, commanding attention from every angle.”

Accessories, The Sophisticated Embellishment

“Now, let’s talk about the accessories, because a true icon knows how to elevate a look. Notice the strategically placed monitor mount – a sophisticated embellishment allowing for dynamic digital presentations. It’s the modern touch, the interactive element that keeps the audience engaged.

We now introduce integrated shelving. With the addition of these shelves, the Symphony Portable Display transcends mere presentation; it becomes a multi-dimensional showcase. It allows you to tell a more complete story, offering both visual impact and tangible engagement.

And for the discerning clientele? The literature tray, positioned with elegant precision, offering tangible takeaways like curated brochures or lookbooks. It’s the thoughtful detail that shows you understand the art of connection.

But we’re not stopping there, Cherie. In today’s fast-paced world, connectivity is key. Observe the seamlessly integrated wireless charging pad – a subtle yet indispensable feature, offering a touch of modern convenience, ensuring your audience stays powered up and present.”

The Pièce de Résistance

“Now, for the Pièce de Résistance: the elegant portable counter with locking storage. This isn’t just a functional piece; it’s a statement of sophistication and security. Think of it as a beautifully crafted clutch – stylish on the outside, with ample space to keep essentials organized and protected. It’s where transactions happen, conversations flow, and your team can operate with confidence.

And finally, the illumination! Strategically placed LED lights cast a radiant glow, highlighting the display’s best features and ensuring your brand shines, even in the most crowded room. It’s the perfect lighting to accentuate the drama and draw the eye.”

Symphony Plan View

Experience the Symphony

“The Symphony Portable Display isn’t just a display; it’s an experience. It’s about presenting your brand with polish, professionalism, and undeniable flair. It’s about creating a memorable impression that resonates long after the show is over. It’s portable, it’s powerful, and darling, it’s absolutely essential for making your next trade show appearance a resounding success. Now, let’s give it up for the Symphony!”

Applause! Applause!”

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.

Classic Exhibits and the Experiential Marketing Summit

April 7th, 2025 COMMENTS
Experiential Marketing Summit

Experiential Marketing Summit (EMS) is one of my favorite events.

The content is AMAZING! Brands that come to EMS are not just representative of the best of the best but also come ready to engage with others.

At the same time, everything is intimate in size and very accessible.

So why doesn’t Classic Exhibits have a booth at EMS? That’s a very fair question. 😊

We Did Exhibit at EMS

Classic participated as an EMS exhibitor in the past, and it was great. But it also created uncomfortable conversations… while still providing good leads.

Why uncomfortable conversations? As you know, Classic does not sell direct. Countless times, we would engage Brand “X” in a productive dialogue in our booth… and then we would ask where their marketing office was located so we could connect them with one of our Distribution Partners. Now insert the previously mentioned “uncomfortable pause.” It was then followed by a deflated, “so we cannot work directly with you and your team?”

After explaining more, they understood and were willing to connect with a Classic Distributor Partner, but the energy and enthusiasm of the end-user wasn’t as palpable. I would say “bummer” often described the end-user’s mood.

We Encouraged Others to Exhibit

Starting last year, we opted NOT to exhibit at the show, but rather heavily encourage our Exhibit House Distributor Partners to consider exhibiting. Many of which have taken our advice and will exhibit at EMS.

That “direct” connection with the audience at the Experiential Marketing Summit made so much more sense frankly… and has reaped great rewards.

So even if you are not exhibiting, I encourage you to consider sending 1 or 2 of your company’s representatives to this event. Like I said before, the content is AMAZING, and the engagement with top brands is invaluable.

Let us know how we can assist you with any EMS-related project opportunities.  

Thanks and good luck to everyone attending in the Experiential Marketing Summit!

— Kevin Carty (kevin@classicexhibits.com)

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.

Our Secret Tips to Mastering Production Lead Times

April 4th, 2025 COMMENTS
Production Lead Times at Classic Exhibits

It’s Not a Straightforward Topic

Lead times should be a straightforward topic… but they’re not. Every design in EDS has a stated lead-time, like 12-17+ Business Days — about 2-3 weeks in this case. Meaning the ship date can vary depending on when you submit your PO, your client’s artwork, and our current production schedule.

The first two are easy to understand, but the third one requires some explanation. The good news is that once you understand how our production schedule works, then you’ll know how to ask us about your project’s lead time.

Order Wall in Production

Our Production Schedule Count

Every order is assigned a production count, ranging from 1 to 450 units. Those units are like balls in a big tube. Once we fill that tube, then (technically) that’s it for the day. In reality, we have some days that overflow the tube, and there are other days when the tube may only be half or a quarter full. It’s the job of a PM to work with Production to find a balance by looking for unfilled days to minimize daily production swings.

However, lead times don’t always fit a tidy schedule. Sometimes you need less time or even a specific date. When you do, the next step is to ask us… but knowing how to ask your question is critical.

Details Really Do Matter

Forklift

NEVER “just” ask about our current lead times. Frankly, that’s not helpful. Instead, ask about a specific design, quote, or kit along with any details. It’s the details that REALLY MATTER. That allows the PM to check the production schedule, consult with the Customer Service Manager, or ask the Production Manager about any flexibility in the schedule. For example, a SYK-1034 Symphony wouldn’t negatively impact the schedule, even on a mostly full day.

We ALWAYS want your order and will make every effort to accept it. Sometimes it’s not possible or will require rush charges. But asking and providing details should be your first step when in doubt. We’ll do our best to make it happen!  

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.

EXHIBITOR FindIt Top 40 Exhibit Builders

April 3rd, 2025 COMMENTS
Exhibitor 2025 Find It Top 40

Classic Exhibits was honored by EXHIBITOR Magazine once again. If that sounds like we’re ungrateful, nothing could be further from the truth. Here’s why…

Since 2018, EXHIBITOR has recognized the Top 40 best exhibit producers in the industry. According to Emily Olson, editor of EXHIBITOR magazine, “the competition, now in its eighth year, serves as a sort of Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval for our industry.”

Every year, Classic Exhibits has been named a FindIt Top 40 honoree. Every single year! To put that in context, we’re the ONLY private-label exhibit designer and builder on the list. The only one. Over 20 of the TOP 40 exhibit companies are Classic Exhibits Distributors, which makes our inclusion even more gratifying. We’re in rarified company (pun intended).

A HUGE Congratulations to everyone who made the 2025 list.

The 2025 FindIt Top 40 includes:

  • 2020 Exhibits
  • 3D Exhibits, a Sparks Company
  • Acer Exhibits
  • ADEX International
  • Apple Rock
  • ASV Experiential
  • BlueHive Exhibits
  • CenterPoint Marketing
  • CEP – Chicago Exhibit Productions
  • Classic Exhibits
  • ColorCraft
  • Condit Exhibits
  • Creaplan Group
  • Czarnowski Collective
  • Deckel & Moneypenny
  • Derse
  • EDE
  • Elevation3D
  • Exhibit Concepts
  • Exhibitus
  • Freeman
  • George P. Johnson (GPJ)
  • Hamilton
  • Hargrove
  • Hill & Partners, Inc
  • Impact XM
  • Kubik
  • MC²
  • MSM Inc.
  • NPARALLEL + Atomic Props
  • Pinnacle
  • ProExhibits
  • Rockway Exhibits + Events
  • Skyline Exhibits
  • Sparks
  • Spiro®
  • Steelhead Productions
  • Storylink Creative
  • The Taylor Group
  • Visual Communications, Inc.

According to EXHIBITOR, “Small, medium, and large exhibit houses with offices anywhere in the world were eligible to apply. Entries were evaluated to reflect how EXHIBITOR magazine readers value a variety of criteria when determining whether or not to include an organization on a request for information (RFI) or request for proposal (RFP). The evaluation process also included a survey of current clients and a review of entrants’ past projects, selling points, and innovations.”

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.

EXHIBITOR Magazine Portable Modular Awards 2025

April 1st, 2025 COMMENTS

Exhibit Descriptions: Linda Armstrong, EXHIBITOR Magazine

2025 Portable Modular Award Winners

EXHIBITOR Magazine announced the winners of the 12th Annual Portable Modular Awards in San Antonio at EXHIBITORLIVE. Classic Exhibits was a finalist in seven categories and won in three. See below.

For a full list of the winners, CLICK HERE. Winners will be featured in the June/July issue of EXHIBITOR magazine. Our thanks to the EXHIBITOR Group, the Classic Exhibits Distributors who allowed us to submit their entries, and to the Classic Exhibits Family for their amazing contributions.

Rental Exhibit More Than 400 sf

Category: Rental Exhibit More Than 400 sf
Exhibitor: Motorola Mobility LLC
Design: Event Strategy Group
Fabrication: Classic Exhibits Inc.
Event: International Consumer Electronics Show 2024
Size: 50 x 60

They say there’s no place like home. But at the 2024 International Consumer Electronics Show, Motorola Mobility LLC proved there’s no home quite like a smart home. The firm transformed 3,000 square feet of convention center concrete into a technological tribute to domestic tranquility that made even jaded tech journalists want to kick off their shoes and stay a while.

Working with Event Strategy Group (ESG) and Classic Exhibits Inc., the team orchestrated a series of themed product areas that flowed together like well-appointed rooms in an upscale home. The strategic use of Gravitee One-Step Modular wall panels and ClassicModul Aluminum Extrusions created distinct environments that invited exploration while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

“They turned technology into interior design,” observed one judge, praising how the exhibit elevated consumer electronics into lifestyle statements. The muted color palette, architectural lighting, and premium finishes transformed what could have been a sterile tech display into an inviting domestic environment. Plus, by combining rental components with premium finishes, the space achieved a luxurious feel without breaking the budget.

In the end, Motorola didn’t just showcase devices. They showed us how seamlessly technology could integrate into the art of living well.

Inline Exhibit

Category: Inline Exhibit
Exhibitor: Classic Exhibits Inc.
Design: Classic Exhibits
Fabrication: Classic Exhibits
Event: EXHIBITORLIVE 2024
Size: 10 x 30

Can a 10-by-30-foot space truly command attention at a bustling trade show like EXHIBITORLIVE? Classic Exhibits Inc. proved it can. Its 2024 exhibit showcased how impactful design, combined with subtle sophistication, can create an experience that far exceeds its physical footprint.

Rising 14 feet above the show floor, a commanding LED back wall anchored the space, while lenticular walls created an unexpected analog activity. One judge praised the design as “a masterful blend of manufacturing prowess and artistic restraint,” noting how visitors were naturally drawn to discover different messages hidden within the shifting patterns as they moved through the space.

Classic Exhibits created an environment that served as a living portfolio of its capabilities, featuring custom wood-build elements, Gravitee modular wall panels, and SuperNova light boxes. Inside a private meeting area, a circular lightbox fostered an inviting atmosphere, its plant imagery softened by ghosted word art that subtly referenced company values.

The coordinated LED content on the main wall and front counters cycled through capabilities demonstrations and moments of branded serenity. The combined effect clearly communicated the firm’s capabilities and brand values, showcasing both practical demonstrations and moments of visual calm.

Island Exhibit 900 sf and Fewer

Category: Island Exhibit 900 sf and Fewer
Exhibitor: Talos Engineered Products LLC
Design: Zilla LLC
Fabrication: Classic Exhibits
Event: MODEX 2024
Size: 20 x 40

How do you make warehouse logistics look like a blockbuster attraction? While some might reach for smoke and mirrors, Talos Engineered Products LLC opted for slotted walls and LED lighting — and created such a compelling environment at MODEX 2024 that it established a new benchmark for innovative exhibit design in the logistics industry.

The 20-by-40-foot island exhibit, designed by Zilla LLC and fabricated by Classic Exhibits Inc., made an immediate impact with its massive Aero Frame sign featuring dimensional logos that commanded attention from every angle. Below, dimensional slotted wall panels illuminated by green LED lighting created a distinctive branded environment that one judge praised as “a perfect marriage of form and function.”

Throughout the space, custom counters and desks provided ample workspace for demonstrations and conversations, while cleverly integrated storage areas kept marketing materials and promotional items close at hand. The layout maintained generous open floor space for potential equipment displays while offering numerous meeting areas for both casual and semi-private discussions.

Most impressively, every element was engineered for flexibility — from the modular wood walls to the structural supports — allowing the exhibit to be reconfigured for different show environments while maintaining its custom appearance.

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.