Trade Show TalesBlog

Posts Tagged ‘portable displays’

Answers to Your Symphony Portable Display Questions

June 4th, 2021 COMMENTS
Symphony Portable Trade Show Displays

With the uptick in business, you may be answering lots of questions about the new Symphony Portable Display. We’re answering a bunch of them too as exhibitors dip their toes back into the trade show display market.

This Symphony video, which is included with all the kits in EDS, addresses the most common questions, like assembly, graphics, accessories, and counter options. But not all. Below are some recent questions you’ve asked us. Feel free to call or email us on anything else.

Q1. Why are the floating graphics limited to 23″ x 23″ overall dimension?

It’s both a suggestion and a guideline. For example, a floating graphic on the left or right side would intrude into the adjacent booth if it was much larger than 23” . However, since the graphic attaches with hook and loop, there’s wiggle room to make it larger simply by adjusting it. If you decided to attach the floating graphic bracket to the top of the frame, then the dimension could be larger, like a typical header.

Q2. Do the wall sections connect or are they freestanding sitting next to each other?

It depends on your design. The SYK-1020 has two half-arch frames next to one another. Those are attached using a frame connection clamp. The SYK-1022 on the other hand uses the same two frames but in the design they are layer, with one slightly in front of the other. In that case, there’s a third base plate in the middle (SYM-107).

Q3. What is the size limitation for monitors?

We recommend no larger than a 23” monitor on the left and right sides. Mostly because they would intrude into the adjacent booth. See SYK-1014 for example. You can have up to a 32” monitor where there’s vertical upright in the middle, such as SYK-1015. On the larger frames, like the arch, rectangle, and concave/convex, we suggest no more than a 42” or 45” monitor.

Could you go larger in some situations? Yes, it all depends on the weight of the monitor, the backwall workstation counters, and the size of the booth space.

SYK-2018

Q4. For a double-sided configuration, can you have monitors in the center on both sides?

Yes, but one monitor would have to be slightly higher (or lower) than the other one. Or there would need to be hardware that allowed both monitor mounts to use the same holes in the vertical support.

Q5. Is there an easy solution to add LED strip accent lighting on the back of a frame to throw light onto one set back… light the right side of the exhibit for example?

Adding flexible LED tape light to the back of the extrusion is possible. We’ve done something similar on other narrow SEG frames. It creates a three to four-inch backlit halo. However, it’s not a standard option for Symphony.

Q6. Are there other surface color/appearance options for the lockable counter, other than the light color shown?

Yes, there are hundreds of laminate options from Nevamar, Formica. Wilsonart, and Pionite. Lead times may vary depending on laminate availability. Plus, you can (and probably should) add vinyl graphics.

Q7. Can the exposed metal be powder coated?

Yes. There would be an upcharge depending on the size of the kit and components.

Q8. Can you expand these kits to include backlit items but still portable?

VK-1960 Portable Backlit Display

We have quite a few portable LED backlit designs in Exhibit Design Search, like the VK-1960. Those designs use a deeper aluminum extrusion than Symphony. At present, Symphony is not intended to be a backlit portable system.

However, we’ve built exhibits where SuperNova LED Lightboxes are combined with Symphony frames. For example, using a standard arch or rectangle Symphony frame in the middle with the workstation counters, monitor mounts, and literature trays, and then SuperNova lightboxes on either side.

Q9. To mix standard frame combinations not shown on EDS, do we submit a design request or are there some guidelines for making other combinations?

Symphony Portable Display Accessories and Counters

You don’t need to submit a design request. But you can. There are seven frame shapes. Four are roughly 10 ft. and three are roughly 5 ft. You simply need to mix and match the frame sizes to the overall size of the booth. So, two 10 ft. frames for a 20 ft. booth or one 10 ft. frame and two 5 ft. frames. Or four 5 ft. frames? When it comes to Symphony, tap into your inner designer.

Q10. Will the backwall stand with monitors but without workstation counters?

Absolutely but you’ll want to use the smaller sizes mentioned above. The SEG engineered extrusion frame and locking base plate connections means it can support monitors with or without the workstation counter(s).

Q11. On the layering of frames do you use the same foot for both or does each frame have a foot of its own?

There are two base plates. One with a single frame connection and one with a double frame connection. The single base plates are typically used on the far left and right, and the double base plate is used in the middle to connect two frames.

Q12. Can you guys add a small step stool to each unit?

We could but we won’t. 😉 There are collapsible step stools online for less than $15. And there’s always the option of installing the SEG graphic with the frame flat on the floor.

Q13. Can the open table be used as a charging table?

Not really. Even if you had a full graphic, the wire management would still be visible on the back. We suggest selecting the enclosed counters instead or use the two wireless/wired charging pads on the backwall workstation.

Q14. When using the display double-sided, can you still install a monitor mount?

Yes using the hidden vertical support. Whenever you use that monitor attachment, the graphic has to be pierced for the cords.

Q15. What is vertical load capacity of these attachments?

The attachment brackets are welded aluminum and engineered extrusion. If you manage to break an attachment based on weight alone, then we want to hear about it. Frankly, it’s not going to happen.

Q16. Are the shipping cases portable?

Symphony ships in our portable flat roto-molded cases with wheels and includes Classic’s reusable die-cut foam packaging. No exhibit builder does a better job with packaging, labeling, and instructions than Classic.

–Mel White
mel@classicexhibits.com
http://www.linkedin.com/in/melmwhite

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Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, hybrid, and custom exhibit solutions, including Symphony Portable Displays. Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100 or www.classicexhibits.com.

PP (Post Pandemic) Trade Show Design Trends

May 12th, 2021 COMMENTS

Last summer, we “predicted” (5) post-pandemic display trends (based on hunches, educated guesses, and a six pack of PBR tall boys). So… how well did we do?

What We’re Seeing:

  1. Graphics – Not surprising. Mostly for smaller displays; however we anticipate larger graphic orders in Q3 & Q4 as exhibitors dust-off their storage properties.  
  2. Portables – We expected the new Symphony Portable System to do well. However not this well. What’s even more shocking… it’s being driven by end-users who specifically ask for Symphony.
  3. Rentals – We predicted far more inline than island requests. We’re seeing more islands than inlines. Very encouraging!
  4. Custom Modular (and Lightboxes) – The eager beaver exhibitors are driving this. Since shows are still evolving, exhibitors are forced to be flexible. As a result, we’re seeing a significant interest in Gravitee Modular Wall designs and SuperNova Lightboxes (both tool-less and modular).
  5. Pandemic – It would end by September 2020. 😉

Well, #5 was a swing and a miss. And #3 is very encouraging. All the others are spot on!

I asked Edie Arambula, Classic’s Customer Service Manager, and Jim Shelman, GM Classic Rental Solutions, to share what Classic Distributors have requested over the past two weeks. We thought you might find the trends interesting.

Symphony Portable Displays

Custom Modular (and Lightboxes)

Rental Islands

Rental Inlines

Are you seeing any other trends?  If so, let us know so we can share with our sales, project management, and design teams.

–Mel White
mel@classicexhibits.com
http://www.linkedin.com/in/melmwhite
https://twitter.com/melmwhite

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Based in Portland, Oregon, Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufacturers portable, modular, and custom-hybrid exhibit solutions. Classic Exhibits products are represented by an extensive distributor network in North America and in select International markets. For more information, contact us at 866-652-2100 or www.classicexhibits.com.

One of These Displays Does Not Look Like the Other

May 3rd, 2021 COMMENTS

Guest Post: Lori Hanken, Total Displays

Total Displays

In the past, elegance and structure have not really been associated with portable trade show displays. Convenience yes. Upscale no. So what do I mean when I say that some portable displays have not been like the others?

One Of These Is Not Like The Others

Pop-ups and Panel Systems

First a little portable display history lesson. Over the years, portable exhibits have come in many shapes and sizes. The most common had Velcro-compatible fabric panels, like pop-ups and folding panel systems. You could print graphics and Velcro them to the exhibit. They were revolutionary at the time, and there have been a lot of product advancements with these systems, like the introduction of photo mural panels which elevated them to another level. Many exhibitors continue to use them.

Pop-up Display with Mural Graphics

Tube Systems

There have been other portable displays systems over the years.

One of the most popular is tube stands, an aluminum tube system with a pillowcase graphic that slides over the frame. There have been advancements in this system such as adding different frame sizes, accessories and more. Different frame sizes are used together to make modular displays.

Tube stands with pillowcase graphics are lightweight and easy to set-up. And the pillow case allows for two-sided graphics.

Tube Frame with Pillowcase Graphics

Some Downsides

  • They are beginning to look dated
  • Graphics, unless done well can be saggy
  • The cheap versions are unstable (usually sold by promotional product companies or others with no business selling trade show exhibits)
  • Most carry limited warranties (you break it, you replace it)
  • They really have become a commodity item
  • Everyone seems to have them now

Now, why would I tell you the downsides of a system that we sell a lot? Total Displays has always provided good quality products. We do sell a lot of tube systems. Typically the people who are buying them are upgrading from an old school pop-up display, or they are often replacing retractable banner stands with simple tube stands.

  1. If you love the look of a tube stand, be sure to buy from a reputable trade show exhibit company. If you want to see the difference in quality, let me know and we can do a Zoom meeting where I can show you one of ours vs. one that was produced by a promotional products company. Trust me when I say they should stick to pens and hand sanitizers. They really know nothing about trade show exhibits.
  2. Next time you walk the show floor, take notice of them. How many look good, how many do you see?

Banner Stands

Another popular portable option has been retractable banner stands. Again, really a commodity item. Seriously, everyone has them. I have seen 10 x 30 and 10 x 40 exhibits filled with retractable banner stands. They may be easy, but do they really represent your brand in the best light possible? When used in the right situation and environment, retractables banner stands can be a great solution. But if you really want major impact? Look for something else.

Why do you exhibit at a trade show? What is the purpose of your exhibit materials? One of the whole points of a trade show exhibit is to make you stand out in a crowd!

So what we would recommend?

We have a new line of products, called Symphony PORTABLE DISPLAY ELEGANCE. In the past, portable exhibits have generally looked portable. The tube systems were a step in the right direction. But now we have the next step.

Do These Look Portable to You?

Symphony Portable Displays
  • Multiple frame shapes/sizes to build customs looks
  • Large monitor support.
  • Cell phone charging ports on backwall counters.
  • Curves.
  • Sturdy, aluminum extrusion frames.
  • Professional tight fit, silicone edge graphics.
  • LOCKING storage in counters.
  • COMPLETELY Tool-less assembly

Elegant Portable Exhibit Ideas

Call or email us at 952-941-4511 or sales@totaldisplays.com to review components and build your own custom look with this amazing new system. P.S. They are on sale right now. BONUS

Lori (and David) Hanken own Total Displays in Edina, MN. Since 1984, Total Displays has been the leading one-stop shop for exhibit marketing needs in the Upper Midwest. For more information, see www.totaldisplays.com or call 952-941-4511.

EXHIBITOR Magazine 2021 Portable Modular Awards | Classic Exhibits

April 12th, 2021 COMMENTS
Find It TOP 40

DID YOU KNOW? EXHIBITOR Magazine’s 2021 Find It ~ TOP 40 includes 29 Classic Exhibits Distributors. Actually “30” if you include Classic Exhibits. But who’s counting? 😉 Now that’s impressive!

Portable Modular Awards and Find It — Top 40

For the fifth straight year, Classic Exhibits was named a 2021 Find It — TOP 40 Exhibit Producer in North America. In addition, Classic won honors in the Portable Modular Awards for Best 10 x 10, Best 10 x 20, and People’s Choice Award (voted by EXHIBITOR Magazine readers).

Best 10 x 10 Exhibit

This stunning little stand for Verity Global Solutions LLC is the perfect case in point. Designed by Exhibits NW Inc. and constructed by Classic Exhibits Inc., this 10-by-10 was born out of Verity Solution’s straightforward demands: Create a booth that’s clinically clean, highly technical, and representative of the health-care field. The company, which provides software and services for administration of the U.S. federal 340B drug-pricing program, also hoped its new 10-by-10 could be paired with existing pieces to expand to 10-by-20-foot and larger spaces.

Hailed by judges as “clean and inviting” and “both visually and technologically effective,” the booth debuted at the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Midyear Conference. Here, attendees discovered a back wall comprising a SuperNova LED lightbox, which was made from Classic Exhibits extrusion and featured backlit interchangeable graphics, allowing messaging to be tailored to individual shows and audiences.

Designers also positioned a large flatscreen monitor in front of the lightbox, permitting Verity Solutions to offer videos and messaging in a high-tech and dynamic format. Meanwhile, the lightbox’s clean-white frame spoke to the high-end, clinical nature of the product and the health-care industry. A divider wall along one side and reception desk on the front corner of the footprint, which were also internally lit, further delineated the space. Married with the exhibitor’s existing inventory, the components also have been used to craft everything from a modular 10-by-20-foot stand to a continuous in-line ensemble spanning 40 feet.

Best 10 x 20 Exhibit

Crafting an authentic-looking outdoor environment in the middle of a trade show floor is no small feat. But NuNaturals Inc. made it look effortless with its 10-by-20-foot in-line that debuted at Natural Products Expo West.

Going into the show, the provider of plant-based sweeteners and baking ingredients wanted to grow its existing 10-by-10 stand into a 10-by-20-foot booth, creating a cohesive environment that offered a reception zone, a casual meeting space, and ample product displays and storage. However, NuNaturals also sought to foster an outdoor feel that would serve as a logical backdrop for its logo, which includes a silhouette of a woman riding a bicycle.

The resulting booth from Classic Exhibits Inc. married the previous structure — a 10-foot-long ClassicMODUL Aluminum Extrusion with SuperNova LED lighting — with a new, equally sized lightbox comprising the same materials and similar graphics. Together, the two structures presented a dynamic backdrop depicting a brilliant field of dandelions beneath an azure-blue sky. In front of the backwall, designers positioned staggered-height product counters on the right of the footprint and an L-shaped seating area on the left, the latter of which included storage space accessible via hinged seat-top panels. 

Front and center in the design, designers added a reception desk comprising Euro Lt Modular Panels. Here, a 3-D logo and edge-lit countertop garnered additional attendee interest. And rather than traditional booth carpet, designers opted for artificial turf, which seemed to capture attendees’ eyes and lead them straight into the NuNaturals world.

Throughout the exhibit natural elements and clever features, such as wood finishes, floral silhouettes on the display cabinets, and planters atop the seating ensemble, furthered the outdoor vibe — and delighted jurors. “All of the details were on point,” one juror remarked. “Designers managed to create a functional yet aesthetically pleasing environment that became a breath of fresh air on the show floor. Brilliant!”

People’s Choice Award

To accomplish its goals for the 2019 Nationwide Marketing Group PrimeTime show, GE Appliances, a Haier company, needed nothing short of a Jedi mind trick. For the event, GE wanted to draw attention to an out-of-this-world sponsorship. Its Profile Series line of appliances would be an official sponsor for the then soon-to-be-released “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.” In fact, it had set aside a 16-by-30-foot space within its 80-by-100-foot booth for this endeavor. However, The Walt Disney Co., which owns the franchise, forbid GE from referencing past characters and key parts of the upcoming film. Thus, designers at Classic Exhibits Inc. and Deckel & Moneypenny Exhibits needed to craft an experience attendees would immediately connect to Star Wars but that didn’t cross sabers with Disney’s demands.

After rejecting a host of options, the team finally identified an element that was a constant through the movies but that Disney also deemed safe for public consumption: the Millennium Falcon. Thus, the team devised a unique show-floor experience devoted entirely to promotion of this upcoming Star Wars sponsorship that wowed not only attendees but also visitors to ExhibitorOnline.com, the latter of whose votes ultimately identified this project as the People’s Choice Award winner.

The spacy encounter comprised a tunnel-shaped structure that mirrored the interior of the Millennium Falcon. Designers employed curved, black-powder-coated ClassicModul Aluminum Extrusions and meticulously crafted graphic infills that replicated the spaceship’s walls. To simulate the Falcon’s panels, fabricators employed high-density foam, which was cut via computer numeric control (CNC), sanded, shaped, and painted. Custom SuperNova LED lightboxes along the floor and in the walls highlighted the custom graphics.

To round out the attendee experience, GE also incorporated several movie-theater elements. For example, staff distributed passes for attendees to view the encounter. Costumed ushers collected these tickets at the spaceship entrance and distributed bags of fresh popcorn.

GE Profile Millennium Force Retail Launch Activation

Here’s Your Post-Pandemic Portable Trade Show Display

April 7th, 2021 COMMENTS
Symphony Portable Display Elegance -- Features and Benefits

Most portable displays look portable. That’s always been unfortunate fact. But… what if you could have all the benefits of a portable system, like UPSable roto-molded cases and tool-less assembly, with all the design impact of a modular or custom exhibit? It’s possible with Symphony Portable Displays.

Zero Compromises

Choose from 54 kits or configure the design to meet your unique trade show marketing requirements. With Symphony, there are no compromises, no tradeoffs. Simply a beautiful, upscale display at a price that’s thousands less than most custom modular exhibits.

Symphony Portable Display Elegance
Symphony Portable Display Elegance
Symphony Portable Display Elegance