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What is a Trade Show?

July 24th, 2023 Mel White COMMENTS
what is a trade show

Have you ever told a colleague, friend, or relative that you’re attending a trade show and they look at you with a puzzled expression? It’s as if they’ve heard the word “trade show” before, but don’t quite know what it means. They may say, “Do you mean like the local RV and boat show or the holiday craft fair?” Yes… and no. 

Trade Show, as a term, is often used interchangeably with other similar words like conventions, exhibitions, conferences, trade fairs, symposiums, and expos. And while they are similar, trade shows, and in particular professional trade shows, have a specific definition.  Oddly enough, a trade show may include a conference, a symposium, and an expo, which only adds to the confusion. Let’s untangle this with both an official definition and a more loosey-goosey definition based on real-life experience.  

What is a Trade Show? 

A trade show is an exhibition organized so that companies in a specific industry can showcase and demonstrate their latest products and services, meet with industry partners and customers, study the activities of rivals, and examine recent market trends and opportunities. Trade shows are typically held in convention centers or hotels, and they can last for a few days or even weeks.

There are trade shows for all sorts of industries, from technology to manufacturing to healthcare. Some of the largest trade shows in the world include the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show, and the International Builders’ Show (IBS).

trade fair

Our Trade Show Definition 

For most companies and attendees, a trade show is an opportunity — both professionally and personally. It’s hard work with long hours and an unofficial vacation. It’s a chance to hang with colleagues, meet industry influencers, and check out the competition. There are educational sessions, keynote speakers, award ceremonies, and receptions. Good food. Bad food. And too much of both. Sore feet and not enough sleep. And the thrill of meeting a new client with a massive order for the right supplier. 

All too often, however, trade show exhibitors and attendees treat a show as a vacation and/or a party. They don’t prepare, don’t plan, don’t create goals. It’s a week away from the office on the company’s dime. And while they may recognize the show as a “sales and marketing” opportunity, they don’t actively prepare for it by engaging in pre-show marketing or contacting existing or potential clients before the show. To them, it’s an event and what happens happens. Hopefully something wonderful, but there’s no way to predict it. 

Those are the exhibitors and the attendees who report back after the show that “it was a waste of time.”  

What is the Purpose of a Trade Show

What is the Purpose of a Trade Show? 

Trade shows are perfect for learning about new products and services, meeting potential customers, and generating sales leads. They can also be a great way to network with other industry professionals.

If you are considering attending a trade show, you’ll need to make sure that the trade show is relevant to your industry. Second, you need to plan your visit carefully. This includes deciding which exhibitors to visit, who you want to meet, and how you want to spend your time. Third, you need to dress professionally and be prepared to network.

Here are five benefits of attending a trade show:

  1. Learn about new products and services: Trade shows are a great way to learn about new products and services available in your industry. You can see demonstrations of new products, talk to the people who make them, and get your hands on samples.
  2. Meet with potential customers and partners: Trade shows are a great way to meet with potential customers and partners. You can introduce yourself to people who are interested in your products or services, and you can learn more about their needs.
  3. Generate leads: Trade shows are a great way to generate leads. You can collect business cards, sign up people for email lists, and schedule follow-up meetings.
  4. Network with other professionals: Trade shows are a great way to network with other professionals in your industry. You can meet people who work for your competitors, suppliers, and customers.
  5. Learn about industry trends: Trade shows are a great way to learn about industry trends. You can hear from experts, attend seminars, and see what other companies are doing.

If you are considering attending a trade show, I encourage you to do your research and find one that is relevant to your industry. With a little planning, you can make the most of your time at the show and come away with valuable insights and contacts.

Exhibition Stand

What Are Trade Shows That I Can Attend? 

There are thousands of trade shows in North America and tens of thousands worldwide. Even the most aggressive exhibitor only attends a fraction of these. In reality, you’ll probably only attend trade shows relevant to your profession or personal interests. 

Before deciding which show to attend, either as an attendee or as an exhibitor, contact friends or colleagues who have gone to the show in the past. They’re the best source of information about whether the trade show would benefit you and/or your company.

There are several search tools for finding shows in North America and Internationally. 

  •  EventsEye – Free source for locating trade shows, exhibitions, and conferences worldwide. 
  • 10 Times – Search by events, venues, companies, and the Top 100 Events worldwide. 
  • The Tradeshow Calendar – Global search engine for B2B trade exhibitions with a strong North American database.
  • EXHIBITOR Calendar – Search by show names, dates, city, country, and attendees/exhibitors.
  • TradeFairDates – In addition to an international trade show search engine, you can also find trade show suppliers.

Tradeshow Exhibit

How to Prepare for Your First Trade Fair, Show, or Exhibition 

Here are some tips on how to prepare for your first trade show:

  • Set goals: What do you hope to achieve by attending the trade show? Do you want to generate leads, make sales, or simply learn about new products and services? Once you know your goals, you can start to develop a plan to achieve them.
  • Choose the right trade show: There are trade shows for all sorts of industries, so it’s important to choose one that’s relevant to your business. You should also consider the size of the trade show, the date and location, and the cost of attendance.
  • Plan your trade show exhibit: Your exhibit is your chance to make a good first impression on potential customers and partners. So make sure it’s well-designed, well-lit, and informative. You should also have plenty of brochures, business cards, and other promotional materials on hand.
  • Create a trade show marketing plan: A trade show marketing plan can help you reach your goals by identifying your target audience, developing a message, and creating a budget. You should also consider using social media, email marketing, and other online channels to promote your trade show participation.
  • Train your staff: Your staff is the face of your company at the trade show, so it’s important to make sure they’re well-trained. They should know your products or services inside and out, and they should be able to answer any questions potential customers may have.
  • Attend pre-show events: Many trade shows offer pre-show events, such as seminars and workshops. These events can be a great way to learn about the latest trends in your industry and network with other professionals.
  • Arrive early: It’s important to arrive early at the trade show so you can set up your booth and get a feel for the layout. This will help you make the most of your time at the show.
  • Be prepared to network: Networking is one of the most important things you can do at a trade show. So make sure you bring plenty of business cards and be prepared to talk to people.
  • Follow up with leads: After the trade show, be sure to follow up with any leads you generated. This could involve sending them an email with more information about your products or services or setting up a meeting to discuss their needs.

what is a trade show

Maximize Trade Show Success with Classic Exhibits! 

If you are new to trade shows, don’t go at it alone. The rules, regulations, and informal information can be daunting and the jargon opaque and confusing. Do your homework whether that’s online articles or blogs or by reading books like Build a Better Trade Show Image or Tradeshow Success. And always work with a trade show professional at an exhibit house or industry consultant. Their expertise will not only save you money over time but also maximize your ROI at each trade show by following proven strategies. 

Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufactures 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.

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Posted in Trade Show Exhibit Tips, Trade Shows, Uncategorized | No Comments »

Exhibit Leader Insights Report 2023

June 30th, 2023 Mel White COMMENTS
Exhibit Leader Insights 2023 Report

Exhibit Leader Insights, an Exhibitor Insights Report in partnership with The Exhibitor Advocate, Explori and Exhibitor Group, is a report based on a survey sent to exhibitors working currently in a range of industries with the aim of understanding:

  • The decision-making process for exhibitors: when planning their events program
  • How trade shows are perceived – and valued by exhibitors and their companies
  • How external and internal factors are shaping events programs, both now and in the future

According to the report, “Trade shows continue to provide value to exhibitors both as marketing and sales channels, and their worth is generally recognized by senior leadership teams – perhaps more so than before the pandemic.

However, there are some warning signs. Cost concerns cast a long shadow over the research. Exhibitors are clearly feeling squeezed by rising exhibit-related costs, and they are likely to attribute this to hikes in venue, organizer and contractor fees – rather than factors beyond the industry’s control, such as costof-living effects and broader economic forces.”

Download the Free PDF

To download the FREE Exhibit Leader Insights Report, click HERE. Below are select pages from the report.

The rising cost of trade show exhibiting
Tighter trade show budgets for exhibitors
The outlook for trade shows and exhibiting

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Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufactures 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.



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A Trade Show Exhibitor Walks into a Bar

June 21st, 2023 Mel White COMMENTS
An Exhibitor Walks into a Bar

A Trade Show Exhibitor walks into a bar and says to the bartender, “I’ve never been in a bar before, but a friend suggested I try the 20 x 20 Booth Space.”

“That’s a very popular drink,” says the bartender, “especially with my regular customers. The 20 x 20 Booth Space costs $34,000. If you are interested, I have some questions.”

“That seems very expensive,” the Exhibitor replies, “but I’m new to this so why not. What questions do you have?”

“First of all, do you want the Top Shelf liquor or the Bottom Shelf liquor for your 20 x 20 Booth Space?”

“What’s the difference?” asks the Exhibitor.

“Alcohol does the heavy-lifting or work in a drink, and the Booth Space requires several liquors. It’s not optional, but you do have choices on the quality. Top Shelf liquor has the most experience, having aged from 10-20 years. The quality is exceptional and the taste predictable. My best customers always ask for their favorite brand by name. The Bottom Shelf liquor can be cheaper, but it’s also raw, unfiltered, and unpredictable. I’ve received Bottom Shelf liquor aged less than a day, which is a little scary.”

“OK, I’ll have the Top Shelf then,” says the Exhibitor. “I don’t want surprises.”

“That will be an additional $8,000,” the bartender replies.

 “What? The Booth Space drink doesn’t include the liquor?” asks the Exhibitor.

“Oh no, it’s extra. You’ll also need to decide on the mixers — like grenadine, club soda, vermouth — along with the fruit juice and slices, the straw, and an umbrella. Those prices are a la carte and will need to be purchased from the bar. You’re not allowed bring any of those in here.”

“How much are those?”

“Prices range from $1000 to over $10,000. Here’s something you’ll find amusing. Sometimes, I don’t know the prices when I’m mixing the drink, so I charge you after you’ve already finished it.”

“Anything else?” says the Exhibitor.

“You’ll be happy to know that we don’t charge for the glass. That’s included, but we do charge for the weight of the glass, bringing you the glass, taking it away, and then bringing it back to you.”

“Well, that shouldn’t be too expensive, right?”

“Actually” says the bartender sheepishly, “It’s not cheap, and the price can vary from week-to-week and depends on the size of the glass. Cocktail glasses are less expensive than highball glasses. Margarita glasses are the most expensive.”

“So, what are we talking about pricewise and why does the glass fee cost so much?”

“For the 20 x 20 Booth Space drink, I would estimate $12,000 to $15,000. Maybe more. Honestly, the glass fee isn’t really about the glass or my bringing it to you. It covers the building rent, the furnishings, my salary and benefits, the carpet, the other employees you don’t see, and even our annual Holiday Party. It’s really a slush fund for everything else.”

“I had no idea a drink could be so expensive,” the Exhibitor replies. “It seems like a complicated way to run a bar. I’d still like a drink, however. Are there any cheaper options?

“Of course! You might be interested in the Show Rental Special. It comes in multiple sizes and flavors, and you don’t pay for all the extras we discussed before.”

“That’s great!” exclaims the Exhibitor. “Tell me more.”

“OK, do you see those tables over there? Earlier today, we had a large crowd that drank for hours. They were a rough bunch and did considerable damage. However, they left a lot of unfinished drinks. You can have any of those drinks for a reduced price but don’t mix them together. We don’t know how to charge for anything other than standard drinks.”

“Is that really an option? Who would want that?”

“Oh, you would be surprised. People come to bars for lots of reasons. Many come because they don’t know where else to go so they order whatever is the cheapest. They’re looking for the fastest, easiest, and simplest choice, even if it means drinking a Show Rental Special that someone ordered a few days ago. Honestly, we don’t even bother to clean the glasses anymore. Fortunately, we make lots of money on those customers so we’re not complaining.”

“My head is spinning,” says the Exhibitor. “Please tell me there’s a drink for someone like me who wants to come to a bar, drink from a clean glass, and pay one or two of the charges you’ve previously mentioned.”

“There is,” said the bartender. “We have customers who order the Portable/Modular. Generally, it’s a straightforward drink, although there are creative options for those with more sophisticated tastes. The other drinkers in the bar may turn up their nose when you order a Portable/Modular, but I run a no judgement bar so those customers are always welcome. I’ve learned they often order the more expensive drinks when they come back, if I treat them right.”

“I’ll have one of those,” the Exhibitor replied. “Is there one that doesn’t require a glass and comes in its own container?”

“Yes, but now you’re killing me financially. Next, you’ll be saying you’ll want to bring it into the bar from the outside. How’s that going to work?”

“Hey, I appreciate all the helpful advice. I don’t fully understand the business model, but you seem to be doing well. Does anyone ever complain? And who do they complain to?”

“That’s the beauty of this business model,” says the bartender. “They bitch and moan all the time, and I smile, pretend to care, and go about my business. Fortunately, they rarely speak to the right people because those people are somewhat invisible. They’re in charge of all this, but they don’t ask too many questions or seek advice.”  

“One last question. Does anyone ever come in the bar, chat with your customers, and never order a drink?”

“Yes, my customers are good about telling me when that happens, and I escort him or her out of the bar. They usually come back, and I must be more persuasive, if you know what I mean. Sadly, there’s always someone who wants to hang out in a bar, pester my customers about their life, and not buy anything.”

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Classic Exhibits Inc. designs and manufactures 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.

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Posted in Classic Exhibits Inc., Humor | No Comments »

50 Trade Show Tips in 50 Minutes

June 13th, 2022 Mel White COMMENTS
50 Trade Show Tips

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.

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Glossary of Trade Show and Exhibition Terms

March 2nd, 2022 Mel White COMMENTS
Glossary of Trade Show and Exhibition Terms

With anything new, half the battle is learning the unfamiliar lingo or terminology. Trade shows are no different. Trade shows, exhibitions, and events have a very specific language. The Glossary of Trade Show Terms will shorten your learning curve and increase your productivity with North American trade shows.

A

Advanced Order: An order for show services sent to the contractor before move-in. Examples include electrical, hanging signs, labor, and rental furniture.

Air Freight: Materials shipped via airplane.

Air Walls: Movable barriers that partition large areas. Some walls may be sound resistant, but they are rarely soundproof.

Aisle Signs: Signs, usually suspended from the ceiling, indicating aisle numbers and the show name to assist in navigating the show floor.

Audio/Visual: Equipment, materials, and aids used in sound and visual. (Also A/V)

B

Backlighting: When graphics are internally illuminated, aka backlit, with LED lights.

Backloader: Truck that loads from back door.

Backwall: The panels, structure, and/or graphics at rear of a booth.

Backwall Booth: Booth spaces typical along the perimeter of the show floor.

Baffle: Partition to control light, air, sound, or traffic flow.

Bill of Lading (B/L or BOL): Document or form listing goods to be shipped by exhibitor.

Blanket Wrap: Non-crated freight shipped typically shipped via a van line covered with protective blankets or padding.

Blister Wrap: Vacuum-formed transparent plastic cover.

Bone Yard: General Contractor storage area at show site. Depending on the show, this can be indoor or outdoor.

Booth Number: Number designating each exhibitor’s space.

C

CAD: Computer-Aided Design

Canopy: Drapery, awning, or other ceiling-like covering.

Capacity: Maximum number of people allowed in any area.

Carpenter: Union that is responsible for uncrating of exhibits and display materials, installation and dismantle of exhibits including cabinets, fixtures, shelving units, furniture, etc., laying of floor tile and carpet, and re-crating of exhibits and machinery. A carpenter’s exact duties and rights depends on location and union contract with venue.

Cherry Picker: Equipment capable of lifting a person (s) to a given height. (Also HIGH JACKER, SCISSOR LIFT)

Chevron: Type of cloth used for backdrops.

Corkage Fee: The charge placed on beer, liquor, and wine brought into the facility but purchased elsewhere. The charge sometimes includes glassware, ice, and mixers. In some cases, it can even apply to non-alcoholic drinks and bottled water.

Cross Bar: Rod used in draping or as a support brace.

Cut & Lay: Installation of carpet other than normal booth or aisle size.

CWT: Hundred weight. A weight measurement for exhibit freight. Usually 100 pounds. Some post-COVID shows are switching to a per-pound charge.

D

Decorator: Union that is responsible for hanging all signs except electrical signs, drape and cloth installation, and tacked fabric panels. A decorator’s exact duties and rights depends on location and union contract with venue.

Direct Billing: Accounts receivable mailed to individuals or firms with established credit.

Dismantle: Take down (disassembly) and removal of exhibits.

Display Builder: Exhibit company that designs and fabricates displays. Often referred to as the custom house or custom builder.

Dock: A place where freight is loaded onto and taken away from vehicles. (Also see LOADING DOCK)

Dolly: A flat two-feet square platform on four wheels used for moving heavy loads.

Drayage: The unloading of your shipment, transporting it to your booth, storing and returning your empty crates and cartons, and reloading your shipment at the close of the show. Also called Material Handling.

Drayage Charge: The dollar cost based on weight –100-pound units or hundredweight, abbreviated CWT, calculates drayage. There is typically a minimum charge. Also called Material Handling Fee.

Duplex Outlet: Double electrical outlet.

E

EAC (Exhibitor Appointed Contractor): Independent contractors (vs. the GSC) appointed by exhibitors to provide services such as installation and dismantle, A/V, furniture rental, etc. EAC’s often are contracted to provide services for an exhibitor at multiple shows and venues.

Electrical Contractor: Company contracted by Show Management to provide electrical services to the exhibitors.

Electrician: Union that handles installation of all electrical equipment. An electrician’s exact duties and rights depends on location and union contract with venue.

Empty Crate: The reusable packing/shipping container for exhibit materials. Typically wood. Once empty, an “EMPTY” sticker should be attached with the booth number and company name. The crates are then removed, stored, and returned (at the end of the show). This service is covered by the drayage or material handling fee.

Exclusive Contractor: Contractor appointed by the show or building management as the sole agent to provide services. (Also OFFICIAL)

Exhibit Booth Space: Space rented by an exhibitor during the show for their display or exhibit. For example, 10 x 10 or 20 x 20 booth.

Exhibit Directory: Program book for attendees listing exhibitors and exhibit booth location. (Also SHOW GUIDE)

Exhibit Manager: Person responsible for a company’s exhibit booth and trade show marketing program.

F

Fire Exit: Door, clear of obstructions, designated by local authorities to egress.

Fire Retardant: Term used to describe a finish (usually liquid) which coats materials with a fire-resistant cover.

Flameproof: Term used to describe material, which is, or has been treated to be fire-retardant.

Floor Manager: Person retained by show management to supervise exhibit area and assist exhibitors.

Floor Marking: Method of marking booth space. Typically with tape which is then covered by carpet or flooring before the start of the show.

Floor Order: Goods and/or services ordered on-site.

Floor Plan: A map showing layout of exhibit spaces. Most trade shows have the floor plan available on their website.

Foam Core: Lightweight material with a foam center used for signs, decorating, and exhibit construction.

Fork Lift: Vehicle for for lifting and carrying loads.

Freight: Exhibit properties, products, and other materials shipped for an exhibit.

Freight Aisle: Aisle to remain clear for incoming freight.

Freight Forwarder: Shipping company.

Full Booth Coverage: Carpet or other flooring covering the entire area of booth.

G

Garment Rack: Frame which holds apparel.

General Contractor: Company, designated by the show organizer, that provides all services to exhibition management and exhibitors. Also called the General Service Contractor (GSC).

H

Hand-Carryable: Items that one person can carry unaided (meaning, no hand trucks or dollies).

Hand Truck: Tool with two wheels and two handles for transporting small loads.

Hardwall Booth: Booth constructed with plywood or similar material as opposed to a booth constructed with aluminum extrusion or drapery.

Header: 1. Fascia 2. Overhead illuminated display sign.

Hospitality Suite: Room or suite of rooms used to entertain guests.

I

I&D: Install and dismantle.

ID Sign: Booth identification sign.

Illuminations: Lighting available in hall, built into exhibit, or available on a rental basis.

Infringement: The illegal use of floor space outside exclusive booth area.

Inline Booth: An exhibit space with one or two aisles. For example, 10 x 10 or 10 x 20 booths.

Inherent Flameproof: Material that is permanently flame resistant without chemical treatment.

Installation: Setting up exhibit booth and materials according to instructions and drawings.

Island Booth: An exhibit space with aisles on all four sides. For example, 20 x 20 or 30 x 40 booths.

J

Job Foreman: Person in charge of specific projects.

K

Kiosk: Freestanding pavilion or light structure in a booth or the show hall.

L

Labor: Refers to contracted workers who perform services. Labor is typically available through the General Contractor or the Exhibitor can hire independent labor companies, typically referred to as Exhibitor-Appointed Contractors (EAC).

Labor Call: Method of securing union employees.

Labor Desk: On-site area from which service personnel are dispatched.

Light Box: One or two-sided enclosure with backlit graphics. These can be freestanding or mounted to a wall or structure. Typically fabric graphics.

Loading Dock: Area where goods are received.

Lobby: Public area which serves as an entrance or waiting area.

Lock-up: Secure storage area in the show hall or convention center.

M

Marshalling Yard: Check-in area for trucks delivering exhibit material.

Modular Exhibit: Exhibit constructed with interchangeable display components. These can be portable or custom displays.

Move-In: Date(s) set for installation. Process of setting up exhibits.

Move-Out: Date(s) set for dismantling. Process of dismantling exhibits.

N

Net Square Feet: The amount of space occupied by exhibits in a facility, not including aisles, columns, registration area, etc. For example, an exhibitor with a 20 x 20 exhibit has 400 sq. feet of booth space.

No Freight Aisle: Aisle that must be left clear at all times during set-up and dismantle. Used to deliver freight, remove empty boxes and trash, and in case of emergency.

O

Official Contractor: The General Contractor or decorator (GSC).

On-Site Order: Floor order placed at show site.

On-Site Registration: Process of signing up for an event on the day of, or at the site of, the event.

O.T. Labor: Work performed on overtime. Work performed before 8:00 am and after 4:40 pm Monday through Friday, and all hours on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays. OT rules may vary depending on the show and the venue.

P

Package Plan: When the General Show Contractor offers furniture, exhibit rentals, labor, and/or services to exhibitors for a single fee. Often referred to as bundling. Industry associations such as EDPA consider this an ethically questionable and anti-competitive practice.

Padded Van Shipment: Shipment of crated or uncrated goods such as product or display materials. (Also VAN SHIPMENT, AIR-RIDE).

Pallet: Wooden platform used to carry goods. (Also SKID)

Pegboard: Framed panel of perforated hardboard for displaying products.

Perimeter Booth: Exhibit space located on an outside wall of the show hall.

Pipe and Drape: Tubing with drapes, which separates exhibit booths.

Planting: Floral décor to enhance the appearance of the exhibition. Typically available from a designated show contractor.

Portable Displays: Generally, portable refers to displays that can be shipped via UPS or FedEx, typically in roto-molded or fabric cases with wheels. Portable does not mean that the display will assemble without tools (although most are tool-free) or that the display can be hand-carried into the exhibition hall.

Pre-registered: Registration which has been made in advance with necessary paperwork.

Press Room: Space reserved for media representatives.

POV: A privately owned vehicle, such as a passenger car, van, or small company vehicle, as distinguished from trucks, tractor-trailers, and other over-the-road vehicles. A POV left unattended will almost certainly be towed away. If you must unload a POV, use the POV line. (See below).

POV Line: Special loading dock reserved for POV’s where materials are unloaded at prevailing drayage rates. To get on a POV line, driver reports first to marshalling area.

Private Security: Security personnel hired from a privately operated company. (Also BOOTH SECURITY)

Pro-Number: Number designated by the freight forwarders to a single shipment, used in all cases where the shipment must be referred to.

Q

Quad Box: Four electrical outlets in one box.

R

Rail: Low drape divider between exhibit booths. (Also SIDE RAIL)

Rear-Lit: Method of lighting transparency from behind. (Also BACKLIT)

Registration: Process by which an individual indicates their intent to attend a trade show.

Rental Booth: Complete booth package offered to exhibitors on a rental basis either from the general show contractor or an exhibit house.

Rigger: Union that is responsible for crating, unskidding, positioning, and reskidding of all machinery. A rigger’s exact duties and rights depends on location and union contract with venue.

Riser: A raised platform for people or products.

S

Security Cages: Cages rented by exhibitors to secure materials.

Silicone Edge Graphics (SEG): Silicone Edge Fabric Graphics are typically dye-sublimated fabric with a silicone bead or welting sewn around the edge. The welting is then inserted into a groove (usually aluminum extrusion) for a seamless image.

Service Charge: Charge for the services of waiters/waitresses, housemen, technicians, and other food function personnel.

Shop: Service contractor’s main office and warehouse.

Showcard: Material used for signs.

Showcase: Glass-enclosed case for articles on display.

Show Manager: Person responsible for all aspects of exhibition.

Show Office: Management office at exhibition.

Shrink Wrap; Process of wrapping loose items on pallet with transparent plastic wrapping.

Side Rail: Low divider wall in exhibit area, usually 36” high.

Skirting: Decorative covering around tables/risers. Also called table throws or table cloths.

Space Assignment: Booth space assigned to exhibiting companies.

Space Rate: Cost per square foot for exhibit area.

Special Handling: Applies to display and/or product shipment requiring extra labor, equipment, or time in delivery to booth area. To avoid special handling, always consult with your exhibit house or display provider.

Staging Area: Area adjacent to main event area for set- up, dismantling, and temporary storage.

Stanchions: Decorative posts which hold markers or flags to define traffic areas. Ropes or chains may be attached.

Stop Job; When an exhibitor is doing some type of work in the booth which is claimed by a union, that union’s steward will request that you go to the service desk so that the contractor can supply the exhibitor union labor.

S.T. Labor: Work performed on straight time. Usually work performed 8:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.

T

Target Date: Move-in date assigned to exhibitors by the general contractor and the show management.

Tent: Portable canvas shelter for outside.

Time & Materials; Method for charging services on a cost-plus basis. (Also T & M)

Traffic Flow; Movement of people throughout an area.

U

Union: An organization of workers formed for mutual protection and for the purpose of dealing collectively with their employer in wages, hours, working conditions and other matters pertaining to their employment.

Union Steward: On-site union official.

V

Velcro: Material used for fastening. (Also HOOK AND LOOP)

Visqueen: Protective plastic sheeting used to cover flooring during installation. Visqueen is removed once the show floor and aisles have been set.

W

Waste Removal: Removal of trash from the building.

Classic Exhibits has been designing and building solutions since 1993. We’ve been honored as an Exhibitor Magazine Find-It Top 40 Exhibit Producers and an Event Marketer Fab 50 Exhibit Builders multiple times. Along with numerous Portable Modular Awards. 

With over 200 Distributor Partners throughout North America, there’s a Classic representative closer by. Contact us today whether you need a durable hand sanitizer stand built to last, a rental display guaranteed to attract trade show attendees, or a custom 30 x 40 exhibit with all the bells and whistles. We’re not just different. We’re better. 

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