After a six-year hiatus due to COVID, NPE2024: The Plastics Show will return May 6-10 at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando. When the triennial trade show and conference was last held in 2018, NPE2018: The Plastic Show attracted more than 55,000 attendees and 2,182 exhibitors covering 1.1 million net square feet of exhibit space at OCCC.

Related: NPE WRAPS UP ITS LARGEST SHOW IN HISTORY

Owned by the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), the trade show supports the entire plastics supply chain, including equipment suppliers, material suppliers, processors and recyclers, representing more than 1 million workers in the $548 billion U.S. industry.

Previously produced by an in-house team, PLASTICS inked a deal in 2022 with association event management company Smithbucklin and its company, 360 Live Media, to sell and market NPE2024: The Plastics Show through 2027.

This year’s show is on track to draw more than 2,000 exhibiting companies, covering more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space. Despite skipping a show cycle in 2021, event organizers told us that as of April 16 they are on pace to hit 2018 attendance levels.

Here’s a preview of 10 things to do at the upcoming event:

1. Explore the Sustainability Hub showcasing the industry's commitment to the circular economy. NPE’s goal is to divert 100% of the plastic waste generated during the event from landfills by utilizing the onsite outdoor NPE recycling center the OCCC. 

2. Visit the live recycling and sustainability demos across 10,500 sq. ft. of space.

3. Attend 30 education sessions in the Recycling & Sustainability Zone in partnership with RE|FOCUS.

4. Check out the largest gathering of bioplastics companies in the U.S., with more than 30 suppliers. PLASTICS will release its 2024 Bioplastics Market Watch Report on May 8 during NPE.

5. Learn from keynote speakers like FANUC America Corp. President and CEO Michael Cicco and BASF Corp. Chair and CEO Michael Heinz. Heinz will deliver a keynote address titled “Our Plastics Journey: The Road to a Sustainable Future,” in which he will address the industry’s challenges, emphasizing the importance of collaboration along the value chain and offering insights into the future. Find additional details in BASF’s news release at the following link: BASF at NPE 2024: A key pitstop along the plastics journey 

6. Join networking events like the NPE Opening Party, Women in Plastics Breakfast and FliP & SIP Reception.

7. Attend industry briefings covering trends and technologies in automotive, construction, consumer goods and more.

8. Experience live demonstrations of  OPC UA for machine-to-machine data exchange.

9. Visit the Podcast Point to listen to podcasts like PMM, Sustainable Packaging and PlastChicks.

10. Attend expanded exhibitor press conferences with 180+ new products debuting at NPE2024.

From new show launches and business ventures to strategic partnerships and acquisitions, the trade show landscape has been buzzing with event companies announcing new business moves and agreements this spring.

Taffy Event Strategies to Launch High Performance Expo (HPX) Next Year

Full-service trade show and management company Taffy Event Strategies is gearing up to launch a new show for the automotive racing and performance industry, High Performance Expo (HPX). Set for June 3-5, 2025, at the Charlotte Convention Center, the inaugural business and consumer show will be the exclusive business and consumer show of the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA).

Created for professional race teams, manufacturers of new cars and high-performance parts, retail performance shops, industry experts and enthusiasts, HPX 2025 will feature vibrant displays, educational programming led by industry experts, curated networking and sponsor opportunities and interactive activations for automotive fans everywhere, according to Taffy Event Strategies officials.

“The car culture and racing community in the southeast is like no other – it’s authentic, high quality and so passionate,” said Jenn Heinold, president of Taffy Event Strategies. “This community deserves an event that they can call their own, that’s why we are launching the High Performance Expo.”

She continued, “Charlotte is the perfect East Coast location with natural ties and partnership opportunities for this dynamic industry. Stay tuned for big name sponsors, partners, exhibitors and consumer-facing activities.” 

Trade show industry veteran Dana Teague will serve as HPX’s general manager. 

Emerald Acquires B2B Digital Media Platform Hotel Interactive

Emerald has acquired Hotel Interactive (HI), a conference and multi-channel hosted buyer business with a portfolio of 15 in-person annual events serving various segments of the hospitality and senior living industry sectors.

With this acquisition, HI joins Emerald’s Connecting Point Marketing Group (CPMG) to create an expanded portfolio of industry-leading hosted buyer events that drive engaging one-to-one executive connections within strategic vertical market segments.

“The partnership between CMPG and HI represents a significant step forward in Emerald’s portfolio optimization strategy, enabling us to enhance our leading hosted buyer platform,” explained Hervé Sedky, president and CEO of Emerald. “Together, the two companies represent a portfolio of 29 annual wholesale buying events that are unmatched in serving their target markets within selected segments of the hospitality, restaurant, healthcare, retail and grocery industries.”

He added, “Our shared goal is to leverage best practices, innovative technology and strategic investments to deliver unparalleled value to both new and existing events and accelerate our growth opportunities.” 

All HI employees have joined the Emerald team, with HI President Rich Viola continuing to lead HI’s portfolio events and B2B digital media offerings, including its Business Interactive Trade Alliances & Conferences (BITAC), HealthTac trade shows and FSM Summit and digital newsletters and websites including Hotel Interactive and Senior Living News.  

“Because HI and CPMG serve many of the same industries, we will now significantly expand both the scope and scale of our business, focusing on making our two brands the undisputed leaders of these specialized business segments,” Viola said. “We also promise to deliver an even higher level of client satisfaction, as our combined event portfolio will offer unmatched benefits and value to our customers.”

CloserStill Media Acquires Majority Stake in UK-based Elite Exhibitions

Business events, exhibitions and conferences producer CloserStill Media has acquired a majority stake in Brighton, UK-based Elite Exhibitions, producer of leading cruise ship design trade shows in the U.S. and Europe. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Joining CloserStill’s growing Future Transport and Infrastructure group, Elite Exhibitions produces the annual Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo (CSI) shows in London and Miami, events for the marine design and build sector that were launched in 2019.

Elite Co-founders CEO Toby Walters CEO and Commercial Director Sam Murray will continue to lead the Elite team.    

“We are truly excited to be partnering with CloserStill Media – a company who share our passion for launching new products whilst taking a thoughtful approach to growing events,” Walters said. “This partnership will provide both our team and our business the ability to pursue new opportunities whilst accelerating our growth.” 

According to CloserStill officials, the investment in the high-growth cruise ship sector complements both the company’s Automotive Interiors Expo events in the U.S. and Europe and its Influence Group business in North America, which serves the built environment and design sector across multiple verticals, including hotels, restaurants and retail.  

“Elite is a dynamic, fast-growing business and the cruise ship sector is an attractive sector and is complementary to several of our existing shows in the transportation sector as well as broader design and built environment space,” said Gareth Bowhill, CEO of CloserStill Media. “Toby and Sam are creative, talented leaders who have built a unique culture with their dynamic team, and we are excited about what the partnership will bring to the expanded CloserStill group.”

Clarion Events North America Chairman Greg Topalian Launches On Deck Ventures

Greg Topalian, chairman of Clarion Events North America, is launching On Deck Ventures, a new event consulting firm offering strategic guidance, venture funding and impactful connections to support businesses build trade shows and events in high-growth and emerging industries.

Topalian, who brings a wealth of knowledge and vision to On Deck Ventures with more than 25 years of industry experience, said this new venture fills a void of supporting entrepreneurs with both needed investment and advice and guidance.

“I am excited about the opportunities ahead for On Deck Ventures and the impact we can make within the events industry,” Topalian said. “The combination of my work with Clarion and with these early-stage businesses provides an opportunity to redefine industry standards, foster innovation and unlock unparalleled potential.”

As part of its launch, On Deck Ventures announced strategic partnerships with The Fora Group, which operates Ai4 and RETCON, and the launch of Yotta, a new event serving the data industry.

Messe Frankfurt Selects Convention Data Services for The Clean Show for 2025 and 2027

Global trade show producer Messe Frankfurt selected event registration, business intelligence and lead management partner Convention Data Services (CDS), a Freeman Company, to provide registration, contact center and lead management services for its biennial event, The Clean Show, in 2025 and 2027.

The Clean Show — a North American expo for laundering, dry cleaning, textile care services, supplies and equipment — brings together industry professionals to network, educate and share the latest technologies.

“CDS provides registration services for various other shows in our portfolio, and we are happy to grow our partnership,” said Shermell Williams, senior operations manager at Messe Frankfurt. “We appreciate CDS’ proactive engagement, which helps foster a seamless event experience.”

What was trending for exhibitors at CES 2024? To get the scoop, we participated in a webinar presented by Impact XM, an experiential design agency with clients across a wide range of industries and trade shows, including Panasonic Connect North America at INFOCOMM, BASF Corp. at Commodity Classic and Homes.com at NAR NXT, owned and produced by the National Association of REALTORS — to name a few. 

Impact XM’s Senior Director Brittany Leeb, who has worked in exhibits since 2015, and Design Director Paul Eizerman, who has designed exhibits since 2006, shared their perspective on the top three macro trends we can all apply to our channel. 

Held Jan. 9-12 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, CES 2024 featured more than 4,300 exhibitors — a 10% increase year over year, including a record of more than 1,400 startups in Eureka Park.  

Related: CES 2024 AUDIT ANALYSIS: UNPACKING THE 20% SURGE IN ATTENDANCE COMPARED TO PREVIOUS YEARS 

At CES 2024, Impact XM worked with a variety of major exhibitors, including Amazon Alexa, Hisense, AT&T and Accenture. In their presentation, Leeb and Eizerman shared a full 360-view of what they saw on the show floor, including not only their client’s booths but also other noteworthy examples. 

Related: Check out this video overview of the Amazon Experience at CES 2024.

“CES is the ultimate trendsetter in the event world,” Leeb said. “Aside from the fact that it's the first major show of the year, it's one of the largest tech-forward events in the world, which means exhibitors are showing up with the latest and greatest event tech out there. The trends we pulled out of CES are also trends that Paul and I have seen at other major shows in different industries.”

Here are the three key trends from their presentation:

1. Going Green. Sustainability saw a significant surge in presence at CES, indicating a growing focus on environmental responsibility within the event industry. Exhibitors showcased efforts to reduce waste, emission and environmental impact in booth construction and operations. Booth construction is increasingly incorporating materials made from recycled or sustainable sources. Examples included using raw wood and plywood, minimal flooring vs. carpeting and reducing material usage while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functionality (see image below). The Samsung booth featured a dedicated space to highlight its sustainability efforts, using recycled materials to create the walls. 

2. Immersive Experiences. While not new, immersive experiences continue to evolve rapidly, with a particular appeal to younger audiences. Exhibitors emphasized creating engaging and memorable experiences that attendees can’t get via their computers or devices. Immersive experiences were categorized into three types: one-to-many (thematic journeys), one-to-some (rides or demos) and one-to-one (personalized experiences). Interactive theaters were used to transport attendees into immersive storytelling experiences, utilizing technology, video, sound and even sensory elements for a highly engaging and educational experience.

3. Show It, Don’t TelI It. Exhibitors moved away from relying solely on static and digital signage content to deliver messages. This trend encourages more interactive and tangible ways of communication, recognizing that audiences are inundated with digital content and seeking more impactful experiences. Exhibitors prioritized hands-on activities and demonstrations for education, based on attendee preferences. Companies, like Samsung, simplified complex product messages using robotics, kinetic LED and physical demonstrations.

Want to know more? Download a PDF of the presentation by Impact XM here:

Main image: Amazon booth at CES 2024

In celebration of Earth Day 2024, we want to share highlights from our latest podcast interview with Honeycomb Strategies CEO and ASM Global Chief Sustainability Officer Lindsay Arell. These 10 takeaways highlight the multifaceted approach to sustainability in events, encompassing operational changes, partnerships, transparency and a broader industry shift towards sustainable practices.

1. Integration of Sustainability Practices: Natural Products Expo West is one trade show that’s leading by example. The trade show has successfully integrated sustainability practices into nearly every aspect of its operations over the last 10 years. Find out more about the show’s sustainability program here.

2. Efforts to Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Informa Markets, event organizer of Natural Products Expo West, has made a significant effort to implement alternatives to single-use plastics, such as reusable cups and sampling containers.

3. Partnerships for Sustainability Goals: Finding partners to achieve ambitious sustainability goals is crucial, and transparency about these efforts attracts more stakeholders to join the cause.

4. Transparency and Credibility: Openly sharing sustainability initiatives and challenges, and being credible in claims, are essential for building trust and progressing in sustainability efforts.

5. Personal Journey in Sustainability: Arell's journey into sustainability started from her personal experiences and observations of waste in events, leading her to pitch a sustainability-focused role.

6. Role as Chief Sustainability Officer: Arell's role involves developing and implementing sustainability practices across ASM Global's venues worldwide, focusing on environmental metrics like energy, waste, water and food.

7. Challenges in Establishing Baseline Metrics: Gathering accurate data and establishing baseline metrics for sustainability performance across diverse venues and regions is a complex but necessary process.

8. Corporate Sustainability Goals: ASM Global has set ambitious sustainability goals, including achieving renewable energy consumption, waste diversion, eliminating single-use plastics and reducing water consumption and food waste.

9. Behavioral Shifts for Sustainability: Emphasizing operational practices, such as turning off lights and proper waste disposal, plays a significant role in achieving sustainability goals.

10. Trends in Sustainability for 2024: Trends include a shift towards reusables instead of single-use items, increased focus on water bottle filling stations and the importance of certifications like ISO 20121 and Event Sustainability Standards from the Event Industry Council.

Want to know more? Listen to the full interview here.

While 61% of exhibitors claimed unpredictable costs have a major influence on their decision to attend an event, 93% believe the quality of expected attendees is the most impactful outcome, even when compared to external constraints, according to “Event Excellence by Design,” a new report that takes an inside look at exhibitor objectives and provides show organizers with insightful data to help them design more impactful event experiences.

Lead quality remains the No. 1 measure of success, even more than last year. When exhibitors were asked how they measure the value their organization receives from exhibiting and sponsoring, 67% said quality of leads in 2024, compared with 63% in 2023. Other measures of success include: actual sales (51%), number of leads (50%), potential sales (42%), number of meetings/business connections (32%) and traffic to exhibit as a result of sponsorship (10%)

Created by global events company Freeman, the report follows on the heels of its 2024 Attendee Trends Report, released in January, which proposed a new way for organizers to think about event excellence.

Related: LATEST FREEMAN ATTENDEE TRENDS REPORT DEMONSTRATES THE SHIFTING DEMANDS OF ATTENDEES AND HOW TO MEET THEM

Backstory: Comprising a wide swath of B2B exhibitors and sponsors who also exhibit, the report’s data stems from a survey conducted in February that garnered responses from 1,911 industry professionals.

Why it matters: From understanding exhibitor concerns to uncovering where exhibitors and attendees do or don’t align, the data helps pave a path for organizers to produce events that are more meaningful for everyone despite differences in age, event type and objective, according to Freeman officials.

What they are saying: “Successful events don’t happen by accident, and it’s important to understand the objectives of all parties involved including exhibitors, attendees and sponsors,” said Ken Holsinger, senior vice president of strategy at Freeman. “For event organizers, this understanding of their customers and ongoing shifts in trends and demographics is all critical in delivering value to the overall experience.”

We did a deeper dive into the data to put together this curated list of highlights from the research:

Exhibitor participation is holding steady: After a successful 2023, most exhibitor budgets will increase or stay the same in 2024. According to the report, 79% of exhibitors plan to attend the same number of events or more in the next year, and 75% do not plan on cutting back their exhibiting budgets.

Related: WHAT ATTENDEES WANT: 11 TAKEAWAYS FOR EVENT ORGANIZERS/EXHIBITORS

 Lead generation reigns supreme: The most important components of the overall event experience for exhibitors are:

         ◦       35% lead generation

         ◦       25% brand impact/awareness

         ◦       24% sales

         ◦       17% lead nurturing

Exhibitor demographics and event types are shifting: 46% of exhibit marketers are now female (5% more than last year), and their average age has decreased from 51 to 47. 72% are exhibiting at various types of events beyond just trade shows.

More exhibitors are considering independent events: Despite promising exhibitor event plans and budgets, gaps in expectation and satisfaction with third-party events remain. Those exhibitors who can afford to are planning or executing their own independent events to realize more value.

Exhibitors want more out of lead generation and networking: Meeting with customers/prospects and acquiring leads are top objectives, however, exhibitors are increasingly unsatisfied with the leads they receive.

Exhibitors want predictable, all-inclusive packages: 64% of exhibitors agree that turnkey, all-inclusive exhibit packages are the most important type of assistance from event organizers. However, “all-inclusive” can look different for small and large exhibitors.

Big picture: The report also details the growing gaps between attendee and exhibitor expectations, exhibitor behaviors and attendee needs and large and small exhibitors, and provides valuable action steps for organizers to bridge those gaps and deliver greater value across the events ecosystem.

Download the Freeman 2024 Exhibitor Trends Report – Event Excellence by Design here.

Three major U.S. trade shows reported successful – and in two cases, growing – editions in Las Vegas, Orlando and Philadelphia last month. Take a look at our roundup of major U.S. trade shows held in March.

The NGA Show

Who, When & Where: The NGA Show, March 10-12, Caesars Forum Convention Center 

Key metrics: 3,600 grocery retail industry professionals (a new attendance record), 350+ exhibitors and sponsors, spanning 55,725 square feet.

Looking Back: The exhibit hall grew substantially from the prior year, which saw 290 exhibiting companies and more than 45,000 sq. ft.

Best new features and products: The sold-out exhibit hall showcased products and services from store design to innovative food products – with support from several large food wholesalers and distributors. The VIP Experience meeting program enabled retailers, wholesalers and service providers to schedule meetings both in-booth and in provided networking zones. Nearly 50 education sessions took place throughout the event on topics including BIPOC independent grocers, labor issues, food as medicine, connecting with Gen Z, role of AI in marketing and more.

Beyond the show floor: The event kicked off with the popular Technology Summit and Financial Symposium led by industry experts as well as a session honoring NGA’s Creative Choice Awards for excellence in marketing and merchandising. Delivering an enthusiastic kickoff to the show, celebrity chef Carla Hall, entrepreneur, author and Food Network star presented the opening keynote address.

What they are saying: “The NGA Show is truly the place where grocers gather – and gather they did, in record numbers,” said Jaime Reesby, vice president for generation and grocery at Clarion Events. “Working closely with NGA and its members, we continue to enhance our offerings, from education to networking, to help grocers navigate today’s competitive environment. Initial responses have been glowing and we look forward to continuing to meet and exceed those expectations.”

Looking ahead: NGA Show 2025 will return Feb. 23-25  to CAESARS Forum.

HIMSS

Who, When & Where: 2024 HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition, March 11-15, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fla. 

Key metrics: The event attracted 26,800 healthcare technology professionals and 971 exhibitors across 440,066 sq. ft.

Looking Back: In 2023, HIMSS drew in 33,329 attendees and 1,103 exhibitors spanning 449,050 sq. ft. 

Best new features and products: Alongside cybersecurity, robotics, interoperability, policy and many more global health topics shaping healthcare, generative AI solutions took center stage at HIMSS23, with multiple technology companies debuting AI-backed software aimed at creating better workflows and experiences in a clinical environment. A Global Policy Leaders’ Summit and panels featured government agencies, global Ministers of Health and other leading policymakers discussing AI in healthcare and the challenges of balancing cybersecurity and patient privacy issues while also improving digital health information exchange.  

Beyond the show floor: This year’s conference marked a watershed moment for HIMSS, with the passing of the HIMSS Global Conference & Exhibition stewardship to Informa Markets, and for the first time this year, the conference featured a hosted buyer program for providers.

What they are saying: “We are delighted by the continued growth and influence of the HIMSS Global Health Conference and our successful partnership with Informa to improve and expand the event,” said Hal Wolf, HIMSS president and CEO. “HIMSS24 brought together all aspects of the healthcare world, including C-Suite executives, healthcare IT developers, nurses, researchers, government officials and many more to harness a new era of information and technology and to shape the future of health together.” 

Looking ahead: HIMSS24 European Health Conference & Exhibition is slated for May 29-31 in Rome, Italy, and HIMSS25 will take place March 3-6 at The Venetian Resort & Expo, CAESARS Forum and Wynn Las Vegas.

PACK EXPO East

Who, When & Where: PACK EXPO East, March 18-20, Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia.

Key metrics: As its largest show to date, PACK EXPO attracted 7,977 attendees and 503 exhibitors across 119,085 sq. ft.

Looking Back: In 2022, the event drew in 6,615 attendees and 403 exhibitors spanning 94,510 sq. ft.

Best new features and products: As the premiere regional show for consumer packaging and processing companies, PACK EXPO East’s show floor showcased the latest innovations and solutions, including machinery and equipment, used by markets including food and beverage, pharmaceutical, industrial and agricultural chemical, personal care and cosmetics.

Beyond the show floor: In addition to the technology on the show floor, PACK EXPO East offered educational opportunities with the Innovation Stage and Industry Speaks. Attendees also had the chance to connect with their peers at the Taste of Philly opening reception and the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network and Young Professionals Network receptions.

What they are saying: “PACK EXPO East’s continued growth has solidified its place as a vital event for packaging and processing professionals in the region,” said Jim Pittas, president and CEO of PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, which owns and produces the show. “While we celebrate this growth, our focus remains on delivering the high-quality experience our shows are known for. This includes offering solutions for more than 40 markets and tailoring experiences to meet the needs of the industry.”

Looking ahead: PACK EXPO International 2024 will take place Nov. 3-6 at McCormick Place in Chicago, while PACK EXPO East will return to the Pennsylvania Convention Center Feb. 17-19, 2026.

Looking to create high-end, red carpet-worthy videos that event attendees will share?

Companies like Pixperience provide interactive photo booths like no other — using the latest camera technology to capture the moment in vivid detail and engagement with an immersive experience that your brand creates.

Every event attendee can be a glamorous star when they step into a space that seamlessly blends creativity and technology to create unforgettable experiences that attendees can share instantly on social channels. 

We tested two Pixperience products at EXHIBITORLIVE 2024 and interviewed Pixperience Vice President, Operations Derek Wuenschirs to find out how this product works at trade shows. Here’s what we learned.

Related: POST-SHOW RECAP: EXHIBITORLIVE 2024 REPORTS MORE THAN 20% INCREASE IN ATTENDANCE

Why it matters: In a bustling exhibition hall amid the buzz of attendees and exhibitors, the 20x10 Pixperience footprint featured two photo options: one using the Pixbot robot arm to capture videos and one offering the 180-degree photo booth using multiple cameras.

How it worked: Attendees stepped inside the 180 booth (360 booths are also offered) and posed as they had their photo taken by a dozen cameras. The photos are taken simultaneously and stitched together to create a 3D effect. Attendees receive their video instantly, and the GIF or MP4 is great for posting online.

Big picture: As the cameras click, a freeze-frame moment is born. The image instantly appears on a screen, ready to be shared. Exhibitors and organizers can personalize the experience, adding show or brand logos and themes to the videos that attendees can easily share on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok, amplifying brand visibility and engagement.

What it costs: "About $12,000 for one day, fully branded and delivered with all production and operations included."

How it delivers leads: "Data capture is baked into everything we do," said Wuenschirs, who emphasized the seamless integration of contact information capture and branding opportunities.

Which events have used it: Pixperience used its 360-degree photo system at Dreamforce – the annual tech conference produced by Salesforce – and created shareable GIFs for nearly 2,000 guests over four days.

Who else they work with: Previous clients include Hyundai 180 Catch - Super Bowl Photo Booth, Dell Match Play 360º  Photo Booth, Kate Spade New York - Bloom Bloom and AAA Game Day 180º Photo Booth — to name a few.
Watch or listen to our full interview and see the on-site demo here.

While exhibition rates are more broadly aligning with inflation this year, specific areas, such as material handling rates, continue to outpace inflation, according to the findings of the Annual Survey of Exhibition Rates. The Exhibitor Advocate — a non-profit organization dedicated to providing industry stakeholders with expert advice, research and tools to amplify the voice of exhibitors — has released its latest survey that analyzes labor and equipment costs across 24 major U.S. cities.

This year’s report demonstrates that while trade shows continue to be a valuable sales and marketing channel, exhibitors are facing oncoming challenges that could influence their participation. For example:

·  Rising exhibitor-related costs are expected to force a redistribution of spending across events.

·  82% of respondents said they plan to exhibit at fewer in-person shows, citing exhibit-related costs.

·  Three in four exhibitors are being pressured to cut exhibiting costs.

·  In the next three years, 94% of respondents expect some level of change to their exhibit programs.

“The industry’s sustained growth and success hinge on enhancing value for sponsors and exhibitors while also proactively reducing costs,” said Jessica Sibila, executive director of The Exhibitor Advocate. “Access to this unique data analysis is pivotal for all stakeholders in the exhibition ecosystem.”

Related: NEW RESEARCH PROVIDES BENCHMARKS FOR TRADE SHOW LABOR AND MATERIALS HANDLING COSTS IN 16 CITIES 

Backstory

Providing unique insights and actionable strategies that exhibitors, trade show and corporate event organizers and suppliers can leverage for strategic planning and cost management, the 2023 report was crafted in collaboration with independent show management and event solutions company Tradeshow Logic, supported by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and independently verified by third-party research agency EVOLIO Marketing.

This unique dataset underscores the industry’s need for a strategic approach to budgeting and advocacy for fair pricing, according to The Exhibitor Advocate officials.

Why it matters

For exhibitors, the survey can serve as a resource for budgeting and strategic planning, equipping exhibitors with the knowledge they need to navigate cost pressures, enable smarter allocation of resources across the entire event experience and optimize their investment to ensure a more substantial impact at every trade show.

Trade show and corporate event organizers can leverage the survey’s analysis to help them make data-driven decisions that cater to the evolving needs of their exhibitors, reducing exhibitor costs and enhancing the exhibitor experience and, by extension, the overall value of their events.

Lastly, the survey’s insights into equipment and labor costs across different cities enable industry suppliers to tailor their offerings more closely to market demands, ensuring competitive pricing and improved service delivery. 

To provide a richer, more detailed understanding of the exhibition landscape, the 2023 report increased its scope to include “Expanded Scope of Services,” which incorporates forklift and hanging sign rates as well as commonly ordered show services such as carpet, furniture and internet.

To access the report, go here.

Meeting and convention facilities across the country and around the globe have been inking new deals with leading hospitality and management providers, upgrading technology infrastructure and launching new premium spaces for exhibitors and event organizers.

Smart City Networks Completes Network Upgrade at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center (pictured)

Smart City Networks, provider of utilities, technology and telecommunications services for convention centers and hospitality venues, completed an almost $1 million network upgrade for the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD) in Dallas.  

Started in July 2023 and completed in January, the upgrade encompasses improvements to edge switches, installation of new core gear, deployment of new wireless controllers and the rewiring of more than 180 fiber connections. The upgraded infrastructure guarantees uninterrupted connectivity, designed to enhance the technological experience for all visitors attending events at the KBHCCD, according to Smart City officials.

“This upgrade continues our long and ongoing history of continual upgrades at our partner facilities,” said David Langford, vice president of technology for Smart City Networks, which currently operates in more than 50 convention and meeting facilities nationwide. “This upgrade sets us on the path of ensuring the physical infrastructure is capable of handling ongoing upgrades for the next two decades at Kay Bailey Hutchison in Dallas.”

Looking ahead, Smart City will continue to partner with the City of Dallas and venue management company OVG360 as approved expansion plans for the convention center move forward.

Baltimore Convention Center Teams Up With Levy

The Baltimore Convention Center (BCC) tapped Levy to serve as its exclusive food and beverage provider, beginning in July. Together, the two entities will work to bring an elevated, refreshed mindset to food and beverage at the downtown convention center, according to Levy officials.

“We’re beyond thrilled to partner with the Baltimore Convention Center to showcase what makes this city an incredible destination,” said Levy CEO Andy Lansing. “From the most high-profile national events and corporate meetings to special occasions, we’ll spotlight Baltimore’s food and beverage culture in unique ways.” 

As part of the agreement, the BCC and Levy will work together to craft menus, dining concepts and catering experiences that will be activated throughout the venue. In addition to unveiling new offerings, the partnership will focus on creative, elevated catering for major events, as well as prioritizing partnerships with local community organizations and minority- and women-owned businesses, while also continuing to elevate and expand sustainability initiatives. 

Levy’s Convention Centers division serves events of all sizes at major venues, including the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio; David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh; Javits Center in New York; Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Austin Convention Center and Los Angeles Convention Center, among others.

ASM Global Assumes Management of KAFD Conference Center in Riyadh

ASM Global entered into a strategic partnership with the King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) to lead the operation and management of the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Conference Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The state-of-the-art facility features a 1,215 square-meter (13,078 square-foot) banquet hall that can accommodate up to 800 guests, a 600-seat auditorium with full lecture and cinema support and several outdoor plazas. The venue is fitted with operable walls and retractable projection screens that allow for different configurations and digital networking.

“Our commitment to excellence in venue management, event production and customer service aligns perfectly with the KAFD Convention Centre’s vision of becoming a global event destination,” said Paul Sergeant, ASM Global’s executive vice president of Asia and MENA (Middle East/North Africa). “With ASM Global MENA’s extensive global network, expertise and industry-leading technology, we aim to provide event organizers with the tools and support they need to host successful and memorable events.

Home to 1.6 million sq. m. (17,222,256 sq. ft.) of high-end office spaces, venues and luxury residences, KAFD is touted as the largest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum-certified mixed-use business district in the world, according to ASM Global officials. It is owned and managed by the King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the sovereign wealth fund of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Convene Announces New Location in Midtown Manhattan 

Convene, a global lifestyle hospitality company that designs and manages premium meeting, event and flexible workspaces, is gearing up to open Venue 42 by Convene, a new meeting and conference center located at 5 Times Square in Midtown Manhattan on April 1. 

Occupying approximately 30,000 square feet on the 5th floor of the 1.1 million sq.-ft. building, Venue 42 by Convene will be the 15^th Convene location in New York City and will comprise nine meeting rooms, each of which can be customized for various event types, with the largest meeting room able to accommodate approximately 240 guests. 

“Demand for meeting and event space in the area remains strong and we’re proud to once again be partnering with RXR Realty to create an exceptional amenity space and conference center at 5 Times Square,” said Alex Adelman, vice president of managed services at Convene.  

As a provider of dedicated meeting and event venues in North America and the U.K., Convene’s newest NYC venue grows its global network to 40 premium meeting, event and flexible office locations across its portfolio of brands, including etc.venues.

Additionally, on March 25, Convene unveiled its expanded space at Convene 101 Park Avenue, its 101 Park Avenue venue in Midtown Manhattan, which now boasts a second floor and a larger footprint of 23,800 sq. ft. Located just steps from Grand Central Station, the event venue originally opened in 2013 and was renovated in June 2022.

Connected by a grand staircase, the new mezzanine level offers a large conference hall with full theatrical lighting that can accommodate up to 223 guests, floor-to-ceiling windows and an open gallery for networking and food breaks. The venue now comprises eight unique meeting rooms across two floors and a full buyout capacity of 583.  

The company’s corporate meeting and event spaces provide everything needed for a turnkey experience, including spaces designed to maximize collaboration and productivity, full-service event production resources, catering and a dedicated A/V team for in-room and hybrid tech support.  

For exhibitors who are truly serious about sustainability and lowering the environmental footprint at their trade shows, exhibits and events, incorporating plant-forward menus is more than a culinary trend — it’s a strategic choice that aligns with broader societal shifts, especially among younger generations. By making this change, event organizers can not only enhance the attendee experience but also cut carbon and costs while contributing to a more sustainable and equitable world. 

The demand for plant-based options is growing steadily, driven by a combination of health concerns, environmental awareness and animal welfare considerations. While only 4 and 5% of the U.S. population are professed vegans and vegetarians, respectively, more people are walking away from meat and dairy consumption due to their harmful effects on animals, human health and the climate, as public awareness of these issues intensifies. 

With animal agriculture responsible for approximately 10-11% of global greenhouse gas emissions and a major contributor to deforestation, water use and pollution, switching to plant-based menus can be a forward-thinking move for business events looking to appeal to an environmentally aware, health-conscious demographic while demonstrating their commitment to progressive social and environmental practices.

So how can exhibitors balance satisfying the dietary preferences of all attendees while also meeting their sustainability goals?

Just in time for Earth Month, we caught up with Molly Crouch, corporate director of sustainability for Sodexo Live!, a provider of food, beverage and hospitality services for global venues. The company boasts a bevy of environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including an emphasis on sustainable menus.

A member of the Sodexo Live! team since 2008, Crouch is responsible for executing the company’s CSR initiatives while working closely with colleagues across all sectors of the business to ensure strategic, effective and impactful growth in the sustainability space. Here’s what she shared about the steps the company is taking to move event menus in a more earth-friendly direction, and how event and exhibit planners can play a crucial role in this growing movement. 

What is Sodexo Live! currently doing to develop and promote more Earth-friendly, plant-based menu options for meetings and events?

We created an internal “Green Team” to ensure a constant conversation is happening around sustainability, and one of the pillars we work towards is boosting plant-based meals. By sharing Sodexo’s greater global targets around carbon reduction and the role plant-based eating plays, by fostering an awareness campaign and sharing best practices across our entire portfolio, and by providing an internal repository of helpful tips on how to start the conversations with clients, we’re able to work towards offering more Earth-friendly, plant-based offerings.

We also look to define the “why” and the “how” when it comes to choosing plant-based items that event planners can use to help them make a business case for their clients. In many ways, it’s a case-by-case situation, and we work with our clients to increase plant-based options as more of the standard vs. the exception. 

We’ve recently spoken with Greener by Default to look at our catering menus, like at the Orange County Convention Center, for example, to see if there are ways to include plant-based dishes as the focus on a buffet by putting it first, using eye-catching signage and offering smaller options of animal protein options.

We conscientiously incorporate planet-friendly ingredients, such as the Future 50 Foods, into our menus to increase the understanding of how planet-friendly eating can improve everyone’s health and well-being. We’re also in discussions with a carbon labeling company to apply real-world carbon data to our recipes helping our teams and our clients identify low carbon meal options more easily and increase overall awareness. 

When it comes to promoting plant-based menus at events, most organizers and venues emphasize cost-savings, sustainability and/or health benefits while avoiding addressing the ethical costs of consuming meat and dairy products. Do you see this changing any time soon?

I don’t see this changing too drastically within the next decade or so as older generations continue to currently influence most purchasing habits, including food, primarily based on cost. As millennials and Gen Z increase their influence on our markets worldwide, their values will start to turn the tide on awareness of the ethical costs of personal consumption habits including food and other goods. 

Last year, Sodexo released its first Sustainable Food Barometer report measuring the general population’s perceptions of sustainable food in four countries. In the U.S., 82% of those under the age of 45 felt that adopting more sustainable food practices is an urgent need. When it comes to eating less meat, 47% of those polled in the U.S. stated they don’t currently do it and don’t have the desire or intention to do it. These results show skepticism and a want to see a verifiable health benefit to reducing meat and dairy, with the ethical implications of the same decision coming in at a distant second.  

What are the biggest and most exciting plant-based culinary trends happening now in Sodexo convention center kitchens?

One of the biggest and most easily adaptable plant-based culinary trends is to take dishes that consumers already enjoy and replace the main ingredients with plant-based alternatives. 

From Jackfruit “Crab” Cakes to Chocolate Avocado Mousse, our convention center culinarians continue to develop scalable plant-based solutions for our guests. Our chefs enjoy upcycling plant-based ingredients into new and creative dishes that allow for the full use of the item resulting in a multitude of diverse tastes and textures.     

Some other delicious plant-based savory and dessert options include:  

• Coconut Ceviche with Leche de Tigre
• Butternut Squash Risotto with Farro Medio, Kale and Zucchini Bacon                
• Vegan Apple Crisps
• Pumpkin Bars with Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
• Vegan Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Sodexo Live! Executive Chef Stephan Blaser at Huntington Place in Detroit is always including plant-based options when customizing menus (which is all the time!). Last year, he created an amazing four-course plant-based plated lunch for a sustainability meeting and it was both delicious and all locally sourced. 

Recently, Sodexo announced that it had teamed up with Humane Society International to create a specialized masterclass aimed at training chefs, nutritionists, buyers and marketing teams to create and promote plant-forward, animal-friendly and environmentally conscious menus. Can you explain how this works?

This innovative partnership with Humane Society International is a perfect fit with Sodexo’s overarching goal of increasing plant-forward options for our clients and consumers. It will allow our Sodexo Live! chefs to expand their knowledge and creativity, elevate the overall food experience, and inspire meeting and event planners to incorporate plant-based dishes at events. The format of this specialized masterclass will also help our teams educate planners on both the human health and climate benefits of plant-based eating. 

What are your top tips for helping event planners overcome any attendee pushback to eliminating meat and dairy from their event menus?

Help educate the attendees in advance on “why” it’s important through event apps, event websites, emails, etc. Put it in terms that attendees can easily relate to regarding the benefits of moving away from meats and dairy to help build a healthier planet full of healthier people. If attendees know the “why” and can personally relate to it, they’ll usually be more amenable to the change. 

Integrate plant-based options gradually year-over-year and highlight the benefits of those options on the event app and website. Plus, include onsite awareness through signage and other communication methods at the event itself. 

Lastly, consider serving international dishes that are more naturally plant-forward so the meat and dairy removal won’t be as noticeable, like Mediterranean, Indian, Mexican, Vietnamese and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Know of a dynamic event industry culinary professional who deserves some time in the spotlight? Reach out to lisa.savas@informa.com and danica.tormohlen@informa.com.