Exhibit City News - March/April 2020

ECN’s 2020 I&D ACE Awards Submissions Deadline is April 17

March/April 2020 • VOL. 26 • ISSUE 2

UFI & SISO Launch Campaign Over Coronavirus, Travel Bans & Tradeshow Cancellations

IN-DEPTH LOOK AT LEAD CAPTURE & RETRIEVAL EXHIBITORLIVE! PREVIEW SPOTLIGHT ON LAS VEGAS

EXHIBITCITYNEWS.COM

001_Cover_noSpine_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 9:21 AM

beXtreme™ Bigger plans require longer spans, and that’s exactly what our new Xtreme™ solutions provide.

Featuring new products like our beTruss™ and Double Deck, Xtreme™ enables a higher load capacity, and higher level of style and scale for your designs. Our Xtreme™ solution integrates with our entire b62® frame system, and accepts both rigid, or SEG textile graphics. beTruss™ allows you to carry heavier loads, and make longer spans with fewer columns, creating impressive structures of any size. Our Double Deck allows you to add needed square footage to your design without the added cost of additional floor space.

Be anything, be Xtreme™ with our all new beTruss™ and Double Deck.

The industry demanded higher plans and larger spans, so beMatrix® developed our Xtreme™ solution. Integrating completely with the b62® frame system and accepting both hard panel and fabric infills, the Xtreme™ solution gives you even more possibilities to create your design.

beMatrix® follow us:

/beMatrixUSA

www.bematrix.us +770 225 0552

002_AdBank_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:14 AM

There is no speed without Momentum.

Why not run with us?

MANAGEMENT

NATIONWIDE LABOR MANAGEMENT SERVICES Our Consultative Approach to Installation & Dismantle services makes running fast look easy. Please contact us today and allow Momentum to become an extension of your business.

WWW.MOMENTUMMGT.COM

002_AdBank_0320.indd 2

770-777-4100

3/10/20 3:14 AM

We don’t just FURNISH BOOTHS.

WE PROVIDE AHA-INSPIRING, COLLABORATION-ENCOURAGING, NETWORK-BUILDING LAUNCH PADS.

Trade shows and conferences should propel business forward, and CORT Events creates the environment to make that happen. We help you make sure attendees have a place to think at the top of their game, so you can go ahead and call us what we are: your partner in executing unforgettable engaging environments and exhibits.

© 2020 CORT. A Berkshire Hathaway Company.

004_AdBank_0320.indd 1 1326CEF_ECN_BthShwFPAd_FnlMech.indd 1

3/10/20 3:15 AM 1/31/20 9:49 AM

004_AdBank_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 3:15 AM

TABLE OF CONTENTS 24-31

On Our Cover: As tradeshow cancellations and postponements grow to more than 500 worldwide, UFI & SISO launch “This Show is Open for Business” campaign

ECN’s 2020 I&D ACE Awards Submissions Deadline is April 17

Tradeshow Tech: Leading the Way Lead Capture & Evaluating Success

March/April 2020 • VOL. 26 • ISSUE 2

24

UFI & SISO Launch Campaign Over Coronavirus, Travel Bans & Tradeshow Cancellations

32-35

ExhibitorLive Preview & New Product Showcase

41

Shop to Showfloor Section

IN-DEPTH LOOK AT LEAD CAPTURE & RETRIEVAL

I&D and Event Labor

EXHIBITORLIVE! PREVIEW SPOTLIGHT ON LAS VEGAS

42-44

EXHIBITCITYNEWS.COM

Exhibiting at IAEE’s Expo! Expo!

3/11/20 9:21 AM

Feature Story

46-47

The Wow Booth

52

Blue Sky Combines “Intriguing, Exciting, Rustic, Industrial & Modern” for Sakrete at World of Concrete

Coronavirus Prompts Tradeshow Cancellations

48

UFI & SISO Launch

The Rigging World

“This Show Is Open for

ETCP-Certified Rigging Leaders Increase Safety and Profit

Business” Campaign

Columns

56-57

12

Birttani Display Keeps It Local with Innovative Solutions

Alphabet Soup

58-59

As The Saws Turn

14

Andy’s Apps Plans: The Long & Short of It

16

The Digital Frontier Social Media From A to Z

18

The International Man Expect the Unexpected

20

Ask An Expert The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod Undergo Transformation

Departments 8 Editor-in-Chief’s Corner 10 Convention Center Snapshot 22 Airport Snapshot 52 International Focus 54 AIPC 70 Convention Center Spotlight 86 People on the Move 92 The D.E.A.L. 96 Regional Show Calendar 107 Industry Service Guide 118 Classifieds 121 Advertiser Index

The Don & Mike Show

70

The Don & Mike Show Goes to EuroShop

60

CORT Events’ Design Trends

The Latest Designs, Colors & Styles

62

Circle TPR is All About The Guest Experience

64

Hiring Booth Talent

It’s Not Just “Booth Babes” Anymore

68

Lifestyle Trends, Wearables and Sustainability at CES

72

EDPA Regional Club Roundup

EDPA Club News From Across the U.S.

78

Momentum Honors Employees at Company Meeting in Alpharetta, Ga.

80

FIT Capstone Event

FIT Students Present Their Theses

82

In Memoriam

Kathy D’Adamo, Kraig Shetler & Richard Rebecky

6 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

006_TOC_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 1:01 PM

Cover and top photo (EDPA Access) by PADGETT & CO.

001_Cover_noSpine_0320.indd 1

McNabb

EXHIBIT FLOORING

JOIN US FOR DRINKS AND APPETIZERS

VISIT US DURING EXHIBITOR LIVE

OPEN HOUSE Monday March 30th 3:00PM to 6:00PM 6283 S. Valley View Blvd.

Suite A Las Vegas, NV 89118

Using our 69 years of experience For 69 years D.E. McNabb Flooring has been bringing cutting edge flooring solutions to the exhibit and event industry. We have remained the premier flooring provider in the industry by offering our customers the very best in products, services, and onsite installation.

Allow us to help you tackle your project of any size with our bespoke approach to your event flooring needs.

Are you ready to take your flooring to the next level?

Making Every Floor Uniquely Yours w w w . m c n a b b e x h i b i t fl o o r i n g . c o m

006_TOC_0320.indd 2

How may we help you with your next exhibition?

Las Vegas , NV | Dalton, GA | Milford, MI

3/11/20 9:21 AM

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF’S CORNER

Greetings to our readers!

W

ell, it certainly went from being the “best of times” to what could end up being the “worst of times” quickly. The media has created a coronavirus scare that has caused more than 500 tradeshows worldwide to be cancelled—apparently thinking the “cure” of harming the economy is better than taking your chances on getting sick and getting healthy again. With all the same symptoms as the flu, and considering that more than 50,000 people die every year from the regular flu, it seems silly to crash the economy over a virus. So, ECN stands behind UFI, SISO, ESCA and all the other associations that want everyone to just continue business as usual with some extra precautions (which most people do during the flu season anyway).

We look forward to attending ExhibitorLive and seeing everyone who isn’t affected by a travel ban (country or corporate). We hope you’ll stop by our booth #1424 and say hello. We’ve extended the deadline on our ACE Awards, so we’re looking for the best nominations for 2020. The awards ceremony will be later this year—maybe in

Chicago or Atlanta, or both? Details are being worked out right now and we look forward to taking the ACES on the road!

We also hope you’ll enjoy this issue with our stories on lead capture and retrieval options (p. 24-31), our ExhibitorLive preview (p. 32-35), our corporate profiles on Birttani Displays (p. 56-57) and Circle TPR (p. 62-63), our EDPA chapters coverage (p. 7274), our Wow Booth (p. 46-47) on Blue Sky Exhibits at World of Concrete, and our In Memoriam tributes (p. 82-85) to three giants in our industry—Kathy D’Adamo from Angles on Design, Kraig Shetler from Booth Traffic and Richard Rebecky from Coastal International. We will miss them all and hold them in our hearts.

And for those who are staying in Las Vegas an extra day after the show, you’re invited to come hear my Speakeasy Swingers on April 2 at the Italian American Club!

Stay healthy, keep on jazzin’ and we’ll see you on the showfloor!

– Editor-in-chief

2020

GO TO ECNACEAWARDS.COM TO NOMINATE AN ACE! Four new categories! Flooring Installer ACEs, Graphics Technician ACEs, Extruded Aluminum System Installer ACEs, & Double Deck Installer ACES.

Exhibit City News Presents the 2nd Annual 2020 I&D ACE Awards Accepting nominations for 2020 until April 17 Submit at ECNACEawards.com

PUBLISHER Donald V. Svehla Jr. (702) 309-8023 ext. 102 DonS@exhibitcitynews.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jeanne Brei (702) 309-8023 ext. 103 JeanneB@exhibitcitynews.com MANAGING EDITOR/GAL FRIDAY Lisa Abrams (702) 309-8023 LisaA@exhibitcitynews.com ART DIRECTOR Thomas Speak Tom@Speak-Design.com NEWS EDITOR/WEBSITE Ray Smith (702) 309-8023 ext. 104 RayS@exhibitcitynews.com FEATURE WRITERS/EDITORS F. Andrew Taylor & Kerstan Szczepanski (702) 309-8023 ext. 105 FAndrewT@exhibitcitynews.com COLUMNISTS Calanit Atia, Amadeus Finlay, Andrew Fulton, Larry Kulchawik, Jim Obermeyer, Cynthya Porter, F. Andrew Taylor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lee Ali, Aloysius Arlando, Vince Battaglia, Kevin Dana, Jamie Edwards, Peter Gillett, Li Jackson, Erica Johnson, Mike Morrison, Amanda Peters, H.K. Wilson NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Roxanne Tomko & Christy DiGiambattista (702) 309-8023 ext. 107 RoxanneT@exhibitcitynews.com ChristyD@exhibitcitynews.com CIRCULATION Manny Chico Mike Morrison

CSAL

CONVENTION SERVICES ASSOCIATION

AS VEGAS

Vol. 26, issue 2, copyright 2020 by EXHIBIT CITY NEWS, published six times a year by Mr. Tradeshow Communications, LLC, 1675 E. Desert Inn Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89169. Editorial views presented within this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher and no liability is inherent. To subscribe, go to ExhibitCityNews.com or call (702) 309-8023. Reproduction/reuse of this material may only be permitted with expressed permission of Exhibit City News. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to location listed above.

Photo by Allison Earnest

3/10/20 2:17 PM AceAwardsCongrats_FP_032020.indd 1

8 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

008_Publishers_Word+Masthead_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 2:05 PM

008_Publishers_Word+Masthead_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 3:22 AM

CONVENTION CENTER SNAPSHOT

Rendering Courtesy Of Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

010_Snapshot_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:24 AM

Las Vegas Convention Center Address: 3150 Paradise Rd., LV, NV Size: Third largest CC in the U.S. with 1.9 million sq.ft. exhibit space, 3.2 million sq.ft. total with 145 meeting rooms (more than 241,000 sq.ft.) that handle seating capacities ranging from 20 to 2,500 and 13 exhibit halls (1,940,631 sq.ft.) separable by movable walls. A grand lobby and registration area (225,000+ sq.ft.) efficiently link existing exhibit halls with new exhibit and meeting rooms, with parking for more than 10,000 cars.

Opened: April 1959 as a 90,000 sq.ft. exhibition hall with a 6,300 seat, silver-domed rotunda Renovations: Currently undergoing its 14th, a $1.52 billion expansion that will add 1.4 million sq.ft.

Management: Owned and operated by the LVCVA board (elected officials and six reps from the private sector). Clark County and the city of Las Vegas each have two reps, while the cities of NLV, Henderson, Mesquite and Boulder City each have one seat.

Fun Fact #1: When Phase Two of the expansion is complete (for CES 2021) 1.4 million sq.ft. will be added and PLUS! feature the largest column-free Where to eat, space in N. America (more than sleep and play 325,000 sq.ft. of the West Hall) near LVCC on p. 70 Fun Fact #2: Phase Three, slated for completion in 2023, will include the complete renovation of the 3.2 million sq.ft. facility and an underground transportation system that will connect the current facility with the expansion and make a nearly 30 minute walk into one minute of travel time Website: www.lvcva.com ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 11

010_Snapshot_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 3:23 AM

COLUMN As the Saws Turn

Alphabet Soup

M

y wife and I have been married close to 40 years, and we dated and were engaged for another five years prior to that (we started when we were two…). And for that entire time, she has been a nurse. Operating room, intensive care unit, pre-op and post-op, at a variety of major hospitals in Kansas City, St. Louis, Indianapolis and Chicago.

By Jim Obermeyer For this entire period, I have gotten to hear her stories of what goes on in the units where she worked. Most of it has been interesting to hear. But only about half of it I understand. Part of the problem is that she talks in her own language—the language of the medical profollow this conversation. My guess is fessional. And if you’re not one of those, my wife would have no idea what just a lot of it goes right over your head. transpired. While that may have its I used to think it was just her profesbenefits at times, here’s my real quession that had their own language; words tion: how are we communicating with and acronyms that only a trained medical our clients so that they understand the person could understand. My thought work we are doing for them and the was that it made perfect sense; it gave level of service we are providing them, them a way to communicate with each rather than leaving them clueless about other in the presence of a patient, and the what just transpired? patient would be clueless as to what they A recent Exhibitor magazine survey were talking about. suggests that our clients—the “tradeshow However, recently I overheard a conmanagers” in corporate America today versation in our office that convinced me are young, relatively inexperienced—havthat we too have our own language: ing been in the position for three years or less, and do not stay in the position for FYI, I need the RFP for RCA at long before moving on. The days of the CES PDQ, ok?” “lifer,” the person who takes the tradeshow manager position and makes a OK, tell the AE the I&D career of it, are rare. quote from CSI is still MIA.” What that tells me is that part of our role now is to educate our clients about But I just signed the SOW and this business; to help them learn the they need to issue the P.O. business and be successful in it—for as for CES, NAB and CEDIA ASAP.” long as they remain in the position. We cannot assume that the person we are Then I can get the BOL done working with has the level and depth of for the shipment to LVCC by tradeshow industry experience that we EOD tomorrow.” do. In fact, it would probably be safer to assume that they do not.

My guess is most of the people readThat being the case, it is important for ing this will immediately be able to us to speak a language they understand.

“ “ “ “

That we communicate in such a way as to help them grow and succeed in their position. That we work to build advocates for face-to-face marketing within their company, so that when they do move on to their next position, it is because they have learned much from us and take that positive experience to a new company or a new role, and become strong supporters of what we do.

It’s very easy for us to slip into the groove of our own language when talking with each other, and frankly, it’s more efficient and keeps things moving faster.

And with everything happening faster now, that efficiency is critical. But I think we need to be conscious of when we are talking with our clients that we speak a language they understand. Rather than have the “patient” be clueless as to what just happened, I think in our world it’s more important that our client fully understands what is happening.

So get your AEs, AMs and PMs together ASAP and work on this PDQ, OK? See you on the show floor.

Jim Obermeyer has been in the tradeshow industry 38 years, both as a corporate tradeshow manager and exhibit house owner. He is currently a vice president at Hamilton Exhibits and can be reached at jobermeyer@hamilton-exhibits.com.

12 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

012_Col_ATST_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:25 AM

EVENT CHECKLIST

Save this page and use it as a resource for your event.

Check out our websites preferrednetworkprovider.com and weareconven�ons.com.

Information Technology (IT) □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Laptops/Macbooks Desktop/Mac Towers Cell Phones/IPads/Tablets Internet WiFi Router Printer Copier IT Technician Knight Rob�->

Audio Visual (AV) □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

□ □ □ □ □ □

Tables Chairs Couches Desks Accent Pieces Custom

Other Services □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Bo�h Structures Registration Lead Retrieval Bo�h Power -> Interpretation Corporate Events Catering Pyr�echni� Special Effects Transportation Freight

TV/Monitor Speakers Silent Theaters Microphone Mixer Audio Recorder Camera LED Wall Video Wall Event Details Projector w/ Screen Name:_________________ Bo�h Number:__________ AV Technician Custom

Floral □ □ □ □

Furniture

Flowers Shrubs Trees Custom

Company Name:____________ Venue:_______________ Phone Number:____________ Name of Event:__________ Email:_________________ Event Dates:___________

Fill out this checklist and email it back to weareconven�ons@gmail.com. Add any notes you may have that would be specific for your event and the best �me for a follow up call. For a faster response call Johnny at 702-301-8648

We Are Conventions 5087 Arville St Las Vegas, NV 89118

702-301-8648 012_Col_ATST_0320.indd 2

WEARECONVENTIONS.COM 3/11/20 9:32 AM

COLUMN Andy’s Apps

Plans: The Long & Short of It

T

he Boy Scout’s motto is your buck with Google Calendars.

“Be Prepared” and that’s For pricing, you can’t beat free. good advice whether or Thanks to your calendar, you not you were ever a scout, a boy know where you have to be and or, for that matter, prepared. when but it’s also important to

By F. Andrew Taylor The workhorse of preparation know what you’ll face on the way is your calendar. One of the most popular there. There are many GPS-based apps integrated apps, Google, includes Google that will tell you how to get to where you Calendars. Chances are you already have need to be and tell you how long it will a Gmail account, even if it’s just a backtake but Inrex Traffic goes one better— up account or the one you use when you extrapolating how long a trip will take if have to give an email on some form. The you need to start later. For example, if it’s integrated calendar allows you to keep 1 p.m. now and you have a meeting until track of upcoming events many of which 5 p.m. how long will it take you to drive will automatically be populated on your across town to the next meeting after 5 Google Calendar via your email. Events p.m.? Inrex Traffic also crowdsources can be color coded to 11 different colors, and draws from other sources to let you for example, “tomato red” for meetings, know about road closures, dangerous slow “graphite” for conventions, “peacock” for downs and even how long construction family events and “banana yellow” to note is supposed to last. It can display where when all of the 38 new superhero movies parking is and even where traffic cameras you plan to see this year open in theare, in case you’re an international spy aters. There are more elaborate and more trying to slip out of town on the low down. business-oriented apps out there, includAs Twain’s friend Charles Dudley Warner ing Asana, Basecamp, Monday.com and said, “everybody complains about the Wrike but you can get the most bang for weather, but nobody does anything about

it.” Appy Weather talks about it, but the weather-changing app still eludes us. Appy Weather is a weather app for regular folks that gives its answers in simple language in a bold, friendly font. Buttons on the bottom of the home screen allow you to switch from hourly, daily or timeline, which is where most people will probably keep it. Timeline tells you the current time, the temperature and then generally what the weather will be like later. There are other apps that can give you satellite maps, dew points, high pressure fronts and such and that’s great… if you want to be a weatherman.

For more info, visit https://www. fastcompany.com/90443104/the-25best-new-apps-of-2019 F. Andrew Taylor has been in the journalism field for 23 years working for alt-weeklies, tourism publications, hyper-local papers and others. He is also the illustrator for “Christmapus,” the tale of the Christmas Octopus. His first fiction prose story was published in 2018 and was featured at the Vegas Valley Book Fair. Contact him at fandrewt@ exhibitcitynews.com.

14 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

014_Col_Andysapps_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:26 AM

REDUCE YOUR LABOR EXPENSES EXPAND YOUR NATIONAL REACH From City to City, Employco USA has you covered.

Whether you set up one booth or an entire show, anywhere in the country, we can reduce your labor expenses.

SAVE TIME, SAVE MONEY Payroll and Tax Management Union Fringe Calculations Access to Union Agreements Discounted Workers’ Comp Rates Human Resource Outsourcing Employee Benefits for Non Union Employees

Contact Rob Wilson, President 630.286.7345 robwilson@employco.com www.employco.com

Employco USA is the official payroll and HR service provider of the EACA and ESCA

014_Col_Andysapps_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 3:27 AM

COLUMN The Digital Frontier

Social Media From A to Z

Engagement is the interaction between people and brands on social networks.

On Facebook, for example, engagement is defined by likes, comments and shares. acebook. Obviously. The world’s leading platform, no matter what The world of social media is complex, Instagram tells you. Get the low down multi-dimensional and ever changing. at: https://exhibitcitynews.com/soWithin such unpredictable waters, a litcial-media-strategies-social-mediatle calm and dependability is a welcome focus-facebook/ respite for the weary digital marketer. eo… tagging, targeting, filtering.

In this edition of Exhibit City News, enAnything preceded by “geo” in the joy a bitesize A to Z of social media social media is the art of effectively terms that can help navigate addressing audiences based upon these tumultuous straits. their location. ootsuite. While it still has udience: If there is one its bugs, Hootsuite is the mantra any social media best scheduling and data proBy Amadeus Finlay manager should adhere to, its cessing platform for managing “know thy audience.” Understand what and timetabling content. makes your followers tick, when they nstagram. It may have attracted the are active and what is likely to gain new tag, Insta-spam, but this pioneer of viones. Keep an eye on data points to desual social media is a must for businesses termine behaviors and patterns. in the image-rich exhibit and convention oosts: Boosted content, promotspace. Read more at: https://exhibitcied content; anything supported by tynews.com/social-media-strategies-insfinancial investment is known as a boost. tagram-the-social-silver-bullet-ofUse this tool to push content beyond the-industry/ a conventional audience and make an oin.Me. Nothing is done in a vacuimpact on the broader world. And in this um, and social media provides myriad age of social media, boosted content is opportunities to converse. Join.Me is a essential to rise above the noise. platform for facilitating remote video conontent curation: While many ferences, wherever you are in the world. social media campaigns produce red. Seeking a way to keep track beautifully crafted original content, unof your campaign? Kred provides a less you share relevant information from visual history of social media influence. external sources, it will fall flat. While ivestream. Video is all the rage. the ideal ratio will vary by industry and Take advantage of the popularity of organization, a good rule of thumb is a the medium by livestreaming content ratio of 40 percent created and 60 perat events. Platforms that support livescent curated content. treaming include Twitch and Periscope. emographics. Similar to audiention. A simple one. Mentions ence… but also, different. While are the act of tagging another hanaudiences focus on “affinities,” namely dle in a social post. interests and passions, demographic w.ly. A URL shortening service to targeting is concerned with age and condense website addresses. gender-focused advertising. Understand inning. The act of placing a post at the distinction, mix them together and the top of a business page and keepcreate magic. ing it at the top of the feed. A great way of ngagement. The main purpose of featuring an important announcement. social media is to actively engage uora. When Google isn’t enough, with customers and potential customers. questions-and-answer site Quora

F

G

H

A

I

B

J

C

D E

K L

M O P Q

might be the solution. Complete with subject and topic guides, Quora is perfect for research and development. each. The projected number of people that an advertising campaign could target. It also signifies how many people have seen—but not engaged with—a particular post. hare. When a user reposts your content on an independent page, it is known as a share. The more shares, the better (unless it’s being done for controversial reasons). witter. The noisy one, the political one. Learn more at: https://exhibitcitynews.com/social-media-strategies-thelittle-blue-bird-tweeting-twitter/ nfollow. Not desirable, but worth knowing about. An unfollow is exactly how it sounds; when an engaged user actively chooses to stop seeing branded content. iral. And now for one that is. If a post goes viral, it is rapidly and frequently shared by an exponential number of individuals. hatsApp. Now owned by the machine that is Facebook, WhatsApp facilitates social conversation with users anywhere in the world. If you have each other’s phone number and WiFi, WhatsApp allows for free calls, texting and transfer of files.

XX. Adult rated content… avoid at all costs in a business setting.

OLO. You only live once. Use this hashtag to encourage engagement with an event or idea slightly out of the ordinary. oom. And back to video. Zoom is a video conference tool, most often used for teaching.

R S

T

U V

W

X # Y Z

Having worked with Groupon, IBM, Nordea, and others, Amadeus Finlay is a global connector of people and brands. He has extensive experience in professional copywriting, social media and scriptto-screen video production, including on-camera hosting. A graduate of the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, he holds a master’s degree in American History. Connect with him at https://www. linkedin.com/in/amadeusfinlay/

16 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

016_Col_SMS_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:31 AM

Let

showNets your next event

With fast, secure and reliable internet solutions showNets designs, deploys and supports custom Internet solutions for events and venues across the world. Cisco-certified professionals manage your network requirements every step of the way. showNets engineers the fastest, most secure, and most reliable networks and backs them up with responsive, professional, and client based services.

The showNets stress free conference and trade show internet solution includes: Redundant, fault-tolerant designs High-density, reliable wireless service Network Operations Center monitor 24/7/365 Dedicated teams of certified professionals • Flexible service offering includes: • Web casting • Automated access portal • Secure VPN • RFID

• • • •

showNets is the premier provider of high-density wireless and Internet. Our technical experts design and implement a state of the art network for your trade show. Let us show you why clients trust us with their Internet needs.

“showNets Keeps the Unseen Heart of E3 Beating" -Trade Show Executive Magazine, October 2015 Issue

Call today 1-800-310-4454 or check us out online www.shownets.net

016_Col_SMS_0320.indd 2

3/11/20 9:35 AM

COLUMN The International Man

Expect the Unexpected

O

ver the past ten a “Made in America” exhibit years the American and ship it from the U.S. marketplace is now The exhibit design displayed more comfortable doing EDPA as a trusted associainternational business tion and focused on the than ever before. The many exhibit suppliadded confidence ers and the services that American comthey could offer the panies now have to world. The exhibit expand their markets design was state of

By Larry Kulchawik internationally has the art, with a fabric encouraged American exhibcanopy, that was a unique it suppliers to expand their design feature at the time. expo services internationally Twelve U.S. exhibit supplias well. Today, most exhibit ers shared the cost and were suppliers are now providing given an exclusive panel area international exhibit services to feature the exhibit services for the customers they serve. they could offer. Here we are, EDPA’s international chapter one of the largest exhibit assonow has more international ciations in the world, deciding exhibit supplier members than to ship the exhibit via boat to any other world exhibit suppli- Europe. We saved money in er association in the world. this decision, and shared boat I want to tell you a story I space with one of our Amerhave been reluctant to share ican partners (Abex) who for the past 12 years. Back had an exhibit of their own. in 2008 EDPA saw the rise The exhibit was packed and in the international marketshipped as scheduled but a place and decided to exhibit storm in the North Sea caused at EuroShop in Duesseldorf. a major delay. The EDPA diOur team at EDPA deterrector and supervisors arrived mined that we should design three days early and were

then notified that the exhibit would not arrive on time. Our expert exhibit suppliers, who advise our many customers internationally, did not factor a storm on the sea to create a delay. Now what?

Our EDPA team scrambled to create a solution to replace the exhibit. Our German exhibit partner, Bestmann Associates, was planning to do the install and offered to help design and provide a replacement rental exhibit for the opening of the show. A new exhibit was designed, fabricated, shipped and installed in two days. We made the show opening! The next day, our American exhibit arrived. The rental was dismantled and the original exhibit was installed ready for the remainder of the show. The moral of the story: Expect the unexpected when shipping abroad. Another solution is to consider renting locally. Relationships with IFES and EDPA international suppliers certainly allowed for this unexpected situation to

be resolved much easier. Live and learn.

To add to this disaster, I arrived in Germany to attend the show and felt a pain in my stomach. I visited a local doctor and spent the next 10 days in a German hospital. They would not accept my insurance and would not take a credit card for payment. Our German partner, Bestmann, paid the hospital in cash. I never saw the exhibit!

For those who attended EuroShop 2020 this year, I hope you visited both EDPA and IFES. Establishing trusted partners in all major world cities will provide peace of mind and the insurance you need. Be prepared to have a partner to lean on who can help to resolve the unexpected when challenges arise at any tradeshow abroad.

Larry Kulchawik is a past president of EDPA & IFES, the head of Larry Kulchwawik Consulting and author of Trade Shows from One Country to the Next. For more info, visit www. larrykulchawik.com

18 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

018_Col_LarryK_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:32 AM

FASZINATION SYSTEM.

Systems like the alphabet, mathematics or musical intervals excite us again and again.

They help people to orient themselves in their environment, to communicate and they simplify things. All these systems have one thing in common, that they are comprised of a number of components, that interact to achieve a certain goal. What we at OCTANORM find exciting about systems is that individual parts keep reconnecting to create something new. This is why we want to invent systems for you again and again.

Exhibition Systems I Interior Design I Presentation | Cleanroom | Project Solutions – with a system www.octanormna.com

018_Col_LarryK_0320.indd 2

3/11/20 9:38 AM

COLUMN Ask An Expert

The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod Undergo Transformation

T

he STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod, formerly known as the Stratorecently completed, we are proud sphere, Casino, Hotel & Tower, to showcase a property that is has introduced a full transforboth iconic and fresh. For those

By Calanit Atia mation of the iconic property who have not visited the property since Golden Entertainment, Inc., took in a couple of years, it is, for all intents, a ownership in late 2017. brand-new product on the Las Vegas Strip.

The STRAT hotel tower is the tallest Our group and meeting business is soaring, building in the state of Nevada, as well as and we are excited about the future. Our the tallest free-standing observation tower location on the Northern end of the Las in the U.S. Located on the north end of Vegas Strip provides the perfect balance of the Strip at the gateway to the Arts Disproximity to both the vibrant downtown trict (2000 Las Vegas Blvd. S.), the hotel area, the Las Vegas Convention Center and offers 2,427 guest rooms, including the the excitement of the center Strip of Las newly remodeled “Elevate Series” rooms Vegas Boulevard. Further, our combinaand suites, with an 80,000-sq.ft. casino. tion of traditional and unique meeting and Guests are astounded by the views event space in our Skypod offers meeting from the SkyPod, located at the top of the and event planners an opportunity to tower, 1,149 feet high. There is the Top amaze their customers with unparalleled of the World, one of the most romanviews of the Las Vegas skyline and provide tic restaurants in Las Vegas, serving an exceptional experience. award-winning cuisine in a 360-degree Christina De Finis Rogers, director of rotating dining room on the 106th floor. catering and convention services: We are Up one floor, the 107 SkyLounge, lovery excited to present STRAT events cated on the Observation Deck, offers to our guests. The variety of offerings is drinks and food with high-powered DJs. upscale at every level, from dinners for 10 The bungee leap, SkyJump Powered by to events for 1,000 guests. We pride ourMountain Dew, is one of the thrill rides selves on the personal service we provide with Big Shot, Insanity, and X-Scream. our clients along with food and beverage Up another floor, 108 Eats and 108 presentations that have the wow factor. We Drinks add to the nightlife. work closely with our clients to offer them Exhibit City News caught up with the the type of event they envision and are with team at The Strat to get the inside scoop on them from start to finish. In the end, they the new era of this world-renowned resort. become our family and come back to us Bob Clift, VP of sales: This has been an every time they are in Las Vegas. exciting time for the entire Strat team.

Blake Sartini, CEO of Golden EntertainWith the top to bottom, complete renoment: With this comprehensive renovation vation of the hotel, casino and attractions of The STRAT, we are introducing a new

The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod

era for the iconic Las Vegas Strip hotel and casino. This includes elevated design, restaurants, bars, entertainment, rooms and a new Observation Deck, all accentuated by custom art installations created by talented local artists. There has been a full remodel of the entire 80,000-sq.ft. casino, and the exterior has been renovated to deliver a striking new arrival for guests.

Additional room renovations are also completed, with 574 of the total 2,427 rooms now part of The STRAT’s new “Elevate Series,” showcasing contemporary design.

In total, The STRAT has remodeled nearly 1,000 rooms with the recent introduction of the Elite room series and the remodeled Grand and mini-suites.

The STRAT’s main floor has recently introduced Blvd. & Main Taphouse, View Lounge and STRAT Café, the William Hill Sports Book, and Remix Lounge. The STRAT offers two resort-style pools, a variety of shops and entertainment include MJ Live, a Michael Jackson tribute show, and the L.A. Comedy Club, which showcases up-and-coming stand-up comics.

Free valet and self-parking are available anytime for all guests. For more info, visit www.TheSTRAT.com.

Calanit Atia is an award-winning event planner and entrepreneur. Founder and president of A to Z Events, a Las Vegas DMC and entertainment agency; 2020 MPI Women’s Advisory board member; Air Force veteran and speaker. She can be contacted at info@AtoZevents.com. For more info, visit www.AtoZevents.com

20 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

020_AskExpert_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:35 AM

020_AskExpert_0320.indd 2

3/11/20 9:40 AM

AIRPORT SNAPSHOT

022_Airport_Snapshot_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 1:57 PM

McCarran International Airport Location: 5757 Wayne Newton Blvd., Las Vegas, NV Year Opened: Built in 1942, the airport opened to commercial flights in 1948 and was given its current name in 1968.

Size: LAS covers 2,800 acres with four runways and two terminals (1 & 3). In 2019, a record 51.5 million people came through McCarran. It is one of the top 10 busiest airports in the U.S. Transportation: Buses from the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada service the airport along with taxis and ride share services.

Most Strip hotels offer shuttles to and from the airport. The trams only offer service between terminals.

Fun Facts: It is home to the third longest commercial runway in the U.S. Only Denver and JFK in New York have longer ones.

The Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum has exhibits scattered all across McCarran, the N. Las Vegas Airport and the Henderson Executive Airport; some exhibits are 22 miles apart. The Cessna 172 that holds the world endurance record in a propeller-driven airplane (it flew over the desert Southwest for 64 days, 22 hours and 19 minutes) is suspended over the baggage claim.

Set in 1972, The book Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas ends with Hunter S. Thompson driving his rental car across the tarmac to board his plane to L.A. Fiction? It would have been possible, but somewhat psychotic, to drive directly onto the tarmac from Las Vegas Blvd.

Website: www.mccarran.com ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 23

022_Airport_Snapshot_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 1:58 PM

Tradeshow Technology

Leading the Way A WHOLE NEW WORLD OF LEAD CAPTURE & RETRIEVAL

BY CYNTHYA PORTER

It wasn’t that long ago when collecting leads meant having a pocket full of business cards with a couple of words scribbled on them or using one of those newfangled badge scanners to copy nothing but an attendee’s contact information from a code printed on their badge.

Fast forward a decade and there is a whole new world of lead capture and retrieval for every program and budget, from something as simple as taking a picture of a business card to as sophisticated as a cloud-based software that can manage an entire exhibiting program.

Choosing between them can be a bit baffling, however,

unless one takes a moment to understand the options available and, more importantly, how every company can do better when it comes to collecting and using the information of prospective customers.

Also, navigating factors like the lead management system of a particular show or what features beyond lead capture and retrieval would be useful in a software product must be considered as well.

Many tradeshows offer some form of lead service, either by creating badges that are scannable or renting software and equipment to collect information, or both.

But the challenge this creates for exhibitors is that scanning

a badge may not provide the level of detail an exhibitor wants, and using the show’s lead system may cause inefficiencies when booth staff must learn new software at every show they attend and data doesn’t seamlessly integrate with a company’s Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.

Nick Adams, director of lead solutions for Modus, says changing systems repeatedly can waste valuable time that booth staff likely don’t have.

“One of the biggest challenges I see exhibitors facing in how they collect leads at a show is utilizing a consistent, repeatable process,” Adams says. “A lot of the complaints we hear

when speaking to exhibitors is how every show has a different rental option or no option at all. So you’re either having to learn or get a refresher on the show’s rental option or figure out a whole different manual process if there is no option. After the show is just as bad because all these different options create different outputs of data that you have to figure out how to stuff into your CRM or marketing automation system.”

Also problematic, says Rich Eicher Sr., director at lead technology firm codeREADr, is the matter of what equipment is being used—as personal devices will need to have software downloaded

24 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

024_LeadCollection_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:41 AM

onto them and may suffer from poor connectivity when competing for bandwidth at a venue, and rented devices carry an additional learning curve just to charge and operate that can make them a headache to use.

Ryan Schefke, CEO of Captello, a lead management software company, says choosing a show’s lead system that is not customized for an individual company often times means having no control over the data, which can leave an exhibitor and their prospective clients hanging.

“The number one thing I hear is that most people want to get the lead immediately into their CRM or marketing automation system, but when you use the show lead solution, you may not get your leads right away,” he says. “Maybe it’s three days, or it can be weeks.” Even if the information is immediately available, he says, accessing it requires a process of accessing it on the show’s portal, downloading it and then uploading it into a company’s own CRM system.

“A booth manager has a lot of responsibilities and the last thing they have time for is all those steps,” Schefke says.

Moreover, for exhibitors who want to only upload qualified leads or who want to distribute leads based on certain criteria, the data dump of what’s collected by the show’s service is likely to only create extra work trying to sift through the information after the fact.

To provide a value-added service, some organizers will provide lead technology for free or automatically wrap a lead management @ExhibitCityNews

024_LeadCollection_0320.indd 2

system into the booth cost, says Gwen Hill, senior vice president of business development at software provider exhibitforce. But even a free lead solution doesn’t necessarily represent a good use of staff resources given the amount of time working with the data might take.

Some shows pressure exhibitors to pay for their lead capture technology by charging them as much as $1,500 for the developer’s kit, the data mapping information necessary for an outside lead capture system to read the encrypted data on badges.

Without the kit, Hill says, a company doesn’t have the tools necessary to decode attendee badges and lead collection would be relegated to scanning business cards or hand-entering information.

But for companies serious about handling leads in the most fruitful way possible, even a hefty fee for a developer’s kit can be worth it in the long run, Hill says, as can allow consistency and strategic design that streamlines everything about the lead management process.

Most of the customized lead capture and retrieval systems available today provide exhibitors with the option to either scan or hand-type information into a smartphone or tablet— flexibility that can be useful at shows where badges are not scannable or where foot traffic is low enough to make data entry by hand reasonable.

Also, many systems can be set up in kiosk mode, allowing attendees to enter their own information into a device.

Unlike early lead collection

equipment or the more simple systems offered by show organizers, nearly all modern lead management services today allow customers to completely customize the information fields being collected, creating the opportunity for the addition of qualification data, sales team distribution details, notes and more. The information can be tailored to match the fields in a CRM system, making uploading the data relatively effortless.

Also, many systems available now allow a cascade of preformatted actions once a lead is processed, from an automated email to the potential client to the transferring of the lead to the appropriate sales team member based on

the information collected plus many more functions.

This ability to customize how a lead is collected and then immediately put it to work for the company can be a game-changer for companies where processes were not so streamlined or where leads were often not handled properly because of the complexities of doing so. “It’s critical to be able to respond to leads as soon as possible,” Schefke says. “Without a customized process, you have to wait for a lead and then wait to get it into the system, and, in the meantime, your hot lead is getting jumped on by your competitors.”

According to Eicher, even Continued on p. 26

YOUR YOUR LOGO LOGO

Pillows4Show.com

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 25

3/10/20 3:41 AM

Tradeshow Technology Continued from p. 25 just having the ability to edit leads in real time and using a web portal to process them are light years ahead of where lead management capabilities started. “Compare that to rolls of printed leads,” he says.

“Although paper seems oldschool, one of the benefits was the ability to write notes on the paper after speaking with an attendee. That’s no longer necessary because editing leads online or on the device itself is now available.”

A product like codeREADr is unique, Eicher says, because it is a SaaS (software as a service) platform that can be molded for many different types of applications, from event entry control to attendance tracking or event asset tracking. The company’s primary customers, Eicher says, are event organizers or registration technology companies, which have the ability to while label codeREADr software into a multitude of mobile apps.

Licenses for the product start at $14.99 per device per month with volume pricing substantially lower, and users can upgrade and downgrade from one month to the next as needed.

In the case of exhibitforce, the lead management system is scalable and charged based on how often it will be used and by how many devices, says Hill. The lead collection portion of the software is just one tiny part of an overall exhibition management system that can track which employees attended what shows, maintain an inventory of exhibiting assets, create detailed cost reports and more. The system is sophisticated enough to tabulate

leads by date, hour collected and type—providing exhibit managers with an abundance of information regarding the flow of potential business.

Like exhibitforce, Captello has a diverse suite of capabilities depending on the needs of the users. Aside from managing leads, the software can be used by someone hosting an event, allowing guests to register, check in and print badges among other things. It also has a gamification feature with 25 different customizable games to attract attendees to stop and play a while. Captello is a subscription-based service that is contracted based on event rather than the number of devices, and it can be used for a single event or on an annual basis.

Similar to its counterparts, Modus, a subscription-based software, has a range of capabilities beyond lead collection and retrieval, including the ability to disseminate an unlimited amount of marketing content just with a keystroke on the lead when it is processed. It has refined lead qualification abilities as well as the possibility to see how lead efforts are going in real time.

Adams says the ability for the software to fully integrate with CRM and marketing automation platforms is one of its strengths, as is the availability of a customer service person 24 hours a day for exhibitors using the service internationally.

Representatives from each company agree on one core concept: Leads are instrumental to successful exhibiting and companies that aren’t following up on them somehow are definitely losing out. Still, a surprising number of exhibit

managers say they really don’t interact with collected leads in a meaningful way after a show and the reasons for that are many. Booth staff adoption of the technology being used is a big one, as is an antiquated system that is difficult to manage because of poor transmission signals, sluggish entry interfaces, or absence of customization that would qualify a lead’s potential.

But the evolution of lead management, Schefke says, means there is no excuse anymore for doing leads badly. Where a company used to have to hire a firm for six figures to create a lead management app, now it can just build its own interface using the framework provided by any number of modern-day suppliers. The opportunity for exhibitors to do what they do better is huge, he says.

Adams agrees. “If all an

exhibitor does is send a sales rep 100 business cards without that added data of what was discussed in the booth, they will quit digging through that haystack after the first 10 leads tell them, ‘I just came to the booth for a hat,’” Adams says.

“Can you imagine if they quit right before they found that ONE lead that could put your event in the black? What if sales were able to identify the right leads from that list and called on the best ones first?

How can we set sales up to be ready to call on the right leads before they go cold again?

Those are the questions I’d be thinking about if I was an exhibitor planning my lead program.” How simple or sophisticated that program is remains up to the exhibitor depending on what sort of system they choose, but the most important thing, everyone concurs, is that they choose one.

26 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

024_LeadCollection_0320.indd 3

3/10/20 3:41 AM

024_LeadCollection_0320.indd 4

3/10/20 3:41 AM

Tradeshow Technology

Trends in Sales Lead Retrieval for 2020 and Beyond

BY PETER GILLETT, CEO, ZUANT AND MARKETPOINT

Just back from the NRF Retail tradeshow in New York, which kicks off the tradeshow season, along with CES in Vegas at a similar time.

Big shows like these have an increasingly valuable place in the sales world. One of the reasons is the growing expense of meeting face-to-face with prospects and customers. This reality is creating a steady growth in attendance at shows that draw people from all continents because of worldclass speakers and innovative technology solutions that solve real-world business problems.

Smart exhibition organizers understand the more highquality leads their exhibitors capture during an event, the more likely they will return the next year. Using an effective mobile lead capture system is paramount to driving sales revenue at tradeshows.

It’s a simple concept wherein you would imagine event managers would be investing in state-of-the-art lead retrieval devices to capture leads.

Unfortunately scanning a badge to obtain limited contact details, which takes days to receive, is still the norm.

Statistics reveal that North

American exhibitors still rent a scanner and exchange business cards with the rest of the world, as they have done for decades.

While this is incredibly shortsighted there are some valid reasons for resistance.

Exhibitor Challenges Over the years our clients consistently report two challenges: » 1. The need to use a different lead capture system at each show, thus adding complexity and the requirement for re-training show workers. » 2. The huge cost of renting multiple scanners; thousands of dollars for something pretty basic.

To solve these issues, we created a “Swiss Army Knife” of a product, which accommodates all badge systems at shows around the world. This universal approach enables our clients to scan QR codes, other 2D and 1D barcodes, and NFC cards.

Tech Innovations Several innovative technologies are currently on the horizon: Although barcode badge scanning is what most exhib-

itors use, NFC (Near Field Communication) should be considered as it is one of best products on the market.

And for visitors, it is easy to use like a touch-based “smart” hotel room key. For now, due to cost, NFC seems restricted to IT and telecom shows such as Barcelona’s Mobile World Congress. But it’s only a matter of time before the technology prices come down.

Various vendors have also experimented with iBeacon-compatible hardware transmitters; a class of Bluetooth low energy (BLE) devices that broadcast their identifier to nearby devices. The technology enables smartphones, tablets and

other devices to function when close to an iBeacon. By transmitting a universally unique identifier, iBeacons determine the device’s physical location, track customers, and trigger a location-based action such as check-in to a booth, update on social media or push notification.

Facial recognition from pioneers like Zenus has made big strides during the last year. Visitors register before the event with one click using their social media profiles.

Alternatively, they can upload a picture or take a selfie with an app that enables users to maximize networking time.

It uses advanced geo-location technology with power-

28 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

028_TrendsinSales_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:44 AM

Using an effective mobile lead capture system is paramount to driving sales revenue at tradeshows...

ful analytics to identify and remember each interaction so users connect with people and follow-up directly. When exhibitors arrive at an event, they log into LinkedIn via their smartphone and join the event. Phones are left in pockets and checked later for data interactions during the show, viewable in a simple timeline.

Mobile Compliance Issues This brings me on to my final point. A lot of the new technology is hidden from view. Take our own Zuant Data Vault; many years in development in readiness for GDPR and the new Californian laws just passed in January 2020, this system shows @ExhibitCityNews

028_TrendsinSales_0320.indd 2

what has to be done to truly manage privacy and the data rights of the individual.

While most industry coverage of data issues in a GDPR world focuses on in-house systems, managing contact data on mobile devices poses a huge risk because it is stored on individual devices. We must address this real risk head-on, and manage all optins and changed information on all devices in use, whether on- or offline… a tall, but critical order for sure.

Each client account has a database in the Vault, and each database contains the entire history of every change made to every contact record.

Every detail of every data load is also recorded, so that the entire history of the interactions between the company and its prospects and customers is properly maintained, and available on request.

In summary, combine all these developments with growing attendance at large shows, and there is absolutely no excuse for leaving qualified leads

on the showroom floor. Event managers should expect show organizers to either provide a standard retrieval solution for all exhibitors or invest in their own. For marketing, sales and management, it’s the only way to generate leads and assess accurate ROI from events.

Peter Gillett is CEO of Zuant where he’s responsible for driving product development and client roll-outs of the company’s award-winning mobile lead capture app across U.S. corporations. A pioneer in database marketing since the late 1970s, Gillett is a serial entrepreneur. As CEO and founder of Marketpoint, he created the world’s first webbased CRM system funded by Lucent Technologies in the 1990s.

In 2010, he launched the first CRM

applications for the iPad. CRM, lead generation and follow-up are still the focus for Zuant and its network of NACCENT call centers around the globe. In 2017 he was voted one of the 40 Most Inspiring People in Sales Lead Management by his peers.

With four decades of experience in marketing and sales, Gillett is a highly sought-after thought leader on hot-button topics including mobile and GDPR. He writes a regular monthly column series for MarTech Series, where he explores what’s new in marketing and sales from a global perspective. Today Zuant and Marketpoint are his sole focus, but he is as excited as ever by innovation, as more and more new technologies enable highly visual and cost effective versions of the “original databased marketing” concept to be offered to world leading, global companies.

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 29

3/10/20 3:45 AM

Tradeshow Technology

thousands of new “contacts,” but really you haven’t had meaningful engagements with them, which in turn could develop into a long-lasting business relationship. Remember, events are a fantastic opportunity to get in front of potential new clients.

You need to spend time with each and every one of these people to find out their roles within their company, their business challenges and most importantly how your product or service can help them.

Evaluating Exhibition Success in a New Decade

BY LEE ALI, MD EXPO STARS

Tradeshows and exhibitions can offer a wealth of opportunities for new business leads in a short space of time. Whatever your industry, the chance to get in front of your target audience can prove invaluable for many businesses.

As such many businesses are keen to participate in tradeshows and spend months planning the perfect stand,

training staff and developing a strategy beforehand to make the event a success.

Yet, when it comes to the event, many rely on the age-old tradition of scanning badges to track the number of visitors to the stand, deeming high footfall a marker of a successful event.

But this is all wrong. Here, I’ll explain some simple tactics you can employ to gain a

much more accurate reflection of your exhibition performance success.

Why badge scanning isn’t efficient It’s easy to scan a badge then move on to your next visitor to the stand, but this is exactly the problem with badge scanning. You feel like you are gathering data, in fact you may have hundreds or

A simple conversation These days, exhibitors pull out all the stops to create a visually appealing stand to attract potential clients. And while this does help draw people to the stand, you need to make sure you are attracting the right people, rather than those looking to play on your VR headset or to take home a free branded stress ball.

Many people are there, however, to learn about how your product or service can help them, so present opportunities for exhibitors to generate quality leads. But you need to ease them into the conversation by learning about them and their business needs.

Remember too, that people will be at different stages of the buying process and might not be ready to commit to anything that day, but they may be later down the line and that’s one of the reasons it’s key to effectively engage them and make sure they remember your business.

Consider the next steps for people who come to the stand.

It may not be a purchase, but another goal that enhances

30 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

030_MeasureSuccess_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:49 AM

your connection—and here is how you can effectively measure success.

Defining intelligent goals The kind of goal that can enhance your connection could be signing up to an online webinar, taking advantage of a free trial, booking a meeting, or becoming LinkedIn connections and you can use these to monitor the success of a tradeshow.

Other ideas for data you can track include: » Satisfaction scores from feedback forms » Market research surveys completed » Webinar or free trial sign ups » Meetings booked » Newsletter subscribers

@ExhibitCityNews

030_MeasureSuccess_0320.indd 2

No tech is as valuable as a meaningful face-to-face interaction...

Check your tech Technology may make your stand the most visually appealing, but remember no

tech is as valuable as a meaningful face-to-face interaction.

Technology systems can however help in bringing a more sophisticated way of measuring success to your event. There are a number of different platforms that allow you to do this, at Expo Stars we use Tilkee as our official Tradeshow Lead Capture and ROI Measurement Partner. As well as organizing the leads generated at events, it automates a lot of the follow-up steps and provides data around engagement and conversions.

A more accurate picture of success Like anything with business, measuring tradeshow

success requires a carefully considered strategy. In defining more intelligent goals, you will not only establish a more accurate picture of success, but also a clear path of next steps to enhance your business connection. And after all the work that goes into planning an exhibition, it’s time to ditch the badge scanners and focus on nurturing quality leads that will, in turn, help you maximize ROI. Expo Stars is a global exhibition engagement company based in the U.K. The founder and MD, Lee Ali, argues exhibitors should change their current measurement tools for a more accurate evaluation of success at tradeshows. For more info, visit www.expostars.com

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 31

3/10/20 3:50 AM

EXHIBITORLIVE PREVIEW

Connect with Your Species: EXHIBITORLIVE Preview

BY AMADEUS FINLAY

EXHIBITORLIVE is back and if early indications are anything to go by, this year’s incarnation at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, might be the one that defines them all. As far back as January 30, EXHIBITOR magazine announced it was expanding the size of the exhibit hall to accommodate unprecedented demand, with increased attention coming from across the globe. Hopefully, the corona virus doesn’t affect those plans. A calendar shake-up sees an unusual March 29-April 5 schedule, a full month and four days later than 2019’s standard February run time. And that’s not all that’s new. ZenSpace will host a SmartPod meeting lounge on the show floor that promises a private, quiet environment with noise reduction and controllable LED lighting. Air circulation and a secure access lock, USB charging ports and wifi completes the snazzy array. Beyond

the safety of secure access locks, amid the hustle and bustle of the floor, Display America will be unveiling its latest “Dynamic Light Box” technology, while at the entrance… remember the 3D pink elephant from 2019?

Undaunted by the unmitigated success of Peanuts, ID3 will be returning for a third year and promises yet another piece of stunning visual expression between registration and the main entrance.

Studious types will appreciate an expansive menu of educational options, with 174 sessions, workshops and field trips on offer, as well as university-affiliated courses in seven skill-set tracks. And the folks over at Exhibitor magazine are pretty confident in their abilities, promising a “100 percent Registration Refund Guarantee: Learn What You Came to Learn or Your Money Back.”

Key dates and times: It all kicks-off rather quietly on

March 29, with workshops sessions running at 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The 30th is when the festivities launch in force, with workshops running from 8 a.m. and the exhibit hall opening at 11:30. The first timers’ meet-up begins at 5:30 p.m., with the unmissable Welcome Reception at 6:30. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday follow a similar pattern, with a host of sponsored networking events running every evening. Returning for its 20th party in 2020 is the Willwork/Exhibit City News party on Tuesday evening at Light nightclub, back by overwhelming demand, right in Mandalay Bay casino.

In addition to the Randy Smith Memorial Golf Classic being held on Sunday, March 29 at Revere Golf Club at 2600 Hampton Rd. in Henderson (buses will depart from the Tour Level of the Mandalay Bay Lobby at 7 a.m. and will return to the Mandalay Bay at 2 p.m.),

there will also be the fifth annual EXHIBITORLIVE Poker Championship tournament on Monday, March 30, starting at 9 p.m. in the Mandalay Bay Poker Room. The no-limit hold ‘em poker tournament will feature an $80 buy-in for 10,000 tournament chips. Late registration and re-entries will be available for the first hour and is limited to the first 50 players who sign up. The first place finisher will receive an EXHIBITORLIVE 2021 Main Event Pass for complimentary access to nine educational sessions ($2,195 value), courtesy of Exhibitors Service Network.

Perhaps all this wonderment can explain this year’s curious operating slogan, “Connect with Your Species.”

Just like migrating herds, EXHIBITORLIVE gathers us in one, packed location where everyone takes away something of benefit.

See you in Vegas!

32 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

032_ELP_Preview_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:51 AM

A LEADING FORCE IN THE EXHIBIT & EVENT INDUSTRY

Welcome to the exhibit experience you deserve

Expert labor where and when you need it.

Premier provider of skilled installation & dismantling services throughout the U.S. and beyond.

Tradeshows, conventions, private events, and more...

Visit us at booth 437 at ExhibitorLive 2020 www.coastalintl.com 032_ELP_Preview_0320.indd 2

(800) 235-9200 3/16/20 12:54 PM

EXHIBITORLIVE PREVIEW

Exhibitry's HoloTable

New Product Showcase Features Innovation at Work

BY KERSTAN SZCZEPANSKI

The New Product Showcase at ExhibitorLive features some of the latest products offered to exhibitors and event managers. A panel of judges will award the top products with the Buyers Choice Award, but make sure you check out submitted products yourself to see what is being offered this year. Here are a few of the highlights of the 35 products submitted this year.

Lightbox and Walls and Signs Illuminate Backlit Fabric Optima, www.optimagfx.com Booth #543 Illuminate Backlit Fabric is the next step in the evolution of backlit fabric displays. In vivid colors brought to you by Optima’s 4K Print Technology, Illumi-

nate has the strength to weather tradeshow travel. Soft to the touch, yet durable, Illuminate doesn’t need to be rolled on a core. Just install and the wrinkle resistant material will smooth itself out.

Flame retardant and eye dazzling, Illuminate brings safe and sure displays to the tradeshow floor.

55” or 65” LG Wallpaper OLED display 55” Planar Transparent OLED display ABCOMRENTS, www.abcomrents.com Booth #1227 ABCOMRENTS’ 55” or 65” LG Wallpaper OLED wallpaper signage requires minimal space for installation. This display has the best picture quality with seamless blending into the wall with only 6mm depth and can be grouped for large video walls.

Also, ABCOMRENTS has the 55”

Planar Transparent OLED display which shows content on a screen that is transparent. With HD resolution, the graphics or video will enhance any display behind or around the screen. The Planar Transparent OLED can even be tiled to create large video walls.

Symphony Classic Exhibits Inc., www.classicexhibits.com Booth #242 A portable, modular display combining easy assembly with elegant design and clever accessories, Symphony is an upscale display priced thousands of dollars less than most custom modular exhibits.

Mix and match backwall shapes and distinctive accessories for unlimited design possibilities. Concave, convex, rectangular, arch and half arch shapes are framed

34 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

034_ELP_NewProducts_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 3:57 AM

with lightweight aluminum made for SEG fabrics that are seamless and wrinkle free. Add floating graphics, counters, workstations, monitor mounts, wireless charging pads, locking storage and iPad stands for a complete display. Tool-less and intuitive for fast convenient set up.

Lucid Shell Lightbox System Birttani Display, www.birttani.com Booth #321 Lightweight and portable, with pre-installed LED lighting, Birttani Display’s Lucid Shell Lightbox System has a simple tool-free setup. Its 6.5-ft. to 8-ft. height can be framed with your choice of PVC, ABS or aluminum, straight or curved, with single or double-sided silicone edged graphics. Modular design coupled with various add-on and connecting options make for a lit display of great versatility.

One Planet Fabric Bandstand America, www. bandstandamerica.com Booth #1356 Clean, chop and melt recycled plastic bottles into chips. Then transform the chips into specially engineered yarn. Knit that yarn, in America, into a fabric. Fabric is then dye-sublimated with vivid colors, and what do you have? One Planet Fabric, the first signage fabric made in America from 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic. Smooth matte texture, consistent stretch, excellent opacity but lightweight, One Planet Fabric is flame retardant, wrinkle resistant yet environmentally sustainable. An 8-ft. table cover can be made with 97 bottles and 195 bottles can make a 10-ft. round hanging sign. Bandstand America is “cleaning up the world, one sign at a time.”

Light and Audio LED COB Flexible Tape Lights Step 1 Dezigns, www.step1dezigns.com Booth #624 COB Flexible Tape Lights are perfect for a wide variety of lighting applications such as tradeshow and exhibition displays. You get the freedom to easily design and install

lighting for almost any surface or object with quality illumination and no hot spots.

Fully dimmable when used with Step 1 Dezigns LED Dimmable Drivers, and available in 2700K, 3000K, or 6000K LED CCT. Each 16-ft. reel can be cut every 1.77” so you can cut to any length needed, and they have up to 50,000 hours lifespan.

Crowd Mic Biamp, www.biamp.com Booth #1482 Crowd Mic turns smartphones into wireless microphones: a two pound host device, the ATOM, connects the separate attendee and moderator apps to the room’s AV system, supporting audio outputs from 3.5mm minijack, USB audio, HDMI-embedded audio and more. Moderators can see a full participation log with questions asked or poll results. Attendees can text questions or speak directly into the room’s speaker system using their smartphone as a mic.

Moderators can deactivate mics, select next speakers and take polls and display results.

No waiting for a mic at an event ever again.

Holographic Displays AnimatedReality PeopleVisionFX, www.peoplevisionfx.com Booth #1363 Utilizing the PhotonOpticon system, AnimatedReality projects holographic elements fully integrated within real physical environments. The technology goes beyond the flat confines of conventional video to convey information thru animations, charts, photos, graphs and videos all in holographic space. Compact, reliable, adaptable, no moving parts—AnimatedReality is the next step in holographic reality displays.

HoloTable and ProductMapper Exhibitry, www.exhibitry.com Booth #1252 Customers can learn about an exhibitor’s product through the hands-on holographic experience of the HoloTable.

With none of the bulk associated with holographic projection tech, HoloTable easily fits into any environment with a

Illuminate Backlit Fabric by Optima

scalability that accommodates products of nearly any size. Interact with products or an environment with a wave or a touch, while computer-controlled LED lighting enhances the holographic effect.

Holographic Projection Mapping provides tight integration and alignment of the images with the physical model to seamlessly merge the physical and virtual into an effective, attention-grabbing, interactive 3-D model.

ProductMapper allows your customers hands-on holographic interaction with your product. Surrounded by floating holographic imagery, your product can be examined, explored and even operated by the onlooker. ProductMapper uses the same Holographic Projection Mapping technology as the HoloTable.

Software Utility AssetTracker by ef Enterprise ExhibitForce, www.exhibitforce.com Booth # 1209 AssetTracker by ef Enterprise allows event managers to manage inventory from a single cloud-based platform. Barcoded and non-barcoded assets can be tracked and batch scanned for shipping/receiving and inventory management. Providing a more accurate view than spreadsheets and manual data entry, AssetTracker allows event managers to price, track, ship and receive inventory in less time and with less chance for error. Sync with your ExhibitForce account to benefit from their fullevent functionality, yet tailored to your specific strategy, all in one utility.

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 35

034_ELP_NewProducts_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 3:57 AM

036_AdBank_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 9:43 AM

Safe temporary power solutions Exceptional customer service www.edlen.com (800) 553-3536

@ExhibitCityNews

036_AdBank_0320.indd 2

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 37

3/11/20 2:10 PM

FROM CONCEPT TO CREATION

SERVICES

We want to be your one stop

•

DESIGN ASSISTANCE

•

DISPLAY FABRICATION

•

DISPLAY ERECTION

•

DISPLAY REMOVAL

an d

•

DISPLAY STORAGE

Transportation

•

TRADE SHOW AND PARTY HOSTING

•

TRANSPORTATION TO ALL EVENTS

•

EXECUTIVE HOUSING

Convention Display provider.

When you hire

you will be working with the very best in the field, able to supply all your needs. From Design and Engineering to Full Displays, Lodging and Transportation, we can handle it all.

Booth 1452

036_AdBank_0320.indd 3

Executive Lodging

Daniel E. Campbell, S.E., General Contractor 1094 Langston ranch Avenue Henderson, Nevada 89002 702.456.3806 LVEngineers.com

Booth 1452

3/10/20 4:03 AM

Overthe thelast last30 30years, years, we we have have specialized in the Over the nationwide nationwidetransportation transportation tradeshowfreight. freight. Our Our highly highly skilled staff has ofoftradeshow has earned earned aareputation reputationfor for on-timeand andawless awless transportation transportation of exhibit materials. on-time materials. Dedicated Dedicatedto toour our clients,you youcan canexpect expect aa familiar familiar voice, who is clients, is knowledgeable knowledgeableabout aboutthe the locationand andstatus status of of your your freight, freight, any time of location of day! day!

Whatmakes makes us us stand stand out?

What

30years yearsexperience experience ••30 Available24/7 24/7--365 365 days days aa year year ••Available Familiarwith withthe the industry’s industry’s general general contractors contractors ••Familiar Competitiverates rates without without compromising compromising quality ••Competitive quality Show-to-showcoordination coordination ••Show-to-show

EndResultLogistics.com TheEndResultInc@gmail.com 847-304-1113 EndResultLogistics.com TheEndResultInc@gmail.com 847-304-1113 036_AdBank_0320.indd 4

3/11/20 9:49 AM

Visit us at Exhibitor Live 2020! Booth #343 Professional Skilled Labor Nationwide & International University Training Program Dedicated Project Managers

Event Decorating Data Management Audio Visual Technology

www.willwork.com | 508-230-3170 | info@willwork.com 040_STS_Opener_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 9:58 AM

SHOP TO SHOWFLOOR An In-Depth Look into Today’s World of I&D and Event Labor

Photo ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

Blue Sky Exhibits Combines “Intriguing, Exciting, Rustic, Industrial & Modern” for Sakrete at World of Concrete in Las Vegas

Exhibiting at IAEE’s Expo!Expo!

Pp. 42-44

Blue Sky Creates a Wow Booth for Sakrete at World of Concrete Pg. 46-47

ETCP-Certified Rigging Leaders Increase Safety and Profit Pg. 48

This section is dedicated to all exhibit house professionals, as well as all exhibit managers and tradeshow coordinators worldwide.

For advertising information and rates, please call our offices at 702-309-8023 and ask for sales. @ExhibitCityNews

040_STS_Opener_0320.indd 2

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 41

3/10/20 4:09 AM

SHOP to SHOWFLOOR I&D and Event Labor

Exhibiting at IAEE’s Expo! Expo!

by Calanit Atia

L

aunched in 1992, IAEE’s Expo! Expo! annual meeting and exhibition fosters an environment of thought leadership, best practices and innovative solutions for exhibition organizers to apply in real time for effective results.

Exhibition and events industry professionals attending the tradeshow and conference learn about the latest industry trends and technology, as well as network with like-minded peers. This face-to-face meeting provides attendees with a diverse marketplace to

42 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

042_STS_expoexpo_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 4:12 AM

explore the tools needed to plan and manage successful tradeshows and events.

The 2019 show, held at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas last Dec. 3-5, hosted 270 exhibiting companies across 41,700 net sq.ft. with 953 exhibitor attendees and 1,292 attendees/buyers. Exhibit City News asked GES, Las Vegas Expo and The Expo Group about their experience exhibiting at Expo! Expo! 2019.

Jeffrey A. Quade, executive vice president, North American exhibitions, GESÂ GES is a global, full-service provider for live events, conferences, producing

exhibitions, congresses, corporate events, exhibits, and entertainment experiences. GES provides a wide range of services, including official show services, audio/ visual, creative and design, marketing and measurement services, and event accommodations. GES partners with leading shows and brands, including MAGIC, CONEXPO-CON/AGG, and IFPE, Pfizer, Merck, Bell, Spring Fair Birmingham, and Canadian International Auto Show. GES offers complete turn-key solutions for event and experiential marketing challenges including pre-show brainstorming and planning to at-show execution services to post-show analysis and recom-

mendations, Additionally, GES is a global face-to-face marketing organization with company-owned facilities around the world including the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Middle East, which ensures branding consistency, quality levels, reliability and cost controls.

GES’ in-house capabilities include complete creative and marketing services, metrics development and performance measurement, AV rentals, and event accommodations. Booth Concept Quade: GES’ exhibit experience at Expo! Expo! was created to show how GES helps our clients achieve superhero results. In a fun and interactive environment, show

organizers discovered a world fit for a superhero where they learned more about GES as a creative partner and took a quiz to learn more about their own superpowers. The Superhero exhibit featured several engagement areas, including the Power-Up Bar, which offered superhero-themed, cold-pressed juices and an opportunity to have a caricature artist create a comical superhero sketch of them highlighting their superpower.

Quade: Expo! Expo! provides an opportunity for our GES team to spend time with clients, prospects, and other industry friends. We can share the latest industry trends and technologies and attend eduContinued on p. 44

2019 saw the launch of a new employee recognition initiative. Sho-Link’s Rising Stars work directly with our City Managers and selected Mentors to gain a richer understanding of our industry & procedures.

RISING

Stars

“

I think the book is great.

I read through it as soon as I received it and use it as a reference point. It has given me the opportunity to ask questions to my mentor.

This booklet really makes this a legit program.� —

Special Thank You ...to the Mentors & City Managers for participating in the program.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2019 RISING STARS: Robert Hack – Chicago Isaac Rodriguez – Houston Elliot Walker – Las Vegas

@ExhibitCityNews

042_STS_expoexpo_0320.indd 2

Dustin Hiller – Louisville Jamie McCaskell – Nashville Jarad Gusfa – Orlando

Roy Frias – San Antonio Casey Burchak – San Diego Marci Tarpy – San Diego

Join our National I&D Team www.sho-link.com

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 43

3/11/20 9:58 AM

SHOP to SHOWFLOOR I&D and Event Labor Continued from p. 43 cation sessions. A highlight for the GES team is IAEE’s official party, Humanity Rocks, A Celebration with a Cause, which benefits a local charity. GES is a founding sponsor of Humanity Rocks, and this year marked its 10th celebration.

Following the party, GES was honored to present a $15,000 check to Three Square, a Las Vegas organization whose mission is to provide wholesome food to hungry people, while passionately pursuing a hunger-free community.

Marco Parrotto, vice president of sales, Las Vegas Expo Las Vegas Expo - Complete Show Services is a full-service production partner specializing in national and international conventions, tradeshows, corporate meetings, special events and general exposition contracting.

Its facilities and affiliates across North America and around the world, provide production services and boutique service experience for convention, tradeshow, corporate meeting or special event.

It creates long-term relationships with clients, convention facilities and hotel venues throughout North America.

Las Vegas Expo - Complete Show Services’ commitment to customer service in a boutique service environment tailors resources uniquely to a client’s specific needs.

Booth Concept Marco Parrotto: The reason we decided to design and build the booth we did at Expo!

Expo! was to show potential clients all of our capabilities

as well as all of the different components we have and work with regularly. This booth had various custom designs as well as custom rental components, along with our AV capabilities.

Marco Parrotto: IAEE is always one of the better events to go to, it’s not so much for getting business, but more of getting your name out there, networking, not only with potential clients but more everyone in the industry. Las Vegas Expo does a lot of self-contract business since many companies come to Vegas, and they sub-contract us, so not only we get from associations or tradeshows but other contractors. In the last two years, IAEE truly stepped up their game, 2019 was probably the best IAEE I have attended in 15 years.

Randy Pekowski, president and COO of The Expo Group The Expo Group works with tradeshow organizers, corporate event planners, marketers, and exhibitors. In this time of transformation, The Expo Group works with clients to make strategic change, especially with its technology platform and commitment to invest in employees and customers. Its exhibitor-ordering technology and method Single Source changed the game when The Expo Group debuted it 30 years ago.

The Expo Group helps grow revenues and advance causes through the design and execution of compelling, memorable experiences.

Booth Concept Randy Pekowski: Imagination is in everything we do,

and a lot of what we are doing lately is the transformation of client exhibitions, events and exhibits. We wanted to make it easy for Expo! Expo! attendees to see themselves transformed, so we created, in-house, an augmented reality selfie app that transformed their face into painted color stripes that matched our promotional materials and our host and hostess. The app and eye-catching “imagination” face could be used online, so it immediately extended the reach of our booth outside the walls of the tradeshow, which is a boost for our ROI.

Randy Pekowski: The Expo Group has participated as IAEE has grown its presence over the last three decades and tried to change how they bring buyers and sellers together in more exciting ways. Expo! Expo! exhibitors continue to level up in terms of booth activations, and we have been at the forefront of that trend as we continue to look for greater return on our investment, just like clients do.

This year’s Expo! Expo! will be held at the Kentucky International Convention Center Dec. 8-10. For more info, visit www.myexpoexpo.com.

44 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

042_STS_expoexpo_0320.indd 3

3/10/20 4:14 AM

@ExhibitCityNews

042_STS_expoexpo_0320.indd 4

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 45

3/11/20 2:12 PM

Shop to ShowFloor I&D and Event Labor

Blue Sky Combines “Intriguing, Exciting, Rustic, Industrial & Modern” for Sakrete at World of Concrete Gretchen Turner, Oldcastle APG tradeshow manager, says, “We wanted a booth that was exciting to bring people in, but upper management didn’t want gimmicky and that’s a fine line.” Dave Jackson, senior brand manager, masonry + dry goods at Oldcastle APG, adds, “we thought we could play off of the fact that it was in Las Vegas. You can get away with some stuff in Vegas you can’t do somewhere else.”

So they turned to Blue Sky Exhibits, whom they have worked with for three years.

Tim Kelley, owner/COO of Blue Sky Exhibits, is also an AE for Oldcastle and the creative director, and specializes in faceto-face marketing and creating successful environments. As he explains, “We are about engaging to create the emotional connection. Gretchen and Dave are amazing collaborators. We listened carefully and brought their vision to life. They wanted to do something different.

They wanted to up the ante and create intrigue and excitement…we wanted to create an environment that was intrigu-

ing yet open and inviting. This was a really fun and one of the most challenging projects we’ve ever done. Kudos to Gretchen and Dave and Oldcastle APG and the Sakrete team. Nine out of ten times, when we design something that is really unique, they [clients] back out, but Gretchen and Dave had the foresight and vision to take a chance. They did something no one had ever done and it’s been so exciting working with them on this project.”

Kelley explains, “Our design was of a structure that played

46 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

046_STS_WowBooth_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 10:07 AM

Photo ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

O

ldcastle APG, a CRH company and North America’s largest building materials company, wanted a booth that was “exciting” to feature their market-leading concrete and mortar brands including Sakrete and Amerimix at the World of Concrete, the commercial construction industry’s largest annual international event for concrete professionals. Sakrete, founded in 1936, is North America’s original dry concrete mix brand and a leader in concrete and other building products.

Photo ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

By Jeanne Brei

off of the diamond shape of the Sakrete logo—we used scrims, a truss, we stretched SEG fabric over a gigantic metal structure where some elements are industrial yet many have a very ultra-modern look. Marrying a modern look with a rustic, industrial look from work sites using raw wood, corrugated metal, hardware, etc. and the end result was really different and shook things up. We created 20foot wide logos where you could still see the action happening inside and we created two very large and dynamic entry points so it was still fairly open yet still very intriguing,” adding, “It was a challenge–walling off sections with small peek-ins from some openings to create intrigue and excitement.”

Kelley continues, “The structure was a beast. It was

made in-house of extruded aluminum; we brought these 25-foot massive walls, 90-ft. long and assembled them in-house. It was a miracle to get it up and standing—an engineering feat. Two long walls are a single panoramic image 90-feet long and 20 feet high, and we printed it at scale. We had cantilevered entrances so people would be intrigued enough to come in. Once in, we had digital slot machines and they were great—something fun that incentivized discussions with booth staff. For each conversation they had with booth staff, they would get a token to use at the slot machines—it was an exciting and interactive way to get their swag. We used a third-party converted mechanical to USB design that

used coding probabilities with very tightly controlled odds, so we knew how many prizes would be given away. We had eight different prizes with an aggressive win rate. The grand prize was an electric paddle mixer but we also had work gloves, T-shirts, hoodies, beanies, etc., and they received an additional token for play if they downloaded the Sakrete app at the booth.”

Oldcastle APG tradeshow manager Turner says, “The booth was everything we asked for–it was a big success and always busy. People really enjoyed doing the circuit and talking to each rep to get their tokens and play the slots for their swag. Nearly everyone won something and the booth was exciting without being gimmicky.”

BY THE NUMBERS: Booth Footprint: 40 x 90 Install: six men and two supervisors for five days Height: 20-ft.

Each diamond shaped logo/ graphic: 19-ft. wide.

Total of 16 fabric diamonds.

Entrance Cantilever: 14-ft. high.

CREDIT LIST: Designed and built by Blue Sky Exhibits: Tim Kelley Owner/COO, Blue Sky Exhibits, AE for Oldcastle APG & creative director & Kim Cramer - senior account manager Lead Designer: Diego Fernandez Support Design: Janet Bartczak (the interior demo pods) Production Manager: Roger Reyelts Client Team: Gretchen Turner, tradeshow manager & Dave Jackson, senior brand manager, masonry + dry goods, Oldcastle APG Account/Project Management: Roger Reyelts, Holly Robbins, Kim Cramer Production/Engineering: Derek Sheffield

Photo ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

Photo ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

Exhibit Construction: Paul Watson, Robert Scott, Steve Pitts Graphics Production: Nicholas Peterson Photography: Exposures Ltd. (exhibit photography) and Debonair Films (large fabric graphics on the interior diamonds) Exhibit I&D: Roger Reyelts, Robert Scott, Mark Mleczko, Richard Wienecke

March/April 2020 47

046_STS_WowBooth_0320.indd 2

3/11/20 10:07 AM

SHOP to SHOWFLOOR I&D and Event Labor THE RIGGING WORLD

ETCP-Certified Rigging Leaders Increase Safety and Profit

W

hile pondering my topic for head-scratching is minimized, and labor this issue, your TEAM came to knows exactly what the expectations are, mind—specifically its strucwhich increases job efficiency. ture. In other words, I wonder if you’ve Money: An ETCP-certified rigger added a professional, ETCP-certified knows how to scrutinize a project so rigger to your team? nothing is overlooked, thus creatI ask, because we all have the ing a basis for an accurate bid. same goal: a strong team that We all have stories where a completes projects in safe, crucial detail was overlooked, efficient ways that lead to solid resulting in a screwed-up timeprofits. But do we all have the line which affected every other

By Andrew Fulton same understanding on how this job-related department, not to is accomplished? The fact is, when mention the budget. Critical details are you add an ETCP-certified rigger to commonly missed because a key person your team, its structure is strengthened (a specialist within a specific scope of and probability of solid profit is greatly work, such as the ETCP-certified rigger) enhanced because this person knows the wasn’t included on the team. It’s the devil is in the details, and monitors them professional rigger who can catch the 24/7. Details associated with safety, time glitches involving rigging and help you and money. For instance: quote an accurate price.

Safety: Your ETCP-certified rigger This professional can also save you understands that accidents reduce profit money by minimizing labor costs. An and knows how to manage the risks asso- ETCP-certified rigger knows the town’s ciated with your project. He/she puts the venues and their ceilings, plus the right pieces and parts together that susaverage time it takes to get a rigging pend all elements rigged in your booth. point in the air. This rigger knows the Time: An ETCP-certified rigger (your buildings and crews, can put an outAuto-Cad master and rigging designer) standing team together, and can motiunderstands timelines and workflow asvate them to move quickly and in unity sociated with every aspect of the project. like a fine-tuned machine.

He/she can speed up the install process Typically, general contractor-disand help you avoid time- and monpatched riggers aren’t vested in your job. ey-wasting afterthoughts.

And since labor is paid hourly (with OT He/she can design and submit an accu- available), they don’t mind when schedrate (and mandatory) Auto-Cad-designed uled eight-hour-jobs end up taking 12. load-path drawing to the general contrac- Thus another reason to have that ETCP tor. This plan, which must be approved rigging leader on your team—to plan by the building structural engineer, destrategies which maximize labor efficienpicts how every rigging point is attached cy—and will keep an eight-hour day at an to the ceiling (meaning all rigging must eight-hour day. This consummate profesbe thought out beforehand). Because an sional is vested in your project and knows ETCP-certified rigger is your load-path how to avoid the labor-favoring “chadesigner, the rigging process is sped up os-creates-cash” scenario. He/she keeps (loading in of lighting trusses, audio, siga crew motivated and safely moving so nage and LED walls, for instance), onsite the job comes in on- or under-time.

when you add an ETCP-certified rigger to your team, its structure is strengthened and probability of solid profit is enhanced ..

Our goal is to deliver safe, on time, great-looking exhibits for our clients, their clients and the attendees of every event. On top of that, to come in under-budget. It’s accomplished by hiring skilled and detail-oriented designers, managers and leaders who understand workflow, and how to create efficient production strategies based around the hourly labor doing the work.

That said, you can see how ETCP-certified riggers are worth their weight in gold. Their skills and leadership are the secret to success with safety, time and money. So, if you’ve been executing jobs without a professional rigger on your side, why not make this the year you add that expert to your team? May we all RIG FOR SUCCESS in 2020!

Andrew Fulton, member of IATSE Local 720, is the lead production rigger at UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Center and was lead rigger for PRG at the Sands Expo, Venetian and Palazzo Hotels from 2012-15.

He co-founded RIG FOR SUCCESS with Jason Sellmann and is also one of three owners of RIGGING INTERNATIONAL GROUP (R.I.G.) Contact him at andrew@rigforsuccess.com

48 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

048_STS_Rigging_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 4:19 AM

IN THE EVENTS INDUSTRY, ALMOST ANYTHING CAN GO WRONG. WE MAKE SURE EVERYTHING GOES RIGHT. Based in Las Vegas, Total Show Technology (TST) is the total show production solution for anyone who hosts, plans, manages, or produces events, meetings, live event experiences, and trade shows.

We own the Pacific Southwest market and travel with our clients nationwide.

Our services include total show production, video, audio, lighting, rigging, AV equipment rental and sales, trade show exhibitor support, LED/pixel repair, and AV/event staffing.

beMatrix LEDskin® is the technology of tomorrow for the exhibition stand of today, and Total Show

Technology (TST) has it for use at your next show. Learn more about how TST can make your next show stand out. Together, let’s make your next meeting, event, or trade show booth a showstopper!

LET’S BUILD AN EXPERIENCE

048_STS_Rigging_0320.indd 2

Total Show Technology Las Vegas, NV | 702-897-8508 sales@totalshowtech.com | totalshowtech.com

3/10/20 4:19 AM

TRADESHOW/EVENT SOLUTIONS ADVERTORIAL

Aluvision presents the Hi-LED 55+: the most versatile LED tile on the market PICTURES BY ALUVISION

The Hi-LED 55+, Aluvision’s newest LED innovation, has just been launched and has already received its first prestigious, world-renowned award.

The iF DESIGN AWARD is a symbol of outstanding design achievements that focuses on the innovative power of design. The brand new LED tile is the most flexible and creative LED tile on the market. Not just an evolution but a true revolution.

One tile, endless solutions Transform the most versatile LED tile into different configurations. Create straight videowalls, corners, cubes or even convex and concave constructions with just one building block. It’s made possible by the introduction of a convertible aluminum cabi-

net. The Hi-LED 55+ creates new possibilities such as LED columns, large cubes and so much more. You no longer have to buy endless amounts of different LED tiles. Just stick to one tile that converts into any setup.

Fully compatible with the Aluvision frame system The Hi-LED 55+ tile is fully compatible with the Aluvision frame system and the Hi-LED 55. The new product relies on the same strengths.

The all-in-one design has the same unique dimensions of 496 x 496 x 55 mm (19.53” x 19.53 x 2.17”) and a pixel pitch of 2.8mm or 2.5mm that ensures vivid image quality. The Hi-LED 55+ is built out of 4 smaller modules in an aluminum cabinet

frame with a built-in slot for SEG fabric to cover the backside. According to Aluvision standards, high quality and precision have been maintained throughout the complete production process.

the Aluvision frames and is completely flush both front and back. One of the main benefits: a quick, easy and toolless installation. In short, it’s the perfect solution for any videowall construction!

Many advantages The Hi-LED 55+ is ecological, user-friendly and easy to set up. It’s one tile for multiple solutions. The Hi-LED 55+ connects seamlessly into

Precision As a leading developer and manufacturer of aluminum modular exhibit systems, Aluvision is known for its high-end quality and dura-

50 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

050_Aluvision_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 2:16 PM

ble solutions. Aluvision’s top notch production facilities in Deinze (BE) and Atlanta (USA) not only guarantee short lead times, but also an incomparable attention to detail for all.

About Aluvision Our mission is imagineering. We inspire & connect partners on their creative journey to design and build modular environments.

As an innovative developer & worldwide supplier of high

quality modular systems for the exhibit and event industry, Aluvision combines bold imagination with unmatched engineering and manufacturing expertise.

The Aluvision frame system offers solutions for straight and curved walls, LED videowalls, hanging signs, and display and retail setups.

Durability, reusability, precision, flexibility and modularity are the core features.

Let’s imagineer with Aluvision and the Hi-LED 55+.

Transform the most versatile LED tile into 5 different configurations.

Straight tile

This is where it all begins. A convertible LED tile, fully compatible with the Aluvision frame system and HiLED 55.

@ExhibitCityNews

050_Aluvision_0320.indd 2

Corner

Let’s get the magic started & convert two tiles into a seamless 90° corner.

3D corner

Let’s add a little extra, and create a 3D corner.

Don’t forget, all of this with just one building block.

Cube

Let’s go all the way and create a cube.

This tile is able to seamlessly finish up to 6 sides. Combine more Hi-LED 55+ tiles to create different sizes.

Concave & convex

Let’s create waves, curved walls, or any curved construction. Just go wild!

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 51

3/11/20 10:42 AM

INTERNATIONAL FOCUS Coronavirus

Coronavirus Prompts Tradeshow Cancellations

In Response, UFI & SISO Launch Campaign “This Show Is Open For Business”

by Cynthya Porter

W

ith the number of people infected approaching 100,000 since the virus emerged in December, the coronavirus, now named COVID-19, is wreaking havoc on the tradeshow industry, causing cancellations and postponements for large gatherings around the globe.

In February, Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2020, the world’s largest tradeshow serving the cellular phone industry, was canceled just two weeks before the doors were set to open, a move show organizer GSMA said was unavoidable. Amazon, Intel, LG, Sony, Ericsson, Nokia, Nvidia and dozens of others had canceled their plans to exhibit at the show in the days preceding the announcement out of fear that the gathering—which typically attracts 100,000 attendees—would promote the spread of the virus among participants traveling to Barcelona from around the world.

“With due regard to the safe and healthy environment in Barcelona and the host country today, the GSMA has canceled MWC Barcelona 2020 because the global concern regarding the coronavirus outbreak, travel concern and other circumstances, make it impossible for the GSMA to hold the event,” GSMA said in a statement.

Prior to cancellation, GSMA officials had conveyed to attendees and exhibitors virus

precaution measures it said would be taken at the show, including masks, temperature screening and exclusion of individuals recently in China. But that announcement spurred a cascade of cancellations among exhibiting companies and attendees alike as panic over the growing number of virus infections spread.

While Mobile World Congress is the largest show to date to be cancelled, it is by far not the only event affected by coronavirus fears. Facebook announced it would cancel its annual Global Marketing Summit scheduled for March in San Francisco and back out of its plan to participate in the Game Developers Conference slated for the same city later that month. The Adobe Summit, originally slated for Las Vegas in March, will be online only.

The International Housewares Association cancelled its show at McCormick Place in Chicago, slated for March 14-17, resulting in a loss of 47,000 hotel room nights for the anticipated 60,000 attendees.

In Asia, organizers are postponing where possible, including Shanghai Fashion Week, Food&HotelAsia-Hotel Restaurant and Café expo and FHA Food & Beverage in Singapore, and the Beijing Auto Show. At press time, nearly 300 shows in Asia have been either postponed or cancelled, as have nearly 220 in Europe and 10 in the U.S. including the Housewares Show in Chicago,

HIMMS in Orlando, Seafood Expo in Boston, Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, the Materials Show in Mass., and others.

For large companies, the postponement or cancellation of major shows is expected to promote a rise in face-to-face sales calls in an effort to keep the sales funnel full. But for smaller companies without the means for traveling to dozens of meetings, the impact of losing access to tradeshow attendees is expected to be enormously detrimental. Making matters worse for the would-be exhibitors and sponsors of Mobile World Congress, show organizers cited a “force majeure” clause in the contract and said refunds will not be given.

Aside from the economic blow to exhibiting companies who lost their investment in the show plus lost access to the face-to-face marketing opportunity, for cities like Barcelona, losing the influx of more than 100,000 visitors is a devastating blow to the hospitality industry there. The event is estimated to infuse $540 million into the city and provide 14,000 part-time jobs each year.

Paris-based UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, and Atlanta-based SISO, The Society of Independent Show Organizers, have launched a campaign called “This Show Is Open.” It supports exhibition and event organizers around the world as they put the industry’s full ex-

perience to the task of keeping events going wherever possible, in line with the guidance of health authorities and the interests of their customers.

The campaign launches as the global outbreak of the Novel Coronavirus is challenging societies around the world.

As health systems and governments deal with the outbreak, exhibitions and events around the world are being postponed or cancelled where deemed necessary. At the same time, exhibitions and events are one of the core elements keeping industries and economies going—they are both among the most responsive and resilient economical tools.

More than 2,200 people have died from COVID-19 virus with the number climbing daily, and scientists say it is more contagious and deadly than SARS or MERS, diseases that were also caused by strains of coronaviruses. Though the cancellations and postponements create a domino effect of economic hardship on businesses and communities, health officials say the virus is easily spread through droplet transmission, so avoiding avoiding contact with potentially infected people is the only demonstrated way to avoid the virus at this time.

Cynthya Porter is a 70-time award-winning journalist in tradeshow topics, travel writing, photography and news.

She has covered the exhibition industry since 2011.

52 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

052_IntFocus_Columbia_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 2:17 PM

052_IntFocus_Columbia_0320.indd 2

3/11/20 10:43 AM

AIPC

Are We Ready for the Next Downturn?

by Aloysius Arlando, president of AIPC

A

s most of the world seems to teeter on the edge of a growing expectation of economic downturn, if not recession, it is an interesting time to reflect on what we may have learned through the last cycle. We would certainly be coming off a high—recent industry surveys having shown some of the highest levels of business performance and confidence we’ve ever recorded—and adapting to new conditions could well be more demanding this time around! So what have we learned over the course of the last cycle that we can apply to planning for the next?

First, it is that all things eventually pass—and that we can be assured that any downturn will be a transition we need to bridge rather than a permanent new set of operating conditions. Having said that, we also saw how some things that change during an economic slump will never return afterward, at least in the same way. As an example, one thing many of us experienced during the last downturn was the increasing reliance many event organizers had for centers to help take up the slack in service delivery, as their own cutbacks took hold—and that still holds in many cases today, where centers find themselves devoting more and more time to coming up with ideas on how clients can get the most out of their facilities. It was the same case with client expectations for concessions and subventions in many parts of the world—first, a kind of “emergency measure” but ultimately just an ongoing fact of life that persists today.

Secondly, we know there will be a shift in our business mix. The corporate business that was so strong prior to the last financial crisis evaporated overnight in many parts of the world and took many years to rebuild to its current position at the top of the “business potential” list. In

the meantime, we all learned just how stable association events were—the general experience being that they barely skipped a beat, with few cancellations and only a bit of attendance drop even at the depth of the crisis. It seems reasonable that this kind of a pattern would likely repeat in the event of another downturn—in fact, there’s an argument to be made that a time of any kind of crisis is one that is most likely to actually increase the need for gatherings to deal with the aftermath and plan for the future.

Third, we all learned the value of revenue diversification—of pursuing other revenue sources to help mitigate the effects that a loss of traditional streams could have on everyone’s bottom line, and that applies as much to organizers and association executives as to industry suppliers. The result back then was a flurry of new and creative revenue ideas in almost every aspect of event development and management— and while these slowed when traditional revenues started to rebound, they will most certainly be a factor in any future scenarios that generate financial challenges.

Finally, we all—both suppliers and clients alike—learned the value of good communications and a partnership approach to event delivery. Then, it was a matter, in at least some cases, of survival, but in general, always a good approach to that critical supplier-client interface.

In fact, while pursuing these kinds of relationships is a good idea under any conditions, it can be particularly valuable when economic conditions are leading to more constrained budgets and everyone needs to become a bit more creative in driving cost-effectiveness.

The big lesson here is that while we can all still hope that the predicted economic downturn will not in fact materialize—or if it does, it will be short-lived—history

some things that change during an economic slump will never return, at least not in the same way...

suggests that a bit of advance preparation can’t hurt. To find those lessons—and to think about what strategies they might suggest as we look to the future—we need look no further than the last downturn.

In addition to his role as AIPC president, Aloysius Arlando is the CEO of SingEx Holdings, which comprises several entities focusing on the MICE business; including the management of the Singapore EXPO Convention and Exhibition entre.

He is also the president of the Singapore Association for Convention and Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers (SACEOS), organizer of Singapore MICE Forum.

AIPC represents a global network of more than 190 leading centers in 64 countries with the active involvement of more than 1,000 management-level professionals worldwide. It is committed to encouraging and recognizing excellence in convention center management, based on the diverse experience and expertise of its international representation, and maintains a variety of educational, research, networking and standards programs to achieve this. AIPC also celebrates and promotes the essential role of the international meetings industry in supporting economic, academic and professional development and enhancing global relations amongst highly diverse business and cultural interests.

54 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

054_AIPC_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 4:53 AM

THE STRUCTURES BEHIND THE WORLD’S BEST EVENTS & EXHIBITS

CREATE WITH CONFIDENCE

Highmarktech.com / 260-483-0012

054_AIPC_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 4:53 AM

CORPORATE PROFILE

Birttani Display Keeps It Local with Innovative Exhibit Solutions

BY F. ANDREW TAYLOR & H.K. WILSON

In 2012, Birttani Displays opened its doors with a vision of being a new kind of supplier to the tradeshow and exhibits industry. It set out to form relationships with its customers one at a time and build trust through transparency, while standing firmly behind each of its products. Birttani Displays has succeeded in its mission by supplying exhibitors with superior products, greater service and better value than the marketplace has ever offered before.

Drawing upon its parent company’s more than 20 years’ experience as an industry manufacturer and distributor, Birttani Display has made its mark as a leader in the distribution of banner stands for indoor and outdoor use; pop-ups; backdrops; light boxes; visual merchandising concepts; tension fabric displays; flags; tents; dye-sublimation printing; and more.

56 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

056_BrittaniCP_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 10:45 AM

In its early years, Birttani Display performed industry research to discover what its customers needed. It already had a portfolio of quality products, but it aimed to offer the same impeccable craftsmanship at more competitive pricing. The company began by supplying common portable display hardware at the wholesale level while simultaneously developing innovative new products from its first distribution center in South El Monte, Calif. It succeeded, and as demand for its products increased, so did the need for a larger facility. In response, Birttani Display opened its new headquarters in Azusa, Calif., with increased inventory and staff. In the summer of 2017, the company opened an additional facility in Sayreville, N.J., offering the same services as its headquarters in Calif.

Birttani Display continues to expand its warehouse space on both coasts.

Birttani Display differentiates itself from other suppliers by sourcing most of its production from a single factory—one that also has a family connection. Along with the display hardware, dye sublimation printing is processed through the same factory, further setting the company apart from its competition. Both the U.S. supply and distribution outlet and the China-based factory are owned by members of the same family, providing strong ties and accountability.

The result, according to Kevin Chen, Birttani Display CEO, is consistency of products and service. “It can be an adventure when connecting the dots on the competition’s suppliers, but not in this case. Quality is controlled, the client receives the same product every time and special requests can be accommodated that doesn’t end with what is available in stock.”

Birttani Display’s direct supply chain also ensures reliable delivery of goods. “Our capabilities include same-day shipping for our products and 24-hour printing turnaround timeframes, accommodating our clients’ strict deadlines,” says Candice @ExhibitCityNews

056_BrittaniCP_0320.indd 2

Lucio, sales manager for Birttani Display.

Birttani Display has built its reputation and brand by introducing new products to the industry and following up with patents. It began with the Signtific retractable banner stand, and continued with the Le Plus model retractable, followed by the Roti and Cube banner stands. This strategy has resulted in yearover-year growth for the company.

“We have created a variety of specialty products,” Lucio explains. “Not only have we invested in research and design to create our own patented products that we have all the rights to, we also have patents pending for the future.”

In order to introduce its innovations to the marketplace, Birttani Display has it-

Birttani’s mission: supplying exhibitors with superior products, greater service and better value... self become an exhibitor, presenting at tradeshows like ExhibitorLive, ISA Sign Expo, SGIA (now Printing United) and other key networking events.

The latest development in Birttani Display’s patented products is its portable light box system known as Lucid, which won “Product of the Year” in the Display Exhibit Hardware category at SGIA 2019.

While Birttani Display’s website offers clients the convenience of online shopping, Lucio emphasizes that providing the finest service, guidance and products in the industry means delivering personal service. “Although our website is an option, you don’t have to go through it,” she says. “We really like to establish a connection with our customers through person-to-person interaction. We try to give everyone the same high-quality service, whether it is for one item or for thousands of items.”

Birttani Display is a trusted manufacturer and wholesale/trade-only supplier of exhibits, displays, signs, dye sublimation printing, and custom trade show kits and displays to the tradeshow, event planning and marketing industry.

Its collection of innovative, high-quality products was created with the end user in mind. With locations in Calif. and N.J., Birttani Display’s creative team builds its products with a dedication to durability, functionality and practicality. For more info, visit www.birttani.com.

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 57

3/11/20 10:47 AM

INDUSTRY NEWS

THE LATEST DON & MIKE SHOWS IAEE CEO and President David Dubois on the Corona Virus and Impact on the Industry Joe Houle on Selling to the C-Suite Mike Morrison interviewing MC2’s Bernie Massett at the Randy in Atlanta

David Dubois from IAEE and Joe Houle on Selling to C-Suite

“The Don & Mike Show” Goes on the Road to Euroshop & ExhibitorLive

Bob Padget and Lisa Petty from Circle TPR this week

by Mike Morrison

Circle TPR’s Bob Padgett and Lisa Petty talk about Out of The Box Projects!

T

he Don and Mike Show is well into 2020 with great guests, lively topics and important subjects as of press time.

The first of the year was centered on interviews which wrapped up IAEE’s Expo Expo on demand talks with Rob and Griffen Wilson from Employco and Gary Minter of from Modern Expo, Kari Rice from Federal Conference and Valerie Ortiz from Convention Electric. EDPA’s Access 2019 interviews included Michael Boone, recipient of the Ambassador of the Year Award from EDPA, Jane Gentry, CEO of J Williams Agency and Fusion Event Staffing and Chris Kappes from ExhibitsHub. com and also repeat guest on The Don and Mike Show, Tony Rissley of Expo Auctions.

A significant amount of time was spent on what was termed

by Mike as “The Las Vegas Double Deck Debacle.” Interviews

with several industry colleagues included EACA Executive Director Jim Wurm, ECN Editor-in-Chief Jeanne Brei, and a very strong and informative interview with Teamsters National Trade Show Executive in Las Vegas, Tommy Blitsch. The issues surrounding the permitting of double decks have been put on hold thanks to Mayor Carolyn Goodman insisting that the county commissioners do their due diligence and get business impact surveys. The industry must continue to put pressure on the county commissioners in Nevada that the permitting rules being placed into effect would be extremely detrimental to the industry and would do more harm than good since the man who wrote the law (Jerry Stueve) is continuing to press that it’s a matter of conforming to the new national fire safety laws and is continuing to have meetings trying to get his law back up and running.

Don took a trip to Dusseldorf, Germany to attend the 2020 version of Euroshop and did an outstanding summary show with Design to Print’s CTO Josh Bevans, who attended the show for the first time and gave an outstanding summary of how the show went for him and what he learned about showing in Europe and what the trends were coming out of the show.

A strong contingency attended the show from the U.S. according to Don and even though attendance was down 20 percent, the show results seemed to be very successful.

All leading to the hottest topic on the streets at the moment ... the CoronaVirus.

Mike interviewed IAEE CEO and President David Dubois at press time who gave a very strong position and report on how IAEE will move forward with intent to encourage shows and conferences to

Bob Padget, Lisa Petty, Julie Kagy and Mitt Arnaudet this week!

ESCA Updates with Julie Kagy and Mitt Arnaudet Bob Padgett, Lisa Petty, Julie Kagy and Mitt Arnaudet this week Josh Bevans from Design to Print/SEG Warehouse and Don talk about Euroshop 2020-complete review Josh Bevans, CTO at Design to Print Powered by SEG Warehouse and Don talk Euroshop 2020 Employco’s Rob Wilson on Marijuana in the Workplace!

Candy Adams on Bad and Ineffective Graphics Marijuana and Bad Graphics...Rob Wilson and Candy Adams discuss Candy Adams Encore Interview ... Bait and Switch

58 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

058_TheDonandMike_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 4:41 AM

move forward and not fall prey to the fear mongering which is extremely evident in the tradeshow industry at the moment.

Interviews will continue with this realm throughout March, as we get ready to embark on Las Vegas for ExhibitorLive Show.

Don and Mike will be recording on demand interviews at a show reception for EACA sponsored

by Employco at Mandalay Bay, also the duo will be in attendance for the co-sponsored Willwork/Exhibit City News ExhibitorLive Party at Lights Nightclub in Mandalay Bay. In addition, the show celebrates a year of being “Brought to You by SMT Expo,” their first sponsor. A division of Glenmore Industries, an OEM manufacturer of a wide variety

of home, industrial and automotive products, SMT Expo is headquartered in Edison, N.J., and has manufacturing facilities and offices in China, Taiwan, Vietnam and the U.K. SMT stands for Smart Modular Technology and is the exclusive provider of the industry’s leading, full floorplan, fabric booth system and the sole manufacturer of this revolutionary tool-free system. Joe Cascio, SVP sales and marketing at SMT Expo, says, “Just as Don and Mike strive to stay at the cutting edge of the live events industry, SMT Expo is committed to enhanced creativity to improve the overall experience within our industry.”

Watch for the interviews coming up at ExhibitCi-

tyNews.com and TheDonAndMikeShow.net Interviews include these industry people: » Dasher Lowe - EDPA » David Dubois - IAEE » Mitt Arnaudet and Julie Kagy - ESCA » Sam Lippman - Lippman Connects » Tim Searle - DEX Exhibit Systems » Kraig Shetler - Booth Traffic » Kelli Liles - Old Dominion » Dave Sterne – The Inside Track » Russ Klein - American Marketing Association » Chris Kappes - Exhibitshub.com » Candy Adams - The Booth Mom » Glenn Diehl - Genesis Exhibits » Julie Pazina and Zach Wetterling Edlen Electric » Reid Sherwood – RSMGC » Rich Johnson – RSMG

» Ray Baum - Core Apps » Steve Golden - CORT Events » James Zacharias – Brumark » Steven Hacker - Consultant, SMT EXPO

» Tom Clark - Game Buzz » Vince Battaglia TheTradeShowCalender.com

» and many more!

Call the toll free number for feedback at 1-833366-2636 (Toll Free 1-833- DON-AND-MIKE) or text comments, questions and sound bites to (770) 298-0695. Email for the show is TheDonAndMikeShow@gmail.com or send comments through the website from the landing page form.

Show. Better.

Our revolutionary modular fabric booth system helps you perfectly execute your vision. The tool-less EXPOKNIT™ system assembles and disassembles in a breeze, and is perfectly scalable for everything from See the tool-less EXPOKNIT™ system in action at smtexpo.com

The nation’s leading scalable booth manufacturer. ®

732-395-4032 x121 @ExhibitCityNews

058_TheDonandMike_0320.indd 2

info@smtexpo.com ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 59

3/10/20 4:41 AM

INDUSTRY NEWS

CORT Events Shares 2020 Design Trends

BY KEVIN DANA

C

ORT Events, a leading national furniture and decor rental company, is highlighting the latest designs, colors and styles for event and meeting planners to incorporate in 2020, including Art Deco, monochromatic color spectrums and eclecticism.

Art Deco Reminiscent of the early 20th century, soft seating

that follows elegant shapes and romantic curves are making a comeback in 2020.

Art Deco-inspired designs featuring feminine silhouettes layered with geometric patterns create a dramatic, yet sophisticated look.

Following this trend, CORT Events’ January product launch will include a reimagined version of the popular Endless seating collection, now with green velvet chan-

nel stitching and updated rounded backs and seats.

“CORT Events’ Endless seating collection made history nearly a decade ago by enabling planners and designers to create customized large or small sectionals to suit any event space,” says Kevin Dana, executive director of merchandising and product for CORT Events. “While the classics are still popular, we’ve modernized the original Endless seating collection to address today’s trends by softening the edges and updating the fabrics. The new collection features gorgeous emerald green velvet, sexy curves and black metal frames, and can still be configured for any event or show space.”

The new curvy Endless seating collection will also be offered in timeless white vinyl

to provide a classically clean palette for any color combination to shine. Other new seating offerings available in 2020 include the green leather Lena chair and the teal velvet Malibu accent chair, both featuring rounded soft shapes to bring sophisticated luxury to event designs.

Green Color Schemes Representing health and wellness, green will be the dominant hue for event design in 2020. Specifically, monochromatic schemes incorporating various shades of green are expected to be especially popular to create an appealing and unexpected visual for guests that embodies a restorative, calming effect. The monochromatic approach to design can also be applied to other on-trend,

60 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

060_DesignTrends_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 4:40 AM

cool colors, from shades of blue to vibrant berries.

“Color has taken on new importance for today’s event planners. Choosing a color theme when planning the design of an event is always the first thing we do, whether it’s a social or corporate event,” says Jordan Carbotti of Carbotti Experiences. “Even if a client requests white seating, we layer colorful rugs, pillows, lighting and accessories to infuse color throughout the set and help make the design unique.”

To help planners like the Carbottis incorporate more color, CORT Events is introducing the new Beverly Oasis Ottoman System, featuring three large configurations for

@ExhibitCityNews

060_DesignTrends_0320.indd 2

casual lounging in 12 colors with channel stitched detail.

The new ottoman system allows clients to choose one or multiple colors to create a stunning casual seating environment for both large and small spaces.

Eclecticism Danish modern soft seating is still a leading trend in 2020, as seen in CORT Events’ latest Chandler, Valencia and Palm Beach collections. The style features a variety of bold, 70s-inspired organic colors and metal frames for a classic mid-century look that reflects current color and fabric trends. However, many planners are also using these modern pieces to

achieve an eclectic design by pairing textured velvets and fabrics with natural elements and lush faux furs.

“There’s a strong move toward eclecticism in event design. By incorporating multiple style trends into one design, clients are able to reinforce diverse lifestyles and a global sensibility,” says Dana. “These Bohemian chic and Mediterranean Craft trends put a modern twist on rustic design. It involves a lot of layering of warm organic colors with vibrant blues and linens to create the comfortable easiness that today’s guests crave.”

For event planners looking to achieve a modern eclectic look with an industrial finish,

CORT Events recommends pairing pieces with mixed materials, like the Atherton accent chair, with tables featuring wood or marble finishes, such as the Lexington Communal Bar or Café table.

CORT Events is a leading nationwide provider of rental furnishings for the exhibit and events industry. From high-profile special events to corporate meetings to weddings, CORT provides the rental furnishings that make exhibitions and events possible. CORT also provides rental furniture to the majority of tradeshows and conferences in the nation, including shows and events in Canada.

For more info, visit www.

CORTevents.com.

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 61

3/11/20 2:23 PM

CORPORATE PROFILE

Circle TPR is All About The Guest Experience FROM INTERACTIVE TO B2B TO HOSPITALITY & LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

BY AMADEUS FINLAY

From the heart stopping thrill of a rodeo to that once-in-a-lifetime concert on the Las Vegas Strip, Circle TPR has designed and delivered experience-driven events that leave an indelible impact on audiences.

Circle TPR is a premier guest experience agency that spans the width and breadth of the event space, enjoying a national presence in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, L.A., Minneapolis, New York and Orlando. The firm was founded by thought leaders from the B2B, hos-

pitality, entertainment and technology industries, and together they developed an approach to event management that would prove successful both at home and across the globe.

At the heart of that nexus is Circle TPR CEO Shawn Garrity.

“Circle TPR was formed in 2013 recognizing the opportunity to create a full-service production agency focused on providing dynamic B2B solutions to world-class brands both large and small,” explains Garrity.

“Our team approach delivers truly unique and holistic guest experiences.”

Circle’s product offerings break down into four broad areas: B2B, interactive technologies, live entertainment and hospitality. Within those buckets, the opportunities are (almost) endless. Circle’s appreciation of the entire marketing spectrum means clients are offered digital as well as structural brand work, allowing for seamless communication across each touch point. What does that mean in real world terms (rodeos

and concerts aside)? It means custom tradeshow exhibits, branded conference spaces, 3D mapping and all manner of tenting. It also means fireworks, monster trucks and rock stars.

“Circle TPR has extensive experience designing and producing a wide array of guest experiences,” says Garrity, in what quite possibly could be the biggest understatement around.

Circle is driven by inspired creative and has delineated a seven-step approach to experiential marketing. Step one,

62 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

062_TRP_CP_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 11:09 AM

define a strategy based on a brand’s landscape, products and services.

Step two, communicate an engaging creative experience that drives brand perfor@ExhibitCityNews

062_TRP_CP_0320.indd 2

mance. Then, through a combination of production, management and marketing strategy, the Circle team pushes messages to audiences, wherever they

may be. But there’s more.

In addition, the Las Vegas headquarters employs a fivestep approach to customer engagement: pre-event (emails, micro-sites etc.), arrival (airport marketing, room drops etc.), on-site (giveaways, event experience, etc.), events (networking, receptions, etc.) and post event (surveys, premiums, etc.)

The Circle team enjoys what they do, A quick glance at the firm’s social media accounts presents a company culture rooted in creativity and driven by teamwork and social occasions. Happy team means happy clients, and it is a tried and tested combination.

Consider just a snapshot of their client base: Adobe, Rock in Rio, MGM, Live Nation and IHeart Media. And that’s without mentioning PBR, Fiat and Coke.

“We are very proud of the opportunities we have had to work with our clients,” admits Garrity. “One of our more memorable achievements was working closely with MGM Entertainment to assist in the creation and launch of their outdoor MGM Festival Village and MGM Festival Grounds venues.”

“Several world-class festival events have been hosted at these venues including Rock in Rio, iHeart Radio, the ACMs and Route 91 to name a few.”

Whatever their nature, all these experiences can be traced back to Circle’s breadth of client offerings and opportunities. And it is truly staggering. Virtual reality, broadcast, bar interiors,

We fulfill brand strategies in both physical and digital spaces from inception to launch—we dream it, create it, do it!

mobile experiences. It’s a true soup to nuts job.

But when asked how Circle manages to cover all these bases at the level they do, Garrity responds simply: “the answer is: very selectively.”

Such a modest answer is certainly intriguing, given the size and scope of the company in question. Then again, a quick look at the firm’s motto and brand statement reflects this attitude as the very essence of the company: “We are Circle.

Talent. Production. Reach.”

Equally as uncompromising is the leading statement in all the company’s public correspondence: “We fulfill brand strategies in both physical and digital spaces from inception to launch…we dream it, create it, do it!”

We dream it, create it, do it: Genius really can be that simple.

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 63

3/11/20 11:09 AM

TRADESHOW STRATEGY

Hiring Booth Talent IT’S NOT JUST “BOOTH BABES” ANYMORE

BY H. K. WILSON

Remember the days when it was customary to simply place attractive females on the front line of your show booth and call it done? It’s a new world, and the rules of tradeshow engagement are changing. Savvy exhibitors understand that hiring outside personnel to staff a tradeshow booth is an important marketing decision that bears on a show’s overall ROI. Millennials, especially, are demanding experience over salesmanship, with an emphasis on social values.

Meanwhile, with the seismic gender-role and leadership shifts that are transforming

our society and industry, exhibitors must give careful consideration to hiring talent that is relatable for today’s decision makers.

So how can exhibitors determine what kind of talent to hire, and how can they make the most of those talents?

Here, the experts weigh in, and all agree that planning and preparation are the keys to leveraging talent for a successful show.

Alice Heiman is co-founder and CRO of TradeShow Makeover, a powerhouse consulting enterprise that “helps show organizers and exhibitors create winning

strategies for generating ROI at tradeshows by turning leads into deals.” For more than 20 years, Heiman has consulted with high-growth companies to optimize lead generation and increase sales.

She teaches entrepreneurship at the University of Nevada, Reno, College of Business, and she is a sought-after presenter on an array of business topics. Heiman says she never thought she’d become a tradeshow expert, but her years of lead-generation analysis taught her that while many companies are present at tradeshows, they and their personnel are not always

equipped to get the most out of the experience.

“After working with leaders and sales teams, I realized why they weren’t generating quality leads,” Heiman says.

“This type of selling is different from cold calling or faceto-face meetings. It’s a very specific type of selling. It’s more like networking. In the beginning, I started training people on what to do before a show and after. I found that there was a lot of demand for this information in the general business community, and I decided to start TradeShow Makeover with my partner, Dianna Gearin.”

According to Heiman, there’s more to staffing a show booth than most people think, and deciding who among your own staff will attend is a decision that should not be taken lightly.

She has found that while a company’s sales or customer success teams may know a lot about their product or service, they often know little about how to successfully work a tradeshow booth. The reverse is also true. Booth personnel hired for a single show may be skilled at engaging customers at the booth, but it’s a given that they know little or nothing about your company.

Training is an important action for everyone who will be present to engage customers at the booth. Interestingly, Heiman says she has walked around at a lot of tradeshows asking participants if they’ve had any training on what to do, and she has never had anyone say yes.

She encourages exhibitors to design processes for what

64 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

064_BoothTalent_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 11:10 AM

to do before, during and after a show. The goal should be to have memorable but short conversations with prospects to generate qualified leads.

“You want to dominate at the show by have conversations that are memorable, so that when you call afterward, people remember you. This way, you are more likely to turn this lead into a customer or get a referral.”

When hiring outside talent, Heiman emphasizes that it’s important to engage with them ahead of time and make sure they’re prepared to not just represent you, but help you achieve your show objectives. That means having a clear idea of exactly what you want your booth staff to do.

@ExhibitCityNews

064_BoothTalent_0320.indd 2

“Do you want them to have a conversation with customers, or just scan badges? I suggest that everyone in your booth should do more than just draw people and scan badges. You really don’t want to fill your database with people who don’t want to buy from you and are a waste of time for salespeople to follow up with. It’s important to train hired talent in advance to properly attract prospects and then hand them off to an expert on your team.”

Heiman says that one of the biggest mistakes she sees exhibitors make is having too few people in the booth, and hired talent is a great resource for making sure your employees get necessary

breaks throughout the day.

“You don’t want tired, hungry, crabby people with sore feet talking to your customers. You want happy, rested, engaged people, so you need enough working the booth so that everyone can get a break. You also want them to attend networking events, walk the show and go to sessions so they will learn and have something to talk or blog about after. Hired talent is a great resource for making sure your employees get necessary breaks and are free to walk the show and attend events. Two people is never enough, no matter the size of your show booth.”

Jane Gentry is CEO of Fusion Event Staffing and its affiliate, JWilliams Agency,

companies that provide talent for tradeshows, tours, roadshows and other experiential activations. Throughout her 30-year career in experiential marketing, sales leadership, consulting, executive coaching and keynoting, Gentry has inspired the people around her to “dare to be remarkable.” Driven by a belief in the power of people to create meaningful experiences, she and her team help clients across the business spectrum to bring their visions to life.

Among their recent projects, they have run surveys at major league baseball games, re-trained airline flight attendants and represented medical device companies at tradeshows nationwide.

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 65

3/10/20 4:32 AM

TRADESHOW STRATEGY

Gentry says companies should give careful consideration to the kind of talent that would be most beneficial to their business and show objectives. “This should really be more of a strategic decision for companies than it often is,” explains Gentry. “The booth talent is on the front line with your prospects and customers. Companies should think through the capabilities and attributes that would most appropriately represent their brand or meet their needs. For example, what physical attributes would best represent the brand?

Does staff need to be able to demonstrate your products?

What is the level of sophistication of your client? What level of reporting might be required of the staffers?”

Gentry affirms Heiman’s assertion that booth talent can do more than scan badges.

“Staffers can engage people, demo products, move individuals through a space that tells the story you want to tell and answer basic questions about your product. The more companies tell us what they need so we can train in advance, the more our talent can help.

But that means companies need to know what they’re trying to do. Do they want to move sales, increase loyalty, make a brand impression or raise awareness of something they’re launching? Many companies don’t know the answer.

For instance, they say they want leads, but how many, and what makes a good lead?”

So, are booth babes ever a good choice? And if so, how do you utilize this asset in a way that doesn’t alienate fe-

male attendees? Gentry says, “Our clients want people who are like their clients. If you’re leveraging talent correctly, you’re hiring people who are like your customer and can engage with them. The question I would ask as an event manager is, ‘What is the profile of the person who will best engage my customer?’

It used to be that our audience was different, in that it was primarily male. That’s not the case anymore. In the realm of talent, companies need to catch up and think about who will best engage their customer. We have a lot of smart people on our staff who can be an extension of your sales force. If it’s just about fun, that’s one thing.

But if you want to engage your customers in a qualifying conversation, that’s different. Given the right time and information, both are possible.”

Shelly Justice is a longtime industry entrepreneur and seasoned spokesperson who brings unparalleled expertise to her role as CEO of CMT Agency, a provider of diverse talent for tradeshows, conferences, brand activations and experiential events in 52

countries and 103 languages. Clients both foreign and domestic have long relied upon CMT as a single source for the seamless integration of talent from around the world, and the experience just got better with the addition of a new mobile app called Senegal Software.

Justice suggests giving talent bullet points about the company and/or product well ahead of time. “There are things our team can be trained to speak about. They can be present to offer a greeting and ask, ‘Do you know about or company and what we do?

Here’s more information.’

A lot of companies allocate funds for their booth, but they don’t think to give us the training materials we need.

We are willing to train on a webinar or Skype call before the event. If companies provide material before the call, our people will be prepared.

We also require our talent to show up an hour early on the first day, so they have plenty of time to pick up badges, be in the booth on time and in place early enough to do another quick training.”

With the growing diversity of today’s tradeshow attend-

ees, Justice recommends putting diverse talent in the booth. In the context of diversity, age, ethnicity and gender often come to mind.

But what about language?

“We always suggest bilingual talent, especially at an international show, where it’s a big advantage for a company to have. If someone walks up and they don’t speak English that well, you may really stand out against other companies if you have someone present who speaks their language.”

Candy Adams is known to many as “The Booth Mom,” an industry wonder since 1991 whose superpower is “guiding exhibitors through the tradeshow maze.” Adams manages her own company, Trade Show Consulting, which provides a variety of tradeshow services, including management of U.S. exhibits overseas; domestic exhibit management; exhibit performance improvement; “boothmanship,” or exhibit staff training; and exhibit marketing consulting. She recently managed the press room for a high-tech client at CES for the 18th year before taking off to New York and NRF, where she conducted

66 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

064_BoothTalent_0320.indd 3

3/11/20 11:10 AM

pre-show exhibit staff training; then mystery shopped her client’s exhibit the morning of show opening in order to give recommendations on the overall exhibit, product displays, demos, graphics/ signage and exhibit staff; and then conducted a competitive analysis of the company’s top three competitors for a postshow report. Whew!

When preparing booth staff, whether internal personnel or hired talent, Adams says it’s important to help them get comfortable with their roles.

Remember that for company employees, working a tradeshow booth is often not part of their ordinary duties. Don’t assume they are prepared.

She recommends:

@ExhibitCityNews

064_BoothTalent_0320.indd 4

1. Plan a pre-show orientation meeting to share information on show goals, target market, products/services being displayed, exhibit messaging, promotion, how to work the lead gathering devices, booth layout, staff work schedule, etc.

2. Follow this orientation with a “boothmanship” review of the actual engagement process by having scripts ready, from conversation starters to engage visitors passing by on the aisle, to elevator speeches for various levels of awareness of your company or product, to succinct qualifying questions, the length and depth of product presentations, discussion of follow-up type and timing, lead gathering,

cross-selling and disengagement. Then have them practice these skills while they’re still fresh in their minds.

Adams says that creating value at a show, whether it’s a function of ROI (Return on Investment), ROO (Return on Objective), or ROR (Return on Relationship), is all about increasing memorability—having the impression you made at the show remembered when it’s time to make a buying decision.

“It doesn’t matter whether it’s through the relationship you’re building with a customer, or the experience, or the hands-on demo in your booth that will be remembered, as long as you’re positively remembered!”

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about how to staff your next tradeshow booth, take comfort in the fact that there is a lot of friendly, qualified help available. Heiman says there is great passion in her work, which is motivated by helping people do what they want to do, and do it better than they’ve ever done it before. “Sales is a tough world with a lot of pressure. It’s not easy. Our job is to make it easier for you to get the results you want for the time and money you spend at these events. We are 100 percent there to guide you to success and make you the hero.”

Her parting advice? “Don’t forget your comfortable shoes and chapstick.”

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 67

3/10/20 4:33 AM

TRADESHOW TECHNOLOGY

Lifestyle Trends, Wearables and Sustainability at CES

BY LI JACKSON

A

nother CES has come and gone.

Latest attendee numbers were estimated at more than 170,000 techies and about 4,500 exhibitors across 2.9 million square feet of space. CES brings so many new, exciting and innovative brands to the tradeshow floor. For 50+ years, it has been the world’s gathering place for all those who thrive on the business of consumer technologies.

As the executive director at Rethink Worldwide, a non-profit organization focused on conserving the environment and ending single-use plastic, I’m so excited to see the rise of sustainable and eco-friendly tech products on the show floor and seeing next-generation innovations. One of the many problems on the tradeshow floor is the amount of waste that is left behind after each show. Plus Studios, where I am the VP of Marketing, has taken the steps to educate and reduce waste by increasing the use of materials that can be reusable and recycled. We hope to influence not only the exhibitors at CES, but other shows to take the initiative and make a step towards a more sustainable tradeshow.

Here are simple green initiatives taken from one of our workshops that exhibitors can easily implement:

» Reusable: Exhibit Hybrid Rentals. Hybrids are not only cost-efficient but they also lower the carbon footprint. » Reduce: Giveaways. Evaluate the promotional items used at tradeshows. » Are your giveaway materials environmentally friendly? » Have you thought about eco-friendly staff shirts or company uniforms? » Do you provide company water bottles for the staff? » Recycle: Donate and reduce waste on the tradeshow floor. Schedule in advance for complimentary pick up of unwanted items at the end of your trade events.

Creating sustainable products that will help improve lives and conserve the environment at the same time is commendable. Every effort counts towards a sustainable lifestyle. With so many to choose from, here are my favorite CES 2020 Innovation Award winners: Sherpa Tunable Light for Agriculture by Sherpa Space Inc. – Sustainability, Eco-Design & Smart Energy. One lighting system to cover the whole growth stage of one plant.

Since plants demand different lights in each growing stage, this advanced light

solution improves the productivity and quality while reducing the energy demand. For more info, visit https://www. sherpaspace.co.kr/sherpa-light Hydraloop by Hydraloop Systems – The Hydraloop is a first of its kind in the world: a compact, game-changing residential water recycle system. A true consumer product that is stylish and uses patented and breakthrough technology. It recycles 85 percent of all domestic water used. It cleans and disinfects shower, bath and washing machine water so it can be reused for toilet flushing, washing machine, garden or pool. It reduces water consumption by 45 percent, sewage emission by 45 percent, carbon footprint by 6 percent, as well as energy consumption. For more info, visit https://www. hydraloop.com/ Watergen’s Gen On Board is an ideal alternative to bottled water.

Water generation capacity is up to 7.9 gallons per day. It provides a plug-anddrink solution with no extra electricity required. It features a customized built-in water tank per demand and can be used as technical water for various applications. For more info, visit https://us.watergen.com/

68 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

068_LiJackson_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 4:26 AM

Wearable Techs that will help improve your lifestyle: Smart Belt – Fall Prevention by WELT. The smart belt is a wearable device that can prevent falls for the elderly. Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among people 65 and older as approximately 9,500 deaths of older Americans are associated with falls each year. However, the current solutions in the market can detect a fall only after it has happened. The smart belt is a solution that helps the elderly manage their risk of fall. It detects the user’s symptoms for a fall in advance, by analyzing the wearer’s walking pattern. For more info, visit https://www.weltcorp.com/ Skiin Connected Health & Wellness System by Myant Inc. Skiin provides a continuous connection to your body by embedding the ability to measure your health into clothing that you wear throughout your daily life. The

system includes a variety of clothing options that can 24/7 track and monitor your health through an app. For more info, visit https://skiin.com/ OrCam Hear by OrCam Technologies. OrCam Hear is the world’s first AI-driven, wearable assistive technology device for people with hearing impairment that combines lip reading with simultaneous voice source separation.

It has the ability to identify the person

speaking to the user. For more info, visit https://www.orcam.com/en/ Li Jackson is an 18-year-veteran of the events and exhibits industry and is currently the VP of Marketing at Plus Studios, curators of unforgettable tradeshows, unique events, and modernistic interiors. She is also the editor of Tradeshowlife, an online educational and media outlet; and the executive director at Rethink Worldwide, a non-profit organization focused on conserving the environment and ending single-use plastic.

630.250.9393 sales@abcomrents.com

unique & mainstream technologies

ABCOMRENTS brings the most

to the Exhibit & Event Industry!

The power of one has never been so POWERFUL! @ExhibitCityNews

068_LiJackson_0320.indd 2

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 69

3/10/20 4:27 AM

CONVENTION CENTER SPOTLIGHT

EAT

Vegas Loop Underground Transportation System on Track to Open in January 2021

By Erica Johnson & Amanda Peters

T

he LVCC has undergone 14 renovations and is currently in the middle of a $1.52 billion expansion that will add 1.4 million sq.ft. where the Riviera Hotel & Casino once stood to its current 3.2 million sq.ft., including at least 600,000 sq.ft. of new, leasable exhibit space and three stories of meeting rooms, making it the second largest CC in the U.S. It has also budgeted $52.5 million for a new underground transportation system that will include three passenger stations connecting the existing North, Central and South Halls with the new West Hall expansion, which is 65 percent complete. The underground system will consist of two tunnels each measuring about 0.8 mile in length and will allow convention attendees to be whisked across the sprawling campus in just over one minute, free of charge, in all-electric Tesla vehicles.

Begun Nov. 15, excavation was completed on Feb. 13 in the first of two vehicular tunnels that will comprise the Vegas Loop underground system beneath the LVCC. After tunneling 40 feet underground for nearly a mile over three months, the boring machine broke through the concrete wall 70 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

070_CC_Spotlight_LVCC_0320.indd 1

located near West Hall, signaling the completion of excavation for the first of two one-way tunnels.

Afterward, the machine was disassembled, transported via trucks and lowered back into the launch pit near South Hall where it began boring a parallel path adjacent to the first tunnel last month. This first commercial endeavor for the new tunneling company is designed to serve as an innovative, fun and quick transportation solution to transport up to 4,400 convention attendees per hour across the 200+ acre campus and is scheduled to open in January 2021 for CES. “This marks an important milestone in the future of transportation,” says Steve Hill, LVCVA CEO and president.

“Las Vegas is proud to lead the way as the first and only destination to offer an underground transportation solution for moving visitors throughout our convention center.”

In 2019, Vegas saw 42.5 million visitors; a record breaking 6.6 million visitors came for business and generated nearly $10.5 billion in economic impact. Also, another 3.5 million sq.ft. of meeting space is planned to come online within the next five years.

You can feel the “Rat Pack” presence and hear the fabulous Sonny Charles (from the Checkmates) sing with Pia Zadora at Piero’s Italian Cuisine, 355 Convention Center Dr, or go time-traveling back to vintage Vegas with a visit to the timeless Italian American Club, 2333 E. Sahara. My Speakeasy Swingers’ Swanky Supper Club Soiree is the first Thursday of each month: band plays 7-9, floor show with Vegas showgirls at 8 p.m. We’ll be celebrating Broadway musicals on April 2, be ready to do the Easter Parade in your bonnet!

SLEEP With more than 150,000 hotel rooms to choose from in Vegas, I love the themed hotels (like the Luxor, the NY-NY, the Venetian, the Bellagio, Caesars and Paris). It’s the gondola rides, painted ceilings and St. Mark’s Square replica complete with Renaissance-themed entertainers that makes the Venetian a must-stop. The Bellagio Conservatory and fountain shows are not to be missed, the half-scale Eiffel Tower at Paris is a must stop, NY-NY’s Greenwich Village “food court,” the Forum shops at Caesars’ spiral escalator, there’s just too many not-to-be-missed resorts—after all, we have 14 of the world’s 25 largest hotels.

PLAY Besides gambling, choices in Vegas include driving a bulldozer at Dig This Las Vegas; testing out a Ferrari, Lamborghini or Indy Car at the LV Motor Speedway or SpeedVegas; ziplining at SlotZilla, the Linq or the Rio; shooting straight up with 4Gs on the The Strat’s Big Shot ride; visiting the Springs Preserves, barnstorming in a bi-plane or dog-fighting at Sky Combat Ace, taking a circus trapeze class at Trapeze LV; taking a jeep or Hummer tour of Red Rocks, playing at the Pinball Hall of Fame, seeing the Cactus Garden at Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory, destroying a room at the Wreck Room in 30 mins, or shooting an Uzi at Machine Guns Vegas, there’s something for everyone!

3/10/20 4:58 AM

Installing and Dismantling Exhibits Throughout California

Signs

Tradeshows

DisplayWorks

Retail

Event Outfitters USA

Museums

Hwalin Design

Events

MC 2

www.onsiteexhibitorservice.com | 707 258 8980

@ExhibitCityNews

070_CC_Spotlight_LVCC_0320.indd 2

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 71

3/10/20 4:59 AM

ASSOCIATION NEWS

EDPA Chapter News Roundup

T

he new decade is in full swing, and EDPA members everywhere are sharpening their skills and raising the standard of excellence across the industry. In keeping with its commitment to driving growth within the exhibit, event and experiential industry through advocacy, networking, education and good works, EDPA is partnering with the Executive Education program at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) to offer the first Designer Certification program.

“Carefully created by an advisory team from both organizations, this program offers designers at any experience level the opportunity to achieve the highest professional standards in experiential, exhibit and event design,” says Christina Lyons, chair, FIT Graduate Exhibition & Experience Design. “Through a series of studio-based courses and seminars, participants acquire

immediately applicable knowledge of cutting-edge methods, techniques and technologies that drive experience-based designed environments.”

The certification consists of five online courses and a final seminar on site at FIT in New York City. Courses begin in May and run through August.

Each two-week online course is taught by a team of graduate level professors and industry experts. Registration deadline for the program is April 30.

The total cost for all six course that make up the certification program is $5,700.

EDPA Southeast On Feb. 20, EDPA Southeast Chapter hosted a lunch and learn with the theme, “Seven Things Most Marketers in the Exhibit Industry Get Wrong—That You Won’t.”

Presenter Lisa Sinicki is a content strategist and coach who has developed content and PR programs for companies

By H. K. Wilson

including 3D Exhibits, Tom Bowman/Bowman Design Group, Czarnowski, Tradeshow Logic and Live Marketing. She helped attendees learn how to create messages that resonate with prospects, obtain and leverage social proof, generate marketing pieces without starting from scratch, and create marketing paths that lead to sales.

EDPA Midwest On Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, EDPA Midwest members showed their love by participating in the University of Illinois Design Illinois Career Fair at the Knoll Showroom inside Chicago’s Fulton Market. The Design Illinois Career Fair connects companies with emerging undergraduate and graduate-level graphic, industrial, and UI/UX designers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

The chapter is hosting its next meeting on March 19 at

EDPA Northeast It’s that time of year again, time for the largest professional development conference for tradeshow and corporate event marketing, EXHIBITORLIVE 2020!

EDPA Northeast is hosting a Cocktail Kickoff on March 30 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

“We are excited that the EDPA NE chapter will be connecting at EXHIBITORLIVE in our community space, Reserved Parking in the Square,” says Randal Acker, President and COO, EXHIBITOR Media Group. “This chapter does some amazing things together, and if you’re an exhibition industry partner in the NE, you should find out more.”

Photo ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

EDPA Las Vegas Mixer at the Gramercy Lounge inside Smith & Wollensky’s Steakhouse

4:30 p.m. at the Itasca Country Club, where a professor from DePaul University will help members acquire strategies to break procrastination habits and increase productivity.

Chapter members are looking forward to Industry Xchange 2020 on April 14 at City Winery in Chicago.

Industry Xchange is an educational and networking event for professional meeting and event planners. It provides attendees a forum to gain new perspectives on key trends and issues facing the meetings industry today and what they mean for business opportunities in the future. IX 2020 will be Chicago’s collaborative contribution to Global Meetings Industry Day through a partnership of MPI-CAC and several local chapters of fellow industry organizations and will likely be broadcast globally through MPI Global.

72 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

072_EDPA_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 5:07 AM

On May 7 at 6 p.m., the chapter will host the 2020 Rally at the Alley at Splitsville in Foxboro, Mass. Together, event industry professionals and organizations are making a difference in the lives of their peers by raising funds to help those in need. Last year, the chapter raised $16,000 for the family of Shari McDowell, which was used to purchase a handicap accessible van to transport Shari’s partially paralyzed husband, Tom, without the need of assistance from outside the family.

EDPA Las Vegas EDPA Las Vegas Chapter began the new decade with a New Year Kick-Off Membership Drive and Mixer on

January 29 at the Gramercy Lounge inside Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse at The Grand Canal Shoppes, The Venetian Resort.

And on April 1, from 8-9:45 a.m., the chapter is co-hosting a networking breakfast inside The Square at EXHIBITORLIVE with multiple EDPA chapters. No fooling—just great food and friends!

EDPA SoCal On March 4, EDPA SoCal Chapter is meeting at Image Options’ headquarters in Foothill Ranch to hear “The State of the Industry” presented by Cathy Breeden from the Center for Exhibit Industry Research. And back on Jan. 23, the EDPA SoCal board

met at Ballast Point Brewing Company in Long Beach.

“We are excited to gather and listen to Cathy speak about the state of the exhibit industry and what it may face in 2020. Every day, we live in the micro-environment of the industry; designing a new exhibit one day and tomorrow organizing labor for another project. It is insightful to how we orient and approach our days to step back and view the industry from its macro-environment, and this event offers one way to do this,” says Antonia Nuzollo, chapter vice president.

EDPA Great Lakes Detroit’s beautiful TCF Center was the gathering spot for members of the EDPA Great

Lakes Chapter on Jan. 23, when Andrea Trudeau, exhibit compliance and show floor director for NAIAS, addressed the group. According to the region’s President, Kevin Sacharski, the chapter stands on three principles: funding, fun and value. With these ideals in mind, it is actively promoting membership and sponsorship opportunities this year with the goal of increasing membership and awareness of the national organization on a local level.

Sacharski reminds potential members that company memberships proffer special benefits, including unlimited event participation for employees, including food/drinks at networking events; one

Photo ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

CONCERTS CONVENTIONS DINING ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT SHOPPING SPORTING EVENTS

ROSEMONT’S IMPACT FIELD

@ExhibitCityNews

072_EDPA_0320.indd 2

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 73

3/10/20 5:09 AM

ASSOCIATION NEWS

free host event to showcase facilities and services; an ad in the monthly newsletter; and on-site signage at local events.

EDPA Texas EDPA Texas recently announced its new board of directors for 2020: President Matthew Little, Nuvista; Vice President Noelle Webster, Willwork; Secretary Derek Argo, CORT; Treasurer Weslee Hogan, ABCOMRENTS; and members at large are James Zacharias, Exploring, Inc.; Lara Davoe, George P. Johnson; and Wendi Sabo, Access TCA, Inc. This newly activated chapter has big plans for the future. “As a group, we are excited to get started in Texas and are diligently working on the marketing materials to get our group up and going,” says Little.

EDPA Upper Midwest Chapter

L-R: MaryRose Rogers, Eagle Mgmt; Clemente Guillen, Clementine Creative Services; Lorie Schlichting, Color Reflections, EDPA LV

L-R: Rebecca Thompson, StevensE3; Jen LaBruzza, Classic Exhibits; Chris Klosek, AE&ES, EDPA LV

EDPA Upper Midwest Chapter

EDPA Northeast Chapter

L-R: Mike McDaniels, Gist Specialties; Li Jackson, Plus Studios; Norma Shafer, AV Images, EDPA LV

L-R: Bill Houghton, Horizon Print Solutions; Rebecca Thompson, StevensE3; Drew Powers, Willwork Global Event Services, EDPA LV

Las Vegas photos ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

EDPA Upper Midwest The EDPA Upper Midwest Chapter hosted its winter meeting on Feb. 3 at Holman’s Air Field in St. Paul, Minn. According to Chapter President Jennifer Hermanson the event was a great success. “As industry stewards who appreciate interesting Art Deco/Beau Monde design, the gorgeous venue was the perfect setting for Bemidji State University students to showcase their work and discuss exhibit design with UMEDPA members ahead of attending EXHIBITORLIVE,” says Hermanson.

“In addition, Dan Greene presented the Economic State of the Industry, which was originally shared with those EDPA members who attended ACCESS in December 2019.”

EDPA Great Lakes Chapter

74 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

072_EDPA_0320.indd 3

3/11/20 11:12 AM

Las Vegas photos ©2020 Gary Prochorchik - www.exposuresltd.com

WE DID IT! THANK YOU for helping us reach our goal of

$1 million

raised for the EDPA Foundation endowment.

Be Part of the Story.

Visit www.edpa.com/edpafoundation to see how.

Now You Can Donate Online At www.edpa.com/edpafoundation

@ExhibitCityNews

072_EDPA_0320.indd 4

Together, We Are Making a Difference.

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 75

3/10/20 5:10 AM

076_AdBank_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 11:13 AM

076_AdBank_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 5:13 AM

INDUSTRY NEWS

Momentum Management Honors Employees at Corporate Meeting

by Jamie Edwards

M

omentum Management held a very productive company-wide meeting that brought together the city managers, sales team, account coordinators, accounting team and executive management to Alpharetta, Georgia, Dec. 9-11 last year. The focus of the meeting was “Mastering the Art of Continuous Improvement” and “Setting the Tone for the Upcoming Year.”

“An organization that adopts a continuous improvement approach will see immeasurable benefits,” says General Manager Rick Bellerjeau.

“Momentum Management is

instrumental in supporting our employees, which allows these employees to support our exhibit houses. [Company President/CEO] Randy Bott has always provided his employees with outstanding training.”

During the winter meeting, many of Momentum Management’s outstanding employees were recognized. Joe Beltrami, Momentum Management’s city manager in Boston, was named City Manager of the Year. This award goes to the manager who has displayed the company’s goal of creating a great experience for each customer.

Patti Wilder was named Salesperson of the Year and her

Pictured above in Christmas attire, L-R: Leigh Balberde, Christina Ledford, Angela Youngerman and Donna Beasley; Pictured far left: L-R: Tom Barcelona, NorCal area manager; Kevin Luken, SoCal area manager and Angela Earthman, SoCal assistant; seated L-R: Rich Carlson, LV city manager, Cheyenne Usry, LV operations assistant and Tricia Ashby, LV assistant city manager

sales team also won the award for Sales Team of the Year.

Doug Savini was awarded the Randy Bott Operations Award, and Kris Ware was given the Randy Bott Admin Award.

Christina Ledford was recognized as Account Manager of the Year, and the Accounting Department’s Person of the Year was Matilda Richardson.

“These meetings are strategic,” says Bott. “They allow us to recharge and refocus on the things that matter to our customers. The energy and commitment our people bring to these meetings inspires us to work harder to be the best.

I’m so proud of this team,”

adding, “Everyone at Momentum Management couldn’t be more excited about 2020!

The team did a fantastic job embracing Momentum Management’s proven processes and strategies.”

Momentum Management focuses on all aspects of labor services including, installation, dismantle, and supervision for tradeshows, in addition to, permanent installations and private events. Momentum Management’s strategic approach is to become an extension of their partners in order to enhance the overall value delivered to their customers. For more info, visit www.momentummgt.com or email safewithus@momentummgt.com.

78 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

078_MomentumParty_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 12:00 PM

We’re Back!

2020 is our 20th Party!

Light Night Club | Mandalay Bay March 31st | 9pm exhibitorparty.com

The Networking Party of the Year!

Hosted by:

Sponsored by:

078_MomentumParty_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 5:18 AM

INDUSTRY NEWS

Each student has 20 minutes to engage the judges and communicate the value of their ideas...

FIT Students Present Their Theses at Capstone Event

By Larry Kulchawik

F

or the past 14 years the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC has offered a master’s degree in exhibition and experience design. The intensive three semesters of graduate level exhibit design training focuses on a range of exhibit design disciplines ranging from interior design, graphic design, exhibit production, lighting and technology applications for tradeshows, museums, retail interior and public spaces. The course content offers a blend of classroom study, lectures by exhibit industry experts and hands-on site visits. The conclusion of their training requires that they create a

thesis statement to test and then select a unique product/service, a client, a venue location and formulate a design strategy to communicate its value and benefits to a given audience, and offer food for thought to the exhibit industry.

The final presentation of their thesis hypotheses were presented to 95 experienced exhibit industry experts at an event called Capstone. One of the skills taught at FIT is a course in storytelling. Doing the research and developing a creative concept is only a part of the thesis challenge. Preparing eye-catching visuals and presenting your idea with passion is truly

the candle on the cake to win favor for your ideas. The judges ask questions and rate each of the student performances based on five objectives. Their final grade is issued by the professors at FIT. Each student had 20 minutes to engage the judges and communicate the value of their thesis idea. One of the student presentations focused on how a struggling country can brand itself to create positive self identity and attract tourism. Not an easy task! The approach involved an engaging environmental design complex at the Caracas Botanic Garden and strong marketing cooperation with Laser Airlines, the Venezuelan airline. Student designer, Janine Cohen, is from Venezuela and offered a compelling solution to create a positive brand for a struggling country. Cohen presented the concept with strong passion and conviction. If I were an investor, I would strongly consider her creative solutions to spread the word for positive new growth in Venezuela.

After a full day of judging, the evening concluded with thanks given to EDPA and its generous industry suppliers, and from SEGD (Society of Experiential Graphic Design). The generous time given by industry suppliers to the students throughout the year keeps their learning requirements relevant to the present day needs for exhibit design.

The evening concluded with Chris Wangro, known as a master of spectacle for the city of NYC. Upon closing, he introduced a 12-piece Sargent Pepper-style band who marched in to celebrate the exhibit designer class of 2019.

80 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

080_FIT_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 2:56 PM

080_FIT_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 5:25 AM

IN MEMORIAM

Kathy D’Adamo April 2, 1963 January 19, 2020

K

athleen Joyce D’Adamo (Skrak), 56, owner of Angles on Design, Inc., passed away suddenly on Jan. 19 in her home in Barrington, IL. She grew up in Prospect, Pa., and later moved to Illinois where she met the love of her life, Mark D’Adamo. They were married on July 25, 1998.

Her company, Angles on Design, Inc., will continue under family leadership.

Her employees, clients and suppliers have all expressed that they feel like part of her extended family. Kathy was everyone’s best friend and rock in their times of need, and was the most genuine and generous person. She will be missed by everyone who knew and loved her.

“Kathy was a boss that respected every employee for who they were,” says Russell Fitzpatrick. “She knew everyone’s strengths and weaknesses and never micro-managed, she always believed in you.

Kathy was also the most loyal and giving friend. She was always there for anyone in need and never asked for anything in return. As the saying goes, ‘You never know how much

Kathy & Mark D’Adamo

you miss someone until they are gone.’ Those words never ring truer than with Kathy. I miss her very much every day.

Regional Sales Manager Shaun Cahlan agrees. “As a small business, our team is very much a close-knit family.

Kathy’s passing was a shock to all of us, and together, we are getting through it. Through her leadership and the principles she has set forth, we strive to honor her legacy and make her proud.”

Account Manager Robin Schaff says, “Kathy was so much more than the best employer I have ever had, she was an amazing and incred-

ible person. I miss when she would call me in the office in Las Vegas just to see how everybody was doing. So thankful for the time I had with her, so thankful to have the pleasure to have known her.”

Her long-time friend Linda Ashoff wrote, “My good friend for over 35 years. Kathy and I became friends in 1985 working for Chubb Corporation in Pgh. Kathy worked in the zone and I worked in the branch. We met while doing relief for the switchboard operators.

We became inseparable working, partying and vacationing. Kathy moved to

Chicago to pursue another chapter in her life and became a successful businesswoman. I didn’t see her much but we did stay in touch all these years. She was incredibly proud of her son who just started his first year in college. As stated in her obituary she was generous, loyal and always there for you. I will miss my dear friend and can’t wait to see her again.”

Kathy is survived by her beloved husband and soulmate, Mark D’Adamo and their children, Jennifer Weech (Erik), Roxanne Belmonte (Gino), Mark D’Adamo II, and Blaz D’Adamo, and their grandchildren, Jeffery Sullivan, Angelo Belmonte, and Wynter Weech. She is also survived by her mother, Lucille Skrak, her mother-in-law and father-inlaw, Laurie and Pat D’Adamo, and her siblings, Robert (Jim) Skrak, Rosanne McLaughlin, and Christine Skrak (Javier Nieva), and Mark’s siblings, Sharon Lanera (Armand), Diane Bieniarz (James) as well as many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Skrak and her sister, Susan Taimuty.

A funeral mass was held Jan. 27 at Saint Anne Catholic Community, in Barrington, Ill. In lieu of flowers, a GoFundMe account has been set up for her son Blaz’s college education. Should friends desire, contributions may be made at: www.gofundme. com/f/blaz-college-tutionfund. For those who would like to leave a note in her memory book, visit www.davenportfamily.com/notices/KathleenKathy-DAdamo.

82 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

082_Obits_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 5:41 AM

Kraig Allan Shetler May 4,1965-March 4, 2020

K

raig Shetler, CEO of Booth Traffic, principal at Knight Wifi and Everything Tradeshow Rental and director of edocstations, passed away at his home in Battle Creek, Mich., on March 4. He had been battling health problems for quite a while and wrote on Facebook in February that he had endured 26 operations in the last 10 years.

Kraig grew up in Battle Creek, Mich., and graduated from Harper Creek High School in 1983. He then joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Regensburg, Germany as a Hawk missle operator on active site during the Cold War, watching the East Germany and Czech borders until 1985 when he started college at Michigan State University. At MSU, he was a member of Theta Chi fraternity and in the ROTC Corps of Engineers, studying civil engineering and graduating in 1989 as an Army National Guard Officer Nuclear fallout, Chemical Weapons and Biological Agents. As a Captain in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, he was stationed with the 16th Engineering Brigade, 28th infantry division as the assistant divisional engineer. His duties ranged from platoon leader to executive officer, company commander to division staff officer, until he retired his commission in 1996. @ExhibitCityNews

082_Obits_0320.indd 2

He went on to start his own company, Shetler Inc. for 12 years before becoming VP of Custom Promotions in 2007.

He was the co-founder of TradeshowGolf.com in 2011 where he incorporated golf tournaments as fundraising events for charity as well as networking opportunities to enhance the tradeshow experience beyond the show. In 2009, he started doing sales and marketing at Dimensional Communications and Immersive Realities and also owned cell charging stations for a while.

Christy DiGiambattista, ECN sales rep, shares that “Kraig was a true entrepreneur. He was constantly inventing and reinventing his business to tailor to the growing technological needs of the tradeshows. Kraig always offered a helping hand by sponsoring industry events, donating funds or simply connecting people. We will miss him dearly.”

Mike Writson, senior design consultant at Innovative Environments in Houston, writes, “Kraig was a great innovator and advocate for the industry.

His entrepreneurial spirit will be sorely missed.”

Glen Provenzano, AlphaGraphics sales rep, remembers when, “I walked into Kraig

Kraig always offered a helping hand by sponsoring industry events, donating funds or simply connecting people.

We will miss him dearly...

Shelter’s office about two years ago unannounced, doing a simple print marketing sales call. I was greeted by his big dog at the door, expecting to be told to come back another day. However, he was warm and welcoming; it wasn’t long before we were in a conversation about anything and everything other than printing and business. Over time I could see that his business associates were more like his buddies, extended family, and perhaps he extended his help too much, but he had a big heart. He was creative and always interested in others.

When he was in the hospital he would ask me what I need. I felt a connection from the day we met and will miss him dearly.”

Gary Bordman, CSEP, and owner of Amusement Exhibit & Event Services, shares that “Kraig and I met under unusual circumstances to say the least. We worked together for just over a year here in Vegas. I always liked that Kraig had great ideas and strived to offer clients the world.

My condolences go out to his children.

No child should

have to bury their parent.

Godspeed, Kraig, to you on the other side.”

Sean Roberts, president/ CEO at SiLusions Corp., worked with Kraig over the years and gave him a LinkedIn endorsement that says, “I have actually known Kraig at several of his companies and have had him involved several times in creative quotations and deliveries for my clients coming from the Middle East, Far East and Europe. He is always better than his word by always over-delivering and always within or under budget. He fully understands that in our case there are two clients and all are treated with the highest respect and care. I highly recommend all of Kraig’s firms and his personal touch to all. Look for his companies to all grow, because he brings the right people in and empowers them.”

He is survived by his daughter Kassidy, a junior at Rutgers University, and his son Konnor, who’s studying at University of Maryland, College Park. If you’d like to share a memory in his guest book, visit https://www. legacy.com/obituaries/ name/kraig-shetler-obituary?pid=195605881 ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 83

3/10/20 5:42 AM

IN MEMORIAM

Richard D. Rebecky February 9, 1953 February 25, 2020

R

ichard D. Rebecky, of Wayne, N.J., passed away peacefully on Feb. 25 after a seven-year long battle with cancer.

He was born in Passaic and was the youngest of five children to Joseph and Margaret Rebecky. At five years old, his family moved from Passaic to Wallington. Richard excelled in sports particularly baseball, basketball, and football and received the “All American Award” at Wallington High for excelling in all three sports.

After graduating in 1971, Rich attended William Paterson College for one year and decided that he would try his hand at business ownership.

From 1972-1983, Rich had his own masonry business named R&K Construction. He then spent about 10 years in a sales position at Servillio Exhibits.

In 1994, he joined Coastal International and worked his way up from sales to general manager, eventually earning the position of president of the company. Richard held this position until his passing; his career with Coastal International spanned 26 years.

He married Kathleen McQuillan on Sept. 6, 1980, and they settled in Clifton, then moved to Wallington and in 1984, they moved to East Rutherford where they welcomed the births of their four children. As their children started growing up, they moved to Wayne in 1996 and have been there ever since.

Richard and Kate cherished nearly 40 years of loving and loyal marriage together.

Richard never lost his love for sports, he was a huge New York Yankees fan, Mickey Mantle being one of his favorite players. He collected a variety of sports memorabilia including hats, jerseys, and baseball and basketball cards.

Rich also enjoyed playing golf.

Every summer for many years he and his family vacationed to Hilton Head, S.C., where he would play golf and spend time at the beach. Another hobby that Rich took interest in was real estate. He enjoyed buying and selling real estate in his spare time. He had an outstanding work ethic and was dedicated to his career, always loyal to the people he worked for and the people he worked with. However, his greatest passion, aside from his hobbies and interests, was his family. Nothing in the world meant more to Richard than providing for and spending time with his children and grandchil-

Richard with Jeffrey Campoli

84 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

082_Obits_0320.indd 3

3/11/20 2:13 PM

dren. He had a wonderful sense of humor and could always make you smile no matter what the situation. He was compassionate, generous, and would go out of his way to help anyone that needed it. Richard was a very special person who touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew him.

Coastal International’s CEO, Bruce Green, wrote, “I am saddened to report that Rich Rebecky passed away last evening and has now entered Heaven. It is hard to put into words, the relationships that all of our Coastal Family had with Rich...he was truly ‘one of a kind.’ Rich made Coastal, such a part of his life and his legacy will live on. The friendships, mentoring and The Rebecky family

@ExhibitCityNews

082_Obits_0320.indd 4

dedication to the success of our company was unique and special. Someone expressed to me recently, that Rich ‘bled Coastal blue.’ Please keep Rich’s entire family in your prayers and thoughts. I will personally greatly miss my friend, brother, co-worker, counselor and much more.

May you find the peace that we all need, when we lose someone that we love.”

Rich Sotir, Coastal’s VP of operations in Chicago for the last 30 years, was very close to Richard and he writes, “What defines a Best Friend, does it always have to be someone you grew up with and went to school with, lived on the same block with? Some people are lucky to find a best friend, while others may never know the feeling that having one means. I am one of the blessed ones to have found mine. Who would have thought a guy from Jersey would become such good friends with a guy from Illinois. I am not a man of a lot of words, but I am blessed to have met Rich 28 years ago, when I was hired to start work with our company.

We were both about the same age, starting out with a young company, both with young families. We traveled more than we would have liked to, but we were excited and happy to have the opportunity to help this company grow.

We traveled so much over the years and always had a family story to tell, even though we could not always be there for each other. What began as phone calls related to work, evolved into stories about our kids, family, highs and lows.

We missed many family func-

tions that you can never get back. We shared so much of our lives as we both had growing families. We even began to take family vacations together where his family and mine blended. I am blessed to call his family…. my family. I am blessed that this man helped me become a better husband, father and man.”

Mike Boone, Coastal’s dir. of international business, wrote about his dear, treasured friend: “Rich Rebecky was a kind and decent man, with a softer voice, to calm the rest of us down…as he tried to be the voice of reason always. In our early days, rooming together in Vegas at CES or other shows, I was so impressed—he called his four kids back East every night to say goodnight.

So, when I looked back on my own life, I remember it was a treat to hear from my Dad, who was also on the road, and phone calls were more expensive, so they were more rare and brief, but it reminded me what a great father he was, besides a good human being—as he never forgot to call them. He will be missed by so many, as even our friends in other companies.... all keep asking me how he was doing? please say hello! It dawned on me...I never heard anyone say a negative thing about him.

Ever. Few can state this about their lives. RIP Rich Rebecky, we will handle it from here!

You carried us long enough.

Thank you.”

Jeffrey Campoli, who started with Coastal in the New York office with Richard as his mentor, shared his thoughts on Richard’s passing by writing, “Greatness—Rich always

had a way of finding the good in everything and every situation. A power that never wavers or fades. A true mark of greatness. My Captain, mentor, teacher, my friend. I love you beyond words. Thank you for giving so much of yourself to us.”

Richard is survived by his wife Kate (McQuillan) of Wayne, one son, CJ Rebecky of Providence, R.I., three daughters, Ryann Jodoin and her husband Colt of West Milford, Melissa Rebecky and her fiancé Joel Morales of Wayne, and Samantha Rebecky of Wayne, two grandsons, Noah Perez and Colt Jodoin, Jr., two brothers; Frank Rebecky and his wife Teri of Sefner, FL, and John Rebecky and his wife Dolores of Wallington, one sister Jennifer Faries of Indianapolis, and numerous nieces and nephews, his sister-in-law Marilyn Rebecky of Colorado, and two brother-in-laws; Mac McQuillan of Rutherford, and David McQuillan and his wife Michelle of Vernon. Richard was predeceased by his brother Joe and also by his sister-inlaw Chickie McQuillan.

A funeral service was held on March 2 in Wayne, N.J. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959, www. stjude.org, or CRS Foundation, 7-B Tosch Ave., Wayne, NJ 07470, www.carlosraymondfoundation.com If you’d like to leave a memory in his online guest book, visit https://vandermay.com/ obituarydetail.html#/20371 ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 85

3/11/20 2:13 PM

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

People on the Move

H

ugh Jones (right) became CEO of Reed Exhibitions on Feb. 1, succeeding Chet Burchett who retired and returned to Texas after five years. Jones joined RELX in 2011 when it acquired Accuity, where he was serving as CEO. Burchett, a 15-year-veteran of Reed Exhibitions, will serve as non-executive chairman through 2020, focusing on special projects and providing transitional support.

Live Marketing, an experiential marketing agency and WBENC-certified woman-owned business, has announced Chris Kappes as VP, strategic partnership development, a new position responsible for fostering relationships with exhibit firms and service organizations. A 30-year industry exec, Kappes led sales/marketing organizations for George P. Johnson, Sparks, 3D Exhibits and most recently was founder/COO of Exhibitshub, the nation’s first exhibit sharing marketplace, modeled after Airbnb.

Global experiential marketing agency Impact XM has welcomed Michael Grivas to lead its Canadian and D.C.based sales team. As VP of client services, Grivas will apply his legacy of industry experience in business strategy, sales activities, operations, client relationships and team development to the Impact XM team. A second-generation experiential marketer with more than 30 years in the industry, Grivas joins Impact XM from a previous position as president of mg Experiential Marketing. He also serves on the board of the American Society of Interior Design.

Derse, a complete face-to-face marketing company, named Eric Preston as president effective Jan. 1. Preston, formerly Derse’s senior VP, has been with the company for 11 years and is a 33-year veteran of the face-to-face indus-

by Exhibit City News

try. Preston will succeed Brett Haney as company president.

Haney previously held the role of Derse president and CEO. Haney will maintain his position as Derse CEO. Aventri, a leading meeting and event technology software provider, announced that Jim Sharpe has been appointed CEO and Oni Chukwu has been promoted to executive chairman after leading the company as CEO for the past six years, during which he oversaw accelerated revenue growth, product maturation and global expansion.

Heritage Trade Show Services, one of the nation’s leading special event and exposition contractors with offices in St. Louis, Las Vegas, Nashville and Washington, D.C., announced the addition of industry veteran John Bettag (left) as senior VP, business development. With nearly 30 years of experience working in large-scale conventions, events and tradeshows, Bettag will lead Heritage’s new sales and business development opportunities, along with strategic partnerships nationwide.

Prior to joining Heritage, Bettag led sales for Explore St. Louis for 10+ years and spent 17 years with Experient (A Maritz Global Events Company).

Orbus Exhibit & Display Group, North America’s leading wholesale supplier and manufacturer of display, exhibit, graphic and event solutions is proud to announce the promotion of Kirk Carnes to asst. GM of Orbus Las Vegas. Carnes has been a member of the Orbus team since March 2014 and most recently held the position of graphics manager at Orbus’ Las Vegas operation.

Employco USA, Inc. is pleased to

announce their newest team member, Teresa Chambers, their workers’ compensation claims coordinator who will be handling claims related to Employco’s master workers’ compensation program. stevensE3 has appointed Zoe van Niekerk (below left) as sales and marketing coordinator. She has nine years of sales and marketing experience within exhibition and events having worked with a media agency, event organizers and an exhibition stand builder in South Africa.

On Location, a nationwide provider of labor and management services for exhibits, events and environments, is proud to promote two members of its account executive team and two account managers in recognition of providing the highest level of client Return On Experience (ROE). Joyce Mollure and Jeff Popovich have been promoted to newly created senior account executive positions, while Allison Addotta and Conchetta Lehman (below left) will now hold the title of senior account manager. Each have been with On Location for more than eight years.

Abex Exhibits, a leading manufacturer and designer of custom, portable and modular tradeshow exhibits, announces the hiring of four industry veterans to its growing sales, design and engineering teams. Exhibit designer David Gebow joins Abex as creative director/exhibit designer and will manage an expanded Abex exhibit design team and direct all graphic design for new marketing campaigns.

Exhibit designer and engineer Adrian Sawyer returns to Abex, in his new dual role of webmaster and engineer, Sawyer will be responsible for overseeing all Abex website projects and will work within the engineering department on CAD modeling and product development.

Continued on p. 88

86 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

086_PoM_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 2:06 PM

Champion Logistics Group has a transportation divison specializing in the coordination of trade shows and special events. Champion provides the most reliable and flexible trade show transportation in the industry.

SW_STM_8x475_Ad_04-2017.pdf 1 4/3/2017 11:34:00 AM

"Our business experience with your facility has been fantastic and has saved us thousands of dollars.

Our ability to ship literature and supplies to your office has truly made STORAGEWEST an extension of our corporate offices In NH. We would not be able to manage our trade show business nearly as effectively if we did not have STORAGE WEST as a business partner in Las Vegas.�

LAS VEGAS | SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA | GREATER PHOENIX | HOUSTON

www.StorageWest.com

@ExhibitCityNews

086_PoM_0320.indd 2

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 87

3/11/20 11:21 AM

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Continued from p. 86 Mathew Kelly, formerly of Exhibit Deal, an exhibit distributor and wholesaler, will join Abex’s sales team for its two retail divisions, DGDisplays.com and NameYourPriceDisplays.com.

Additionally, event management professional and owner of her own company, Rental Advantage, Nancy Vernon joins Abex as senior account executive and is merging her company with Abex as they will act as the exclusive producer of tradeshow equipment for her rental clients.

Momentum Management is pleased to announce their new area manager for Northern Calif., Tom Barcelona and their new West Coast account senior executive, Brianna Ziomek. Barcelona has been in the tradeshow industry for many years and he’s worked with Momentum in San Francisco for the past three years.

Sho-Link Inc., a premier I&D service company, announced the retirement of Chicago city manager Scott Ciepley at the end of January and named Stephan Mahoney as the new Chicago city manager. Ciepley, a 37-year industry veteran of the tradeshow convention business, became Sho-Link’s Chicago city manager in April 2016. He was employed with Freeman Decorating for 33 years; as leadman, I & D foreman and general foreman.

Mahoney started in the industry in October of 2005 in Las Vegas as a timekeeper for a larger general contracting company. He began an apprenticeship as a Teamster and quickly became a Journeyman Teamster. During his time in Las Vegas, Mahoney moved up to a lead and working foreman for several different departments. In October 2014, Mahoney moved back home to Chicago and became a union carpenter. Mahoney joined Sho-Link in November 2016 as Chicago assistant city manager.

Sho-Link Inc. Regional Director of

Operations Jim Genzano presented the company’s Employee of the Year award to Jose Herrera (left) at their 2019 year-end celebration party.

Herrera started in the business in September of 2011 working for a local exhibit house as a builder in their shop. Shortly after he left the exhibit house, he joined the Southern California Sho-Link team as a union carpenter.

Exploring, Inc., the parent company of several rapidly growing Atlanta-based companies, is pleased to announce that Henry Swofford (right) was recognized as the 2019 Employee of the Year. Swofford is lead carpenter for Exploring’s ID3 Group division. He has been with the company for five years.

Cincinnati, Ohio-based ADEX International, a premier full service corporate marketing company, has hired Preston Thompson as an account executive and Lauren Zumbahlen as a client relations/project associate. Also, Tracy Fujimura (right), their business development account manager, is celebrating her completion of the Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) program as is Stephanie Chavez (The Trade Group marketing dir.) who also earned her CTSM. Three Pittsburgh area professionals earned their Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) certifications: Kristen Turner (left), director, convention services, VisitPITTSBURGH; Jaime Andrade-Budesa, senior services manager, VisitPITTSBURGH and Angie Jasper, national sales manager, David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

Eagle Management Group brought on Noah Ploch-Jones, as their Northern California assistant city manager on Feb. 6. In 2011, Ploch-Jones began his career

in the industry working for a large custom exhibit house in the Bay area overseeing shop activity and helping build and construct exhibit properties. He was also responsible for show site I&D as well as supervising local labor around the country. In 2018, after falling in love with the show floor, he went out on his own as an independent supervisor/road warrior and continued contracting most of his work through the same exhibit house, supervising over 100 projects a year.

Eagle also hired two new managers for New York and the S. Ohio/N. Kentucky/Indiana regions. Their most recent hire, NYC Manager Halston Behringer, came to Eagle with more than five years of industry experience. Kurt Cioffi, Eagle’s newest manager for the S. Ohio/N. Kentucky/ Indiana region, takes over the reins as Neal Rumpke prepares to retire. Cioffi began his career in the trenches as both a painter and a carpenter for more than ten years. He joined Eagle in 2011 as a full-time lead person.

Fern, a leading provider of exhibition and event services, welcomes Mark Shadwick, CEM, as a senior national sales manager. He will be based in the national sales office located in Alexandria, Va. He comes to Fern with more than 30 years of experience in the tradeshow and convention industry and most recently served as a senior tradeshow professional at Hargrove, Inc., and prior to that held a position with the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau.

Marquis Exhibits announced they have hired Lauren Byrge as an account executive for their Las Vegas headquarters. Prior to joining Marquis, she was overseeing all international sales and marketing efforts for Global Gaming Business magazine.

MSM Inc., has hired Tristan Wilkes as Continued on p. 90

88 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

086_PoM_0320.indd 3

3/10/20 6:02 AM

your furniture partners | ask about our new “powered up� collection

chicago 847.671.5494 | las vegas 702.798.6433 | www.anglesondesign.com

@ExhibitCityNews

086_PoM_0320.indd 4

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 89

3/10/20 6:02 AM

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Continued from p. 88 an associate project manager and Maureen Borzacchiello as director of global development. She was most recently with Creative Display Solutions, Inc., as president and CEO in Bensalem, Pa. Also, Tom Lonthair joined MSM as a custom fabricator, and Mike Fellows and Kyle Nicoletta joined as warehouse coordinators.

Global Shop Solutions is proud to celebrate 15 years of extraordinary service to ERP software customers under the leadership of Financial & Operations Service Manager Greg Bean. “No one will outwork Greg Bean,” says VP of Operations Mike Melzer. “He exceeds our motto of love, serve and care—he’ll do anything and everything he can do to help our customers and other employees.”

In association news, Dick Wheeler, president of both ProGlobalEvents and ProExhibits, a premier experiential marketing agency for corporate clients, has been re-elected to another two-year term of the CEMA (Corporate Event Marketing Association) board of directors.

Kara Barker (right), field sales representative at Orbus Exhibit & Display Group, North America’s leading wholesale supplier and manufacturer of display, exhibit, graphic and event solutions, has been named a Promotional Products Association of Florida (PPAF) Board Member.

The Specialty Graphic Imaging Association announced that longtime printing industry marketing and sales executive Jack Noonan has joined the organization as VP of business development. In this newly created role, Noonan will oversee PRINTING United Expo’s exhibitor and sponsorship partnerships for SGIA, strengthen existing communities, develop dedicated postal and packaging sector participation, and help explore new business opportunities for the leading annual event in the combined graphic arts industries.

Tony Yousfi (right), VP of sales for ARIA Resort & Casino and Vdara Hotel

& Spa in Las Vegas, has been selected by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International as one of the “Top 25: Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality Sales, Marketing, Revenue Optimization” for 2019.

In convention center news, VisitPITTSBURGH CEO Craig Davis announced his resignation, effective December 31, 2019.

Kari Morehead has been named special events & partnerships coordinator for the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the sixth largest convention center in the nation. The MCCNO has relocated their senior national sales manager, Mae Hill, to Chicago, Ill., to bring more focus on developing and servicing their Midwest Market accounts. As the first fully-embedded sales manager for the facility, Hill will partner with her New Orleans & Company colleagues in Chicago. MCCNO also named Taylor Passman (right) assistant production manager.

Matthew A. Polanco, a veteran of nearly three decades of experience at all levels of government affairs, has been named director of government relations for Visit San Antonio. Polanco, a California native, will serve as the organization’s lead advocacy representative for all matters relating to federal, state, county and city policy, legislation and community affairs.

The Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) welcomed Jo Ann Herold (left) to serve as chair of the board of directors for 2020. Herold is chief marketing officer at The Honey Baked Ham Company.

Explore St. Louis named Barry Draper the director of partnership where he will direct and coordinate activities of the partnership department, which encompasses partnership sales, events and development activities. Draper served

as partnership manager for the DuPage County Convention & Visitors Bureau. In 2018, he was honored by Destinations International as a member of their “30 Under 30” class of tourism professionals.

Caesars Entertainment, one of the most diversified casino-entertainment companies in the world, has promoted Eric Vaughn to director of banquet culinary operations for Caesars Forum and the Las Vegas region.

After nearly two decades of spearheading an MLB baseball team’s special event department, industry veteran Sabrina Jenkins is poised to score a home run with her own firm. She opened Atlanta-based SJL 26 Event Productions on Jan. 16 to offer corporate, personal and large-scale event planning. “Special events in the professional sports industry continues to grow and offers some of the hottest, most sought-after events in the world,” says Jenkins. “I’m proud to have built a career creating amazing events for Major League Baseball fans, corporate leaders, nonprofits and others looking to bring the WOW factor to their events. I’m excited to now help my own roster of clients create their extraordinary experiences.”

Global DMC Partners (GDP), the leading global network of independently-owned DMCs, proudly announces the appointment of Catherine Chaulet as president and CEO. Connections Housing, a full-service sourcing, housing and event management company, has named Jonathan Misiewicz as VP, national accounts.

Previously he was national sales manager for Rosen Hotels, Convention Properties in Orlando, Fla. In international news, ExCeL London appointed Sindri Hjartarson to account manager strengthening its conference & events team, Lenka Žlebková was named CEO of the Prague Convention Center and Corrado Peraboni was appointed CEO of Italian Exhibition Group.

90 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

086_PoM_0320.indd 5

3/10/20 6:03 AM

A LIVE-ACTION DRUNK HISTORY. ” “

– Time Out

“NEW YORK TIMES CRITICS’ PICK”

RATED 5 STARS ON YELP, TRIP ADVISOR & FACEBOOK

«««««

CRAFT COCKTAILS AVAILABLE DURING THE SHOW

Followeth:

DRUNKSHAKESPEARE.COM New York • Chicago @ExhibitCityNews

086_PoM_0320.indd 6

DS.ECN.3.8125x9.7.2.4C.indd 1

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 91

2020-02-28 11:14 AM

3/10/20 6:03 AM

THE D.E.A.L. By Jeanne Brei

Dining, Entertainment, Attractions & Lodging

The Mayfair Supper Club

DINING

Supper Clubs Featuring Live Music in Las Vegas Our regular readers know my penchant for vintage everything and that includes supper clubs with live musicians. Las Vegas is blessed with so many fabulous dining options, here’s a few that offer live music with your dinner.

First, there’s the very vintage Vegas Italian American Club just three miles east of the Strip on Sahara, built in 1960, with live music five nights/week in the restaurant and wonderful shows in the ballroom several nights a week. And yes, my Speakeasy Swingers’ Swanky Supper Club Soiree is the longest-running show at the IAC—performing the first Thursday of each month 7-9 p.m. for the last 10 years and with a different theme each month. April 2 will be songs from classic Broadway musicals with an “Easter Parade” around the room (wear your Easter bonnet). Downtown’s Mob Museum has a speakeasy downstairs with great food to go along with their small jazz combos

(the fantastic Amanda King appears regularly) and house-distilled, 100 percent corn “shine” (you can watch the still in action and buy some of it, too!)

Another vintage supper club is the Bootlegger’s Bistro on the south Strip with great Italian food and music nightly, featuring the fabulously talented Kelly Clinton on Mondays and the legendary Gus Mancuso trio on Fridays. The Tuscany Hotel (behind Bally’s on Flamingo) features two rooms with great music— especially the elegant Laura Shaffer on Mondays, “Nik at Night” Mastrangelo on Sundays with Joey Singer on the keys, and young, talented pianist Patrick Hogan on Thursdays. If you prefer an expensive steak dinner for your vintage Vegas experience, head to Piero’s on Convention Center Drive to hear legends Pia Zadora and Sonny Charles (from the Checkmates) on Fridays & Saturdays.

If you want to venture out into the neighborhoods, you can head northwest to Trattoria Reggiano in Downtown Summerlin and listen to a great Philly native, Craig Canter, singing the hits of Tom Jones, Engelbert Humperdinck and more on Fridays. Keep heading north to Sun City Summerlin, you can have a real

NYC Little Italy experience at Michael Leonetti’s My Mother’s House with the fabulous Steve Johnson on the bandstand. You could head southeast for more great Italian food and a marvelous duo at Casa di Amore (featuring the great Paul Stubblefield—who toured with the Platters—on drums and vocals), and on their Tiki di Amore patio with rotating bands. Just further east on Flamingo is Ichabod’s with a piano bar trio and neighborhood food. If you like great late night burgers with contemporary jazz, the Dispensary on Tropicana and Eastern has the Uli Geissendoerfer trio with great vocalists 10 p.m.-2 a.m. on weekends and a first Wednesday jam.

If you like your music more contemporary with a supper club experience, there’s Rose. Rabbit. Lie. at the Cosmopolitan, starring tap dancers on the piano and the great Skye Dee Miles wowing the audience. The Bellagio opened the Mayfair Supper Club on New Year’s Eve and it evolves throughout the night, beginning as a snazzy fountain-side lounge and morphing into a late-night dance party. Each evening opens with a pianist for “Cavi-Hour,” adding vocalists (including the fabulous Steve Judkins and Jassen Allen) and a band for the “Second Act,” and in the “Third Act” every singer, dancer, bartender and waiter becomes part of the “boundary-breaking production celebrating the glamourous fashion, lively music and supper club culture of yesteryear with a modern and sexy edge” including a 360-degree lightshow making the entirety of the restaurant part of the stage. On weekends, there’s “Mayfair After Dark” (11 p.m.-3 a.m.) with performers descending from the ceiling and sexy routines illuminating the venue. They also have Jazz Sundays where the singers sing songs from the Great American Songbook. Also on Sundays, the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay has a Gospel Brunch and Lakeside at the Wynn has the David “Mojo” Poe jazz band playing traditional jazz and blues 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Time travel back to elegant supper clubs with live musicians!

92 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

092_TheDeal_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 2:56 PM

ENTERTAINMENT

From Vegas! The Show to Wayne Newton & The Bronx Wanderers: Las Vegas Shows with Heart and History variety show like no other—performed by zombies!

Next is the very vintage Vegas Cleopatra’s Barge, originally a floating lounge at Caesars Palace, it’s an ornate replica of the craft that transported the royalty of Egypt on the Nile River in the time of Julius Caesar. In 2017, it was transformed into a ticketed showroom currently alternating between Wayne Newton (who is not only a great entertainer, he also has fantastic videos from his entire career) and Dionne Warwick (who is also marvelous with some great video from her career too!). Formerly, British-born singing sensation Matt Goss had a residency there, too, but he has moved to the Mirage’s 1OAK. Goss is reminiscent of a young Sinatra, embodying the magic of a classic lounge crooner with an English accent, old-school glamour and a sleek style with backup dancers and great band.

Finally, if you want to time-travel back to the street corners of the Bronx for a

dynamic ’50s, ’60s and ’70s rock n’ roll experience, no show can get you there like Vinny Adinolfi and his sons performing as The Bronx Wanderers. Encouraged to start their band by none other than Chazz Palminteri, these dynamos perform at Harrah’s doing a fantastic Frankie Valli medley, an amazing Bohemian Rhapsody, an awesome Uptown Funk and other top pop and rock songs for an evening of toe-tapping and dancing in the aisles.

Vegas! The Show runs two shows a night, seven nights a week at the Saxe Theatre, Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. Call (866) 932-1818 or email tickets@vegastheshow.com. Zombie Burlesque performs at 8:30 six nights/week (dark Sundays) at the V Theatre in the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. Call (866) 932-1818 or visit www. vtheaterboxoffice.com. Wayne Newton & Dionne Warwick tickets at Cleopatra’s Barge at Caesars Palace; Matt Goss at Mirage’s 1OAK and the Bronx Wanderers at Harrah’s Showroom (dark Tuesdays) are available at www.ticketmaster.com

Photo courtesy of Mayfair Supper Club

Although most Las Vegas visitors immediately head for the latest Cirque show or the headliners at Caesars, T-Mobile arena or the MGM Grand Arena, may I recommend a few shows that will allow you to time-travel back to when Vegas was Sinatra-cool?

First, I always recommend Vegas!

The Show, which truly is the history of Las Vegas in song, dance and feathers with some implosion videos thrown in.

With one of the best show bands in town (featuring Pat Caddick’s great arrangements), they pay homage to acts from the ’40s to today. Featuring fabulous choreography by Tiger Martina, the performers sing and dance to the hits of Louis Prima, the Rat Pack and Lena Horne all the way to Gladys Knight, Lola Falana and Elton John. Its “sister” show, Zombie Burlesque, features another hot band (and Pat Caddick’s arrangements), and the fabulous Enoch Augustus Scott as your over-the-top host/emcee of a

@ExhibitCityNews

092_TheDeal_0320.indd 2

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 93

3/11/20 11:26 AM

THE D.E.A.L. By Jeanne Brei

Dining, Entertainment, Attractions & Lodging

ATTRACTIONS

Attractions You Can Only Find in Downtown Las Vegas From the Neon Boneyard to a Flaming Praying Mantis & More!

“What happens here, only happens here” is the new Las Vegas slogan, introduced in 2020, so here’s a few downtown Vegas attractions that you’d be hardpressed to find back home.

The Neon Boneyard features signs from old casinos and other businesses displayed outdoors on 2.62 acres. The museum features a restored lobby shell from the La Concha Motel as its visitor center.

Best bet is to get a ticket that includes the Mob Museum too, and head to the Neon Boneyard just before twilight so you can see the signs that don’t light up before dark as well as the ones that do after dark.

While at the Mob Museum, you can explore the real stories and actual events of mob history through one-of-a-kind mob and law enforcement artifacts inside the restored 1933 former courthouse and post office building. Rated No. 4 in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice travel award rank-

ings, there’s numerous interactive exhibits including a Crime Lab, Firearm Training Simulator and Organized Crime Today exhibit, as well as The Underground, a basement-level Prohibition history exhibition featuring a speakeasy and distillery sponsored by Zappos. There’s also an engaging new mobile app providing the ultimate guide to the museum for visitors, in-depth education for those seeking more about the history of the mob and law enforcement, and an innovative, interactive lookalike feature called Doppelgangster which matches user’s facial features with those from more than 800 mob-related images.

Other one-of-a-kind downtown experiences include just walking down (or ziplining above) Fremont Street and watching the amazing light show on the canopy after dark, as well as all the “only in Vegas” characters who are all ready and waiting for your Kodak moments.

The Viva Vision canopy originally had 2.1 million incandescent lights, but with the completion of a $17 million upgrade last year, there’s more than 12 million LED lamps to go with 220 speakers powered by 500,000 watts of amplification.

You can head down to Container Park and watch the 40-ft.-tall praying mantis spewing fire six stories high from its

antennae (it originally came to life at a Burning Man festival) and a little further down LV Blvd. you can go shopping at Gold & Silver Pawn Stars. You could also take a scrumptious Foodie Tour downtown (reservations required), learn how to throw an axe, lumberjack style, at Axe Monkey, or sing at Don’t Tell Mama’s to a live pianist or karaoke style at the Cat’s Meow—both at Neonopolis.

If you like antiques, Main Street Station Hotel & Casino is filled with such treasures--grab a map with descriptions at the front desk. You’ll find carved-oak fireplaces from Scottish castles, chandeliers from a Parisian Opera House and a Texan Coca-Cola building, and a pair of bronze doors that originally adorned the Kuwait National Bank. The men’s urinals in the casino are built into a graffiti-covered portion of the Berlin Wall.

Fortunately, at the Golden Nugget, both sexes can check out the 61-pound Hand of Faith, the biggest golden nugget in existence, as well as the gorgeous pool area with a three-story slide through a shark tank. Developers promise to return Sassy Sally when the Circa Hotel opens in December (they took her down when they demolished a block of buildings on Fremont Street last year to build Circa).

94 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

092_TheDeal_0320.indd 3

3/11/20 11:27 AM

LODGING

The Jackie Gaughan Suite at El Cortez Is a Step Back in Time Las Vegas hotels, casinos and restaurants are constantly renovating, upgrading and becoming as modern as they can be. But there’s some notable exceptions that vintage-craving time travelers can seek out. For instance, at the downtown El Cortez Hotel and Casino, the longest continuously running hotel and casino in the city, the Jackie Gaughan suite is a veritable time-capsule tribute to the El Cortez’s former owner. He and his wife, Bertie, lived in the two-bedroom, two-anda-half-bathroom suite with living room, sitting room and kitchen for 25 years.

Not only does his penthouse have an extraordinary view of both the Fremont Street East entertainment district and the Las Vegas Strip, but it’s been kept in its original “unrenovated” condition—pink @ExhibitCityNews

092_TheDeal_0320.indd 4

marble bathtub, blue kitchen countertops and all! Gaughan passed away in 2014 and the suite has only recently become available for bookings—however, requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and arrangements are made only if you’re approved.

Fortunately, they also offer more reasonable rooms that are designed in the style of Miami beach houses with white-slatted shutters on the windows at their powder-blue Cabana Suites building across the road. At one time, Gaughan owned five casinos and nearly all the property surrounding the El Cortez, which is one of the few casinos in Las Vegas never to have changed its exterior façade.

Meanwhile, it’s a completely different story regarding Elvis’ home away home.

From 1969-1976, Elvis would perform 30 days straight, two shows a night for two months a year at The International Hotel on Paradise. The hotel has gone on to become a Hilton, LVH and now the Westgate, but when Elvis’ lived there his 5,000-sq.ft. penthouse on the 30th floor was

simply room “3000.” Elvis had decorated his bedroom with a black and red and chrome wallpaper, dubbed “Seventies-style on steroids.”

But in 1995, the hotel renovated and expanded

what was Elvis’ Suite into a 13,000-sq.ft. Italian palace called the Tuscany Sky Villa. Elvis wouldn’t recognize it today but it is available for bookings (at highroller pricing).

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 95

3/11/20 11:27 AM

Tradeshow Calendar TRADESHOW ROUNDUP

by Amadeus Finlay SOUTHEAST

Healthcare Information & Management Systems HIMSS, Orange County Convention Center, Mar. 9-13 SOUTHWEST

ISC West, Sands Convention Center, March 17-20 Imagine spending Saint Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas. If you are one of the lucky 36,771 attendees heading to ISC West this March 17, imagine no more. Your shamrocking experience will include more than 1,000 exhibitors from across the world, with a slew of displays coming in at 4,000 sq.ft. or larger. Axis Communications shares the floor with the likes of FLIR Systems Inc. (inventors of genius night vision technology), Seagate and Panasonic. Special features are set to be all the rage at this year’s show, with focus placed on drones and robotics, connected security, and emerging tech, among others. Some considerations for exhibiting companies. Booth furnishing must be ordered by Feb. 24, catering and additional Wi-Fi by the 26th. Move-in begins runs March 14-16, with allocation done through a color coding.

For more info, visit https://www.iscwest.com/

HIMMS sure does like Orlando. Returning to the sunsoaked city for the third time in four years (bar one brief fling with Vegas…), this monster of the healthcare space promises to be an affair to remember. An estimated 42,520 attendees are set to show up for the five-day shebang, with more than 1,300 exhibitors. Expect IBM, Medhost and GE Healthcare among others, as well as an entertainingly unorthodox lineup of keynote speakers. Gianrico Farrugia, MD president and CEO Mayo Clinic, shares the billing alongside the former governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie, and founder of A-Rod Corp, Alex “A-Rod” Rodriguez. The key info for exhibitors? Each exhibiting company will have a targeted move-in day and time, depending on the location of the booth. Movein runs from March 3-9, 8 a.m.-4.30 p.m. And buried deep in the exhibitor handbook is the most important piece of information of all: “NEW! Aisle carpet: Midnight Blue.” Life doesn’t get much better than that. For more info, visit https://www.himssconference.org/

NORTHEAST

NORTHWEST

American College of OB & GYN Annual Meeting, Washington State Convention Center, April 24-27 In what is a quiet early second quarter in the northwest, one notable exception is the 69th annual ACOG in Seattle. A sprawling show floor occupies both wings of Washington’s largest convention center, with Hologic and Sage Therapeutics making statements of intent among what is a highly competitive sea of industry leaders. A strong international presence is also expected, notably from Canada, Ecuador and the Philippines, with California and Massachusetts sending the most delegates from the mainland. A wide range of educational sessions are being held, including discussions on transgender care and Moral Panic Phenomenon. Looking for something new? 2020 sees the debut of a much-anticipated ice-cream social, held on the afternoon of April 25. Exhibitor move-in runs April 21-23, with move-out on April 26-27. For more info, visit https://annualmeeting.acog.org/

American Psychiatric Association, Pennsylvania Convention Center, April 25-29 Billed as the “premier psychiatry event of the year”, AAP promises more than 500 educational sessions, 34 courses, 8 tracks, and 35 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits over a five-day meeting at the end of April. The theme for this year’s annual meeting, “Advancing Quality: Challenges and Opportunities,” was chosen to highlight the importance and timeliness of quality in medical care. Expect a big presence from Allergan and Janssen Pharmaceuticals and off the exhibit floor, highlights include the APA JobCentral and Career Fair, as well as the Convocation of Distinguished Fellows featuring the William C. Menninger Memorial Lecture by Richard Kogan, M.D. Last but not least, the “APA Gives Back” initiative supports a community organization in the city where the annual meeting is held. In Philadelphia, the program will be in benefit of Angels in Motion, an organization that provides “blessings bags” containing food, snacks, clothing, hygiene products and resource information to individuals struggling with addiction.

For more info, visit https://www.psychiatry.org/

96 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 6:14 AM

See complete listing of shows online at ExhibitCityNews.com/tradeshow-calendar

MIDWEST

National Rifle Association Annual Meetings & Exhibits, Music City Center, April 16-19 If there is anywhere that the NRA show can find a star-spangled backdrop to support its distinctly Americana persona, it’s Nashville. One of the industry’s more controversial shows, this four-day event in the nation’s heartland is moving on after a stint in Indianapolis. Remington, for one, is bringing a 7,000 sq.ft. giant to the Music City Center; but even they aren’t the biggest on display. That accolade goes to Vista Outdoors, who will be taking-up a colossal 8,400 sq.ft. of floor space. As for the White House… having attended last year’s show, there is comment (at time of print) that the President and/or Vice President may attend. Move-in begins at 1 p.m. on April 14, ending on April 16. Once the dust settles, move-out commences at 5.30 p.m. on April 19, ending at 5 p.m. on April 21. Already looking to next year? The 2021 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits will be held in Houston, May 14-16, 2021. For more info, visit https://www.nraam.org/

CENTRAL

American Academy of Dermatology, Colorado Convention Center, Feb. 3-7 Skincare is big business. The international market was valued at $135 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach $180 billion—an increase of more than 30 percent—by 2025. As such, this five-day meeting in Denver isn’t just a place to make friends and prospects in the shadows of some snow-capped mountains. Rather, AAD is an opportunity to rub shoulders at the most significant skincare summit on the planet. Expect attendees from Brazil, Canada, the UK, India and Saudi Arabia, as well as representatives from every state in the nation. And this global clout is reflected in the sheer size of exhibits on display. Neutrogena, Pfizer and Candela are all bringing monster booths to the show floor (and that’s just the tip of a well-moisturized iceberg). Movein begins at 8 a.m. on March 17, wrapping up at 6 p.m. on March 19, while dismantle and move-out runs from 3 p.m. on March 22 until 5 p.m. the following afternoon.

For more info, visit https://www.aad.org/ @ExhibitCityNews

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 2

CANADA

American Academy of Neurology, Metro Toronto Convention Centre, April 25-May 1 Moving across the northern border for the first time since 2016, AAN will celebrate its 72nd annual meeting in the city of Toronto, Ontario. Highlights include the launch of two, brand-new experiential learning areas, and “The Great Neuro Race,” a teambuilding exercise where attendees tackle a mental and physical obstacle course strewn across the city. Down on the show floor, look for EISAI’s thumping 50x50 space, dwarfed only by Novartis and Genentech. And while you’re there, don’t forget to stop by the Innovation Hub to discover the latest and greatest industry discoveries. In what promises to be a hectic seven days, the AAN Conferences App promises to keep track of all the proceedings. For more info, visit https://www.aan.com/

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 97

3/10/20 6:15 AM

Tradeshow Calendar U.S. CENTRAL

Att = Attendance | CC=Convention Center | Exh = Exhibitors | Nsf = Net Square Feet

Show Border Security Expo - BSE Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians Spring Refresher - MAFP North American Handmade Bicycle Show - NAHBS Building Owners & Managers Association - BOMA Dallas Closets & Home Organization Conference & Expo National Art Education Association - NAEA DUG Permain Basin - Developing Unconventional Gas National Council for Behavioral Health Conference - NATCON American College of Medical Genetics & Genomics - ACMG Annual Meeting American Association of Geriatric Psychiatry - AAGP American Jail Association Annual Conf. & Jail Expo - AJA Midwest Poultry Federation Convention Electric Power Conference + Exhibition International Cemetary, Cremation & Funeral Assn. - ICCFA Texas Apartment Assoc. - TAA Education Conf. & Lone Star Expo Utah Dental Association Oncology Nursing Society - ONS Annual Congress Texas Library Association - TLA Space Symposium NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education The Precast Show - National Precast Concrete Assn - NPCA NACE CORROSION North American Farm & Power Show FenceTech - AFA The Car Wash Show American Academy of Dermatology - AAD Triumph of Ag Expo American Physical Society March Meeting - APS Craft Brewers & BrewExpo America

You Built It!

Start 03/11 03/28 03/20 04/09 03/11 03/26 04/06 04/05 03/17 03/13 04/04 03/17 04/14 03/30 04/22 03/26 04/29 03/24 03/30 03/28 03/05 03/15 03/19 03/03 04/06 03/20 03/04 03/02 04/19

End 03/12 03/29 03/22 04/09 03/13 03/28 04/08 04/07 03/21 03/16 04/08 03/19 04/17 04/02 04/24 03/27 05/03 03/27 04/02 04/01 03/07 03/19 03/21 03/06 04/08 03/24 03/05 03/06 04/22

Venue Henry B. Gonzalez CC The Depot Kay Bailey Hutchison CC Dallas Market Hall Arlington CC Minneapolis CC Ft. Worth CC Austin CC Henry B. Gonzalez CC Grand Hyatt Gaylord Rockies Minneapolis CC Colorado CC Henry B. Gonzalez CC Fort Worth CC Salt Palace CC Henry B. Gonzalez CC George R. Brown CC The Broadmoor Hotel Austin CC Ft. Worth CC George R. Brown CC Steele County Fairground Salt Palace CC Henry B. Gonzalez CC Colorado CC CHI Health Center Colorado CC Henry B. Gonzalez CC

All Information Is Subject to Change*

City San Antonio Minneapolis Dallas Dallas Arlington Minneapolis Ft. Worth Austin San Antonio San Antonio Denver Minneapolis Denver San Antonio Ft. Worth Salt Lake City San Antonio Houston Colorado Springs Austin Ft. Worth Houston Owatonna Salt Lake City San Antonio Denver Omaha Denver San Antonio

St TX MN TX TX TX MN TX TX TX TX CO MN CO TX TX UT TX TX CO TX TX TX MN UT TX CO NE CO TX

Att 1000 400 7000 700 2000 4000 2482 5000 3342 1200 2200 3200 3500 1000 4828 6576 3139 7046 15K 8000 4200 6500 32.5K 7000 8700 18.8K 18.5K 11K 13K

Exh 100 100 150 135 127 115 191 169 40 275 190 315 321 170 206 457 200 150 365 400 275 365 400 409 1K 100 800

Nsf 10000 10300 15000 20000 20000 20400 24600 25000 25300 30000 30000 30000 33000 45000 50000 50000 51300 52000 61760 64000 73200 77800 99000 115K 160K 187K 200K

Industry Security Healthcare Sporting Goods & Rec. Real Estate Building & Construction Education Energy[ Healthcare Healthcare Healthcare Government Agriculture & Farming Energy Funeral Industry Housing Healthcare Healthcare Libraries Aerospace & Aviation Education Building & Construction Science Agriculture & Farming Building & Construction Automotive & Trucking Healthcare Agriculture & Farming Science Food & Beverage

Now Flaunt It! SHOW OFF YOUR GREATEST EXHIBITS WITH THE GREATEST PHOTOGRAPHY!

98 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 3

3/10/20 6:15 AM

See complete listing of shows online at ExhibitCityNews.com/tradeshow-calendar

Att = Attendance | CC=Convention Center | Exh = Exhibitors | Nsf = Net Square Feet

U.S. MIDWEST Show Ohio Osteopathic Annual Convention - OOA Ohio Pharmacists Association Annual Conference Ohio Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling - PHCC/ACCA Midwest Political Science Association - MPSA Michigan Dental Association LeadingAge Illinois North American Snow Conference - APWA INFO*FLEX - Flexographic Technical Association Ohio Safety Congress & Expo American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists - AAOP National Art Materials Trade Association - NAMTA NWFA Annual Wood Flooring Convention & Expo M-PACT - Midwest Petroleum and Convenience Trade Show National Association of Fleet Administrators - NAFA International Powder Bulk Solids Ohio Health Care Association Annual Conv. & Expo - OHA American College of Cardiology - ACC Midwest Foodservice Expo American Coatings Show - AC Pittcon - Conference On Analytical Chemistry & Applied Spectroscopy America’s Beauty Show IEEE/PES Transmission & Distribution Conference The Work Truck Show - NTEA Fire Department Instructors Conference - FDIC International Home + Housewares Show AFS CASTEXPO & Metalcasting Congress Midwest Podiatry Conference - MPC International Cheese Technology Exposition - ICTE National Council of Teachers of Mathematics - NCTM

All Information Is Subject to Change*

Start 04/22 04/03 03/04 04/16 04/29 03/17 04/19 04/20 03/11 03/04 04/26 04/28 03/24 04/06 04/28 04/27 03/28 03/09 03/31 03/01 04/18 04/20 03/03 04/20 03/14 04/21 04/29 04/14 04/01

End 04/26 04/05 03/06 04/19 05/02 03/19 04/22 04/21 03/13 03/07 04/28 04/30 03/26 04/08 04/30 04/30 03/30 03/11 04/02 03/05 04/20 04/23 03/06 04/25 03/17 04/23 05/02 04/16 04/04

Venue Hilton at Easton Town Center Greater Columbus CC Sharonville CC Palmer House Hilton DeVos Place Renaissance Schaumburg CC Huntington CC Greater Columbus CC Greater Columbus CC Hyatt Regency Chicago Navy Pier Wisconsin Center Indiana CC Indiana CC Donald E. Stephens CC Greater Columbus CC McCormick Place Wisconsin Center Indiana CC McCormick Place McCormick Place McCormick Place Indiana CC Indiana CC McCormick Place Huntington CC Hyatt Regency Chicago Wisconsin Center McCormick Place

City Columbus Columbus Cincinnati Chicago Grand Rapids Schaumburg Cleveland Columbus Columbus Chicago Chicago Milwaukee Indianapolis Indianapolis Rosemont Columbus Chicago Milwaukee Indianapolis Chicago Chicago Chicago Indianapolis Indianapolis Chicago Cleveland Chicago Milwaukee Chicago

St OH OH OH IL MI IL OH OH OH IL IL WI IN IN IL OH IL WI IN IL IL IL IN IN IL OH IL WI IL

Att 800 1200 400 5200 5000 3000 1500 2000 8000 1500 1800 3000 3500 935 6771 3200 13.8K 6500 9100 12.5K 70K 12.3K 10.4K 28K 58K 2200 2200 2350 15K

Exh 50 80 90 33 150 250 120 240 275 175 195 280 361 271 387 300 279 300 559 713 414 772 480 821 2.1K 225 275 223 300

Nsf 3000 7000 9000 14000 18000 25000 28000 30000 38850 40000 41500 52000 53000 60635 98440 118K 124K 125K 130K 132K 180K 224K 235K 425K 760K

Industry Healthcare Healthcare Building & Construction Government Healthcare Healthcare Government Printing Healthcare Healthcare Art, Music, Culture Building & Construction Stores & Store Fittings Automotive & Trucking Manufacturing Healthcare Healthcare Food & Beverage Manufacturing Healthcare Beauty & Healthcare Electrical & Electronics Automotive & Trucking Fire & Fire Protection Housewares Metalworking Healthcare Food & Beverage Education

Where Can You Find Industry Features, Maps, Insider Information, Shop Talk And Free Stuff?

Exhibit City News, of Course!

Sign up for six stunning, full-color issues of ECN and get our very special 20th anniversary edition, 52 weekly digital updates and free stuff to wear proudly!

GO TO EXHIBITCITYNEWS.COM/SUBSCRIBE OR CALL 702.309.8023

@ExhibitCityNews

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 4

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 99

3/10/20 6:15 AM

Tradeshow Calendar U.S. NORTHEAST

Att = Attendance | CC=Convention Center | Exh = Exhibitors | Nsf = Net Square Feet

Show Association of Fundraising Professionals - AFPICON Abilities Expo - New York Metro Washington DC Travel & Adventure Show West Virginia Construction & Design Expo TechDay New York Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association - HMRA American Occupational Therapy Association - AOTA National Catholic Educational Association - NCEA American Pharmacists Association - APhA New England Food Show - NEFS JA International Jewelry Show Impressions Expo - The Imprinted Sportswear Show Atlantic City American Chemical Society Spring - ACS JLC LIVE Residential Construction Show - New England American Psychiatric Association - APA International Restaurant & Foodservice Show of New York & PMQ’s NY Pizza Show American Dental Education Association - ADEA Building Operating Management’s NFMT - Nat. Facilities Mgmt. and Technology Atlantic Builders Conference - ABC American Association of Neurological Surgeons - AANS Tri-State Camp Conference Satellite Pack Expo East National Science Teachers Association - Annual - NSTA Institute for Supply Management Conference & Expo - ISM Interphex & Biotechnica America Seafood Expo North America & Seafood Processing North America Vision Expo - East New York International Auto Show

Start 03/29 05/01 03/07 03/25 04/23 03/08 03/26 04/14 03/20 03/22 03/15 03/19 03/22 03/18 04/25 03/08 03/14 03/17 04/01 04/25 03/10 03/09 03/03 04/02 04/26 04/28 03/15 03/26 04/10

End 03/31 05/03 03/08 03/26 04/23 03/09 03/29 04/16 03/23 03/24 03/17 03/21 03/26 03/21 04/29 03/10 03/17 03/19 04/02 04/29 03/12 03/12 03/05 04/05 04/29 04/30 03/17 03/29 04/19

Venue Baltimore CC New Jersey CC Walter E. Washington CC Charleston CC Javits Center Ocean City CC Boston Conv. & Expo Center Baltimore CC Gaylord National Boston Conv. & Expo Center Javits Center Atlantic City CC Pennsylvania CC Rhode Island CC Pennsylvania CC Javits Center Gaylord National Baltimore CC Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Boston Conv. & Expo Center Atlantic City CC Walter E. Washington CC Pennsylvania CC Boston Conv. & Expo Center Hynes CC Javits Center Boston Conv. & Expo Center Javits Center Javits Center

All Information Is Subject to Change*

City Baltimore Edison Washington Charleston New York Ocean City Boston Baltimore Washington Boston New York Atlantic City Philadelphia Providence Philadelphia New York Washington Baltimore Atlantic City Boston Atlantic City Washington Philadelphia Boston Boston New York Boston New York New York

St MD NJ DC WV NY MD MA MD DC MA NY NJ PA RI PA NY DC MD NJ MA NJ DC PA MA MA NY MA NY NY

Att 4000 6500 14K 5000 20K 5000 7640 4965 7000 8996 3748 6336 17K 7812 16K 16K 2700 9301 6500 3300 3000 15K 6000 14K 2500 10K 20K 15K 1M

Exh 250 159 250 350 300 384 443 200 530 243 202 320 254 193 367 100 456 400 221 300 340 400 500 150 617 1K 700 185

Nsf 30000 35000 35000 40000 40000 40600 43980 44300 45000 45475 47650 49450 50000 54000 59000 64545 65000 65250 75000 80000 86300 90000 100K 120K 124K 159K 182K 254K 915K

Industry Financial & Legal Healthcare Travel Industry Building & Construction Computers & Apps Hotels & Resorts Healthcare Religious Healthcare Food & Beverage Jewelry Apparel Chemical Building & Construction Healthcare Restaurants & Food Serv.

Healthcare Building & Construction Building & Construction Healthcare Sporting Goods & Rec. Communications Mat. Handl., Pkg & Logistics

Education Manufacturing Healthcare Food & Beverage Healthcare Automotive & Trucking

100 March/April 2020 2019 Exhibit City News

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 5

3/11/20 11:28 AM

See complete listing of shows online at ExhibitCityNews.com/tradeshow-calendar

Att = Attendance | CC=Convention Center | Exh = Exhibitors | Nsf = Net Square Feet

U.S. NORTHWEST Show Northern California Human Resource Assn - HR West Vision by Design - American Academy of Orthokeratology & Myopia Control (AAOMC) Wildland Urban Interface - New Fire Frontiers - WUI SIGCSE - Association for Computing Machinery - ACM OptoWest Innovations Conference - League for Innovation in the Community College SPIE Advanced Lithography California Association of Directors of Activities - CADA Central Valley Facilities Expo Oregon Dental Conference Academy of Osseointegration RSA Conference Specialty Coffee Conference & Exhibition International Symposium on Quality Electronic Design - isQED International Association of Operative Millers - IAOM Game Manufacturers Association - GAMA Society of Behavioral Medicine - SBM Washington Assoc. of Wine Grape Growers Annual Meeting & Trade Show Molecular Medicine Tri-Conference - CHI Northwest Foodservice Show Society of Interventional Radiology - SIR Endocrine Society Meeting - ENDO American Educational Research Association - AERA Game Developers Conference - GDC Public Agency Risk Management Association - PARMA Conf.

IEEE IAS Electrical Safety Workshop Product & Service Expo The Association of Children’s Prosthetic-Orthotic Clinics - ACPOC Redwood Region Logging Conference Internet of Things World

@ExhibitCityNews

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 6

All Information Is Subject to Change*

Start 03/09 04/15 03/24 03/11 04/26 03/01 02/23 03/04 04/01 04/02 03/18 02/24 04/23 03/25 04/07 03/09 04/01 03/02 03/01 04/19 03/28 03/28 04/17 03/16 02/25 03/02 03/18 03/19 04/06

End 03/11 04/19 03/26 03/14 04/26 03/04 02/27 03/07 04/02 04/04 03/21 02/28 04/26 03/26 04/09 03/12 04/04 03/05 03/04 04/20 04/02 03/31 04/21 03/20 02/28 03/06 03/21 03/21 04/09

Venue Oakland CC Hyatt Regency Peppermill Resort Oregon CC Hilton Sacramento Arden West Hyatt Regency San Jose CC Grand Sierra Resort & Casino Modesto Centre Plaza Oregon CC Washington State CC Moscone Center Oregon CC Santa Clara CC Oregon CC Peppermill Resort Hilton SF Union Square Three Rivers CC Moscone Center Portland Expo Center Washington State CC Moscone Center Moscone Center Moscone Center Monterey Conf. Center Peppermill Resort Portland Marriott Downtown Ukiah Fairgrounds San Jose CC

City Oakland Bellevue Reno Portland Sacramento Seattle San Jose Reno Modesto Portland Seattle San Francisco Portland Santa Clara Portland Reno San Francisco Kennewick San Francisco Portland Seattle San Francisco San Francisco San Francisco Monterey Reno Portland Ukiah San Jose

St CA WA NV OR CA WA CA NV CA OR WA CA OR CA OR NV CA WA CA OR WA CA CA CA CA NV OR CA CA

Att 600 400 1500 1500 220 4000 2000 1900 5586 2300 40K 8025 650 1000 1696 1700 2500 3700 5000 5200 10K 14K 29K

Exh 25 39 55 68 88 100 100 210 225 264 110 386 425 13 100

200 200 300 129

Nsf 2500 5400 5600 6800 7000 12K 16K 16.8K 23.5K 30K 44K 98K 100K

Industry Business Healthcare Fire & Fire Protection Computers & Apps Healthcare Education Printing Sporting Goods & Rec. Plant Eng. & Operations Healthcare Healthcare Computers & Apps Food & Beverage Electrical & Electronics Agriculture & Farming Gaming & Entertainment Healthcare Agriculture & Farming Healthcare Food & Beverage Healthcare Healthcare Education Gaming & Entertainment Government Electrical & Electronics Healthcare Agriculture & Farming Computers & Apps

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 101

3/10/20 6:15 AM

Tradeshow Calendar U.S. SOUTHEAST

Att = Attendance | CC=Convention Center | Exh = Exhibitors | Nsf = Net Square Feet

Show Geosynthetics - IFAI Independent Community Bankers of America - ICBA National Student Nurses’ Association Annual - NSNA Dscoop - Edge Enterprise Connect National Postal Forum - NPF Coal Prep Tech - CPSA Amusement Expo - AAMA International Propane Expo & Southeastern Convention - NPGA TechAdvantage SECO International - Southern Council of Optometrists EMS Today Conference & Expo International Window Coverings Expo - VISION American Academy of Audiology - AAA Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting Duty Free Show of the Americas - IAADFS Travel Goods Show AUSA ILW Global Force Symposium and Exposition - Association of the US Army Imaging Technology Education & Exhibition - ITEX Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo - HPBA SeatradeCruiseGlobal International Sign Expo - ISA American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - AAOS Army Aviation Association of America - AAAA MODEX - Material Handling & Logistics Solutions National Rifle Association - NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits Coverings Healthcare Information & Management Systems - HIMSS Mid-America Trucking Show - MATS

Start 03/08 03/08 04/15 03/29 03/30 04/26 04/20 03/09 04/06 03/01 03/04 03/02 03/25 04/01 03/19 03/30 03/04 03/17 04/14 03/11 04/20 04/02 03/24 04/22 03/09 04/16 04/20 03/09 03/26

End 03/10 03/12 04/19 04/01 04/02 04/29 04/22 03/11 04/08 03/04 03/08 03/06 03/27 04/04 03/21 04/02 03/05 03/19 04/15 03/14 04/23 04/04 03/28 04/24 03/12 04/19 04/23 03/13 03/28

Venue Charleston CC Gaylord Palms Orlando World Center Marriott Orlando World Center Marriott Gaylord Palms Orlando World Center Marriott Lexington CC Hilton New Orleans Music City Center Morial CC Georgia World Congress Center Tampa CC Charlotte CC Morial CC Georgia World Congress Center Hyatt Regency Orlando Morial CC Von Braun Center Gaylord Palms Morial CC Miami Beach CC Orange County CC Orange County CC Gaylord Opryland Georgia World Congress Center Music City Center Morial CC Orange County CC Kentucky International CC

All Information Is Subject to Change*

City Charleston Orlando Orlando Orlando Orlando Orlando Lexington New Orleans Nashville New Orleans Atlanta Tampa Charlotte New Orleans Atlanta Orlando New Orleans Huntsville Orlando New Orleans Miami Orlando Orlando Nashville Atlanta Nashville New Orleans Orlando Louisville

St SC FL FL FL FL FL KY LA TN LA GA FL NC LA GA FL LA AL FL LA FL FL FL TN GA TN LA FL KY

Att 2100 3300 3500 2000 5000 4500 923 6000 4100 10K 4762 3198 5000 3730 20.3K 4600 4800 6883 3000 4833 10K 20K 32K 8000 31K 81K 23K 43K 79K

Exh 193 220 300 100 200 127 227 201 240 300 255 246 107 178 412 169 200 200 240 375 983 589 517 300 925 860 979 1.3K 1K

Nsf 12000 28600 30000 32450 33100 35000 38600 48500 54000 55000 58000 59336 60000 63100 74000 74194 80000 99064 106K 128K 152K 220K 221K 240K 283K 286K 340K 596K 664K

Industry Textiles Banking Healthcare Printing Communications Government Energy Gaming & Entertainment Energy Computers & Apps Healthcare Healthcare Home Furn. & Int. Design Healthcare Healthcare Stores & Store Fittings Travel Industry Military Computers & Apps Building & Construction Travel Industry Printing Healthcare Aerospace & Aviation Mat. Handl., Pkg & Logistics

Sporting Goods & Rec. Building & Construction Healthcare Automotive & Trucking

Where Can You Find Industry Features, Maps, Insider Information, Shop Talk And Free Stuff?

Exhibit City News, of Course!

Sign up for six stunning, full-color issues of ECN and get our very special 20th anniversary edition, 52 weekly digital updates and free stuff to wear proudly!

GO TO EXHIBITCITYNEWS.COM/SUBSCRIBE OR CALL 702.309.8023

102 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 7

3/10/20 6:16 AM

See complete listing of shows online at ExhibitCityNews.com/tradeshow-calendar

Att = Attendance | CC=Convention Center | Exh = Exhibitors | Nsf = Net Square Feet

U.S. SOUTHWEST Show Southern California Plumbing Heating Cooling Ind. - PHCC International Technology & Persons with Disabilities Channel Partners - Spring Conference & Expo Mobile Beat Las Vegas - MBLV TOYFEST West - Western Toy & Hobby Representatives Association American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery - ASAPS National Congress for Manufactured & Modular Housing California Park & Recreation Conference - CPRS TRANSACT - Electronic Transactions Association - ETA Inside Self Storage Expo - ISS Western Regional Dental Experience - AzDA WRDE WEST - U.S. Naval Instutute & AFCEA Medtrade Spring EXHIBITORLIVE! Catersource American Association for Cancer Research - AACR Digital Signage Expo - DSE International Wireless Communications Expo - IWCE International Pizza Expo Optical Fiber Communication - OFC Association of periOperative Registered Nurses - AORN The Special Event IFPE - International Fluid Power Exhibition International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Assoc. - IHRSA ISC West - Security Solutions Natural Products Expo West/SupplyExpo ASD Las Vegas National Association of Broadcasters - NAB Show Conexpo/Conagg

All Information Is Subject to Change*

Start 03/21 03/09 03/09 03/16 03/08 04/23 04/06 03/10 04/27 04/14 04/02 03/02 03/03 03/29 03/09 04/24 03/31 03/30 03/31 03/08 03/28 03/09 03/10 03/18 03/17 03/03 03/22 04/18 03/10

End 03/21 03/13 03/12 03/19 03/10 04/27 04/08 03/13 04/30 04/17 04/04 03/03 03/05 04/02 03/12 04/29 04/03 04/03 04/02 03/12 04/01 03/12 03/14 03/21 03/20 03/07 03/25 04/22 03/14

Venue Fairplex Anaheim Marriott Sands Expo Tropicana Hotel South Point Hotel & Casino Mandalay Bay MGM Grand Long Beach CC Mandalay Bay The Mirage Renaissance Phoenix Glendale San Diego CC Mandalay Bay Mandalay Bay Mandalay Bay San Diego CC Las Vegas CC Las Vegas CC Las Vegas CC San Diego CC Anaheim CC Mandalay Bay Las Vegas CC San Diego CC Sands Expo Anaheim CC Las Vegas CC Las Vegas CC Las Vegas CC

City Pamona Anaheim Las Vegas Las Vegas Las Vegas Las Vegas Las Vegas Long Beach Las Vegas Las Vegas Phoenix San Diego Las Vegas Las Vegas Las Vegas San Diego Las Vegas Las Vegas Las Vegas San Diego Anaheim Las Vegas Las Vegas San Diego Las Vegas Anaheim Las Vegas Las Vegas Las Vegas

St CA CA NV NV NV NV NV CA NV NV AZ CA NV NV NV CA NV NV NV CA CA NV NV CA NV CA NV NV NV

Att 4000 5000 4300 1200 1087 2200 800 2700 4000 4000 5000 5372 4630 5000 5500 16.7K 4082 7387 6842 15.5K 10.1K 9000 8000 37K 60K 44K 89K 130K

Exh 150 200 155 65 95 200 120 250 200 300 90 280 314 250 300 456 200 369 474 700 500 360 446 316 1K 2.2K 2.8K 1.6K 2.4K

Nsf 17000 20000 22500 30000 33360 36200 40000 40000 40000 40000 41000 44400 56800 60000 60000 79600 83290 91700 106K 106K 142K 160K 161K 200K 292K 369K 675K 808K 2.3M

Industry Building & Construction Healthcare Communications Art, Music & Culture Toys and Hobbies Healthcare Building & Construction Sporting Goods & Rec. Business Physical Distribution Healthcare Military Healthcare Exhibition & Meeting Ind. Food & Beverage Healthcare Electrical & Electronics Communications Food & Beverage Telecommunications Healthcare Exhibition & Meeting Ind. Energy Sporting Goods & Rec. Security Food & Beverage Gifts Communications Building & Construction

• Delivery in Las Vegas, FedEx/UPS to all cities • Be a HERO use Horizon Print Solutions and make it EZ • Everything for your show or event from a top quality 25 year supplier!

Color Printing • Rack cards • Brochures • Booklets • Everything else @ExhibitCityNews

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 8

Meeting & Event Supplies • Lanyards & Credentials • Binders, Tabs and inserts • Tote Bags & Inserts • Tickets & Programs

Promotional Products • Giveaways • Table Drapes & Signage • Branded Apparel • Gifts & Awards ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 103

3/10/20 6:16 AM

Tradeshow Calendar CANADA

Att = Attendance | CC=Convention Centre | Exh = Exhibitors | Nsf = Net Square Feet

Show International Society for Heart & Lung Transplantation American Oil Chemists’ Society - AOCS Security Canada East - CANASA Blue Line Trade Show Canadian International Turfgrass Conference The National Franchise & Business Opportunities Show The National Franchise & Business Opportunities Show Esthetic and Spa Trade Show Canadian Special Events Live - CSE Live Bakery Showcase The Convenience U CARWACS Show American Academy of Neurology - AAN Esthetic and Spa Trade Show Pacific Dental Conference CMPX - Canadian Mechanical & Plumbing Exhibition Alberta Gift Show - Winter SIAL Montreal - SET Canada Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada - PDAC Canadian International AutoShow - CIAS Together We Care - OLTCA & ORCA Annual Convention & Trade Show Society of Gynecologic Oncologists - SGO Annual Grocery Showcase West Partners in Prevention - Health & Safety Ontario Ottawa Valley Farm Show London Farm Show RC Show - Restaurants Canada Truck World

Start 04/22 04/26 04/22 04/21 03/01 04/04 04/25 02/23 04/20 04/26 03/03 04/25 04/19 03/05 03/25 02/23 04/15 03/01 02/14 03/30 03/28 04/27 04/28 03/17 03/04 03/01 04/16

End 04/25 04/29 04/22 04/21 03/05 04/05 04/26 02/24 04/22 04/27 03/04 05/01 04/20 03/07 03/27 02/26 04/17 03/04 02/23 04/01 03/31 04/28 04/29 03/19 03/06 03/03 04/18

Venue Palais des Congress

City Montreal Montreal Sheraton Laval Laval The International Centre Toronto Westin Hotel Ottawa Ottawa Vancouver CC Vancouver Montreal Vancouver CC Vancouver Toronto Toronto Congress Centre Toronto Toronto Congress Centre Toronto Metro Toronto CC Toronto Toronto Vancouver CC Vancouver Metro Toronto Congress Centre Toronto Edmonton Expo Centre Edmonton Palais des Congres Montreal Metro Toronto Congress Centre Toronto Metro Toronto CC Toronto Toronto Congress Centre Toronto Metro Toronto CC Toronto Vancouver CC Vancouver The International Centre Mississauga EY Centre Ottawa Agriplex London Enercare Centre Toronto International Centre Toronto

All Information Is Subject to Change*

St QC QC QC ON ON BC QC BC ON ON ON ON ON BC ON AB QC ON ON ON ON BC ON ON ON ON ON

Att 4000 1495 600 700 1800 1500 5000 4015 1500 2200 5500 14K 7227 12.1K 15K 16K 14K 30.1K 320K 1200 2526 2600 6000 11.4K 15K 19K 20K

Exh 66 80 80 66 75 75 95 100 100 300 150 180 300 500 740 831 1K 300 300

Nsf 7200 11000 12000 14800 19000 24000 25000 27500 40000 40000 42500 45600 50000 62500 100K 190K 239K 260K 500K

400 350 320 1K 350

Industry Healthcare Energy Security Police Sporting Goods & Rec. Business Business Beauty & Healthcare Exhibition & Meeting Ind. Food & Beverage Stores & Store Fittings Healthcare Beauty & Healthcare Healthcare Building & Construction Gifts Food & Beverage Mining Automotive & Trucking Healthcare Healthcare Food & Beverage Healthcare Agriculture & Farming Agriculture & Farming Food & Beverage Automotive & Trucking

*DISCLAIMER: Please note that tradeshow information is provided as a resource only. All show information is subject to change. Please check show dates and venues with official show organizers and producers. For updated show and event listings, visit www.exhibitcitynews.com/tradeshow-calendar.

PUT YOUR BUSINESS ON THE MAP! Showcase your regional services with a calendar sponsorship.

Contact Sales@ExhibitCityNews.com For Rates and Details. (Design Services Available) 104 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 9

3/10/20 6:16 AM

096_Tradeshow_Calendar_0320.indd 10

3/10/20 6:16 AM

106_AdBank_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 6:22 AM

INDUSTRY SERVICE GUIDE Where to Find Professional Services, Products and Supplies—a Companion Directory to Our Online Guide: www.ExhibitCityNews.com/Service-Guide

Aadvantaged Displays 111 ABCOMRENTS 108 A Harmony Nails & Spa 111 BWC Visual Technologies 108 CDS (Corporate Display Specialties) 113 CEP (Chicago Exhibit Productions, Inc.) 110 Champion Logistics 113 Clementine Creative Services 108 Condit 110 Corporate Communications 110 Corporate Events 109

Equip, Inc. Exhibit Soource Inc. Exhibitrac Direct Marketing Horizon Print Solutions Jami as Marilyn Monroe Tribute Artist King Size LED Displays KKOM Larry Kulchwik Consulting Las Vegas Power Professionals Lip Smacking Foodie Tours

113 110 113 112 109 112 110 108 111 112

MasterClass/TSEMA Ms. B’s Italian Ice OnPoint Presenters Prism Lighting Quality EFX Massage SISTEXPO (in Mexico) The End Result TWI Group YOR Design Your Event Audio

109 109 113 112 109 111 112 113 111 108

For Service Guide information and rates, call sales at (702) 309-8023. Inclusive categories are available for all your company advertising needs. @ExhibitCityNews

107_ServiceGuide_0320.indd 1

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 107

3/11/20 11:29 AM

INDUSTRY SERVICE GUIDE

ABCOMRENTS At ABCOMRENTS, we push the boundary of possibilities.

We specialize in IT & Digital Signage Solutions; partner with manufacturers globally, and bring the technology of the future to the Rental & Staging Industry. With full service locations throughout the U.S. we can deploy and support our technology wherever your customers are. For more info, visit www.abcomrents.com.

ABCOMRENTS is your premier source for Digital Signage, AV Production and IT needs for events and tradeshows NATIONALLY! LED Tile | Interactive Kiosks | Transparent Displays | Digital Signage

Audio Visual Technology

Audio Visual Technology

Consulting

Creative Design Services

International RFP Templates Now Available

International

Request for a Trade Show Service Proposal

• 150 key expo industry words and terms translated into thirteen languages for clarity • Single countries offered free of charge to EDPA International Chapter Members

• Access at https://edpa.memberclicks.net • Non members who wish to access contact LarryKulchawik@gmail.com

“It’s not what you Say, but what you Mean that really matters!”

108 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

107_ServiceGuide_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 6:17 AM

INDUSTRY SERVICE GUIDE

Corp-Events New England Since 1986 we’ve provided installation and dismantle labor throughout New England and Upstate New York and at the Hynes, BCEC and many of Boston’s Hotels. We provide general contractor services to small and medium sized events; Looking for last minute exhibit repairs or graphic design & production? With a Boston warehouse, our team can help fulfill last minute orders with ease.

For more info, visit: http://www.corp-eventsid.com/cene/

Upstate NY

Montpelier, VT

Concord, NH

Boston, MA Worcester, MA Springfield, MA

Hartford, CT

(508) 366-8594 info@corp-eventsne.com

Providence, RI

Exhibit Training

Creative Entertainment Services

Creative Entertainment Services

Event Catering

NVMT 4993

Chair Massage Foot Massage Stress Release Massage and More...

Convention Chair Massage Services We use massage techniques & tools that surpass services provided by the competition.

Massage services range from 5 minutes to 30 minutes.

Advanced massage services that engage the highest level of convention services.

www.QualityEFX.com

@ExhibitCityNews

107_ServiceGuide_0320.indd 3

Call or Text (702) 336-9362

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 109

3/11/20 11:31 AM

INDUSTRY SERVICE GUIDE

Condit “Every project that comes through our doors is unique and requires custom, collaborative attention. What Condit will provide for you and your brand is a tailored, comprehensive menu of services to get your job done thoroughly, seamlessly, and sustainably from start to finish. With in-house teams dedicated to design, fabrication, shipping, installation/dismantle, storage, and repair/maintenance, Condit is the single source for your exhibit solution. For more info, visit condit.com.

Event Management

Exhibits

Exhibit / Trade Show Displays | Event Planning | Sporting Event Décor

6 30.378.4 8 4 8 w w w.cepexhibits.com

Exhibits

Exhibits

www.exhibitsourceinc.com

Enhance your look.

Elaborate.

Collaborate.

Initiate.

BOOTH DESIGN & RENTALS PORTABLE SIGNAGE & HARDWARE BRANDED PREMIUMS VIDEOS & PRESENTIONS SOCIAL MEDIA PROMOTIONS PRINT & DESIGN SERVICES

Exhibit Source, Inc. 708/798-9000 Chicago, Las Vegas

262-250-2060 EXT 232 | RKOHL@KKOMINC.COM

110 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

107_ServiceGuide_0320.indd 4

3/10/20 6:18 AM

INDUSTRY SERVICE GUIDE

The Attention You Deserve Displays Starting at $69.95

Aadvantaged Displays Aadvantage offers innovative graphic and display solutions, world-class products and unparalleled customer support. With convenient lightweight portability and exceptional craftsmanship designs in every product, Aadvantage displays and graphically delivers important messages directly to the target audience.

Special events, tradeshows, fundraising, recruiting and retail are just a few of the many applications of the Aadvantage line. For more info, visit www.aadvantagedisplays.com.

941-758-8444 866-239-8056

Visit us online for more of our products & services

AadvantageDisplays.com

@ExhibitCityNews

107_ServiceGuide_0320.indd 5

Exhibits

Exhibits

Exhibit Services

Facial / Massage / Wellness Spa

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 111

3/10/20 6:18 AM

INDUSTRY SERVICE GUIDE

r Silve

Horizon Print Solutions Horizon Print Solution brings decades of experience in all types of printed products with forms, tags, labels, promotional products and corporate attire. They work together with extraordinary manufacturing and decorating partners, mostly from the wholesale only marketplace, to bring the very best solutions to clients—every project and every transaction! For more info, visit https://printefficiency.com.

Freight Broker/Logistics

Color Printing • Rack cards • Brochures • Booklets • Everything else

• Delivery in Las Vegas, FedEx/UPS to all cities • Be a HERO use Horizon Print Solutions and make it EZ • Everything for your show or event from a top quality 25 year supplier!

Meeting & Event Supplies • Lanyards & Credentials • Binders, Tabs and inserts • Tote Bags & Inserts • Tickets & Programs

Promotional Products • Giveaways • Table Drapes & Signage • Branded Apparel • Gifts & Awards

Food Tours

• 30 years experience • Specialized in tradeshows • Show-to-show coordination • Available 24/7 - 365 days a year • Competitive rates without compromising quality • Familiar with the industry’s general contractors

EndResultLogistics.com

TheEndResultInc@gmail.com

LED Video Walls

847-304-1113

Lighting

EYE-CATCHING LIGHTING SOLUTIONS •Perfect Lighting for Exhibits, Retail Environments & Special Projects •Full Line of Innovative LED Products; Flexible Strip Lighting, Recessed Lights, Arm Lights, LED DMX and so much more! •Fast Connect Cable System Saving Time and Labor •Eco-Friendly Battery Solutions •Easy to Install, Plug And Play Lighting Solutions

PRISM – INNOVATION LIVES HERE!

WWW.PRISMLIGHTINGGROUP.COM | 1.866.620.1380 | SALESUSA@PRISMLIGHTINGGROUP.COM

112 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

107_ServiceGuide_0320.indd 6

4/5/20 1:22 PM

INDUSTRY SERVICE GUIDE Logistics Champion Logistics Group has a transportation division specializing in the coordination of trade shows and special events. Champion provides the most reliable and flexible trade show transportation in the industry.

Tradeshow Furnishings

FIXTURE & DISPLAY COVERS TRADE SHOW DISPLAY COVERS COMMERCIAL FURNITURE

EQUIP YOUR SPACE inc

Chicago | Atlanta | Boston | Dallas | Las Vegas | Los Angeles | New Jersey

800.323.5401 | info@champlog.com | www.champlog.com

BEST QUALITY. BEST RATES. CALL TODAY!

W W W. E Q U I P I N C . C O M

Logistics

7 1 9. 5 9 9. 0 3 0 0

Printing

Attention Exhibit and Event Companies Local Service for Trade Shows and Events In: Washington D.C. - Baltimore - Atlantic City Philly - NYC - Hartford - Boston All in same-day driving distance from us.

WHOLESALE Warehousing, Storage, Prep, Delivery Graphics, Supervision, & Rentals 800-367-2531

CDSpartner.com

We Can Provide You A Local Presence Product Specialist

@ExhibitCityNews

107_ServiceGuide_0320.indd 7

Tradeshow Lists

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 113

3/11/20 11:29 AM

114_AdBank_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 6:22 AM

114_AdBank_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 6:23 AM

Engagement Technology Specialists 1.8mm LED Technology

Creative Content Development

General Session Production

Interactive Engagement Solutions

Breakout Management System

Themed Environment Lighting

Bringing Your ideas and visions to life sales@4productions.com | 774-568-5400

116_AdBank_0320.indd 1

3/11/20 11:32 AM

116_AdBank_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 1:59 PM

Classifieds

Marketing and Social Media Strategist RESPONSIBILITIES • Collaborate on development of marketing strategies to drive brand awareness and engagement.

• Manage and grow social channels and increase engagement.

• Conceptualize content ideas to inspire marketers to engage Hamilton.

• Collect and curate case study content, project images and/or videos-blogs for future use.

• Design pages for social media and custom emails.

• Coordinate marketing efforts with current agency of record, including email, social media, case study, blog creation and website updates.

• Manage website updates – what is website-worthy- managing schedule for consistent updating.

• Work with VP-Hamilton Chicago to create and execute marketing campaigns and support the inbound sales effort.

QUALIFICATIONS • Expertise in developing social media strategy, email marketing campaigns, and content creation.

• Experience with inbound marketing (strategy, campaign development, tactical execution).

Experienced Sales Person Capitol Tradeshow Services, (CTS). is among the nation’s leading full service designers and fabricators of Tradeshow Exhibits. Located in Northern Virginia, just outside of Washington DC, CTS offers proficiency and exceptional customer service in all areas from initial concept design to fabrication, delivery, installation, on-site management and long-term storage. Our experienced team of designers, craftsman, project managers, and service personnel ensure a high-quality, durable display delivered on-time and on-budget.

DUE TO PREVAILING OPPORTUNITIES IN OUR MARKETPLACE, WE ARE IN SEARCH OF QUALIFIED TRADE SHOW SALES EXECUTIVES. For talented salespeople, the sky is the limit at CTS! Not only can you earn the income you deserve, you’ll have the ability to advance your career with a thriving and growing organization that appreciates your work. CTS offers an excellent compensation package, including base salary, commission, great benefits, and the resources to succeed.

• CRM and marketing software experience; website skills.

• Proficiency in copywriting marketing promotions.

• Ability to use data to gather actionable insights and inform decision-makers (client base demographics, types of clients we win/lose, other prospect data).

• Creative, organized, detail oriented, engaging inside and outside Hamilton.

• Proficiency with Salesforce, Pardot and Microsoft Office products, including PowerPoint.

• Degree in marketing, advertising, or business is preferred.

• Exhibit industry experience is preferred.

• Demonstrated effective communication and influencing skills with both verbal and written communication.

• Motivated and proactive with a positive attitude. Works with others as part of a team.

Please contact Kathy Stellhorn, Manager – Workforce Engagement at kstellhorn@Hamilton-exhibits.com

This position is perfect for highly motivated, results-driven sales professionals eager to take their career to the next level.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES • Plan and execute effective sales strategy to meet or exceed profit and growth targets • Identify and properly qualify business opportunities • Break new accounts and penetrate/grow existing accounts • Develop and deliver concise, compelling sales messages, proposals and presentations • Update and maintain client records in database • Meet or exceed quarterly goal expectations

QUALIFICATIONS We seek only highly motivated, money-driven individuals with a professional demeanor, consultative selling approach and exceptional interpersonal skills. Ideal candidates will have: • A strong work ethic and impeccable character

• Existing account base • Proven track record of breaking new accounts using innovative sales approaches • Superior communication, presentation and customer service skills • Effective negotiation and closing techniques • Ability to achieve and/or exceed sales quotas • Stellar prospecting and sales cycle management skills • Significant experience in the Trade Show Exhibit Industry preferred • Experience selling to Government Agencies via GSA Schedule is a PLUS! Please contact Marco Vita-Finzi, Vice President Sales at marcov@ capitoltradeshowservices.com for more info.

118 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

118_Classifieds_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 6:27 AM

BE YOUR OWN BOSS! Tradeshow Business Opportunity!

National Recruiting Practice with current database of key leaders of tradeshow industry companies and potential candidates is available for purchase. The owner is retiring but available for coaching and mentoring.

Metro Exhibits is seeking

Call (775) 253-9166 for details.

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Project Manager

(POSITIONS IN DC AREA) We are seeking experienced supervisors to plan, install and dismantle trade shows. Minimum of 3 years experience.

You can make a difference with your drive and enthusiasm as a self-starter.

Excellent opportunity for growth from the oldest Trade Show company in the country. If you have good common sense and a desire to achieve satisfaction from a job well done, come see what the Brede difference is all about.

PROJECT MANAGER TO PLAN, INSTALL & DISMANTLE TRADE SHOWS/CONVENTIONS. Do you have at least 3 years’ experience supervising crews on the trade show floor?

Have you supervised at least 50 people for more than 2 years?

We are seeking experienced supervisors who can lead by example; can expect our customers to rave about how well you treated them and manage multiple groups of union employees efficiently.

We have immediate openings for project managers that have the drive and enthusiasm to lead groups from inception to completion both internally (within our company) and externally (with on-site customers and labor). @ExhibitCityNews

118_Classifieds_0320.indd 2

POTENTIAL CANDIDATES SHOULD: • Be self-motivated • Be able to think & work independently • Have a high level of common sense • Identify and manage ever changing priorities • Be comfortable working directly with clients, building staff and exhibitors • Can contribute to controlling the bottom line • Have a strong administrative and organizational methodology • Have experience with Microsoft Office, particularly excel • Control labor by way of planning, scheduling, task assignments and foresight • Embrace the concept “of a job well done” because of your direction Some weekends and evening work required. Location based in Maryland outside of Washington D.C. Relocation will be considered. Compensation is commensurate with experience; range between 60k and 75k.

401K, mileage reimbursement/auto allowance, vacation, health insurance and employer contributions are part of the compensation plan.

Email resume and letter to: exhibitmanager@gmail.com

Responsible for providing administrative and clerical support for one or multiple Account Executive(s) through active handling of account; servicing clients and responding to inquiries; helping to facilitate implementation of marketing plans; coordinating telecommunications activities; participating in weekly production meetings; purchasing services; communicating with client’s and vendors, and general administrative support.

THIS INCLUDES BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO: • Calling production meetings for putting jobs to work • Following up on ordering outside vendor services • Purchasing vendor services (purchase orders) • Writing up contracts and proposals for individual projects • Coordination with clients on project requirements • Inspecting graphics in house prior to shipping • Preparing packages for field services for on-site installation and dismantling labor • Some on-site (field work) is required (attending trade shows to coordinate client services)

JOB REQUIREMENTS: • Microsoft Office proficiency • Excel • Word • Organized • Works well under high stress environment Works overtime when needed

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 119

3/10/20 6:29 AM

Classifieds

Metro Exhibit Designer

graphic provider and set specific timeframes An integral position responsible for project for pick-up and delivery of graphic. design. The Designer visualizes the clients • Review completed designs to ensure quality request and develops the appropriate renand customer satisfaction and specifics of derings to illustrate the project. The Designer contract were met. works closely with vendors to ensure timely • Coordinate with shop to deliver designs for delivery of graphics and the specifics of the packaging with other materials for the exhibit contract are met. show site.

• Assist with or do exhibit detailing as required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILI• Attend trade show, as requested.

TIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: • Maintain all relevant files, materials and (Other duties may be assigned to meet business and customer needs.) records.

• Participate in idea sessions on design • Keep current of trends in exhibit design and concepts based on client’s needs and design materials and participate in related continuing rough layout of art and copy. education activities.

• Produce design renderings (arrangement, • Actively participate in industry and non-insize, type, size and style), as well as a written dustry events as a means of promoting an explanation of the design. awareness of Metro Exhibit.

• Presentation of Design Concepts.

• Review images from customer (hard-copy and/ QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS: or electronic file) and make any necessary • Interpersonal and communication skills changes • Conceptual skills • Work with If outsourcing graphics, obtain • Graphic Design skills quote, place order, forward electronic file to • 3dsMax or relevant modeling software

• Research information on new vendors and maintain strong relationships with vendors • Prepare specs and drawings as appropriate for Responsible for the cost determinations of products to be bid on by outside vendors. all projects, processing requests for mate- • Develop and maintain complete and accurate rials from the Shop Foreman and Producinventory of all Metro rental properties. tion Manager, ordering supplies, maintain- • Process request for materials from the Shop ing supply inventories and maintaining the Foreman and other supplies, as requested. company’s rental inventory. The Estimator/ • Purchase materials and supplies in most cost Purchasing Specialist works under the effective manner (right quality/quantity) direction of the Production Manager to • Keep inventory of all materials and supplies. ensure that all estimates and purchases • Follow-up on purchases; keep Production are completed in a timely and cost-effecManager/Foreman updated on receiving dates tive manner. and shipment status.

• Alert the Production Manager and Shop ForeESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILIman of availability of supplies at reduced cost.

TIES INCLUDE: • Develop vendor relationships to ensure (Other duties may be assigned to meet business and customer needs.) purchases are the most cost effective and • Estimate total cost of project including mateMetro Exhibit has access to reduced prices and rials and labor. This includes design, set-up, vendor close-outs on materials and supplies. transportation costs, dismantling and all • Negotiate volume discounts or rebate strucconstruction-related costs. tures & Expand vendor alternatives • Work closely with Sales and Design staff to pro- • Qualify vendors by evaluating vendor quality, vide recommendations in terms of cost savings reliability, delivery time and cost. and alternative construction methods.

• Obtain credits/refunds due from vendor due to

Metro Exhibit Estimator/ Purchasing Specialist

• Adobe Creative Suites: • Illustrator, Photoshop & Indesign • Graphic Design Vendor Contacts • Proficiency with graphic software packages • Basic understanding of the exhibit construction process

EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE: • Degree in Graphic Art or equivalent • 3-5 years in Exhibit/Tradeshow or Related Industry

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: • Ambulatory skills including walking, sitting, standing • Lift up to 50 pounds, move large pieces of artwork regularly • Close, distant, color, peripheral vision and depth perception

missing or defective merchandise • Contract with vendors for parts/service required for the repair and upkeep of tools and vehicles.

• Assist accounting department with resolving any vendor disputes.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS: • Interpersonal, communication skills & organizational skills; attention to detail and ability to synthesize project information into cost figures; Conceptual skills to visualize construction of exhibit; Able to read blueprints; Basic math skills and MS Office Skills (Word, Excel, Outlook); Knowledge of carpentry materials; Valid drivers license and safe driving record

EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE: • Associate Degree or Equivalent • 6 Months or more related experience

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: • Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time; Ability to hear, speak, close and distance vision; Lift up to 40 pounds occasionally

120 March/April 2020 Exhibit City News

118_Classifieds_0320.indd 3

3/10/20 6:29 AM

Advertiser Index 4 Productions

116

4Productions.com

25

DesignToPrint.com & Pillows4show.com

ABCOMRENTS

69

ABComrents.com

Drunk Shakespeare

5

AllSpaceGroup.com

91

45, 124

Angles On Design, Inc.

Edlen: The Power People

37

89

beMatrix Brumark

2 21 31

Champion Logistics

27 87 101

Color Reflections

33 123 106

CorpCom Exhibits & Events

38 76 37, 100 4 93

McNabbExhibitFlooring.com

Exposures Ltd. Photography

98

Full Circle Events

29

43

showNets, LLC

17

SMT expo

59

Stevens E3

105

Stevens Exhibits

45

Storage West

87

StorageWest.com

Happy Hour: The Show

91

Sunset Transportation

122

Sunset-LV.com

Highmark TechSystems USA

55

Superior Logistics

117

ShipSuperior.com

Hill & Partners

36

TCF Center (formerly Cobo)

71

TCFCenterDetroit.com

Horizon Print Solutions

103

Total Show Technology (TST)

49

TotalShowTech.com

Laborinc

53

TWI Group

61

TWIGroup.com

114, 115

Lighthouse Exhibits Inc. Momentum Management Nolan Advisory Services (NAS) Octanorm

Sho-Link Inc.

StevensExhibits.com

We Are Conventions

13

WeAreConventions.com

73

West Coast Exhibit Services

95

WCExhibit.com

3

Willwork

40, 79

Willworkinc.com

89

NolanAdvisory.com

7

73

StevensE3.com

MomentumMgt.com

CrownandAnchorLV.com

D.E. McNabb Co. Flooring

81

LighthouseExhibits.com

Cort.com

Crown & Anchor Pub

Exhibitus

Lancaster Management

Rosemont – RES

SMTexpo.com

LancasterManagement.com

Corp-EventsID.com

CORT Events

39

LaborInc.ca

Corpcom-Events.com

Corp Events New England

End Result Logistics

PrintEfficiency.com

LVEngineers.com

67

showNets.net

HillPartners.com

Condit.com

ConvExpo Masters

15

HighmarkTech.com

CRVegas.com

Condit

Employco

iLuminate.com

Coastalintl.com

OA Visuals (Oscar & Associates)

Sho-link.com

FCELV.com

ClementineCS.com

Coastal International

75

ExposuresLtd.com

ChampLog.com

Clementine Creative Services

EDPA Foundation

Exhibitus.com

Captello.com

9

Rosemont.com

EndResultLogistics.com

CamdenTradeshow.com

Captello

75

Employco.com

Brumark.com

Camden Tradeshow Furnishings

EDPA

EDPA.com/edpafoundation

beMatrix.us

Orbus

HelloOA.com & OAVisuals.media

EDPA.com & EDPA.com/edpafoundation

AnglesOnDesign.com

71

Orbus.com

Edlen.com

Aluvision.com/us

OnSite Exhibitor Service OnSiteExhibitorService.com

DrunkShakespeare.com

AllSpace/Synapse Aluvision

Design to Print

WS Display

77

WSDisplay.com

19

OctanormNA.com

FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: Contact sales: 702-309-8023 ext. 105, sales@exhibitcitynews.com @ExhibitCityNews

121_Ad_Index_0320.indd 1

ExhibitCityNews.com March/April 2020 121

3/11/20 2:57 PM

WE ENSURE YOUR TRADE SHOW SUCCESS! IT’S THAT SIMPLE.

As a unique Las Vegas based carrier, we are dedicated to one thing - trade shows.

With over 30 years of experience we are highly trained, skilled and focused on providing you with flawless service handling your exhibit materials in and out of Las Vegas convention venues.

What makes us so great? › › › › ›

24/7 nationwide service - year round Warehousing & exhibit crate repair Customized account management Show-to-show coordination On site show floor representation

› › › ›

Over 100,000 sq. ft. of booth storage Certified weight tickets/on-site truck scale Pad wrapping & color-coded show labels More than 100 vans, tractors & trailers solely serving the Las Vegas market

Proud member of

4120 W. Windmill Lane Las Vegas, NV 89139

CONTACT US: 122_AdBank_0320.indd 1

3741 Civic Center Drive North Las Vegas, NV 89130

sunset-lv.com

info@sunset-lv.com

3200 Gowan Road North Las Vegas, NV 89130

702.914.0185 3/10/20 6:24 AM

122_AdBank_0320.indd 2

3/10/20 6:24 AM

Let’s imagineer!

Innovation Exhibits stands out using the Aluvision frame system and Hi-LED 55 tiles.

Omni-55+ Fabric corner

Hi-LED 55 Omni-55

Joe Guerrero

Sales Manager Mid-West Aluvision

Steve Gable

President Innovation Exhibits Photo by Proto Images

Our mission is imagineering. We inspire & connect partners on their creative journey to design & build modular environments.

Aluvision Inc. • 1620 Satellite Boulevard, Suite C • Duluth, GA 30097 www.aluvision.com • info@aluvision.com

124_BackCover_0320.indd 1

3/10/20 6:23 AM