Exhibit Studio Blog

Writing about trade show design trends in this day and age is tough. I'm a bit stumped because, well, there have been no trade shows to establish anything that's trending yet. The whole format of a trade show could be shifting its shape and becoming something different. Virtual events were an excellent placeholder while large events were put on pause, but they won't last forever; in fact, events are beginning to open up again. Many hybrid event ideas have been developed and implemented quickly, and I think that the hybrid format will be here to stay too.

There is the old saying that people do business with people they know, like, and trust. I continue to believe this to be true. When I reflect on my own business and personal life, I always feel a deeper connection and comfort level with someone I have met in person or spoken to over the phone.I started in business over 20 years ago, and a fundamental component of building a business relationship was through in-person meetings. Whether at conferences, trade shows, or lunch meetings, meeting in-person played a vital role in creating and maintaining healthy, long-term partnerships.

Governments are currently trying to balance two priorities, getting economies running again, and managing the health crisis. The latter objective has placed trade shows in a problematic position. In Canada, as of June 2020, large gatherings remain prohibited.

Over the years, we've spoken to countless people who will agree that trade shows are critical to their company's marketing and sales. They are the number one platform for companies to sell and source, reach clients, and to generate growth. They support the economy worldwide and should be a key element to every economic recovery plan.

Are you ready for when trade shows open again?

We’ve seen outlines for the planned launch of shows and events in South Korea, Germany, and other countries and are waiting for more information regarding the plans in Alberta and the rest of Canada.