(Jesus Monarrez pulls access coaxial cable from his position in the catwalk high above the Central Hall at LVCC. Exhibit City News photo, April 2015.)
Exhibit City News recalls stories that shaped our industry
Welcome back to our “A Look Back at Tradeshow History” series! Have industry milestones or highlights you’d like to share? Email Mark at Markh@exhibitcitynews.com. We’d love to hear from you!
Five Years Ago
Advancements in Tradeshow Lead Retrieval
In early 2020, the tradeshow industry saw a push toward more advanced lead retrieval systems. Peter Gillett of Zuant highlighted innovations like NFC, iBeacon-compatible transmitters, and AI-powered facial recognition as tools to improve data capture and follow-up. These technologies aimed to replace outdated badge scanning methods, helping exhibitors generate more qualified leads and maximize their tradeshow ROI.
Ten Years Ago
Drones Take Flight on the Tradeshow Floor
By April 2015, drone technology was making its way into the tradeshow industry. Oscar & Associates, a photography and video production company, utilized drones equipped with GoPro cameras to capture aerial footage of show floors. This innovation provided exhibitors with panoramic booth views and interactive video experiences. While adoption was slow due to privacy and liability concerns, industry experts predicted drones would become a valuable tool for event photography and marketing.
EXHIBITOR Show Rebrands to EXHIBITORLIVE
In March 2015, EXHIBITOR Show announced it is rebranding to EXHIBITORLIVE, emphasizing the show’s focus on face-to-face marketing and in-person engagement. Held at Mandalay Bay Convention Center, the event retained its core mission of providing education, networking, and industry innovations while embracing a refreshed identity. Organizer Exhibitor Media Group introduced the change to highlight the evolving nature of tradeshows and the importance of live experiences in the industry.
Fifteen Years Ago
Orbus Exhibit & Display Group Achieves Green Status
In April 2010, Orbus Exhibit & Display Group earned ISO 14001 certification, recognizing its commitment to environmental sustainability. The company, a leading supplier of portable and modular display solutions, implemented green initiatives to minimize waste, conserve natural resources, and improve energy efficiency. The certification positioned Orbus as an industry leader in eco-friendly exhibit manufacturing.
Twenty Years Ago
Recession Triggers Decline in Exhibit Industry
In April 2005, the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) reported a significant downturn in the U.S. exhibition industry. The study highlighted declines in key metrics, including net square footage, exhibitor participation, and attendance. The findings raised concerns about long-term impacts on tradeshow organizers and service providers, with industry leaders strategizing ways to adapt to changing economic conditions.
Orbus Becomes a Leading Display Provider
By April 2005, Orbus had grown into a major provider of modular and portable display products. Founded in the late 1990s, the Chicago-based company expanded rapidly, increasing production space to 40,000 square feet and nearly doubling its workforce. Orbus focused on commodity display solutions, offering cost-effective options for exhibitors seeking budget-friendly yet impactful booth designs.
Twenty-Five Years Ago
LVCVA Expands Facilities
In April 2000, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) announced a major expansion project for the Las Vegas Convention Center. The $113 million, 1.4 million-square-foot expansion aimed to accommodate the city’s booming convention industry. Under the leadership of President and CEO Manuel J. Cortez, Las Vegas continued to position itself as a top global destination for tradeshows and events.
The Mirage to Double Convention Space
In April 2000, The Mirage in Las Vegas announced plans to double its convention space, adding 90,000 square feet to accommodate the growing demand for meetings and events. The expansion included two ballrooms, new meeting rooms, and advanced teleconferencing capabilities, positioning the resort as a key player in the city’s convention industry.
Freeman Acquires PM Displays and Party Time
Freeman Companies expanded its presence in Canada with the acquisition of PM Displays and Party Time in April 2000. The deal strengthened Freeman’s position in the Ottawa market, adding new resources for tradeshows, conventions, and special events. PM Displays, a family-owned business, had served the industry for over 25 years, making it a strategic addition to Freeman’s growing portfolio.
EACA Foundation Gains IRS Approval
In April 2000, the EACA Foundation received IRS approval as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, allowing it to advance its mission of improving service excellence on the tradeshow floor. Working with the Exhibitor Appointed Contractor Association (EACA), the foundation focused on training, research, and certification programs for show floor workers. The first training session had already taken place in Orlando, with more planned in conjunction with the EACA annual conference in Washington, D.C.
