As the tradeshow and events industry moved through 2025, Exhibit City News covered a wide range of developments shaping the year. This Year in Review highlights a selection of the most-read stories from the first half of 2025, capturing key themes in sustainability, workforce development, economic pressure, technology, and venue investment as the industry continued to evolve.
ACCESS 2025 brought together the exhibitions and experiential community for three days of inspiration, connection, and innovation on the shores of Amelia Island, Florida, December 2-4, 2025.
The Exhibition Services and Contractors Association (ESCA) reviewed key operational and education updates during its 2025 Virtual Town Hall, held as a member-facing business meeting separate from its annual awards program.
The Exhibitor Advocate is proud to announce the recipients of its inaugural Exemplary Service Award: Dominique Cook, Sue Huff, and Glenda Brungardt. These three outstanding leaders are recognized for their exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of trade show exhibitors.
The Las Vegas Convention Center became the epicenter of live entertainment technology once again on December 3-9, 2025, for the annual Live Design International (LDI) Show. Drawing over 16,000 industry professionals and 350+ exhibitors, the event proved that the intersection of theatrical lighting, architectural design, and live production technology continues to grow and thrive.
Las Vegas’ premier hospitality and events associations came together for the industry’s most anticipated celebration of the year: the 2025 All Association Holiday Party. Held at the stunning LIV nightclub at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the event drew hundreds of industry professionals for an evening of networking, festive entertainment, and holiday cheer.
The Best of beMatrix North America Awards recognized 13 projects during a livestream ceremony held December 17. Now in its eleventh year, the program honored work across tradeshow, retail, outdoor, experiential, and international categories.
The Vomela Companies, a leading North American provider of visual communications, graphics, and experiential events, announced the acquisition of Moss Inc., a globally recognized producer of premium event and retail graphics, complex structures, and custom installations for innovative brand experiences. This strategic move combines two powerhouses serving the live events and experiential industry.
The Raleigh Convention Center is making substantial progress toward welcoming events back after a fire on the evening of Monday, December 1st. The fire damaged portions of the roof, but thanks to the quick action of the first responders with the Raleigh Fire Department, everyone in the building at the time exited safely, and the interior of the building was unharmed by the fire.
Access TCA has acquired Orlando-based Top Shelf Exhibits, Inc., a full-service exhibit design, fabrication, and rental company, focusing on providing high-touch service and unique design. Top Shelf is known for its affordable solutions and show-floor expertise.
Spiro, the global experiential agency within GES, today announced its acquisition of 2Heads, a London-based creative agency renowned for innovative brand experiences across North America and Europe.
ESCA gathered its community in Houston for the 2025 Winter Celebration and Awards at The Astorian, honoring leadership, innovation, service, and rising talent across the exhibition industry. The night highlighted scholarship recipients, industry award winners, and the transition to ESCA’s 2026 leadership.
