A Look Back at ECN Tradeshow History: December 2025 shows how the exhibit and events industry has changed over two decades. Each December reflected major shifts, from new convention centers and sustainability efforts to leadership moves and rising exhibitor expectations. By 2020, the sector was preparing for recovery, while earlier years documented growth, innovation, and cost-driven challenges that shaped the modern tradeshow landscape.
Five Years Ago — December 2020
Exhibitor-Friendly Policies Take Center Stage
Freeman prepared for 2021 with new exhibitor-focused policies. The updates streamlined ordering, clarified pricing, and reduced long-standing show-floor frustrations. Exhibitors pushed for these changes as they sought more transparency and consistent service.
The company also reported strong feedback from its virtual and hybrid event support. As in-person events prepared to return, Freeman positioned these improvements as part of a broader effort to deliver more efficient operations.
Jason Popp Takes Helm at Moss
In late 2020, Moss announced a major leadership change. Jason Popp, formerly president of international at GES, became president and CEO, succeeding Dan Patterson.
Popp entered the role during a challenging period. Suppliers were adapting to shutdowns, shifting client needs, and early recovery planning. His appointment became one of the year’s standout executive moves as companies prepared for the return of face-to-face events.
Ten Years Ago — December 2015
IMEX America Embraces Sustainability
IMEX America expanded its sustainability focus in 2015. Organizers introduced new recycling programs, reduced paper use, and encouraged digital tools.
The IMEX Green Team supported waste-reduction practices and community engagement.
CSR efforts included cleanups and nonprofit support. These programs signaled a shift toward greener expectations for large events.
Experiential Design Gains Momentum
Experiential design also grew in importance. Exhibitors looked for new ways to capture attention and improve engagement.
SuccessFactors’ partnership with Group Delphi became a notable example. Their HR Tech booth used a unified theme, live performers, and a 360-degree layout to boost traffic and reinforce brand storytelling. The approach marked a move toward planned creative collaboration and attendee-focused strategy.
Fifteen Years Ago — December 2010
Survey Shows Venue Executives Leading Industry Salaries
The International Association of Venue Managers released its 2010 Salary Survey. It showed that convention center executives earned the highest pay in venue management.
Key averages included:
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Convention center CEOs: $131,305
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Complex CEOs: $129,013
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Performing arts CEOs: $120,448
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Arena CEOs: $107,896
The report also noted a persistent 75–80% gender pay gap, matching federal labor data.
ACCESS 2010 Highlights Industry Leaders
EDPA’s ACCESS 2010 conference gathered the exhibit design community for leadership updates and annual honors.
John Rose passed the association presidency to Rob Cohen. ProExhibits, 3D Exhibits, and Derse received top Eddie Awards.
Errol Ahearn of GES was named Designer of the Year, while Don Svehla of Exhibit City News earned the Ambassador Award. Jack McEntee, founder of I&D Inc., received the Hazel Hays Award for transforming on-site labor practices.
Twenty Years Ago — December 2005
Puerto Rico Convention Center Opens
The island opened its new 600,000-square-foot convention center in 2005.
The San Juan venue became the Caribbean’s largest facility, featuring coastal design, modern meeting rooms, and wide terrace views.
The grand opening attracted government leaders and tourism officials. It marked Puerto Rico’s push to win more meetings and incentive travel business.
Rising Fuel Costs Increase Exhibit Rates
Late 2005 brought sharp petroleum increases. Contractors warned exhibitors of higher charges across several services.
Key impacts included:
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GES adding a fuel surcharge on Nov. 12
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Other firms applying 2% drayage increases
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A 10% rise on a $40,000 booth adding $4,000 in material and shipping
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Higher costs for foam, plastics, vinyl, and carpet padding
These increases shaped budgets as the industry entered the 2006 season.
Twenty-Five Years Ago — December 2000
ECN’s Top Eleven Leaders of 2000
Exhibit City News’ December 2000 issue featured eleven standout leaders in the design and build sector.
Honorees included:
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Dan Cantor, Hamilton Exhibits
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Charles J. Corsentino, Exhibitgroup/Giltspur
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Steve Dix, MC²
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William F. Haney, Derse
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Lanay Kitzing, The Hauser Group
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Paul C. Willet, Czarnowski
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Eugene Winther, Expon Exhibits
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Larry Kulchawik, Derse
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E. Jane Lorimer, Exhibitgroup Giltspur
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James P. McGrath, Folio
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Gary C. Stewart, StewartMDM
Their contributions reflected a period shaped by craftsmanship, operational leadership, and steady industry expansion.
PHOTO CAPTION: Jim Kelly, Fern Expo’s VP of marketing and industry relations, appears on the cover of the November/December 2020 issue of Exhibit City News, where he introduced the Fern1Rate program and the company’s 100% Refund Policy for 2021. Kelly later retired in July 2025.
