About the Then & Now Content Series
The Then & Now series written by Kerstan Szczepanski was originally published in the Exhibit City News 30 Year Anniversary book. The series is a collection of aspects of the show floor that have changed over the last 30 years. The content covers an overview of the last 30 years and is not intended to be an insight into every change, but a broad overview. Many things have changed over the last 30 years and will continue to change.
To see the original layout of this article, please visit page 155 of the 30 Year Anniversary book.
The Future of Fabrics
In the fast-paced world of tradeshows, the materials shaping the visual experience have dramatically evolved over the last 30 years. From the rugged, durable fabrics of the 1990s to today’s eco-friendly, high-tech textiles, the changes reflect not only aesthetic shifts but also advancements in technology and a growing focus on sustainability.
The 1990s: Built to Last
Back in the 1990s, the tradeshow floor was all about tough, durable fabrics. Exhibitors leaned heavily on vinyl, canvas, and rugged polyester blends to handle the wear and tear of constant use. While these materials were built to last, they didn’t offer much in the way of customization. The color options were limited, with these fabrics mainly serving functional roles as backdrops and booth dividers.
The 2000s: Lightweight and Versatile
The new millennium brought a shift towards lighter, more versatile fabrics. Stretch and tension fabrics became a game-changer, making transportation and setup easier for exhibitors. Customization also took off during this time, thanks to advances in digital printing. Dye-sublimation printing allowed for bright, vivid prints that didn’t crack or peel, opening up endless design possibilities for tradeshow displays.
The 2010s: Going Green
Sustainability took center stage in the 2010s. Recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fabrics started to dominate, appealing to brands looking to showcase their environmental responsibility. This decade also saw the rise of interactive fabrics—think LED lights, touch-sensitive surfaces, and even embedded sensors—turning static displays into dynamic, engaging experiences.
The 2020s: High-Performance and Smart
More recently, the focus has shifted to high-performance fabrics that do more than just look good. Fire resistance, UV protection, and antimicrobial properties have become standard, meeting the health and safety needs of modern public spaces. The sustainability movement continues to grow, with some events featuring fabrics made from recycled ocean plastics, pushing the boundaries of eco-conscious design.
Technology has continued to evolve as well, with smart textiles capable of displaying digital content, changing color, or even responding to environmental conditions. These innovations allow exhibitors to create immersive, interactive experiences that engage attendees.
A few key factors are behind this ongoing fabric evolution:
Technology: Advances in printing, fabric production, and smart textiles have expanded what’s possible for customization and interactivity.
Sustainability: The push for eco-friendly, recyclable materials has reshaped the industry.
Branding: The constant demand for standout branding has driven the development of fabrics that support complex designs and high-definition printing.
As technology and sustainability continue to influence the industry, these materials will keep pushing boundaries, blending innovation with creative expression, and shaping the future of tradeshow design.
