products
New Tools
Small light, small tweak, and much easier install. Task Lighting & Power has updated its Ultra-Thin Puck Light with a design change that is intended to simplify installation. The fixture's lens is now attached directly to the light rather than the trim piece, making it quicker to snap the trim plate into place during setup. The product is designed for tight spaces such as shelving, cabinets, or recessed areas, and the puck light measures just 5/16-inch thick. It mounts to surfaces using short screws hidden beneath the trim plate, creating a seamless look. The lights are available in four white color temperatures: 2700K (warm), 3000K (soft white), 4000K (cool white), and 5000K (daylight). Each unit ships fully assembled with mounting hardware included. The lights can also be paired with a compatible dimmer and remote power supply for additional control over brightness and layout, necessary in a trade show booth. Contact: Task Lighting & Power; Kearney, NB; 800-445-6404; tasklighting.com
Connected Event Group launched Connected Apps, a division focused on building custom digital tools for live events, including event apps, interactive touchscreen experiences, mobile-first event websites, workflow automation tools, and AI-powered utilities. Alongside the launch, Connected Event Group released the Event App Playbook, a free guide outlining 18 interactive app concepts tested in real event settings. Ideas range from phone-as-gamepad competitions and RFID-powered activations to live polling that triggers stage effects. The goal is creating practical digital tools designed to hold up under tight timelines and unpredictable connectivity. Contact: Connected Event Group; Alexandria, Australia; +61-1300-141-043; connectedeventgroup.com
If exhibitors had an Amazon wish list, the top item on it might an exhibitor-services platform built to save time and simplify every step. Freeman LLC introduced exactly that — and it was inspired by the ease and visual clarity of Amazon's shopping interface. Designed over a period of years with Freeman's clients, the platform makes ordering and managing services faster and more intuitive. Users get an easy-to-navigate home page, interactive checklists, and booth-specific shopping that guides them through setup. A variety of tools, including online submission of material handling agreements and service requests as well as shipping updates and invoices, keeps everything on track. By putting speed, control, and convenience in one place, Freeman's new platform gives exhibitors more time to focus on what matters — creating outstanding experiences. Contact: The Freeman Co. LLC; Dallas; 888-508-5054; freeman.com
Editorial
Muscle Memory
We didn't invent trade shows. We inherited them. They represent humanity's oldest behavior.
Exhibitor Q & A
Staff Training
I want to make sure my staff goes to our next show prepared to speak to anyone who walks into our booth.
Ask Dan
Problem Solving
I want to encourage my staff's creative problem-solving at shows. How can I do that?
Exhibiting 101
David Versus Goliath
In a sea of show-floor behemoths, a small booth can employ the proverbial slingshot to hit above its weight.
Fuel
Ideas That Work
Queue the Experience, Build-a-Brand, Pillow Talk, and more
Products
New Tools
Three Can't-Miss Product Launches
Fixing Snafus
Location, Location, Relocation
When your perfectly installed booth needs to relocate twice in one day...
Archive
Message in a Bottle
1895: The Bordeaux Exposition features a giant bottle of absinthe
Quiz
Cross Examination
Decipher the clues to fill out the crossword puzzle with some of our industry's peculiar jargon and slang.
Design Awards
EuroShop: Design's Global Arena
Every three years, EuroShop sets the tone for what retail and exhibit design will become.
International
Designing with Purpose
When it comes to sustainability and experiential design, the world's best stands are raising the bar.
Portfolio
Serving Up Style
Six innovative designs that turned traditional hospitality into memorable highlights of the exhibition experience
Social Media
Posting with Purpose
If your social media strategy is just announcing your booth number, you're missing the point.
Experiential
Ready! Steady! Activation!
Providence, Rhode Island offers plenty of inspiration for event planners trying to engage the public.
Brand Strategy
Crowd Control
Five companies, big and small, show how they de-clutter their multiple brands.