Banner Stand

Probably no term in the exhibit industry is more overused and less understood than the word “portable.” Practically every tradeshow display system from those promoting modular convenience to those claiming a “custom look,” reinforce their message with the siren song of portability. Why the sudden rush to jump on the portable bandwagon? The answer is easy – money.

Anyone who participates in trade shows or events has a portable display in their inventory. It may be a pop up or a banner stand or several table top displays. These are easy to transport, easy to setup, and easy on the budget.

Recently, the portable segment has added a new category – Portable Hybrids. Portable Hybrids are an alternative to traditional portables and offer several advantages to companies seeking either to downsize from an island display or step up from a traditional portable. Hybrids, by their very nature, are easily customizable since they are designed using aluminum extrusion, tension fabric, and modular components. Are they custom exhibits? No, but not every show or every budget requires a custom exhibit. However, every company deserves a custom solution tailored to their marketing goals.  

Examples of Portable Hybrids include Perfect 10, Magellan, and many Visionary Designs displays from Classic Exhibits. To see examples, click on the following link to Design Search in the Exhibit Concepts Portables website.

Before deciding on any portable or modular display, the following guidelines and questions should apply: 

1.      Know your exhibit goals. What are your immediate and long-term goals? A portable display should be viewed as a long-term investment rather than a short-term solution.

2.      Is your organization expecting to grow over the next couple of years? How does this effect your trade show needs?

3.      Do you need one product to accomplish multiple display requirements? Or, is it better to purchase different displays to accomplish your various trade show needs?

4.      View decisions about exhibit hardware, exhibit design, and exhibit graphics separately. It is too easy to be swayed by any one element. All three must work together.

5.      Consider shipping and drayage costs.

6.      Price is important, but price should never be the number one factor in your decision when purchasing a portable exhibit.

7.      Ask questions. Not all portable displays are created equal. Each has its unique strengths and weaknesses.