EDPA December Newsletter 2023

EDPA ACCESS 2023 Recap

After a day of fishing, golf, and catching up with old friends, a record number of EDPA ACCESS attendees (325) entered the world of motorcycles. It’s not a trip to Sturgis but a fascinating kickoff address by Paul Teutel Jr. on how he designs and builds motorcycles that promote brands. In other words, in keeping with our theme, how he CUSTOMIZES THE EXPERIENCE! With some of his bikes behind him on the stage, Teutel explained his process and how he incorporates brand assets into every cycle. Frankly, the audience was astounded when he explained that there was no ongoing approval process for his work.

Finishing up photo ops with Teutul and the bikes, the group moved to the outdoor patio for the opening dinner, anticipating the next full day of content. First up, Jonna Mendez, the former Chief of Disguise with the CIA, did not disappoint. Her anecdotes and insights were riveting, including her pursuit of her career despite gender bias. Her place in the CIA, where she originally hoped to work as a photographer, earned the CIA’s Intelligence Commendation Medal for her operational disguise work from Havana to Beijing to Moscow and ultimately into the Oval Office.  “I stopped trying to be one of the boys,” she said at the end of her presentation.

Next up was Dr. Tracey Wilen, a researcher and speaker on the impact of technology on society, work, and careers. She described our “VUCU” work environment--short for volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, or a catchall for, “Hey, it’s crazy out there!” Taking the group into lunch was Jane Gentry’s presentation that focused on transitioning, training, and empowering people to develop leadership skills to enable successful change initiatives.

At lunch, attendees listened to the annual State of the Association, and the outlook is very positive. During breaks, they could visit the Engagement Zone, where exhibitors shared information on their latest products.

Han Leehouts delivered an introduction to AI, a topic that attempted to shed light on the technology. Following the presentation, he joined a panel on AI and design. This latter was part of the agenda’s Future Focus, which included a workshop by Tracey Wilen and a Thursday session from Teresa Freeman on maximizing your potential using insights from the Gallup organization. Although not restricted to the Future Leaders, the Future Focus offerings were designed to meet the interests of EDPA’s Future Leaders.

The annual Gala and the silent auction were unqualified successes, and additional funds were collected for the efforts of the Future Workforce committee. EDPA’s current president, Dan Serebin shared his farewell address and incoming president, Chris Griffin was welcomed to his new role.

The highlight of the gala is always the presentation of awards—the coveted Eddies, Chapters of the Year, Future Leaders, and individual awards for the Designer of the Year, EDPA Ambassador, and the Hazel Hays award. This year, the awards went to:

Hazel Hays:
Rob Cohen - Display Supply & Lighting

Ambassador of the Year
Sandra Braun - Nth Degree

Designer of the Year: Amanda Lembke -  Star Exhibits

Large Chapter of the Year
EDPA Midwest

Eddie Award
International Collaboration
Happy Projects & The Inside

Eddie Award - Best Large Exhibit
Von Hagen Design

Eddie Award
End-to-End Experience
Deckel & Moneypenny

Small Chapter of the Year
EDPA Texas

Eddie Award
Best Sustainability
Moss

Eddie Award – Best Small Exhibit
Access TCA

Eddie Award
Best Online/Multi-Media:  
EEI Global

Eddie Award - Best Printed
Deckel & Moneypenny

Future Leaders Class of 2023:

• Krystal Hanvold - Hill & Partners  

• Alec Pierson - Brumark  

• Erika Plata - Hamilton  

• Carla Ramos - MSM  

• Sharla Robertson - Exhibit Concepts  

• Ethan Taylor - Apogee Exhibits  

• Jan van de Weijer - Cialona
  Expo B.v.  

• Joe Wilush - Moss  

• Walt McCreary - beMatrix USA

• Nolan Bratt - Derse  

• Caleb Brininger - Stamm Media  

• Jenny Chang - Deckel & Moneypenny

• Mark Condon - Allstates WorldCargo  

• Michelle Davis - Live Marketing  

• Joseph D’Alessandro - Sho-Link  

• Vaughn Ellis - CenterPoint Marketing  

• Jillian Fafard - Aluvision  

• Jessica Gifford Diamantopoulos -
  Access TCA  

• Kayla Gott - Agam  

Thursday was data-focused. Women in Exhibitions met for breakfast, after which Jeremy Bess spoke to the entire group, attempting to demystify economic terminology and offer strategic financial insights to drive fiscal wellness. Amy Sondrup, president of Access TCA, and Kerry Smith of Event Marketer shared data from surveys exploring the relationships and expectations of end users and experiential partners, focusing on budgets, factors in decision-making, and other areas that influence collaboration. Joe Federbush presented the EDPA Compensation and Economic Survey findings, while Glenn Hansen, CEO of Reduce 2, introduced the new sustainability standards specific to the exhibition industry that EDPA has developed in partnership with ESCA. The event wrapped up with the Chapter Challenge which produced smiles and a winner’s belt for the Texas division.

Be sure to save the dates for ACCESS 2024 being held December 3rd- 5th, 2024 in Palm Springs, California at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells.  We hope to see you there!

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Download Picture from ACCESS 2023 

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Thank You ACCESS 2023 Sponsors! 

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FIT & BSU - EDPA Foundation University Affiliations Scholarship Recipients 

The EDPA Foundation is proud to continue their support of the University Affiliations Program.  The EDPA Foundation is awarding $10,000 ($5,000 each) to Bemidji State University (BSU) and Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in scholarship funds.  This year’s student scholarship winners include:  

• Claire Caverly- FIT 

• Carlos Hernandez – FIT 

• Kaitlyn Kalstad – BSU 

• Kaylynn Kuehn - BSU 

• Ella Lewandowski - BSU 

• Michael Snaza – BSU 

• Ellen Walters - BSU 

Congratulations to these deserving students.  Thank you EDPA Foundation for your continued support of the University Affiliations Program.  

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ENGAGE 24 – Tickets Now on Sale! 

If you enjoyed ACCESS 2023, make sure you join us for our next national event happening Sunday, February 25th from 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm in Nashville just prior to the opening of ExhibitorLive.  Come aboard Nashville's General Jackson Showboat for an evening of fun including dinner, casino games and live music. 

ENGAGE Tickets are $185 each for EDPA members and $225 each for non-members. Includes dinner, drink tickets, entertainment and transportation to and from Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.  Don't miss this must-attend event for EDPA members. 

There are limited sponsorship opportunities for ENGAGE 2024.  If you are interested in helping support the event and promoting your brand, contact Nick (sales@edpa.com) to learn more. 

EDPA Midwest

Event Title: Exhibit 4 Smiles
Date: Monday, December 18th  
Location: UIC Hospital Chicago
Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm CST

Event Description: Give the gift of a smile to children facing life threatening illnesses this holiday season through the annual Exhibit 4 Smiles event. If you're based in the Chicagoland area, and able to purchase/wrap gifts to be picked up by an EDPA Midwest representative, please register using this link and Rick Pierson will send you the sponsored children's wish lists. If you're unable to purchase/wrap gifts for pickup, or not local to Chicago and still want to donate, then you can make a monetary donation ($50/child) using this link and the EDPA Midwest will purchase and wrap gifts on your behalf.

Sponsorship Link: https://www.edpamidwest.org/event-details/exhibit-4-smiles-2

EDPA Texas

Event Title: Trivia Night
Event Date: Wednesday, January10th
Event Location: Zoom
Time: 4:00 - 5:00pm CST

Event Description: SPONSORED BY CLASSIC EXHIBITS - Join us for a fun evening and test your trivia skills aiming to win a $50 Amazon gift card. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89866997446?pwd=Vzk1M1l6N3BhT1BOVjZNS0ZlVFJFZz09        

Meeting ID: 898 6699 7446/Passcode: 478062 

Free for all, email Noelle Webster at noelle.webster@willwork.com for additional information and a calendar invite

EXHIBIT CITY NEWS CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

In an era when the tradeshow industry was still finding its voice, Don Svehla was already shaping its narrative. Three decades later, Svehla’s creation, Exhibit City News, continues to be the paramount print and digital news resource since its inception in 1994. 

"My vision was always to celebrate the people and companies behind the scenes,” explains Svehla, Founder & Publisher of ECN. “We are 'True to the Trade,' capturing stories about news makers from various sectors like labor, general contracting, shipping, exhibit-event agencies, talent, hospitality, and beyond. It's a vast network of independent and interdependent specializations that converge to bring events to life." 

Exhibit City News has transformed from its modest origins as an eight-page newsletter, born from Svehla's insights gained while working as an I&D worker at McCormick Place, Chicago. With the encouragement of industry peers, Svehla embarked on a journalistic journey, and by June 1994, the newsletter was a reality. Svehla summarizes this journey. 

"We've grown with the tradeshow industry," Svehla emphasizes. "From a regional newspaper to a national publication, and now a full-color magazine and dynamic digital site that churns out fresh content. Tradeshows are content producers, and we take pride in sharing the latest news with our community." 

Fueling Exhibit City News' expansion is not just its compelling content but also its steadfast advertising community, consisting of hundreds of tradeshow service organizations that have remained loyal for decades. One advertiser remarks, "Exhibit City News is a vital channel for us to tell our story and promote our brand. It's the premier platform to connect with our buyers." 

In honor of its 30th anniversary, Exhibit City News is crafting a glossy commemorative magazine. This milestone publication will showcase top industry events, noteworthy news, influential figures, and more. Svehla adds, "Our commemorative magazines, previously published after 20 and 25 years, offer high-value content and serve as a tremendous advertising platform for our community. We are thrilled to announce this special edition at the Exhibit Designers & Producers Association Conference (EDPA), November 28-November 30 and the International Association of Exhibition Executives (IAEE), Expo-Expo! 23 Tradeshow, taking place from December 5-7 in Dallas, TX." 

EXHIBITOR Magazine Announces Special Award Winners in its 2024 Centers of Excellence Awards

Last month Exhibitor Group announced the 25 convention centers that qualified for its fifth annual Centers of Excellence Awards, and today we are excited to announce the winners of five special awards related to the competition. The 2024 Centers of Excellence Special Awards winners are:

Best Convention Center (Over 1 Million sq. ft. of Exhibit Space)

• Anaheim Convention Center

Kentucky Exposition Center was also a finalist in this category.

Best Convention Center (500,000 – 1 Million sq. ft. of Exhibit Space)

• Enercare Centre

Finalists also included Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Los Angeles Convention Center, and Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

Best Convention Center (100,000 – 500,000 sq. ft. of Exhibit Space)

• Vancouver Convention Centre

The Colorado Springs Convention Center at The Broadmoor was also a finalist.

Best Convention Center (Less Than 100,000 sq. ft. of Exhibit space)

• Greater Tacoma Convention Center

Overland Park Convention Center and Owensboro Convention Center were also finalists.

Best Customer Service & On-Site Support

• Walter E. Washington Convention Center

Los Angeles Convention Center and Huntington Place were also finalists in this category.

The Special Awards winners were announced today during a special EXHIBITORInsight session which can be viewed on-demand here.

Exhibitor Group, which produces both EXHIBITOR magazine and Find It on EXHIBITORXchange, the buyer’s guide to trade show products and services, launched the Centers of Excellence initiative in 2019 to identify and recognize North America’s best convention centers for trade shows and events.

The highest-scoring venues named among EXHIBITOR Magazine’s 2024 Centers of Excellence are featured in a special supplement in the October/November issue of EXHIBITOR, as well as via an online portal where readers can learn more about each of the facilities that qualified for this honor.

The venues that qualified for EXHIBITOR Magazine’s 2024 Centers of Excellence include:

• Anaheim Convention Center

• Baltimore Convention Center

• Colorado Convention Center

• Duke Energy Convention Center

• Edmonton EXPO Centre

• Enercare Centre

• Greater Columbus Convention Center

• Greater Tacoma Convention Center

• Hawaii Convention Center

• Huntington Place

• Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas

• Kentucky Exposition Center

• Kentucky International Convention Center

• Los Angeles Convention Center

• Miami Beach Convention Center

• Overland Park Convention Center

• Owensboro Convention Center

• Raleigh Convention Center

• Renasant Convention Center

• San Diego Convention Center

• Seattle Convention Center

• Tampa Convention Center

• The Convention Center at The Broadmoor

• Vancouver Convention Centre

• Walter E. Washington Convention Center

“The facilities on this list have proven their ability to host trade shows and events of all sizes while providing world-class service and state-of-the-art accommodations,” said Emily Olson, editor of EXHIBITOR magazine.

Small, medium, and large convention centers located anywhere in North America are invited to apply annually, with entrants evaluated using an objective algorithm weighted to reflect how EXHIBITOR magazine readers value a variety of variables. The evaluation process also includes a survey of event planners, show organizers, and exhibit managers who have recently hosted (or exhibited at) events within each facility, as well as a review of entrants’ event spaces, selling points, and innovations, conducted by a panel of corporate exhibit managers.

For more information on the Centers of Excellence competition, visit www.ExhibitorOnline.com/Awards/CoE.


About Exhibitor Group
The leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, Exhibitor Group publishes EXHIBITOR magazine, an award-winning publication featuring best practices in trade show marketing. EXHIBITOR's learning events include: EXHIBITORLIVE, The Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing; EXHIBITORFastTrak accelerated learning conferences; and EXHIBITOR eTrak, professional online learning. Exhibitor Group is also the founder of CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), the industry's only university-affiliated professional certification program, and the EXHIBITORNOW podcast, your source for the latest news and interviews with thought leaders in trade shows and events. Learn more at www.ExhibitorOnline.com.

Stand Design Awards Return to ISE 2024

EXHIBITOR magazine is proud to announce that it has renewed its partnership with Integrated Systems Europe. As such, the Stand Design Awards will return to ISE, the largest AV systems integration show in the world, in 2024.

Now in its seventh year, the program is managed solely by EXHIBITOR magazine, an award-winning print and online magazine featuring best practices for trade show marketing. Every ISE stand will be automatically entered into the free competition and judged on site by a group of world-renowned designers and marketers.

Stands will be organized into four size-based categories: Small (30 sqm or fewer), Medium (31 – 69 sqm), Large (70 – 249 sqm), and XL (250 sqm or more). Up to 10 finalists in each category will be selected, notified on the show floor, and presented with a plaque on or before Wednesday 31 January.

One winner per category will be announced and presented with a trophy at the Awards Ceremony on Thursday 1 February.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with ISE to lead the Stand Design Awards in Barcelona,” said Emily Olson, editor of EXHIBITOR magazine. “Part of ISE’s culture is that it values exhibit and experiential design as an integral part of the event. That’s thrilling for both the EXHIBITOR team and our panel of judges, and we look forward to seeing how ISE participants use design to tell stories, attract attention, and create memories for show attendees.”

To learn more, visit https://www.iseurope.org/stand-design-awards-2024.


About Exhibitor Group
The leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, Exhibitor Group publishes EXHIBITOR magazine, an award-winning publication featuring best practices in trade show marketing. EXHIBITOR's learning events include: EXHIBITORLIVE, The Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing; EXHIBITORFastTrak accelerated learning conferences; and EXHIBITOR eTrak, professional online learning. Exhibitor Group is also the founder of CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), the industry's only university-affiliated professional certification program, and the EXHIBITORNOW podcast, your source for the latest news and interviews with thought leaders in trade shows and events. Learn more at www.ExhibitorOnline.com.

EXHIBITOR Magazine's Portable/Modular Awards Accepting Entries

EXHIBITOR Magazine's 11th Annual Portable/Modular Awards, which honor design excellence in portable, modular, and system exhibits, is currently accepting entries. Entries are accepted in eight categories, including Best Conceptual Design, which is open to portable/modular stand designs that have never been constructed.

The competition is judged by an unbiased group of highly esteemed marketing and design experts. Multiple finalists and one winner will be selected in each category. Plus, one winner will receive The Zeigler Award, the competition's top honor.

Finalists will be announced online, and winners will receive a custom trophy and will be featured in EXHIBITOR magazine and online at ExhibitorOnline.com. Plus, all finalists will be entered in the People's Choice category, the only component of the program that's chosen by popular vote. Visitors to ExhibitorOnline.com will vote to select one winner.

Entries are accepted electronically via an online form and DropBox.com file sharing. Visit www.ExhibitorOnline.com/PMA to learn more about the competition and to start the entry process.

Deadlines
Early: Jan. 8, 2024 ($195)
Regular: Jan. 15, 2024 ($245)
Late: Jan. 22, 2024 ($295)

About Exhibitor Group
The leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, Exhibitor Group publishes EXHIBITOR magazine, an award-winning publication featuring best practices in trade show marketing. EXHIBITOR's learning events include: EXHIBITORLIVE, The Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing; EXHIBITORFastTrak accelerated learning conferences; and EXHIBITOR eTrak, professional online learning. Exhibitor Group is also the founder of CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), the industry's only university-affiliated professional certification program, and the EXHIBITORNOW podcast, your source for the latest news and interviews with thought leaders in trade shows and events. Learn more at www.ExhibitorOnline.com.

Exhibitor Group Welcomes Jim Gilmore as Chief Experiential Architect

Exhibitor Group today announced that Jim Gilmore is bringing his multiple talents to Exhibitor Group as chief experiential architect, a newly created role. Gilmore is an author, teacher, and entrepreneur, described by those closest to him as a unique individual with many gifts. In his new role, he'll help EXHIBITOR to harness the unique power of experience thinking to drive new strategy in audience engagement.

James H. Gilmore is a management advisor to organizations throughout the world, helping them go deep on innovative ways to create customer value and new revenue. As co-author of The Experience Economy, Jim Gilmore literally wrote the book that spawned worldwide interest in experience design, customer experience management, and experiential marketing. He is a frequent keynote speaker, as well as workshop facilitator and executive coach, helping organizations understand the experience economy and its implications on their operations.

"I am excited about my role in this new capacity with Exhibitor Group, my longest standing event-staging client," said Gilmore. "More than just appearing as a speaker and educator, or even serving in a consulting capacity, assisting Exhibitor Group as its Chief Experiential Architect provides an opportunity to work side-by-side as a fellow executive team member as the organization continues to promote and advance experience management excellence in the marketplace."

Mark Johnson, owner of Exhibitor Group said of Gilmore's appointment, "We're excited for the opportunity to see what Jim's unique talent creates and look forward to what he is bringing to EXHIBITORLIVE and all the activations we have going forward."

"Jim will help us enhance the already incredible offerings that Exhibitor Group has planned for all of our 2024 programs," said David DuBois, president and CEO of Exhibitor Group and publisher of EXHIBITOR magazine. "Our goals continue to be to provide the best education and networking opportunities for the exhibitions and events communities."


About Exhibitor Group
The leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, Exhibitor Group publishes EXHIBITOR magazine, an award-winning publication featuring best practices in trade show marketing. EXHIBITOR's learning events include: EXHIBITORLIVE, The Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing; EXHIBITORFastTrak accelerated learning conferences; and EXHIBITOR eTrak, professional online learning. Exhibitor Group is also the founder of CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), the industry's only university-affiliated professional certification program, and the EXHIBITORNOW podcast, your source for the latest news and interviews with thought leaders in trade shows and events. Learn more at www.ExhibitorOnline.com.

Star Group Acquires Exhibit Edge, Expanding Reach and Boosting Capabilities

STAR Group, a leader in experiential marketing and trade show exhibits, announces the acquisition of Exhibit Edge, a prominent exhibition and events company based in Washington, DC. This acquisition is a key next step in STAR’s ongoing business and growth strategy, further solidifying its position as a top-tier industry leader.

The acquisition of Exhibit Edge aligns with Star Exhibits & Environments' commitment to enhancing its capabilities, expanding its geographic footprint, and providing clients with a broader spectrum of services. The combined expertise of both companies will result in an unmatched level of creativity, innovation, and client-focused solutions in the exhibits, environments, and events industry.

"The acquisition of Exhibit Edge is a significant milestone in our journey to provide even more comprehensive and impactful solutions to our clients," said Mark Johnson, founder and principal owner of STAR Group. "We are excited to welcome Exhibit Edge’s talented team to the Star family and look forward to leveraging our collective strengths to exceed client expectations."

With a national presence, global reach, and a deep commitment to exceptional customer service, STAR Group remains focused on helping businesses create memorable, engaging brand experiences for trade shows and events, retail environments, and corporate interiors. The acquisition of Exhibit Edge opens up new opportunities for both companies to collaborate on larger and more varied projects, and to be better positioned to support clients in achieving their marketing and brand objectives.

"Exhibit Edge is thrilled to join forces with Star Exhibits & Environments," said Bev Gray, President and CEO at Exhibit Edge. "This acquisition will allow us to leverage the expertise of two highly skilled teams to bring our clients even more outstanding experiences and meet the ever-changing demands of their trade shows and events across venues and markets. We are excited about the new possibilities and look forward to the journey ahead."

The Exhibit Edge team will continue to operate from their current facilities in Chantilly, VA, in close proximity to Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD, ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining their strong local presence. STAR's extensive experience in event innovation and design combined with the established Northeast presence of Exhibit Edge and its roster

of defense, pharmaceutical, and other key customers is a powerful combination.

Looking ahead, STAR plans to continue strengthening its geographic presence, expanding end-to-end capabilities, and building expertise across multiple solutions and verticals. “As we drive innovation for our customers across businesses, locations, and product lines – the core mission remains the same,” added Mark Johnson. “We are in business to make every client a star, and to help them shine brighter as they grow their brand, businesses, and careers through the captivating spaces, places, and experiences we build together.”

About Star Group:

STAR Group is a family of companies providing powerful brand integration and experiences for our clients since 1993. A leading global marketing solutions provider, STAR values a customer-intimate approach, lasting partnerships, powerful strategic direction, and consistent execution. STAR's comprehensive design, fabrication, installation, and property management services support trade show, retail, corporate interior, event and selling environment initiatives. To learn more, follow STAR on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/star and visit www.engagestar.com.

About Exhibit Edge:
Exhibit Edge, headquartered in Chantilly, VA, is a renowned experiential marketing agency with expertise in exhibit design, custom fabrication, and exhibit program management. With a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, Exhibit Edge has been serving clients in the trade show and events industry since 1992.

Exhibit City News Announces Strategic Partnership with The Experience Builders Podcast to Elevate Business Content in the Trade Show and Event Industry

Exhibit City News, a leading resource for news and information in the tradeshow and event industry, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with The Experience Builders Podcast. This collaboration aims to deliver high-value business content to companies and small businesses operating within the dynamic event space.

The Experience Builders Podcast, known for its insightful discussions and expert interviews, joins forces with Exhibit City News to provide a comprehensive platform for industry professionals to stay informed and inspired. This partnership reflects a commitment to supporting the growth and success of businesses within the trade show and event sector.

"We are thrilled to partner with The Experience Builders Podcast to enhance the content we offer to our community," said Don Svehla, the Founder and Publisher of Exhibit City News. "This collaboration aligns with our mission to provide valuable insights and resources to professionals in the trade show and event industry. The Experience Builders Podcast brings a unique perspective and expertise that will undoubtedly benefit our audience."

Listeners can expect engaging discussions, thought-provoking interviews, and actionable insights on topics ranging from profitable business build-back strategies to the latest trends in the tradeshow industry. The partnership aims to empower businesses with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the ever-evolving economic landscape of trade shows and business events successfully.

"We are excited to join forces with Exhibit City News to amplify our reach and impact within the trade show and event community," said Chris Griffin, founder and President of www.Crewxp.com, the producer of The Experience Builders Podcast. Griffin is also the incoming President of the Experiential Designers and Producers Association (EDPA). "This collaboration enables us to share valuable content and stories that inspire and inform professionals in the industry, ultimately contributing to their continued success.”

Experience Builders podcasts will appear on the Exhibit City News digital site in the coming weeks.

About Exhibit City News

Exhibit City News is a premiere print and digital news resource for professionals who produce tradeshows and events year-round. Visit [www.exhibitcitynews.com] for more information.

About The Experience Builders Podcast

The Experience Builders Podcast is a podcast about business events. Its mission is to help develop strong companies, lasting partnerships, and powerful events. Learn more about the podcast at www.crewxp.com/podcast.

Moss, a Leading Brand Experience Company, Expands into the UK with MacroArt Acquisition

Moss Inc., a leading producer of premium graphics, complex structures, and custom installations for brand experiences, has announced the acquisition of

MacroArt in the UK. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The move accelerates Moss’s strategy of building sustainable, high-quality branded experiences for clients - wherever they are in the world - underpinned by a consistent, reliable, and proven service and delivery model.

Founded in 1992, MacroArt is an award-winning, high-end graphics provider with a client list that includes many of the world’s biggest brands and their agencies. Managing Director Michael Green and the senior leadership team of MacroArt will remain in their roles, reporting to Moss President and CEO Jason Popp.

“The UK is clearly an established and vibrant market for experiential, entertainment, sport, and retail brand marketers, ” said Jason Popp, President and CEO of Moss. “Many of our customers are already active in the UK, and we are delighted to partner with both a high-caliber team and a strong business to accelerate our vision of being a truly global production partner for branded experiences.”

Michael Green, MacroArt MD, commented, “Moss is a leading global player, and their investment in MacroArt is a testament to the talent of our people and the loyalty of our customers. The combination of Moss and MacroArt represents great news for customers, our employees, and the growth potential of both businesses. We share the same values on sustainability, service, innovation, and a commitment to a strong people culture that makes this such a great fit.”

Jason Popp added, “We are delighted to welcome the talented MacroArt team and their clients to Moss and look forward to an exciting future ahead. Our footprint of production facilities in the US, Germany, Poland, and now the UK ensures we are able to support clients in a consistent and effective way regardless of where their branded experience is.”

Moss Inc, whose global headquarters and state-of-the-art production facility is in Franklin Park, Illinois, near O’Hare Airport in Chicago, has a longstanding presence and customer base in mainland Europe with offices and operations in Germany and a recently opened facility in Poland.

Display Supply & Lighting, Inc. Introduces a Custom RGB Programmable Lighting Solution

Display Supply & Lighting, Inc. a leader in lighting, supply products and product selection and installation oversight services, is proud to offer a new innovative, programmable RGB End Cap Lighting Solution. 
A custom, low-profile extrusion houses an RGB programmable LED panel and is easy to install by simply snapping the special plug into a 30mm hole.  The custom extrusion is secured to the special plug with VELCRO® hook and loop VELCOIN® dots. RGB Endcap Lights are offered in three standard lengths – 95”, 46”, and 39” (custom lengths available on request).

“DS&L designed this specialty RGB light after several customers asked us about a low-profile solution for illuminating end caps when using a variety of different aluminum extrusions. Many of our customers use booths that are a panel system with 30mm holes, which make these lights the perfect easy install solution”, said Rob Cohen, VP.  “We created this product family with the idea that it also be used in custom exhibits as well. DS&L is always searching for and creating new and innovative products for our customers, and we believe that these low-profile lights will offer a cost effective, versatile lighting solution to meet another market need.”

To learn more about what DS&L can do for you and to learn more about these new RGB Endcap Lights, visit www.dslgroup.com.

About Display Supply & Lighting, Inc.: DS&L is a leading supplier of lighting and supply products to the trade show and display industries for 44 years.  In addition to assisting customers with the selection of products that best meet their application needs, DS&L also provides complete lighting layout, application engineering services, onsite installation oversight services and product selection assistance.  For more information about DS&L’s products and services, please visit www.dslgroup.com or call (800) 468-1488.

November Newsletter 2023

Announcing EDPA ENGAGE 2024 – Tickets on Sale!

EDPA's annual event is coming to Nashville and will take place just prior to the opening of ExhibitorLive. Join us for ENGAGE 2024 -  happening Sunday, February 25th from 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm.  Come aboard Nashville's General Jackson Showboat for an evening of fun including dinner and live entertainment. You will experience Nashville as it can best be seen from the beautiful Cumberland River.

ENGAGE Tickets are $185 each for EDPA members and $225 each for non-members. Includes dinner, drink tickets, entertainment and transportation to and from Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.  Don't miss this must-attend event for EDPA members.  Get your tickets today!

There are limited sponsorship opportunities for ENGAGE 2024.  If you are interested in helping support the event and promoting your brand, contact Nick (sales@edpa.com) to learn more.

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EXHIBITORLIVE Nashville
Registration and Exhibit Space Selection Open

Exhibitor Group announced the launch of conference registration and exhibit space selection for EXHIBITORLIVE, the Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing, to be held February 25-28, 2024, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN.

EXHBITORLIVE is the industry's highest-rated conference and exhibition for trade show and corporate event marketing. This event will feature an all-new schedule for 2024, including: Sessions, Workshops, and New Certificate Programs! Choose from nearly 100 educational sessions presented by expert instructors to find the solutions to your unique trade show and event marketing challenges, and work towards earning your Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) designation in the industry's only university-affiliated professional certification program.

Launching in 2024, trade show marketers who are new to the industry will enjoy a new All-Day Certificate Program: Exhibiting 101 Basics and Beyond, as well as a new Half-Day Certificate Program: Evaluating Trade Show ROI - Strategies and Tactics. They are also introducing a new one-day certificate course for the supplier side of the industry, endorsed by the EDPA. Watch for details coming soon!

Sessions and workshops will take place:

• Sunday, February 25, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

• Monday, February 26, from 8:00 am to 11:30 am, and 1:00 pm to 5:45 pm

• Tuesday, February 27, from 8:00 am to 9:30 am, and 3:00 pm to 5:45 pm

• Wednesday, February 28, from 8:00 am to 11:30 am, and 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm

Networking Events to Feature a New Closing Party!
New in 2024, EXHIBITORLIVE is excited to feature a new Closing Party and Awards Ceremony on Wednesday evening, so be sure to plan your travel accordingly! This conference will offer more opportunities than ever before to help you build your professional network and make lasting connections with people who understand your job and the unique challenges you face every day.

• First-Timers Meet-Up: Monday, February 26, from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

• Welcome Reception: Monday, February 26, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

• Sponsor/Exhibitor Evening Activities: Tuesday, February 27, from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm

• Closing Party and Awards Ceremony: Wednesday, February 28, from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Exhibit Hall Moving to Two Days!
The Exhibit Hall is moving from a three-day schedule (3.5 hours per day) to a two-day schedule in 2024 (5 hours on Tuesday, and 4.5 hours on Wednesday) in response to valuable feedback from our exhibitors and attendees. We hear you! This move will help to drive higher levels of activity and engagement on the show floor during the entire exhibition, while still providing exclusive Exhibit Hall hours that do not overlap with conference sessions.

• Tuesday, February 27, 2024, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

• Wednesday, February 28, 2024, from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm, plus Strategic Partner Hours to facilitate supplier-to-supplier connections from 10:00 am to 11:30 am

Exhibit space selection is underway! For more information about exhibiting, download the EXHIBITORLIVE 2024 Exhibiting Prospectus, featuring a complete profile outlining the buying power of EXHIBITORLIVE attendees – an exclusive audience of face-to-face marketers you can't reach anywhere else.

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Thank You ACCESS 2023 Sponsors! 

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See You Soon at ACCESS 2023!

We have a record number of attendees gathering at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs, FL, November 28-30, 2023.  We look forward to seeing you at ACCESS 2023 for three days of education, networking, advocacy and good works. No doubt it will be one of the best yet!

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Thank You ACCESS 2023 Sponsors! 

Check out the EDPA SHOP

EDPA International

Event Title: International Family Holiday Gathering

Date: Monday, November 27th 

Location: Mangrove Bar // ACCESS

Time: 8:30pm EST

Event Description: All the international members are gathering during ACCESS to share stories, have a cocktail and be together :)

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EDPA Upper Midwest

Event Title:  Beer, Cheer and Winter Gear

Date:  Wednesday, December 6th

Location:  Luce Line Brewing - 12901 16th Ave. N Plymouth, MN

Time:  4:30 pm CST

Event Description: Join us for a Holiday Happy Hour and Coat, Hat, Scarves, Mitten + Winter Gear Drive! $20 and a donation of a NEW winter gear item encouraged. 

Registration link:  https://EDPAUpperMidwest.rsvpify.com

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EDPA Midwest

Event Title: Design Challenge Student Showcase Event

Date: Wednesday, December 6th

Location: Itasca Country Club - 400 E Orchard St, Itasca, IL 60143

Time: 5:00 – 8:00pm CST

Event Description: Close out 2023 with your fellow Midwest chapter members on Wednesday, December 6th from 5-8pm at the Itasca Country Club! Meet the senior graphic design students from Carthage College who participated in this year's Design Challenge program and see their final presentations. Two groups will be chosen to present their final exhibit design presentations and a panelist of exhibit industry members will vote on the design they think best meets the creative brief provided at the beginning of this semester. Dinner will be served at this event. 

Registration link: https://www.edpamidwest.org/event-details/design-challenge-student-showcase-event

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EDPA Midwest

Event Title: Exhibit 4 Smiles

Date: Monday, December 18th  

Location: UIC Hospital Chicago

Time: 9:00an – 5:00pm CST

Event Description: Give the gift of a smile to children facing life threatening illnesses this holiday season through the annual Exhibit 4 Smiles event. If you're based in the Chicagoland area, and able to purchase/wrap gifts to be picked up by an EDPA Midwest representative, please register using this link and Rick Pierson will send you the sponsored children's wish lists. If you're unable to purchase/wrap gifts for pickup, or not local to Chicago and still want to donate, then you can make a monetary donation ($50/child) using this link and the EDPA Midwest will purchase and wrap gifts on your behalf.

Sponsorship Link: https://www.edpamidwest.org/event-details/exhibit-4-smiles-2

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EDPA Texas

Event Title:  Trivia Night

Event Date:  Wednesday, December 13th

Event Location:  Zoom

Time:  4:00 - 5:00pm CST

Event Description:  SPONSORED BY CLASSIC EXHIBITS - Join us for a fun evening and test your trivia skills aiming to win a $50 Amazon gift card. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Registration link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89866997446?pwd=Vzk1M1l6N3BhT1BOVjZNS0ZlVFJFZz09        

Meeting ID: 898 6699 7446/Passcode: 478062 

Free for all, email Noelle Webster at noelle.webster@willwork.com for additional information and a calendar invite

Exhibitor Group Welcomes Monica Myhill as Chief Learning Strategist and CTSM Director

Exhibitor Group today announced that Monica Myhill, CMP, CRP, CPTD, has joined the enhanced and expanded Exhibitor Group leadership team as Chief Learning Strategist and CTSM Director. She joins the organization after many years of successfully directing and managing education, certification, exhibitions, and meetings teams. Her most recent job was as Director of Education at the Colorado Hospital Association.

David DuBois, president and CEO of Exhibitor Group and publisher of EXHIBITOR magazine said, “It is my pleasure to welcome Monica to our leadership team. She brings enthusiasm, creativity, and extensive education and training experience with her as Exhibitor Group continues to focus on being the leader of best practices in face-to-face marketing.”

"I'm thrilled to join Exhibitor Group and have the privilege of working with David DuBois again and his dynamic team," said Myhill. "I am excited to lead the charge in creating innovative and enriching learning opportunities for corporate trade show and event professionals. At Exhibitor Group, we are committed to advancing the industry by equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in this ever-evolving field."

About Exhibitor Group
The leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, Exhibitor Group publishes EXHIBITOR magazine, an award-winning publication featuring best practices in trade show marketing. EXHIBITOR's learning events include: EXHIBITORLIVE, The Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing; EXHIBITORFastTrak accelerated learning conferences; and EXHIBITOR eTrak, professional online learning. Exhibitor Group is also the founder of CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), the industry's only university-affiliated professional certification program, and the EXHIBITORNOW podcast, your source for the latest news and interviews with thought leaders in trade shows and events. Learn more at www.ExhibitorOnline.com.

EXHIBITORLIVE Opens Full Conference Registration and Exhibit Space Selection

Exhibitor Group, the award-winning leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, is excited to announce the launch of conference registration and exhibit space selection for EXHIBITORLIVE, the Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing, to be held February 25-28, 2024, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN.

EXHIBITORLIVE is the industry's highest-rated conference and exhibition for trade show and corporate event marketing. This event will feature an all-new schedule for 2024, including:

Sessions, Workshops, and New Certificate Programs!
Choose from nearly 100 educational sessions presented by expert instructors to find the solutions to your unique trade show and event marketing challenges, and work towards earning your Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) designation in the industry's only university-affiliated professional certification program.

Launching in 2024, trade show marketers who are new to the industry will enjoy our new All-Day Certificate Program: Exhibiting 101 Basics and Beyond, as well as a new Half-Day Certificate Program: Evaluating Trade Show ROI - Strategies and Tactics. We are also introducing a new one-day certificate course for the supplier side of the industry, endorsed by the EDPA (Experiential Designers and Producers Association). Watch for details coming soon!

Sessions and workshops will take place:

• Sunday, February 25, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

• Monday, February 26, from 8:00 am to 11:30 am, and 1:00 pm to 5:45 pm

• Tuesday, February 27, from 8:00 am to 9:30 am, and 3:00 pm to 5:45 pm

• Wednesday, February 28, from 8:00 am to 11:30 am, and 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm

Networking Events to Feature a New Closing Party!
New in 2024, EXHIBITORLIVE is excited to feature a new Closing Party and Awards Ceremony on Wednesday evening, so be sure to plan your travel accordingly! This conference will offer more opportunities than ever before to help you build your professional network and make lasting connections with people who understand your job and the unique challenges you face every day.

• First-Timers Meet-Up: Monday, February 26, from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

• Welcome Reception: Monday, February 26, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

• Sponsor/Exhibitor Evening Activities: Tuesday, February 27, from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm

• Closing Party and Awards Ceremony: Wednesday, February 28, from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Exhibit Hall Moving to Two Days!
The Exhibit Hall is moving from a three-day schedule (3.5 hours per day) to a two-day schedule in 2024 (5 hours on Tuesday, and 4.5 hours on Wednesday) in response to valuable feedback from our exhibitors and attendees. We hear you! This move will help to drive higher levels of activity and engagement on the show floor during the entire exhibition, while still providing exclusive Exhibit Hall hours that do not overlap with conference sessions.

• Tuesday, February 27, 2024, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

• Wednesday, February 28, 2024, from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm, plus Strategic Partner Hours to facilitate supplier-to-supplier connections from 10:00 am to 11:30 am

Exhibit Hall attendees will find new suppliers and discover new trends at North America's largest exhibition of trade show products and services, featuring state-of-the-art innovations, emerging technologies, customer engagement, creative solutions, and experiential exhibits. Exhibit Hall admission for exhibit and event marketers is included with any session or workshop registration.

Exhibit space selection is underway! For more information about exhibiting, download the EXHIBITORLIVE 2024 Exhibiting Prospectus, featuring a complete profile outlining the buying power of EXHIBITORLIVE attendees – an exclusive audience of face-to-face marketers you can't reach anywhere else.

View the Floorplan
Register for Exhibit Space

About EXHIBITORLIVE
EXHIBITORLIVE is the most comprehensive educational event for trade show and event marketing professionals, featuring 100 educational sessions and workshops. This event is attended by exhibit and event managers, and marketing and communications experts who are serious about improving their face-to-face marketing performance. The Exhibit Hall at EXHIBITORLIVE presents North America's largest exhibition of trade show and event suppliers. For more information, go to www.ExhibitorLive.com.

About Exhibitor Group
The leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, Exhibitor Group publishes EXHIBITOR magazine, an award-winning publication featuring best practices in trade show marketing. EXHIBITOR's learning events include: EXHIBITORLIVE, The Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing; EXHIBITORFastTrak accelerated learning conferences; and EXHIBITOR eTrak, professional online learning. Exhibitor Group is also the founder of CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), the industry's only university-affiliated professional certification program, and the EXHIBITORNOW podcast, your source for the latest news and interviews with thought leaders in the trade shows and events. Learn more at www.ExhibitorOnline.com.

Moss Achieves EcoVadis 2023 Silver Status Recognition for Their Commitment to Business Sustainability, Labor and Human Rights, and Ethical Business Practices

Moss Inc., a leading producer of premium graphics, tension fabric structures, and custom installations for brand experiences proudly announces its achievement of EcoVadis Silver Status for 2023. This marks the company's second time receiving this recognition, emphasizing Moss's continued dedication to sustainability and responsible business practices. This rating recognizes Moss as being in the top 25% of the over 100,000 rated companies on the platform. The overall score places Moss in the top 17% of companies in its sector.

EcoVadis is the world’s largest and most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings. The assessment process meticulously examines a company's environmental, social, and ethical performance and processes, requiring robust substantiation and therefore providing a comprehensive rating that reflects its sustainability efforts.

Moss's commitment to sustainable business practices is deeply rooted in its corporate culture. From responsibly sourcing materials to reducing waste and energy consumption, the company consistently demonstrates its dedication to minimizing its environmental footprint, most notably by having its production operations certified as carbon neutral in the US and Europe.

Jason Popp, President and CEO of Moss, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, "Receiving EcoVadis Silver Status is a significant achievement for a company of our size. It reaffirms our commitment to operating as a responsible corporate citizen and demonstrates the dedication of our team to sustainable practices."

Moss looks forward to building on this achievement and further enhancing its sustainability initiatives in the years ahead, ensuring that its business practices continue to align with the highest standards of sustainability and ethics.

About Moss
Moss partners with brands around the world to tell their story through compelling experiences. Across North America and Europe, Moss continues to sustainably blend materials, technology, and technique for unique branding endeavors. Through global sourcing, fabrication, print, and technical design, Moss is a proven partner for every brand possibility.

For more information about Moss, visit www.mossinc.com.

October Newsletter 2023

ACCESS 2023’s full schedule of sessions is now available on the ACCESS site @ https://www.edpa.com/program-2023.  This year’s line-up includes eight different and exciting keynote speakers. 

ACCESS 2023 KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Paul Teutul Jr.

Jonna Mendez 

Jeremy Bess 

Han Leenhouts

Dr. Tracey Wilen 

Jane Gentry

Teresa Freeman

Registrations are filling. Don’t wait – register today! Join us Wednesday, November 28th - Thursday, November 30th, 2023 at Hyatt Regency, Coconut Point in Bonita Springs Florida. Register now - https://www.edpa.com/access 

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EDPA FOUNDATION SILENT AUCTION

Donations Request 

One of our most popular ACCESS activities, The EDPA Foundation Silent Auction, will be held again at EDPA ACCESS 2023. With bidding opening on Wednesday evening (11/29) during the Gala cocktail hour, our auction items are always crowd pleasers.  Help us make this year’s Silent Auction the best ever.  EDPAF is now accepting donations for the auction from our EDPA members and ACCESS attendees.  

One hundred percent of your contribution will help support our industry members and their families through EDPA Foundation good works. 

For more information or to donate, please reach out to:
 Kari Peters (kpeters@edpa.com) or
 Amanda Helgemoe (ahelgemoe@nuvistaonline.com)   

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Thank You ACCESS 2023 Sponsors! 

Check out the EDPA SHOP

Lee Knight Exhibit Design Scholarship

Pictured: (from L to R) Dr. Sachel Josefson, Bemidji State University; Lee Knight; Sharon Van De North; and Dr. Bonnie Higgins, Bemidji State University.

The School of Technology, Art, and Design at Bemidji State University is thrilled to announce the establishment of the Lee Knight Exhibit Design Scholarship. Lee Knight is an exhibit, live event, and experience industry icon who has generously created this endowment for student scholarships with his wife, Sharon Van De North. 

Lee Knight, whose legendary career spans over four decades, is the founder and former CEO of EXHIBITOR Media Group. Widely recognized as the industry leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, Knight has been instrumental in shaping the face of the trade show and event industry. His many accolades include the founding of EXHIBITOR Magazine, EXHIBITORFastTrak, CTSM Certification Program, EXHIBITORLIVE: The Conference for Tradeshow & Event Marketing, and the innovative Gravity Free Design Conference. Residing in Rochester, Minnesota, Knight and Van De North have shown unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting the next generation of design talent. 

Bemidji State University will award the Lee Knight Exhibit Design Scholarship to an exemplary student in the School of Technology, Art, and Design focusing on exhibit and experience design. Faculty will be looking for a "fearless designer" - an individual bold enough to take risks in design and achieve unparalleled success through those ventures. While excellence in exhibit and experience design is necessary, additional weight will go to students active in related activities and events. 

"The establishment of this scholarship not only reflects the importance of designers practicing creativity and innovation in the world but also Lee Knight and Sharon Van De North's dedication to fostering budding talent," commented Dr. Sachel Josefson, Professor in the School of Technology, Art, and Design. "We are immensely grateful for their generosity and are excited to see the positive impact this will have on our students' futures," added Dr. Bonnie Higgins. 

EDPA Las Vegas

Event Title: EDPA Oktoberfest Mixer 

Event Date: Tuesday, October 10 

Event Location:  Able Baker Brewing 

Time:  5:30 - 7:30pm PDT 

Event Description: Celebrate with industry peers at EDPA Las Vegas Oktoberfest mixer and craft beer tasting. Wine and appetizers will also be included. $20/person. Sponsorship opportunities available. 

Registration link:  https://www.edpalv.com/upcoming-events

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EDPA Las Vegas

Event Title: Designing With Ai

Date: Thursday, November 9

Location: Virtual via Zoom

Time: 1:00 - 2:00pm PDT

Event Description: Kedar Deshpande explains how to use Ai for exhibit design and more.

Registration link:  https://www.edpalv.com/upcoming-events

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EDPA Las Vegas

Event Title: Whitney Elementary School Food Drive

Date: November and December 2023

Location: Whitney Elementary School

Event Description: Food drive to provide Holiday meals to homeless students and their families.

Registration link: https://www.edpalv.com/upcoming-events

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EDPA Midwest

Event Title: Strikes & Scares Bowling Event

Date: Thursday, October 19

Location: Bowlero Glendale Heights - 558 E North Ave., Glendale Heights, IL 60139

Time: 5:00 – 8:00pm CDT

Event Description: Join the EDPA Midwest at the 6th annual Strikes & Scares bowling event benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. Networking from 5-6 pm and bowling from 6-8pm. Register as a team of 4, single bowler, or social/non-bowler today. Feel free to dress in your spookiest Halloween attire, and don’t miss out on scary good raffle and silent auction prizes!

Registration link:  https://www.edpamidwest.org/event-details/edpa-midwest-strikes-scares-bowling-event-2

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EDPA Texas

Event Title: Trivia Night

Event Date: Wednesday, November 8 – Challenger: EDPA Upper Midwest

Event Location: Zoom

Time: 4:00 - 5:00pm CDT

Event Description: SPONSORED BY CLASSIC EXHIBITS - Join us for a fun evening and test your trivia skills aiming to win a $50 Amazon gift card. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Registration link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89866997446?pwd=Vzk1M1l6N3BhT1BOVjZNS0ZlVFJFZz09        Meeting ID: 898 6699 7446/Passcode: 478062 

Free for all, email Noelle Webster at noelle.webster@willwork.com for additional information and a calendar invite

Lee Knight Exhibit Design Scholarship

The School of Technology, Art, and Design at Bemidji State University is thrilled to announce the establishment of the Lee Knight Exhibit Design Scholarship. Lee Knight is an exhibit, live event, and experience industry icon who has generously created this endowment for student scholarships with his wife, Sharon Van De North. 

Lee Knight, whose legendary career spans over four decades, is the founder and former CEO of EXHIBITOR Media Group. Widely recognized as the industry leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education, Knight has been instrumental in shaping the face of the trade show and event industry. His many accolades include the founding of EXHIBITOR Magazine, EXHIBITORFastTrak, CTSM Certification Program, EXHIBITORLIVE: The Conference for Tradeshow & Event Marketing, and the innovative Gravity Free Design Conference. Residing in Rochester, Minnesota, Knight and Van De North have shown unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting the next generation of design talent. 

Bemidji State University will award the Lee Knight Exhibit Design Scholarship to an exemplary student in the School of Technology, Art, and Design focusing on exhibit and experience design. Faculty will be looking for a "fearless designer" - an individual bold enough to take risks in design and achieve unparalleled success through those ventures. While excellence in exhibit and experience design is necessary, additional weight will go to students active in related activities and events. 

"The establishment of this scholarship not only reflects the importance of designers practicing creativity and innovation in the world but also Lee Knight and Sharon Van De North's dedication to fostering budding talent," commented Dr. Sachel Josefson, Professor in the School of Technology, Art, and Design. "We are immensely grateful for their generosity and are excited to see the positive impact this will have on our students' futures," added Dr. Bonnie Higgins. 

Star Exhibits & Environments Completes Acquisition of Neu Concepts

Cathy Hofknecht, president, Neu Concepts

Justin Dworak, president, Star Exhibits & Environments

Star Exhibits & Environments (www.engagestar.com), a leading full-service experiential marketing agency and producer of high-end custom exhibits, environments, and experiences, is excited to announce the acquisition of Neu Concepts LLC (neuconcepts.net), effective October 1, 2023. 

Neu Concepts, headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, specializes in exhibit design and fabrication, experiential marketing, branded interiors, and creative services. Cathy Hofknecht founded Neu Concepts in 2010 with a vision of collaborating with her clients to create thoughtful brand engagements that inspire, engage and delight with each and every interaction. 

"The company and employees at Neu Concepts take great pride in their workmanship and share similar values with STAR," said Justin Dworak, president at STAR. "Our teams are excited for the future and the power of joining forces and working together to best meet the needs of our clients."  

This strategic move will strengthen STAR's geographic presence while expanding service and growth opportunities. STAR's extensive experience in event innovation and design combined with Neu Concepts' established presence in the East Coast market will create a powerful synergy that drives growth and success. 

"This acquisition represents an incredible opportunity for our team and our clients," said Hofknecht, president, Neu Concepts. "STAR's reputation for excellence and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of the industry align perfectly with our values and vision." 

Neu Concepts and the entire team will continue to operate from its current facility in Durham, North Carolina. Neu Concepts will maintain its brand identity as it joins the Star Group family of companies, which includes recently acquired Featherlite Exhibits and Exhibitor Group. 

Looking ahead, STAR plans to continue to identify additional opportunities for value creation. "The importance of the trade show and events marketing industry remains strong, as we continue to drive innovation across every aspect of the value chain to help drive further growth and increase our production capacity," added Mark Johnson, founder and principal owner of Star Group. 

About Star Exhibits & Environments 

STAR has provided powerful brand integration for our clients since 1993. A leading global marketing solutions provider, STAR values a customer-intimate approach, lasting partnerships, powerful strategic direction, and consistent execution. STAR's comprehensive design, fabrication, installation, and property management services support trade show, retail, corporate interior, event and selling environment initiatives. To learn more, follow STAR on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/star and visit www.engagestar.com. 
 

About Neu Concepts 

We are a group of creative, original thinkers who love to collaborate with our clients to design and build thoughtful branded spaces that inspire, engage, and delight with each and every interaction. We bring both the creative and the craftsman to everything we do. We take humor seriously. And make hard work look easy. We hire artists and nerds, and thinkers and doers. We design with high-tech tools and build with our own two hands. And because we bring both sides of our brains to everything we do, we can tell your whole story in a whole new way. Learn more at neuconcepts.net. 

kubik Celebrates 40 Years of Crafting Unforgettable Brand Experiences

kubik, a global leader in experiential marketing, is proud to celebrate its 40th anniversary this year. From its inception in 1983 as Exhibits International to its current expansive global presence, kubik has consistently delivered innovative brand experiences for its clients. 

In 1983, the world witnessed significant milestones, including the dawn of the internet and the first mobile cellular telephone call. That same year, kubik was born in Sam Kohn’s kitchen. Today, the company boasts a team of 350 professionals spread across two continents and four countries. 

Over the decades, kubik has collaborated with industry giants like Disney, HP, and Nissan, executing groundbreaking campaigns and activations. The company's top projects over the years, including the Nike World Cup Parks and the iconic LEGO House in Denmark, further solidify its reputation as an industry leader. kubik provides a wide range of services, helping clients to tell their brand stories through experiential events and trade shows, corporate branded environments, retail solutions, museums and galleries, and digital experiences. 

“Our transformation from our humble beginnings in Toronto to a thriving global presence has been nothing short of remarkable. We take immense pride in the experiences we’ve meticulously crafted and the compelling stories we’ve empowered brands to share,” expressed Elliot Kohn, President of kubik. 

As kubik looks to the future, it remains committed to innovation, creativity, and delivering unparalleled experiences for its clients. 

For more details on kubik’s 40-year journey and its latest projects, visit thinkubik.com. 

About kubik: 

As one of the most diverse full-service experiential marketing firms in the world, kubik has been designing and building experiences for brands and cultural institutions for over 40 years. From experiential events and activations to corporate branded environments, retail solutions and interactive museums, kubik has a singular mission to foster positive human engagement across a variety of mediums. kubik has experienced significant growth over the years, establishing new facilities in Maryland and Las Vegas, with plans to further expand its reach in the coming decades. 

At kubik, we believe everyone has a great story, and our mission is to give them a place to tell it! 

Tradeshow Industry to Experience Transformation with Innovative Consulting Partnership

Pat Alacqua, the visionary founder of Nth Degree, and Jane Gentry, Principal of JaneGentry & Company, have joined forces to revolutionize the tradeshow industry. Leveraging their extensive expertise, with over two decades of consulting experience both within and outside the industry, they are set to empower tradeshow businesses to not only navigate the current challenges but also strategically position themselves for future success.

In the wake of unprecedented challenges such as the ongoing COVID pandemic, supply chain disruptions, a talent shortage, and economic uncertainties, owners and senior executives within the tradeshow sector have been compelled to prioritize short-term problem-solving over long-term value creation. This uncertainty is compounded by the fact that 87% of small businesses in this sector are owned by Gen X and Baby Boomers, who are grappling with questions about their long-term commitment.

Alacqua and Gentry bring a wealth of experience, introducing best practices to the tradeshow industry and a profound understanding of its intricacies. Their methodology is finely tuned to focus on the most critical aspects of value creation within a business. Pat Alacqua explains, "Every tradeshow business has its unique DNA. Our Blueprint customizes strategies to match each business's essence. The outcome? Substantial improvements in operational performance, ensuring readiness for success, be it for an imminent sale or future prospects."

Setting themselves apart from conventional consultancy models, Alacqua and Gentry adopt a hands-on, collaborative approach. This synergy combines their profound tradeshow knowledge with insights gleaned from diverse sectors, delivering unmatched perspectives and actionable strategies. Their mission is crystal clear - to enhance business appeal and intrinsic value. They don't just offer advice; they are strategic partners committed to maximizing your business's potential.

About Pat Alacqua & Jane Gentry

Pat Alacqua, a co-founder, and former owner of Nth Degree, played a pivotal role in shaping the tradeshow landscape during his tenure. His groundbreaking work in labor management earned him a place of honor in the Exhibitor Appointed Contractors Association Hall of Fame in 2006. Beyond the tradeshow arena, Pat's Entrepreneur to Enterprise Program and "3Cs Process to Faster Results" underscore his dedication to business growth and leadership mentoring.

Jane Gentry has had a distinguished career in Business Leadership, Consulting, Executive Coaching, and Keynote Speaking. Since 1999, she has either managed companies or provided consulting services to enhance growth, profitability, client retention, employee retention, and leadership capabilities. As a trusted CEO Advisor and Management Consultant, Jane assists entrepreneurs and senior leaders in identifying and addressing gaps in strategy, processes, culture, and personnel. The outcome is a more clearly defined value, better-delivered value, and a healthier bottom line for her clients.

September Newsletter 2023

2023 EDPA Foundation Scholarships Awarded

The EDPA Foundation has announced this year’s scholarship recipients. The 2023 scholarships were awarded to 12 students.  Rebecca Thompson, EDPA Foundation Board, and Scholarship Chair stated, “I’m excited to say that the Foundation Scholarship Program received 27 applications this year, the most in the history of our program.  Selecting twelve from such a group of amazing individuals was incredibly difficult and we hope those that didn’t make the list will apply again next year. To date, we have awarded over $ $400,000 to industry families.  This is made possible because of the many generous people and companies that support EDPA and the EDPA Foundation.  We remain eternally grateful and are committed to keeping the program alive and growing for years to come.” 

2023 EDPA Foundation Scholarship Winners 

Student	University
Charlotte Riches	Princeton University
Samuel Umholtz	University Neveda Reno
Hanah McNair	University of North Texas
Brett Imby	Saginaw Valley State University
Nora Hannigan	West Chester University
Osker Gamboa	Nevada State College
Cassandra Strenke	Grand Canyon University
Hayda Toro	Georgia State University
Akeylah Francis	Georgia Gwinnett College
Amber DeLap	Virginia Tech
Shannon Green	Villanova University
Alyssa Lego	Boston College

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Join Us for ACCESS 2023
Order Your Tickets Today

Our industry continues to recover rapidly, and the business environment is in a constant state of change.  As leaders, we must look at all facets of our business to ensure we are preparing for what’s coming next.  Join us at EDPA ACCESS 2023 to talk with your peers about innovative ways to Customize Your Enterprise.  We will focus this year’s conversations on the greatest challenges facing businesses today and creating solutions that align with your goals and objectives.   

How does the creative process drive innovation?  How is AI changing the realities of face-to-face marketing?  How should you lead your organization in a time of change?  How did the CIA master the art of disguise in the recent past?  These are just a few of the topics you’ll have the opportunity to explore when you join us at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point from November 28th to 30th. 

ACCESS 2023 Keynote Speaker Jonna Mendez, shares her experience as Chief of Disguise for the CIA and how her Book -"Moscow Rules" can be applied to business
Click here to see the full speaker line up.

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EDPA Awards Submissions Due October 2nd
– Submit Your Entries Today 

Nominate an outstanding individual or recognize your company. There are 10 award categories to choose from. Click here to submit your nomination today . The deadline is October 2nd.

Award categories include: 

• The Hazel Hays Award - recognizes an individual for outstanding contribution to the experiential/exhibit industry overall.  The award is the highest honor bestowed by EDPA. 

• The Ambassador Award - acknowledges an individual for outstanding service or contribution to EDPA and the industry. 

• Designer of the Year Award - acknowledges a designer who works to enhance the professional standards of experiential/exhibit designers.

• The Eddie Awards - recognizes outstanding creative achievements for self-promotion within the experiential/event industry across categories.

• International Collaboration Award - recognizes companies that have formed international partnerships to deliver outstanding work for their clients.

• Future Leaders Award - honoring the best and brightest young professionals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities.

• Chapter of the Year Awards - acknowledges outstanding chapters for their diligence and hard work in promoting EDPA and its innovative ways of forging ahead.

Enter now! The deadline for the awards is Monday, October 2, 2023.  

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Together, We Can Help the Exhibitor Succeed. 

By: Jessica Sibila, Executive Director, The Exhibitor Advocate 

In an industry that has so many moving parts, it's difficult to know which party to hold accountable when something goes wrong. How do you explain to your client that they’re holding the wrong party accountable? When your role is all about customer service and the client is looking at you expectantly for answers, credits, and refunds, how can you possibly deny them? You can’t tell them it’s not your fault and walk away. That’s how you lose a client. And you can’t tell them to go after the truly responsible party because the contract states that party is not responsible even if it’s their fault. You’re stuck. 

In our industry, no one is accountable for lost freight on the show floor. If there’s a new rule that wasn’t in the show kit, the responsibility still falls on the exhibitor to follow the rule… including whatever late charges come with it.  

Typically, exhibitors rely on their exhibit house partner to help them navigate the on-site experience. These exhibitors look to their exhibit house partner not only to build the booth, but to also manage the show services, address onsite issues, and sometimes even staff their booth for them.  

The challenge comes when there’s a major issue that pops up, or an expense that hits the invoice that wasn’t planned for. That’s when the client, who may have never been to a show and/or doesn’t understand how the industry works, looks at you to take financial responsibility for the surprise. 

This is why you should care about The Exhibitor Advocate. 

The Exhibitor Advocate, a newly formed, non-profit trade association is dedicated to exhibitors. We provide resources and tools to help exhibitors be more successful. We advocate on behalf of exhibitors for things like open communication, predictable pricing and simpler rules and regulations. We collaborate with all industry stakeholders to ensure exhibitions and events remain a valuable and irreplaceable marketing channel.  

And we need your help… 

As Exhibit Designers and Producers, you have direct access to the exhibitors that could benefit from membership with The Exhibitor Advocate. Membership is free because it’s critical we have as many exhibitor voices as possible. The larger our organization, the more power we have to advocate for change.   

Please share our organization with your clients and guide them on how to get involved. Show your support of The Exhibitor Advocate and become a donor or sponsor. We rely on the support of our donors and sponsors to continue building our organization and provide the valuable resources and tools that support and empower all exhibitors and ensure the sustainability of our industry for the future. 

Learn more at www.exhibitoradvocacy.com or connect with us directly at info@exhibitoradvocacy.com. 

Check out the EDPA SHOP

EDPA Las Vegas

Event Title: EDPA Oktoberfest Mixer 

Event Date: Tuesday, October 10 

Event Location:  Able Baker Brewing 

Time:  5:30 - 7:30pm PDT 

Event Description: Celebrate with industry peers at EDPA Las Vegas Oktoberfest mixer and craft beer tasting. Wine and appetizers will also be included. $20/person. Sponsorship opportunities available. 

Registration link:  https://www.edpalv.com/upcoming-events

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EDPA Northeast

Event Title:  NYC Happy Hour 

Date:  Thursday, September 28 

Location: Coming Soon - New York, NY 

Time: TBD 

Event Description:  Traveling to NYC for Toy Fair 2023? Come join the EDPA Northeast for our first NY Happy Hour! 

Registration link:  Coming soon!   

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EDPA Northwest

Event Title:  Creative Content Creation in The Land of AI 

Date:  Tuesday, September 26 

Location:  Online 

Time:  10:00am PST/1:00pm EDT start time 

Event Description:  Have you dabbled in AI and have questions on how to use it and use it well? Or want to level up your skills and try new practices? 

Join content coach Lisa Apolinski on how to use AI in your content creation strategy. In this interactive session, you will learn: 

1. The applications of AI in content creation 

1. Best practices on content generation techniques 

1. Hands on coaching and guidance to navigate the interface. 

All questions welcome! It's time to explore the land of AI and content creation. 

Registration link:  https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/37648557-1bb3-475f-bc12-8648a79dde54@a30b89a5-3a30-4b00-874b-e1b28898ff03 

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EDPA Southeast Chapter

Event Title: The Randy

Date:  Friday, October 6

Location:  Stone Mountain Golf Club at 1145 Stonewall Jackson Dr., Stone Mountain, GA   

Time:  8:00am EDT Check-In

Event Description:  Join us for the 29th Annual Randy Smith Memorial Golf Classic.  Golf is full at this time.  We do have available sponsorships and banquet tickets available.

Registration link:  www.rsmgc.org

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EDPA Great Lakes

Event Title:  EDPA Great Lakes Annual Golf Outing 

Date:  Monday, September 18 

Location:  Mystic Creek Golf Course in Milford, MI 

Time:  11:00am EDT Shot Gun Start 

Event Description:  Join the Greak Lakes Chapter for our annual golf outing. A light dinner will be served following golf.  

Registration link:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/edpa-great-lakes-annual-golf-outing-tickets-6880804962 

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EDPA Midwest

Event Title: Networking Social: Design Challenge Program Kick-Off 

Date: Monday, October 2 

Location: TBA – location will be walking distance of McCormick Place 

Time:  4:00-7:00pm CDT 

Event Description: The EDPA Midwest is excited to kick off our annual Design Challenge program. For the second year in a row, we are partnering with a class of Senior Graphic Design students from Carthage College. Industry members will guide the class through a tour of the WEFTEC show and then we will gather for a social happy-hour event after the tour. Enjoy the opportunity to meet the students in-person and network with industry friends from 4-7pm! 

Registration link: No registration needed. 

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EDPA Midwest

Event Title:  Strikes & Scares Bowling Event 

Date: Thursday, October 19 

Location: Bowlero - 558 E North Ave., Glendale Heights, IL 60139 

Time: 5:00 - 8:00pm CDT 

Event Description:  Join the EDPA Midwest for the 6th annual Strikes & Scares bowling event benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. Bowl for a good cause with us on Thursday, October 19th at Bowlero in Glendale Heights, IL. We’ll be networking from 5-6 pm and bowling from 6-8pm. Don’t miss out on scary good raffle and silent auction prizes! 

Registration link: Registration link to be released on EDPA Midwest social channels soon!