small talk is a big hit
Deckel & Moneypenny’s exhibit was named Overall Best In Show out of 150 exhibitors at the annual TS2 (Total Solutions Marketing for the Exhibit and Event Professional) Expo held July 20-23 at McCormick Place in Chicago. The award was determined by a panel of industry judges based on exhibit environment, design, presentation, exhibit personnel effectiveness, company identity and overall “wow” factor.
Created around the theme “Smaller can be better,” the D&M exhibit was lauded for addressing marketers’ concerns for the current economic situation in a positive, creative, and comprehensive manner. “Utilizing the smallest space available at the show, the D&M team created a unique environment that was geared to connect to all five senses,” said Steve Deckel, design director at Deckel & Moneypenny Exhibits.
“In the past year most shows have documented that, while attendance is down, those who choose to attend are generally better qualified and a more engaged audience. We think this trend will continue, and that can be a good thing,” Deckel continued.
“We wanted to demonstrate that. even with smaller budgets and smaller exhibits, companies can still be creative and get their message out. Our exhibit was a simple, clean, black and white presentation with a singular focus: Smaller can be better, in harsh contrast to most competitors.” To illustrate the point, D&M engaged the TS2 attendees by having them write a hypothetical show budget or draw an exhibit floor plan on a piece of plastic film called Shrinky Dink®. It was then quickly heated causing it to shrink to about a quarter of its original size then attached to a key chain as a show momento.
Building on the “Smaller can be better” idea D&M noted Louisville’s central location can mean big savings when shipping to shows all over the country.
The synergy of the exhibit design, timely message, knowledgeable presentation, and engaging and relevant activity impressed the TS2 judges and positioned Deckel & Moneypenny as an exhibit house that understands the needs of exhibitors and how to turn their challenges into opportunities.