As the Trump Administration introduces new tariffs impacting a wide range of imported goods and raw materials, businesses across industries are feeling the pinch — and the trade show world is no exception. Increased costs for materials like aluminum, steel, and electronics are creating challenges for many industries, including those like us, who design and build custom exhibits for our clients.

We understand how important it is to maintain a strong presence on the trade show floor without breaking your marketing budget. That’s why we’re encouraging our clients to consider rental exhibits as a smart, flexible, and cost-effective solution during this period of economic uncertainty.

The new wave of tariffs affects many of the materials and components that go into custom-built trade show exhibits — from structural framing and lighting to digital displays and furnishings. This means:

Higher Production Costs

Longer Lead Times due to possible Supply chain disruptions

Unexpected budget overruns

The Case for Rental Exhibits

Rental exhibits offer a timely solution to the challenges created by rising material costs. Here’s how:

1. Immediate Cost Savings

Renting an exhibit can cost 30–50% less than building a custom one — even more when material prices are inflated by tariffs. With rentals, you pay for usage, not ownership. Rentals are mostly insulated from any potential changes in cost due to tariffs.

2. No Long-Term Storage or Maintenance Fees

Avoid the added expenses of storing and maintaining your exhibit between shows. Rental exhibits are turnkey — they arrive ready to go and are removed when the show ends. The assets used in your rental are then made available for the next project, with no client-associated storage costs.

3. Design Flexibility

Think rentals can’t look custom? Think again. Our modular rental inventory includes modern, customizable components that allow your brand to stand out — with high-end finishes, digital integrations, and tailored layouts.

4. Scalability for Multiple Events

Need different booth sizes or configurations for various shows? Rentals make it easy to scale your presence without re-investing in new hardware each time.

5. Faster Turnaround Times

With tariffs slowing down supply chains, rental options reduce risk and improve speed-to-show. Our ready-to-go inventory helps you meet deadlines — no matter how tight.

Cost Saving Tips (beyond rentals)

Reuse Graphics: Design modular graphic panels that work across multiple shows and booth sizes.

Bundle Services: Work with a single provider for design, logistics, and show services to consolidate costs.

Plan Ahead: Early planning can help you avoid rush fees and lock in favorable rates before tariff impacts escalate.

Let us help you stay ahead

Tariffs may be outside your control, but how you respond to them is not. Whether you’re looking to pivot to rentals, refresh your design, or strategize for your full event calendar, Apogee Exhibits is here to guide you.

Let’s talk about how to make your next event more cost-effective — without compromising on impact.

For more information on rentals see our recent blog post about them!

The post Navigating Tariffs: How to Manage Trade Show Costs appeared first on Apogee Exhibits.

Apogee completed it’s acquisition of FB Displays and Designs in Buffalo. The joining of these two long-standing organizations signifies an expanded local offering for businesses in the Buffalo region and beyond.

On January 10, 2024, Apogee completed its acquisition of FB Displays and Designs. We’re ecstatic to be joining forces with the wonderful team at FB Displays and Designs! For 30 years, Francine Brooks and her team at FB have been providing display solutions to their customers in the Buffalo/Niagara region and beyond.

Quote from Francine Brooks:

“ I am delighted about the sale of my business to a fantastic buyer who brings exciting possibilities for my team and my clients. I am grateful for the memories, the growth and for all my staff members through the years who made it all possible. I wish Mark and the Apogee team continued success.”

Expanded service offerings available to FB clients:

• Expanded design and execution for larger footprint Custom Modular or Hybrid Exhibits

• Rental Exhibits

• Branded Corporate Environments and Interiors

• International Event support

• Custom Fabrication

Quote from Mark Taylor, President of Apogee:

“We are excited to have the team from FBD2 join the Apogee family. While Francine will stay on to help with our transition, we want to thank her for entrusting her company to Apogee. Francine has done a wonderful job developing and growing her business and her team over the years. We congratulate her and wish her well as she gradually moves on to the next chapter of her life. We have gained some exceptional people who work hard to service their clients’ needs in the Buffalo region. They have gained an expanded offering of services and capabilities for their clients to allow them to best serve their event marketing, and Branded Environments needs. We’re thankful to have them join our organization and are excited for the future.”

To learn more about FBD2 and the team visit their website here.

To learn more feel free to contact us here:

The post Apogee comes to Buffalo! appeared first on Apogee Exhibits.