It’s hard to believe another year has passed and exhibitors are already knee-deep in planning for 2023 events and activations. Today we’ll cover everything you need to know to prepare for a successful 2023 show year. We will cover the top trends, what to expect on the show floor, how you can navigate a world of increased costs, and we’ll also include some helpful planning guides to get you started on the path to a year full of successful shows, increased ROI, and a restored faith in the unmatched benefits of face-to-face marketing.
CEIR Index on 2023 trends
The Center for Exhibition Industry Research, in their recent publication, OmniChannel Marketing Insights, have shared several promising insight with regard to exhibit/event industry participation and attendance. One notable statistic is that over 80% of exhibitors plan to maintain or increase their participation in events in 2022 and beyond. 75% of event professionals rated their optimism levels at 8 or higher on a scale of 1 to 10, which is an increase from last year (59%). It’s reassuring to see we’re heading in the right direction following a tough few years. (source: https://www.amexglobalbusinesstravel.com/meetings-events/meetings-forecast/).
What to expect in 2023
Several things are certain for 2023. The event landscape has changed, in some ways, for the better since the onset of the Pandemic. Now that travel restrictions have been loosened and initial fears of the pandemic seem to be waning, many exhibitors and attendees are still eager to get face time with each other. 2023 will present some new considerations:
- Event Technology will grow and evolve rapidly. VR/AR industry growth is predicted to exceed 20% (https://marketinginsidergroup.com/event-marketing/biggest-event-trends/)
- Hybrid Events are here to stay. While many platforms were rushed to the scene to try and fill the live event gap, some have stuck and we’re seeing continued use of hybrid events to reach a larger audience.
Tighter budgets may force exhibitors to be more strategic in their approach to events.
- We’re already working with clients to help them make events more cost-effective. We’re suggesting a few subtle changes to clients’ programs to help stave off increased costs.
- Minimize shipping and Material Handling costs by reducing weight
- Not shipping collateral (studies still show that 80% of it never leaves the show city, yet companies still spend thousands on printing and shipping costs)
- Sourcing exhibit rentals regionally. We have strategically located inventories in many show venue cites (such as Orlando and Las Vegas) to help reduce excessive transportation costs. Read further here on whether rentals make sense for you.
Check out our planning e-book
Our 2023 Trade Show planning Guide will help you plan and execute a successful event schedule in 2023 and beyond. Get it here.
