Today
we heard from Greg Ward of Downing Displays which was founded in 1962
and was the first manufacturer in the United States of portable
exhibits. They are headquartered in Greater Cincinnati which gives them a
huge advantage in terms of shipping to most major trade show cities.
Their
website states, “For 50 years Downing Displays has been building
brand experiences for event marketers. We pioneered the portable
display industry by creating displays that could be set-up by one
person and transported in a car. This concept of lightweight, simple
and durable building techniques has guided us as we moved to modular
aluminum and wood built structures. Today we are a full service event
marketing company providing solutions for trade shows and events
around the world.”
When their business began, it was very face-to-face and their
customers were interested in how their displays were constructed.
Today's generation of business professionals are far less engaged in face to
face communication and more interested in the message that goes on
the display. In both generations, trade shows are still an important
part of business even with all of the technologies available today.
One change is that people are more interested in using the internet
than checking out a showroom and consequently, Downing only needs one
show room today. Display companies not only must design, build, and
store displays for companies but businesses are demanding they bring
ideas to the table on how to make their displays more effective. Video monitors are also in high demand for display purposes.
Next
week we will hear from Kim Hamel, Eastgate Mall Manager and Regional
manager for several CBL Shopping malls across the Midwest. Retail
analysis of Clermont.
