Emerging Trends in Trade Show Exhibit Design for 2025

As we approach the end of 2024 and look ahead to 2025, trade show exhibit design is undergoing rapid transformation, influenced by technological advancements and evolving attendee expectations. From the impact of Las Vegas’ Sphere to the growing use of AI-powered interactions, trade show floors this year are offering a mix of immersive experiences, innovative technology applications, and sustainable practices, all of which are reshaping brand storytelling and setting new benchmarks for exhibit design. Here’s what has caught our attention:

The Sphere Phenomenon

Since its grand opening in Las Vegas less than a year ago, Sphere has raised the bar for immersive experiences. After hosting its first corporate keynote, we are eager to see how brands will harness this enormous platform to enhance their messaging. On trade show floors, the Sphere Effect is already being seen in full-display video walls, curved high-resolution backdrops for live performances (such as those by Epson), and even 4D experiences with mixed-reality seating (like Walmart’s exhibit at CES).

AI-Powered Engagements

Artificial Intelligence continues to integrate into our lives—and into exhibit design. AI-driven activations are also gaining momentum. At CES 2025, Hisense attracted crowds with AI-enhanced photo activations, while Google offered attendees the chance to try out its “Magic Compose” feature in Google Messages, allowing them to print suggested responses as postcards. Intel’s exhibit combined music and AI-generated animations, where the company’s five-note logo was brought to life through a violin performance by Rahmaan Phillip, paired with AI-created visuals for an engaging and unexpected experience.

Interactive and Tactile Displays

In a world filled with digital interfaces, physical interaction remains irresistible to attendees. Exhibits featuring tactile experiences with various textures continue to draw attention. At Sherwin-Williams’ expansive display at Construction Week, visitors flocked to flat-lay boards with design elements to inspire their creativity. The Breeze Creative exhibit at the Licensing Expo featured an animated sandbox where attendees enjoyed hands-on play with shovels, highlighting the appeal of physical interaction.

Engaging Science Experiments

Science-inspired exhibits are making waves this year. Herb Pharm’s Mushroom Wellness display at Natural Products Expo West invited attendees to explore the fascinating mycelium network and observe different mushroom types under a microscope. Lundberg Family Farms’ exhibit also focused on the science behind rice cultivation, featuring actual plants and creating an immersive experience with a bird soundscape.

Sustainability at the Forefront

With sustainability goals set for 2050, incorporating eco-friendly elements into trade show exhibits is becoming more common. At CES, Panasonic Group made strides in sustainability by replacing traditional walls with translucent fabric and eliminating carpet. The company also introduced its sustainable resin, kinari, made from plant-based cellulose fibers, and used it in the exhibit’s joint system in place of plastic parts. Sony also embraced sustainability by constructing its booth’s informational panels from “Original Blended Material,” a proprietary mix of bamboo, sugar cane, and recycled post-consumer paper.

High-Tech Coffee Bars

Brands are innovating the coffee experience with unique offerings of high-energy beverages like custom lattes and cold brews. Lenovo’s “Coffee-as-a-Service” bar at NFR, a playful twist on “software as a service,” kept cappuccinos flowing, while at Café Cisco during HIMSS, attendees could scan a QR code to start a conversation with Webex and receive a hot oat milk vanilla latte with a frothy Cisco logo.

Inclusive Recharging Zones

Trade show floors can be overwhelming, so offering a welcoming space to recharge is gaining traction. At the New York International Auto Show, Genesis provided a lounge with complimentary drinks, charging stations, and a sweepstakes for all attendees. Architectural elements such as floor-to-ceiling blinds and faux trees created a peaceful retreat, offering attendees a chance to relax and enjoy the brand’s thoughtful approach.

Looking Ahead: Elevate Your Exhibit Design with Print Popup Stands

As we look toward the exciting trends in trade show exhibit design for 2025, one thing is clear: innovation is key to standing out on the show floor. Whether it’s through immersive experiences, AI-powered engagement, or sustainable practices, the future of trade show exhibits is all about captivating your audience in new and creative ways.

At Print Popup Stands, we understand how important it is to make your brand shine at any event. We specialize in Custom Pop Up Banners across all states in the USA, helping you create impactful, eye-catching displays that grab attention and leave a lasting impression. Ready to take your trade show booth to the next level? Contact us today to get started and bring your brand’s vision to life!