ISA International Sign Expo 2023 closed in Las Vegas with attendance exceeding expectations and surpassing 17,600. This was about 87 percent of 2019’s totals, which was billed as a record year.
In addition to the attendance, exhibitors reported strong sales with many expressing that the quality of the attendees on the show floor was exceptional.
At the event, manufacturers who had not exhibited in 2023 were asking about securing booths for 2024. That continued into the post-show week as well with many new exhibitors asking about floor space for 2024, which is already approaching 75 percent sold out. The enthusiasm was high as well, with a number of special events sold out well before the event occurred, including ISA Rocks: The Industry Party sponsored by Roland DGA, education sessions and bootcamps, and Sign Research Foundation’s experiential tours.
Attendees were able to experience the gamut of the sign, graphics and visual communications industry, including a first look at the revolutionary direct-to-film printers, the latest in LED technology, vehicle wraps, workflow automation and architectural sign components. Exhibitor-led education sessions on the trade show floor—in the Learning Lounge—were popular, with many standing-room only.
“We could feel the energy building as we headed into Las Vegas,” said Lori Anderson, ISA president and CEO. “As the doors opened to the trade show floor, crowds of attendees were lined up at both entrances, ready to get a look at the latest products and innovations that would transform their businesses.”
Based on exhibitor feedback, it’s clear that attendees were in a mood to explore—and buy. Some exhibitors said:
- Our first time exhibiting (and to the USA!) – we wish we had brought more people to handle the crowd!
- We sold literally everything in our booth!
- The sales records we set in Atlanta last year will be surpassed by at least 50%.
- The show was great, lots of foot traffic and, in my opinion, better than competitor shows.
- The floor stayed consistently busy – right through the end of the last day!
In addition to the education and trade show, the event featured several special experiences. The Fabrication Zone™ and The Wrap Experience™ with The Wrap Institute paid homage to the craftsmanship in the industry. The Link: Install, sponsored by Elliott Equipment, Signum and Daktronics, paired local installers with national sign companies in a sold-out two-day event. Women Leading the Industry, sponsored by Pattison Sign Group, brought hundreds of women and allies together to learn and network.
“ISA International Sign Expo is about so much more than the trade show floor,” Anderson said. “It’s about making that right connection or hearing that great piece of information. And yes, it’s about having a little fun, connecting with coworkers and competitors alike.”
ISA International Sign Expo 2024 is set for April in Orlando, Florida. Registration opens in the fall, join the mailing list today for the latest news and updates on the show at www.signexpo.org.
