Every year, IMEX gathers exhibitors, planners, and other event industry professionals for face-to-face connections, learning, and inspiration. So it’s no wonder the show floor is known for delivering head-turning design and show-stopping experiences.
With so many exhibitors vying for attention, we wondered what trends and activations created the most meaningful moments for attendees. Here are five takeaways to consider when designing and planning your next exhibit or event.
1. Purposeful design matters most
Size didn’t actually matter. It was creative design, AV, and booth layout that made the most impact.
Visit Fort Worth: Featured design so efficient, it supported hospitality with food and beverage, meeting space, video screens, and even a hat wall for Insta-moments.
Visit Nashville: Resembled a music stage and stood out thanks to design features such as:
- Exaggerated height compared to nearby booths
- Solid, glossy black coloring that was different than any other exhibit
- Oversized records that featured Nashville attractions on the label.
2. The right AV makes brands shine
To get noticed, what mattered most was the content shown on screen.
Freeman: Showcased an oversized LED screen with a curve, creating a 3-D effect while highlighting high-energy event content. Adding to the experience, the booth lit up in various colors prompted by topics visitors selected on interactive screens.
Fontainebleau: Replicated the feel of its hotel lobbies with special lighting to immerse visitors in a luxury brand experience.
3. Hospitality keeps attendees close
Snacks, coffee, and other beverages kept attendees engaged on the show floor — rather than leaving the exhibit hall or having to wait in line during peak times.
Visit Fort Worth: Treated attendees to a meat, cheese, and fruit tray that helped make scheduled meetings feel more like catching up over lunch.
4. Connection spaces make a difference
Each booth incorporated meeting space, which isn’t a surprise since more than 60% of attendees are part of a hosted-buyer program. But including intentional areas that encourage connection allow for serendipitous moments, too. More connection opportunities (and spaces) also expanded beyond the show floor.
Hard Rock: Designed meeting vignettes to represent 13 Hard Rock locations with crisp, spacious, and inviting elements.
Freeman: Held a special event professionals’ reception, giving event industry newbies a chance to connect over a Matcha tasting.
5. Immersive experiences create memorable moments
Experiential activations and immersive design transported booth visitors to exciting destinations.
Visit Los Angeles: Went true Hollywood with its iconic sign, a mini theater with popcorn, plus additional meeting space.
Get noticed (and be remembered)
Brands that captured attention at IMEX 2025 understood that long-lasting connections and impressions were made from creating meaningful moments. From peaceful planning and purposeful booth design to immersive activations, the takeaway was clear: Invest in the experience, and attendees will see your brand and remember it.
Want more insights and trends? Check out our latest research.
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