Top Exhibit Design Trends to Watch in 2025/2026
Exhibit design is advancing to keep up with the rapidly changing trade show scene as companies look to differentiate themselves. Booths need to be inclusive, sustainable, digitally immersive, and flexible by 2025 and beyond. Today, we merge the tried-and-true, useful technique of Acer Exhibits with insightful information from Exhibitor Online to describe the trends that are revolutionizing exhibit design and explain how to use them to create enduring impacts.
Modular, Reconfigurable & Sustainable Booths
Sustainability is a design necessity, not just a trendy term. Modular booth systems made of reusable materials like wood and aluminum are becoming popular among current exhibitors. These structures effortlessly adjust to various floor plans and events, saving money and minimizing setup time and material waste. These designs enable faster turnover and offer a concrete means of advancing your company’s ESG objectives. You can build a flexible environment that changes to meet the needs of your brand by investing in modular, rental-ready equipment.
Immersive & Transparent Displays
Transparent display technology is becoming a feature of eye-catching booth elements. Businesses are incorporating OLED/LCD screens that combine digital images on tangible goods, which essentially makes your display come to life. According to Dana Drissel of Kaon Interactive, “Transparent displays are providing companies with a way to further blur the lines between digital and physical at shows by overlaying digital product images onto real ones.” This technology encourages engagement and discussion in addition to improving product presentation. It’s an effective method of merging tactile experience with digital innovation- something increasingly highlighted by Exhibitor Online’s technology coverage.
Geofencing & Projection Mapping for Real-Time Engagement
Interactivity is reaching new heights with geofencing and projection mapping. Indoor location services now empower exhibitors to trigger tailored messages or media cues as visitors approach their booths. For example, imagine a visitor triggering an immersive projection or augmented reality overlay simply by stepping into a designated zone:
“Within three years, we expect to see indoor location services available at all major trade shows and exhibitions…” (Event Marketer)
These technologies help create personalized visitor journeys, making every interaction unique and memorable.
Thematic, Emotional & Sensory Storytelling
Exhibit design is rapidly moving beyond simple aesthetics. Today’s booths are immersive environments where color, lighting, texture, and sound are leveraged to evoke emotion and narrate your brand’s story. The goal is to create an experiential journey that resonates on multiple sensory levels. Whether it’s the bold energy of an accent hue or the warmth of strategically placed lighting, these elements turn an exhibit into an experience. Emotionally charged, sensory-rich spaces are a surefire way to increase dwell time and deepen visitor engagement.
Accessibility, Ergonomics & Inclusive Layouts
In a diverse world, inclusivity is non-negotiable. Modern booth design now incorporates universally accessible features—from tactile signage and lowered counters to broad aisles and adjustable lighting. Such design considerations not only enhance comfort for all visitors but also portray a brand’s commitment to inclusion and empathy. Inclusive layouts broaden your audience and reinforce a positive brand image—vital for building lasting relationships.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
As we look ahead to 2025/2026, incorporating these trends isn’t optional, it’s essential. Ask yourself:
• Is your booth designed for rapid reconfiguration and sustainability?
• Are you using transparent technology to merge digital innovation with physical presence?
• Have you integrated geofencing and projection mapping to create personalized interactions?
• Does your booth tell a story through immersive sensory elements?
• Is it built with accessibility and inclusivity at its core?
If you’re ready to develop a new era in exhibit design, let us help you craft an experience that’s as lively, sustainable, and engaging as your brand. Contact our team to explore solutions that bring these forward-thinking trends to life on your next show floor. Embrace these trends to set your exhibit apart—and join us as we shape the future of trade show excellence.
Posted by Margaux McNulty, Acer Exhibits & Events