Tradeshow Furniture in Europe.

In my daily practice, supplying European Exhibitors in US-shows with rental- and custom -services and –supplies, I am often challenged in finding the right furniture for their exhibit. Why is it that a “supplement” like a chair, a love-seat or even a simple cocktail-table requires so much attention?

I have pointed out in previous articles, how in Europe, corporate image and –design, play an important role in the overall exhibit-concept.

Maybe it is, because of transportation- and drayage charges, that in US-shows, rental furniture that often shows signs of over-extended use, lack of maintenance, or is outdated in design, is still on the fore-front of what you see in exhibitors spaces. I never really figured this out. European exhibitors, and obviously European visitors do have a different quality-approach. Some of our nationwide furniture-rental-suppliers do go the extra mile and offer some very unique designs. Some US-exhibit-houses offer Ikea-furniture (a Scandinavian Furniture-House) to their clients from abroad. But make no mistake, although those Ikea stocks look really stylish and European, they do have a rather cheap image amongst exhibitors and visitors in Europe. What we are talking about is, designer-ware, with recognized names from Italy and Germany.

It is common to have specialized trades (architect, interior designer) suggest the right collection of furniture for an upgraded booth-design. Where conference- and lounge-furniture are corresponding in name-brand, design and color, and matching with other decorations like pictures, flowers/plants, and even sculptures. The right furniture accomplishes more, than a practical purpose. It adds to the overall experience of an environment, often created by recognized designers, to set the tone for a very special event.

Of course, it always depends on the available budget, how far you can go with creating your absolute perfect show-environment. If results are more important than expenses, you might want to purchase original designer-pieces. If you are on a more moderate budget, you don’t have to miss out on this rather important aspect of your overall appearance. There are rental-houses in Europe, that have extensive choices available. And those are not really expensive. Because they all have high rental-volumes and relatively short distances to ship, even very exclusive pieces are still affordable.

Anyway, when you rent your exhibit from a European Exhibit-builder, you can expect him to have a variety of outstanding furniture available for you. If you plan to ship your exhibit from the United States, please remember, canvas like folding chairs, to save on shipping, DO NOT WORK. It pays to rent locally!

As always, do not hesitate to contact me for referrals.

I hope you've found this article interesting and useful for planning your next exhibition. If you have any questions about this or other related topics, please don't hesitate to contact me by phone at

Copyright Horst Tondasch, 2007 - 2010