Upon her appointment, Mary Ellen outlined a clear vision for RES Exhibit Services; Emphasizing the need to adapt to the ever-evolving events industry while fostering a culture of openness and collaboration that encourages innovation and team contribution.

The new generation of attendees seeks immediate gratification and information on demand. Static displays and long product demonstrations no longer meet these expectations.

Much like the online dating scene in 2026, the RFP process involves putting yourself out there by creating a profile (or RFP) that outlines your needs, while potential partners respond with their pitches. This experience can be a blend of excitement, confusion, and awkward moments as you seek the perfect match

We’ve noticed a recurring pattern: many brands spend six figures on stunning visuals, a booth that looks incredible from 30 feet away, only to realize it has zero impact.

Why the Next Era of Exhibits Must Prove ROI The experiential industry is growing, and so is the pressure on brands to justify every dollar spent on live events. Trade shows aren’t getting cheaper. They aren’t getting simpler. Most importantly, leadership teams are no longer satisfied with vague outcomes like brand impressions or “it felt busy.” The next era of exhibits will be defined by two things: Engineered Wonder and Measured Impact The Gap Between "Looking Good" and "Per