The overwhelming trend that developed from the economic challenge of 2009 was the use of large rental exhibits at national events. 

Rental allows you to expense all the related items to that event to provide a more realistic ROI analysis.  Think about it - being able to theme or focus branding and awareness efforts on the specific attendee instead of planning for the same message that may not carry the same impact at all the years's events.  Generic is great when it's a rippled potato chip, not when its your marketing message.  Wow, I miss generic chips.

Anyway, the other trend we're seeing in smaller, lighter, cost-effective portable and modular structures for regional events to suppliment that national rental.  Maybe with a  similar feel and some interchangable printed tension fabrics, or a cool element that will allow you to stand out without standing out to the accountants reviewing your budget.

What else is happening?  Seems more clients are pushing for a little GREEN without forcing it into a budget.  Our aluminum structures, beside being totally recyclable, come from up to 80% recycled aluminum themselves.  With dye sublimated and tension fabrics now available that are made from 60-100% recycled plastic bottles with little difference in imaging quality, its easy to make an impact with your message and on the environment - both in a positive way.

Check out some real world solutions and examples, with a quick search interface at http://designsearch.xhibitsolutions.com/ and search our large rentals for your big show or our regional problem solvers by size or budget - or both!

I guess after being in exhibits for over 20 years, I can honestly say, ask me and I might have some answers.  and if I don't I'll get some for you quickly.

Now go do what you do! It's 2010 already!