Silicone edge graphics, more commonly referred to as SEGs, are so commonly used in trade shows that the name has become somewhat synonymous with “step and repeat”.
It’s easy to understand why. The printed fabric displays are high-resolution, work with modular framing systems, and easily fit into aluminum frames, leading to a seamless, smooth, crisp look full of bright colors and sharp graphics. And while they may not be the only fabric used in step and repeats, let’s be real – SEGs are dominating the step and repeat world.
Of course, just because SEGs look nice and are relatively inexpensive to deploy, doesn’t mean they’re the only or the best option for your trade show booth, especially if you’re looking to uplevel your booth and attract more attendee traffic.
Keep reading to learn more about what SEGs are and what alternatives will take your trade show booth to the next level.
Why Are SEGs So Popular?
A non-comprehensive list of why SEGs dominate the trade show display space:
- Lightweight
- Easy to install (the silicone edge sewn along the edge fits into a frame’s channel)
- Foldable for easy storage (meaning they can be used for several events)
- Wrinkle resistant (see above point above using it for several events)
- Easy to ship
- Easy to maintain
- Relatively inexpensive to make
- Can display high-resolution, vibrant graphics
Being able to create a visual display that looks great, can be deployed easily, and can be saved without damage for future use is a no-brainer for many organizations. It saves them money, time, and stress while still providing high-quality graphics.
So, What Are the Downsides?
Just because SEGs can be a great solution doesn’t mean they are the only solution, and if there weren’t some drawbacks, you wouldn’t be reading this right now!
While SEGs are easy to install, the silicone edge means there is very little wiggle room for an accurate fit. If the frame isn’t the right size or the print stretches over time, the system really won’t work at all.
While they are an inexpensive solution, traditional banner stands or tension fabric displays are an even more budget friendly option, albeit, with less features.
However, the largest downside of using SEGs is that they are, by far, the most commonly used trade show display. They’re expected, predictable, and in a sea full of SEGs, yours won’t help your booth stand out, no matter how vibrant the colors are or how nice it looks. The ultimate goal of your trade show booth is to attract as many eyes as possible to drive as much engagement as possible, and an SEG may not be the most effective way to do that.
Going Beyond SEGs to Create an Attention Grabbing Booth
If SEGs aren’t the way to drive traffic to your booth, you’re probably wondering what is. Here are two alternative materials that will make your trade show booth stand out in the exhibit hall.
LED Displays
We’re ready to make a bold claim: LED displays are the best choice for trade shows. We’re also ready to back that claim up.
LED is highly customizable in both shape and size. They can be ground supported to share visuals with people already in your booth or flown to create an aerial display that draws attendees to your booth. LED panels can also be used to create functional structures, like the walls of your booth, desks, ceilings, standing structures, and more, giving you the ability to make the entire booth into a display.
Not to mention, it’s a display that can update or rotate through a carousel of visuals at a fixed interval, allowing you to share more messaging and keep the visuals exciting and fresh. Some LED displays even allow for interactivity with attendees!
While SEGs can only form rectangular or circular shapes and only display one message for the entirety of the trade show, LED is more flexible in every way.
In short, it looks great, provides more flexibility, gives you the ability to share more visuals and messaging, and will put more eyes on, and draw more people to, your booth.
Modular Hard Wall Displays.
Modular hard wall displays utilize ridge panels made of acrylic, wood, or other composites that are durable and hard. The panels interlock to create displays, walls, and other structures that make up your trade show booth. Based on the needs of your booth, built in shelving can be utilized and heavy monitors can be supported, creating a fully integrated space.
The result is a luxury look that makes your booth feel more like a physical store front or permanent show room than a temporary booth. Like with LED, this accomplishes a big goal: your booth stands out.
It can also feel incredibly customized. From etched or chiseled messaging in wood builds to carefully painted acrylic that matches your brand, customized touches add to the high-end look of modular hard wall displays.
Of course, a premium look typically comes with a matching price tag and a longer planning period. While SEGs and LED structures can be designed, created, and deployed quickly, customized hard wall displays typically take more time, and unless you have somewhere you store large, custom pieces (as well as a way to transport them) you won’t get to use it more than once.
You also don’t get the benefit of rotating between messages or visuals that you do with LED displays.
SEGs are popular for a reason and for many trade show booths, they’re the perfect choice. However, there are several ways to uplevel your displays and make sure you stand out in the crowd.
To learn more about what type of displays (or combination of displays!) is right for your next trade show, contact One Way Event Productions!