Rules for the SEMA Trade Show
The SEMA Trade Show, hosted in the Las Vegas Convention Center by the Specialty Equipment Market Association, brings in over 2000 exhibitors to a show floor of a staggering 2 million square feet. And with over 60,000 domestic and international buyers in attendance, the stakes for exhibitors are high.
This is why having the right trade show display matters, one that helps you stand out and make a solid impression. Unfortunately, regional regulations and show requirements place strict boundaries on the creativity of any particular exhibitor.
Several of the most important rules to keep in mind include:
Exhibit Space Selection Order: Spaces on the exhibit floor are parceled out in waves based on 1) SEMA membership status (members pick first) and 2) show seniority (the longest repeat exhibitors have earlier pick). Once it is a particular exhibitor’s turn to pick their location they will receive a telephone call and then will need to navigate to a certain website address to choose their location on the main floorplan.
Booth Noise: There are two limits to the noise or music an exhibitor may project inside their booth. First, music (or any other sound) emitting from an exhibit space shall not exceed 85 decibels, and second, all music and entertainment must be in good taste and not include any lyrics that are “inflammatory, sexually explicit, sexist, gang-related or violent or that promote activities of any type that defame or denigrate women, law enforcement or other established authorities.” Violators may receive warnings but are subject to immediate closure of their exhibit.
Lotteries and Contests: Drawings and raffles may be classic booth strategies, but anything that might be considered gambling is not permitted. At SEMA the operation of games of chance, lottery devices, or certain other competitions are prohibited unless approved in writing beforehand by show management.
Booth Design: Among many other restrictions, any booth construction needs to follow OSHA regulations and union rules. For multilevel or covered booths, plans have to be submitted before the event starts and must also have an engineering stamp. Other rules include fire escape routes for the upper level, height restrictions, coverage restrictions, fire alarms for larger exhibits, and more.
Fortunately, when you work with ELDS, Inc. you don’t have to worry about booth compliance. We’ll make sure that all SEMA trade show displays are fully compliant, installed on time, and taken down without trouble. All you have to worry about is presenting at the show itself!
For more info or to design your own display, contact us at (626) 969-3399 today!
