Age

Jessica Turnbull Interview

Show-Up & Stand Out: Australian Trade Show Strategist, Jessica Turnbull (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Australia, Best Practices, Branding, Branding, Culture, Design, Dusseldorf, Europe, Gender, Germany, Language, Leadership, Loose Time, Marketing, New Zealand, North America, Perth, Podcast, Relationships, Storytelling, Strategy, Sydney, Time, United States

Down Under Dynamics: Trade Show Strategies with Jess Turnbull (Part 2)

In Part 2 of this two-part interview, host Jeff Hannah talks with trade show strategist Jessica Turnbull of The Exhibit Company in Australia, during EXHIBITORLIVE 2024.

Continuing our enlightening conversation with Jess Turnbull, we delve deeper into the world of exhibitions and client engagement. With a relaxed demeanor characteristic of Australians, Jess brings a wealth of insights garnered from advising and training clients on engagements, ROI, and related topics. Emphasizing the importance of booth staff training and clarity of focus, Jess guides exhibitors on how to maximize their opportunities on the show floor. Drawing on her experiences, she contrasts the hospitality-driven approach seen in European exhibits with the more selective approach prevalent in Australia.

As we explore the concept of being “on” during shows, Jess underscores the importance of presenting one’s brand in the best possible light. From discussing the underlying reasons for exhibiting to the strategic placement of coffee on Australian stands, Jess shares invaluable perspectives that resonate with exhibitors worldwide.

In this insightful continuation, Jess Turnbull provides a nuanced exploration of the art of exhibiting and the intricacies of client engagement. Join us as we uncover the strategies and tactics that define successful exhibition experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of trade shows in Australia.

The Exhibit Company is an international custom exhibit agency, headquartered in New South Wales, Australia. They are uniquely positioned to work with brands for shows all across Australia. Their unique approach is based on strategy, creative design solutions, and solid project management. The Exhibit Company is not simply focused on providing an exhibit. Their holistic approach encompasses pre-show promotional activities, determining and tracking ROI, lead tracking & management, and booth staff training, among many other services.

Part 1 of my interview with Jess.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee with host Jeff Hannah.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-turnbull-32556950/

Website: www.theexhibitcompany.com.au

Jeff Hannah & Francisco Collazo

Three Generations in Mexico with Francisco Collazo (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Design, Dusseldorf, Ecuador, Europe, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Loose Time, Mexico, North America, Podcast, Puerto Rico, Relationships, Time, United States

A Look into the Life of Industrial Designer Francisco Collazo

This is Part 2 of a two-part interview with international industry leader and designer Francisco Collazo, Partner and CEO of SISTEXPO (Sistemas de Exposición) in Mexico City, Mexico.

In this fascinating conversation, Francisco Collazo shares his extensive journey into the exhibition industry, tracing the evolution of his career from its inception as a young boy working with his father. More than 40 years later, Francisco’s company is now well into its third family generation and has established an outstanding reputation for themselves globally in the industry.

Host Jeff Hannah asks Francisco to share the transformative shifts he has witnessed in the Mexican exhibition landscape over the years, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the industry in Mexico. Nowadays, most of the exhibits are custom-built, wooden exhibits versus system exhibits; many are still build and burn (one time use).

Francisco highlighted his knowledge of system exhibits, shedding light on the diverse range, some of the history, and how he became an expert in this area. He mentions his past interactions with historical system influencers, such as Hans Bruder (global leader of OCTANORM for over 50 years). Some of the systems they discussed are beMatrix, Aluvision, Agam, OCTANORM, SYMA, and meroform,

They discuss the primary exhibition venues in Mexico, and how those have evolved over the years in their respective areas:

Palacio de los Deportes

World Trade Center Mexico City

Centro Citibanamex

Expo Guadalajara

Jeff and Francisco share their common bond of their pathways to becoming an industrial designer. Francisco shares how he is particularly passionate about giving back to future generations of designers and design programs at various universities. Francisco’s heavy involvement in international and local industry associations underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing with others across the industry.

Francisco’s international work experience is a key focal point, illustrating the intricacies and nuances of navigating business across borders – particularly in Latin America.

Francisco opens-up about the unique experience of collaborating with family members in the industry, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of working alongside loved ones. He shares his outlook on navigating some of those challenges – and well as the reward of working with his family in the formation of this third-generation business. They specifically mention the work that his son Paco Collazo is doing with Happy Projects, based in Atlanta.

Jeff asks Francisco about his legacy, where he emphasizes continuous innovation, building connections, and providing the highest level of service possible (beyond what is happening on the trade show floor).

Host Jeff Hannah summarizes this interview by stating, “good stuff to build a business on; good stuff to build a life around.”

SISTEXPO are international exhibit and event builders, headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. They are uniquely positioned to work across North America and South America, with a reach far beyond – into Europe and elsewhere around the world. SISTEXPO designs and builds exhibits for trade shows, works as a general contractor for entire exhibitions, provides international pavilions, and produces full-scale events. Well into their third family generation, SISTEXPO has a strong track record of over 40 years and continues to be heavily involved in international associations and works with many global brands. They are proud members of IFES, EDPA, ESSA, bePartner Network, MPI, OSPI, and AMPROFEC.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs, Florida (USA) with host Jeff Hannah.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-collazo-ortega-23601639/

Website: https://www.sistexpo.com/

Jeff Hannah & Francisco Collazo

Three Generations in Mexico with Francisco Collazo (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Design, Ecuador, Europe, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Loose Time, Mexico, North America, Puerto Rico, Relationships, United States

A Look into the Life of Industrial Designer Francisco Collazo

This is Part 1 of a two-part interview with international industry leader and designer Francisco Collazo, Partner and CEO of SISTEXPO (Sistemas de Exposición) in Mexico City, Mexico.

In this fascinating conversation, Francisco Collazo shares his extensive journey into the exhibition industry, tracing the evolution of his career from its inception as a young boy working with his father. More than 40 years later, Francisco’s company is now well into its third family generation and has established an outstanding reputation for themselves globally in the industry.

Host Jeff Hannah asks Francisco to share the transformative shifts he has witnessed in the Mexican exhibition landscape over the years, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the industry in Mexico. Nowadays, most of the exhibits are custom-built, wooden exhibits versus system exhibits; many are still build and burn (one time use).

Francisco highlighted his knowledge of system exhibits, shedding light on the diverse range, some of the history, and how he became an expert in this area. He mentions his past interactions with historical system influencers, such as Hans Bruder (global leader of OCTANORM for over 50 years). Some of the systems they discussed are beMatrix, Aluvision, Agam, OCTANORM, SYMA, and meroform,

They discuss the primary exhibition venues in Mexico, and how those have evolved over the years in their respective areas:

Palacio de los Deportes

World Trade Center Mexico City

Centro Citibanamex

Expo Guadalajara

Jeff and Francisco share their common bond of their pathways to becoming an industrial designer. Francisco shares how he is particularly passionate about giving back to future generations of designers and design programs at various universities. Francisco’s heavy involvement in international and local industry associations underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing with others across the industry.

Francisco’s international work experience is a key focal point, illustrating the intricacies and nuances of navigating business across borders – particularly in Latin America.

Francisco opens-up about the unique experience of collaborating with family members in the industry, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of working alongside loved ones. He shares his outlook on navigating some of those challenges – and well as the reward of working with his family in the formation of this third-generation business. They specifically mention the work that his son Paco Collazo is doing with Happy Projects, based in Atlanta.

Jeff asks Francisco about his legacy, where he emphasizes continuous innovation, building connections, and providing the highest level of service possible (beyond what is happening on the trade show floor).

Host Jeff Hannah summarizes this interview by stating, “good stuff to build a business on; good stuff to build a life around.”

SISTEXPO are international exhibit and event builders, headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. They are uniquely positioned to work across North America and South America, with a reach far beyond – into Europe and elsewhere around the world. SISTEXPO designs and builds exhibits for trade shows, works as a general contractor for entire exhibitions, provides international pavilions, and produces full-scale events. Well into their third family generation, SISTEXPO has a strong track record of over 40 years and continues to be heavily involved in international associations and works with many global brands. They are proud members of IFES, EDPA, ESSA, bePartner Network, MPI, OSPI, and AMPROFEC.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs, Florida (USA) with host Jeff Hannah.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-collazo-ortega-23601639/

Website: https://www.sistexpo.com/

Jeff Hannah & Benedict Soh

Perspectives from an Industry Legend: Benedict Soh

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Asia, Branding, China, Communications, Culture, Design, Europe, Graphics, Hong Kong, Japan, Language, Marketing, Middle East, North America, Podcast, Relationships, Singapore, Strategy, Taiwan, Thailand, Time, United States

Interview with Benedict Soh – Chairman of Kingsmen Creatives

This is an interview with an industry legend, Benedict Soh, Chairman and Co-Founder of Kingsmen Creatives Ltd., based in Singapore. In this episode, host Jeff Hannah and Benedict Soh discuss the return of the industry since the COVID-19 pandemic brought the exhibition industry to a complete halt over two years ago. Shows and events are recovering well, with a number of large corporations hosting their own private customer events and product launches. Ben talks about the importance of face-to-face marketing, and the need as an industry to demonstrate excellent ROI for the client stakeholders.

Ben talks about how the trade show industry has evolved over the years, and has excelled at integrating all of the other aspects of technology and marketing. He also talks about how business has changed due to the blending of cultures globally.

Jeff asks Ben about the challenges of running a large corporation with offices in many countries. Jeff asks Ben to give advice to people considering a career in this industry. He talks about mentors, sources of inspiration, and about how he got started in this industry. He also talks about the concepts of work/life balance and work/life integration. And, he talks about what he feels is his greatest achievement.

Benedict Soh is internationally known across the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) industry and amusement park industry segments. Benedict has been awarded the prestigious Hazel Hayes Award, as well as the Lifetime Achievement for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism by the Singapore Tourism Board. Benedict co-founded Kingsmen Creatives over 45 years ago, and is also Chairman. Kingsmen has now grown to 21 offices across major cities in Asia, the Middle East, and the USA, with global headquarters in Singapore.

Kingsmen are creators of experience, harnessing the power of creativity and design to tell engaging stories that bring brands to life. Kingsmen delivers seamless, innovative and engaging experiences that connect, engage and empower. From conception to completion, their integrated capabilities built over the last 45 years have enabled them to be the one-stop creative solutions partner, delivering memorable, successful campaigns around the world.

This interview was recorded live in Singapore at the Kingsmen Experience, the global headquarter tower of Kingsmen Creatives Ltd., in the Changi District of Singapore, with host Jeff Hannah.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benedict-soh-819b614/

Website: https://www.kingsmen-int.com/

Jeff Hannah & Alejandro Escalante

Born into the Exhibition Industry

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Branding, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Ecuador, Europe, Germany, Language, Latin America, Loose Time, Marketing, Mexico, New Zealand, North America, Podcast, Precise Time, Puerto Rico, Relationships, Strategy, Time, United States

Alejandro Escalante Grew Up on the Show Floor in Mexico

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah interviews Mexican industry globetrotter Alejandro (Alex) Escalante from Guadalajara. Alejandro is part of the family-owned company, Omega Group, where he is involved in sales, project management, logistics, and many other activities. He has worked in many regions of the world, such as Europe, Latin America, and the USA.

They discuss cultural, mindset, and industry differences between Mexico and the USA, as well as Mexico and other Latin American countries. Alejandro discusses how to reach Mexican clients, and the importance of building long-term, personal relationships.

They discuss the impact that COVID-19 has had on the exhibition industry in Mexico, on the economy there – and how the recovery is progressing.

On a personal note, Jeff asks Alex about his years of industry experience, and what he learned working at notable European companies, such as Atelier Damböck in Germany. Alex shares how those cross-cultural work experiences helped to shape his approach to business.

This interview was recorded during EDPA ACCESS 2021 at the The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood Curio Collection in Hollywood, Florida with host Jeff Hannah.

Email: aez@omegagroup.com.mx

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alejandro-escalante-a50394105/

Website: www.omegaexp.com.mx

Santorini Sunset

David Hanger’s Best Places to Eat Around the World (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Asia, Australia, China, Culture, Europe, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Middle East, North America, Podcast, Relationships, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom

Top Food & Activity Picks Globally by David Hanger 

This 3-part mini-series interview provides a wealth of solid insights and recommendations for restaurants, food, and excursions / activities in five international cities. This is quite different from most of our episodes. But, it’s extremely interesting – and provides an abundance of first-hand recommendations from David Hanger, whose reviews on TripAdvisor have been read by more than 100,000 people. Besides being a “critic of food,” David is an international business executive and consultant based in the USA. Host Jeff Hannah interviewed David during a trip to Singapore.

In Part 1 of this interview, David and Jeff focus on Singapore and Amsterdam. Part 2 of this series covers the Greek Island of Santorini, and the city of Shanghai in China. Part 3 of this series covers the cities of Prague in the Czech Republic, and the US cities of Chicago and Santa Barbara.

It’s quite important to ensure that any restaurant you choose for business meetings or entertainment are excellent choices – not only in terms of food quality, but in terms of atmosphere, location, service level, and cultural fit, to name a few. Hopefully this mini-series will be a great resource for those of you who may be planning shows, events, or personal travel in these cities.

Please feel free to connect with David Hanger if you would like to get other recommendations or information directly from him, as he is a tremendous wealth of knowledge for food and dining globally. His contact info is listed below.

Links to restaurants / activities mentioned in this podcast episode:

Greek Island of Santorini:

Fira Town (Santorini) (capital of Santorini)

Oia Village (Santorini) (village / town in Santorini)

Best Beaches of Santorini (list of top beaches of Santorini)

Santorini Cable Car / Lift (cable car / lift transport to Fira Town)

Amoudi Bay (beaches & port area of Santorini)

Cliff Jumping – Amoudi Bay (how-to guide to cliff jumping at Amoudi Bay)

 

Shanghai:

House of Roosevelt (historical building with restaurants)

Roosevelt Sky Restaurant (restaurant on top of House of Roosevelt)

Roosevelt Sky Bar (speakeasy bar on top of House of Roosevelt)

The Bund (waterfront & historical district in central Shanghai)

The Captain (Bar / Speakeasy) (speakeasy bar)

Confucian Temple of Shanghai (ancient Confucian temple with special tea service)

Shanghai Tower (world’s second tallest building – and has observation deck)

Fairmont Peace Hotel (hotel)

Fairmont Peace – Jazz Bar (jazz bar at the Fairmont Peace Hotel)

 

Santorini Sunset (header above) – Photo Credit: @Sunsettera (Instagram)

This interview was recorded at the Urbana Rooftop Bar & Pool at the Marriott Courtyard Singapore Novena Hotel in Singapore with host Jeff Hannah.

Email: davidhanger88@gmail.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidshanger/

potters wheel

The Great Global Reset

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Asia, Australia, Authority, Bahrain, Best Practices, Brazil, Chile, China, Communications, Covid-19, Cuba, Culture, Dusseldorf, Ecuador, Europe, Gender, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Kuwait, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Mexico, Middle East, New Zealand, North America, Podcast, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Relationships, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Strategy, Taiwan, Thailand, The Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Verbal Communications

The Great Global Reset – Jeff Hannah Speaks at IFES

In this episode, we are re-airing a webinar with Jeff Hannah called The Great Global Reset, presented by IFES (International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services), as part of an ongoing series called IFES Solutions. All countries and cultures on the planet are feeling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact is monumental – and will likely have more significant repercussions on humanity than any other crisis we have seen in our lifetimes. The coronavirus pandemic is already permanently reshaping culture as we speak. The trade show and event industry is being hit particularly hard as well – and is being forced to shift, innovate, and re-think. In this webinar we will explore COVID through the eyes of culture – and some elements of the Great Global Reset.

This interview was recorded in Dayton, Ohio but broadcast globally in April 2020.

Email: jhannah@exhibitconcepts.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyhannah/

Bin Yu CEO of HitLights

Bin Yu – “My American Dream”

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Asia, Authority, China, Communications, Culture, Hong Kong, Language, Leadership, Lighting, Non-Verbal Communications, North America, Podcast, Relationships, Taiwan, United States, Verbal Communications

Bin Yu of HitLights Shares His American Dream

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah interviews Bin Yu, Ph.D, Founder & CEO of HitLights, a top provider of LED technologies for trade show exhibits, and other industry sectors. Bin is a native of China, but pursued his American dream by earning his Ph.D. at Louisiana State University (LSU) in the USA. He shares part of his fascinating entrepreneurial journey, what inspires him, and the mindset which has helped him to succeed in so many areas of life.

Jeff also discusses with Bin the differences between the Chinese and American cultures and business environments, the concept of guanxi, learning as a lifestyle, and leading millennial employees.

HitLights has offices in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in Chino, California, and in Shenzhen, China.

As founder of HitLights, Bin makes a positive impact by developing loyal and caring relationships. His company HITlights has won 2017 and 2016 Honoree of the LSU 100: Fastest Growing Tiger Businesses, The Company doubled the revenue in 2018 and launched the China-Shenzhen E-commerce office. Bin Yu has been nominated 2016 Young Businessperson of the Year by Business Report. Bin is a man of many passions, entrepreneurship, connecting/bridging, environmental protection, and LED lighting solutions. These passions have helped to sculpt the way he does business. As an EOer-Orange county, he is really grateful for the benefits that EO has brought in the last 6 years.

Giving back to the community is deeply important to Bin, and he likes to make business reflect that. So, his company Hitlights gives internship opportunities to LSU Fellowship (Entrepreneur) Program every year, and they sponsor the 2nd and 3rd LSU Student Incubator’s annual Venture Challenge.

His personal and family life purpose is to make an impact and spread positive energy by learning and connecting. He is an active runner and love scuba-diving and meditation.

This interview was recorded at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Email: byu@hitlights.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/binyuled

Jeff Hannah Speaks at EuroShop 2020

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Authority, Best Practices, Branding, Communications, Culture, Dusseldorf, Europe, Gender, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Loose Time, Marketing, Middle East, Non-Verbal Communications, North America, Podcast, Precise Time, Relationships, Strategy, Time, United Kingdom, United States

Jeff Hannah Speaks at EuroShop 2020

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah speaks at EuroShop 2020 in Düsseldorf, Germany as part of the IFES Expo & Event Stage. Jeff’s lecture was titled Cultural Frameworks – which highlights the need for focusing on the dimensions of national culture. Jeff states that cultural differences are one of the most ignored aspects of international trade show programs.

Neglecting subtle nuances in cross-cultural business can be devastating, as unrealized components of culture can damage business relationships and nullify marketing efforts. Recognizing that all business is conducted within the “context of culture” helps one to see things from a totally different perspective. This session provides a brief overview of the various dimensions of culture which should considered when exhibiting in other countries, such as:

IFES is the International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services, headquartered in Europe. Jeff’s lecture was hosted by IFES as part of their series called, The Art of Exhibition, an important aspect of the educational program provided at EuroShop.

EuroShop is the world’s largest trade fair for the retail industry, trade shows and associated sectors. There are over 90,000 attendees at the show, with more than 2,000 exhibitors from 56 countries. It is the source of information and inspiration for professionals and decision-makers on every conceivable aspect of retailing. It is the showcase for trends and innovations. A hot spot for sales and marketing experts seeking new ideas to spotlight and sell their company’s products and services even better.

This interview was recorded at the Messe Düsseldorf in Düsseldorf, Germany – and moderated by the infamous Han Leenhouts from The Netherlands.

Jeff Hannah on LinkedIn

Email: jeff@globalexhibitor.com

Motorola Exhibit in Bangkok

Larry Kulchawik – Trade Shows from One Country to the Next (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Abu Dhabi, Age, Argentina, Asia, Best Practices, Branding, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Design, Dubai, Ecuador, Europe, Gender, Germany, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Marketing, Mexico, Middle East, North America, Podcast, Relationships, Saudi Arabia, Strategy, Time, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States

Jeff Hannah Interviews International Exhibit Industry Legend Larry Kulchawik

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah concludes his interview with exhibition industry legend Larry Kulchawik, author of Trade Shows from One Country to the Next. They discuss some of the biggest mistakes that companies make, how to approach working internationally, some of the most difficult places to work, the most rewarding aspects of the industry, and Larry’s legacy in the global exhibition industry.

Trade Shows from One Country to the Next is tailor-made for exhibit managers and event planners who are working across borders. It outlines the venues, top trade shows, rules, regulations, exhibit and cultural differences. It is designed to help you recalculate your strategies and tactics when exhibiting internationally – covering 45 countries.

While earning a degree in Design at Southern Illinois University, Larry Kulchawik had the privilege to study under world class designer Buckminster Fuller. Starting as an exhibit designer, Kulchawik has spent the last 43 years making his mark on the exhibit industry globally!

Larry has worked for three of the leading exhibit companies in the USA – in design, management and sales – with a focus on international trade show marketing. He served as President of IFES (International Federation of Exposition Services) and as President of EDPA (Experiential Designers and Producers Association). Larry also served on the boards of many industry associations Center for Exhibit Industry Research (CEIR), Octanorm Service Partner International (OSPI), and the World Trade Center. As president of EDPA he assisted to launch the first master’s degree program in exhibit design at Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City; during that time he also led a task force to create an Underwriters Laboratory (aka UL) – Standards for Safety for building trade show exhibits.

Larry has been awarded two of the industry’s highest honors – the Hazel Hays Award (given by EDPA), and the Roger Taurant Award (given by IFES) for his contributions to the exhibit industry.

Be sure to listen to Part 1 of this interview with Larry Kulchawik.

This interview was recorded in Naples, Florida.

www.larrykulchawik.com

Larry Kulchawik LinkedIn

Email: larrykulchawik@gmail.com

Twitter: @LarryKulchawik

Larry Kulchawik Consulting on Facebook