If you’re new to exhibiting, the long list of titles like producer, management, contractor, EAC, etc. can feel confusing. Each plays a different role in making a trade show run smoothly, and knowing who does what helps you prepare, budget, and communicate effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the key players you’ll encounter.
1. Show Producer
Definition: The show producer is the individual or company that owns and manages the overall trade show. Their responsibilities include leasing the exposition facility, hiring official contractors, and promoting the show to both exhibitors and attendees.
Examples: Reed Exhibitions, GLM Shows, VNU Expositions, Inc.
2. Show Management
Definition: The organizer and operator of the exposition. For large events, show management may be the same as the producer. Their role includes handling exhibitor registration, floor planning, marketing, and logistics.
Examples: MD&M, Medtrade, National Sheriff’s Association, Semicon.
3. Official Contractor (General Contractor)
Definition: The company hired by show management to set up and operate the show. Official contractors handle the logistics of moving in and out, as well as show services.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Drayage and freight handling
- Laying carpet and signage
- Rental displays and furnishings
- Cleaning and basic show labor
Examples: GES, Freeman Decorating Services, Champion.
4. Exclusive Contractor
Definition: A contractor appointed by either show management or the venue as the sole provider of specific services. These are non-negotiable and vary widely by facility.
Typical services include:
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Telecommunications
- Rigging
Note: Exclusive contractors do not prevent exhibitors from hiring their own Exhibitor-Appointed Contractors for other services.
5. Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor (EAC)
Definition: Any company other than the official contractor that provides services requiring access to the exhibit during installation, show days, or dismantle. EACs are often subcontractors hired by exhibitors for specialized work.
Also known as: Independent contractors or I&D (installation and dismantle) companies.
Examples: Exhibit houses, third-party installation crews.
Why Understanding These Roles Matters
Knowing who to call—and for what—prevents delays, unexpected costs, and compliance issues. For example:
- Need to ship your booth to the floor? Work with the official contractor.
- Need a line of power or plumbing? Only the exclusive contractor can help.
- Want your trusted exhibit house to set up your booth? That’s an EAC.
Pro tip: Absolute Exhibits works as an Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor, helping clients design, build, and manage custom booths across different shows and venues. Our team knows how to navigate producers, management, and contractors to keep your exhibit stress-free.
Quick Reference: Trade Show Roles
| Role | Who They Are | What They Do | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Show Producer | Owns and manages the event | Leases space, hires contractors, promotes show | Reed Exhibitions, GLM, VNU |
| Show Management | Operates and organizes the exposition | Exhibitor registration, floor plan, logistics | MD&M, Medtrade, Semicon |
| Official Contractor | Hired by show management | Drayage, labor, carpet, rentals, signage, cleaning | GES, Freeman, Champion |
| Exclusive Contractor | Sole provider appointed by venue/management | Electrical, plumbing, telecom, rigging | Venue-specific |
| Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor (EAC) | Independent subcontractor hired by exhibitor | Booth install/dismantle, custom services | Exhibit houses, I&D companies |
