ORLANDO — The International Sign Association’s (ISA) International Sign Expo returned to the Orange County Convention Center April 10-12 and saw an 11 percent increase in attendance (to 19,500) this year, surpassing its 2018 level in Orlando.
The ISA annual show also increased its exhibitor count by 10% (to 570) and its net square footage by 12% (to nearly 200,000 net square feet) in 2024.
“From discussions with exhibitors, there appears to be an increase in the number of buyers, both in terms of final decision-makers and those influencing those decisions. Overall, exhibitors were very pleased with the attendance and buying power,” said Lori Anderson, FASAE President and CEO, CAE, ISA.
Anderson explained that the current popularity of rebranding, mergers and acquisitions is creating a demand for signage that is fueling the show’s growth. “The signage, graphics and visual communications industry is very, very active…they need to know what new products are available to help their customers, and this event does that.”
Anderson also explained that the show’s pause due to COVID-19 gave his leadership team time to explore new ideas, inspiring a more attendee-centric strategy. Since 2020, new experiences, strategies and more have been introduced to enhance the attendee experience at the show, contributing to its popularity.
A virtual B2B matchmaking program, added during the pandemic, was a particular hit with attendees. Due to high demand, the show team incorporated it when it returned in person in 2021. Tickets for the feature sold out in about a day.
Anderson added that the “very, very popular” program is expanded and updated each year, a testament to the show’s attendee-centric approach. “Our ultimate mission is to become a must-attend event for the industry. We hope this combination of learning, networking, B2B events and fun experiences will continue to evolve.”
New and expanded features
At a new Sign Shop spectacular installation show held April 10, teams of professionals raced to install signs on the show floor for a $500 cash prize.
Anderson said the event attracted a huge audience and will be expanded to future events as part of its commitment to the attendee experience. “It was two hours long and people weren’t leaving their seats because it was just fascinating to watch.”
The ISA also announced a new strategic partnership with The Wrap Institute (TWI), an educational organization that Anderson calls a “tremendous growth opportunity for the industry.”
Related. Trade Show Executive’s ‘Fastest 50’ Awards and Summit Celebrate Strong Growth and Highlight Important Industry Trends to Watch
ISA plans to continue to enhance the attendee experience at ISA International Sign Expo 2025, which will be held April 23-25 in Las Vegas. A new vice president of trade shows and meetings, Ryan Strowger, CEM, will join ISA on June 10 and bring new ideas to the upcoming event.
ISA International Sign Expo is part of the Fastest 50 class of 2023, ranked by number of exhibiting companies and total attendees, and was honored this month at Resorts World Las Vegas. Learn more here.
Contact Lori Anderson at lori.anderson@signs.org.
Photo credit: International Sign Association.
