Where does the union fit into the show floor picture and who is making the rules? What do you really understand about the different people behind the show at which you are exhibiting? First there is show management – in most cases the association that is directing the show. Then there is the official service contractor that provides services and a labor force to get the exhibits built on the show floor – think GES, Freeman, and many smaller companies. Then there are the EAC’s – exhibitor appointed contractors – that have been hired by the exhibitor outside of the show contractor. It has been our experience as an EAC that many exhibitors on the show floor feel that they must work with the onsite show contractor. This is not true.

However, if you are going to a union-contracted venue then you must use a company that has a union contract. Additionally certain things like electrical services, drayage costs, and specific union jobs such as the electrical labor must be purchased by your company or through your exhibit house from the official contractor. In different cities, even in different venues within a city, there are different rules. As the exhibitor it is your job to contract with a knowledgeable company that abides by the union contract in place – or in the end you will pay through the proverbial nose!

It is very important as the exhibitor that you have shopped and compared. Do you know the local union’s rates and how those rates compare to those quoted by the show contractor and your EAC? What exactly may exhibitors do for themselves, according to union rules? Is there a floor-dispute resolution process in place?

How does it work? Mandatory crew size issues can’t be ignored. You may think it’s a two-man job, but the union work rules, because of OSHA concerns or contract clauses, may say three are mandatory. Remember you are at the mercy of many people at your show – learn your rules early and carry your manual – the most reliable person you have is yourself!

Jan Koren - jkoren@AbsoluteExhibits.com