Trade Show Displays for McCormick Place

Exhibiting at McCormick Place in Chicago comes with unique challenges — from union labor rules to material handling (drayage) costs that can quickly increase your total budget.

Choosing the right trade show display is not just about design — it’s about logistics, cost control, and ease of setup.

This is where portable and modular trade show displays offer a smarter alternative.

Why McCormick Place Changes Everything

McCormick Place is one of the largest convention centers in North America — and also one of the most regulated.

Here’s what exhibitors typically face:

• Union labor is often required for installation and dismantling
• Drayage (material handling) can add significant cost
• Setup timelines are strict and coordinated
• Even small booths can require external labor

👉 For many exhibitors, these factors create unexpected expenses and operational complexity

A Smarter Approach: Portable Trade Show Displays

Portable and modular trade show displays are designed to simplify exhibiting — especially in venues like McCormick Place.

Key advantages:

• No specialized labor required for most setups
• Lightweight systems reduce drayage costs
• Fast installation with minimal tools
• Reusable across multiple shows
• Clean, professional appearance comparable to custom booths

These systems are ideal for exhibitors who want a polished presence without the unpredictability of traditional setups.

What Type of Display Works Best at McCormick Place?

Depending on your booth size and goals, here are the most effective options:

10×10 Booths

• Pop-up fabric displays
• Backlit lightboxes
• Modular banner systems

10×20 Booths

• Inline modular frames
• SEG lightbox systems
• Hybrid portable displays

Larger Spaces

• Modular aluminum systems
• Customizable configurations using off-the-shelf components

👉 The key is choosing a system that balances visual impact + logistical efficiency

Understanding Booth Costs at McCormick Place

Many exhibitors underestimate the full cost of exhibiting.

Typical cost factors include:

• Display structure
• Graphics production
• Drayage (material handling)
• Installation & dismantling labor
• Electrical services
• Storage and shipping

In many cases, labor and drayage alone can exceed the cost of the display itself.

👉 That’s why more companies are shifting toward portable solutions that reduce these variables.

Designed for Efficiency, Built for Multiple Shows

Unlike one-time custom builds, portable trade show displays are:

• Easy to transport
• Quick to assemble
• Durable for repeated use
• Adaptable with updated graphics

This makes them a long-term investment — not just a one-show expense.

Get the Right Trade Show Display for McCormick Place

If you’re planning to exhibit at McCormick Place, the right display system can significantly impact your total cost, setup experience, and overall results.

We specialize in portable and modular trade show displays designed specifically for venues like McCormick Place — where efficiency matters as much as design.

👉 Request a quote and we’ll help you select the best display solution for your booth size, budget, and event goals.