ASI Chicago 2023: Large crowd at overseas trade show

The ASI Show Chicago took place from 25 to 27 July at the McCormick Place Convention Center, where the nearly 500 exhibitors presented their products. According to the organisers, around 90 per cent of the 40 largest suppliers to the US promotional products industry were represented among the exhibitors. One encouraging aspect was the 20 per cent increase in exhibitor stands and 15 per cent increase in visitor numbers, which climbed above 5000.

Visitors were particularly interested in items such as pens, travel backpacks, sticky notes and technical items. In addition, sustainable materials were increasingly in focus. Customers wanted products with a positive story, it was said. This does not only mean that the product is made of environmentally friendly materials, but also that social aspects, such as the manufacturer’s charitable commitment, play a role.

Strongly discussed topics in Chicago were also inflation and problems in the supply chain. Looking ahead to 2023, many exhibitors confirmed that the year has started strong, but that demand has declined in recent months. www.asicentral.com

Photo credit: The Advertising Specialty Institute