Every two years, IMTS transforms McCormick Place into a dynamic hub of innovation, discovery, and connection. I am honored when exhibitors and visitors share how IMTS stands apart. It is the quintessential event that brings our industry together – whether it’s the moment they walk into the Grand Concourse, captivated by the energy of the vibrant crowd, or the enduring relationships they build. Today, I’d like to share our approach – one that I hope may inspire your own ventures, encourage exploration across industries, and perhaps even spark an idea for IMTS 2026.
At its core, our strategy draws from three key sources: the IMTS community, innovative practices from unrelated industries, and insights from other trade shows.
I. The IMTS Community: Building Experiences That Resonate
Creating a fresh, relevant IMTS begins with listening to our community. We gather input from exhibitors, visitors, and prospective participants through targeted surveys, focus groups, and data analysis. This collaborative process, combined with insights from the AMT Show Committee, which is comprised of industry leaders, helps us shape an experience that resonates with everyone involved.
For example, feedback following IMTS 2016 highlighted a growing need among smaller contract manufacturing shops to adopt digital technologies and enhance productivity. In response, we introduced specialized programming in 2018. By 2024, this initiative grew from five sessions to nearly 20, demonstrating its success in addressing a critical need. These programs reflect how meaningful engagement with our community directly shapes IMTS to better serve the industry.
II. Looking Beyond: Finding Genius in Unexpected Places
Innovation often lies in unexpected connections. We went beyond the manufacturing sector to find ideas that elevate IMTS. Just as Southwest Airlines drew inspiration from NASCAR’s pit crews to streamline airport operations, we’ve looked to diverse sources like libraries, NFL games, Disney’s Epcot Center, and even the nation’s leading grocery stores.
To simplify the visitor journey, libraries provided the inspiration for us to group related technologies into sectors. Our color-coded floor carpet signage, guiding visitors through the vast space of McCormick Place, borrows from Paris’ subway system to differentiate lines. Additionally, the setup of ESPN’s “College GameDay” influenced the design of our IMTS+ Main Stage, with its crowd-facing flexibility. By “borrowing genius” from other industries, we find fresh ways to deliver value. These diverse inspirations fuel our mission to create an event that is engaging, intuitive, and unforgettable.
III. Learning From the Best: Insights From Other Trade Shows
We regularly attend events like South by Southwest, Fast Company’s Innovation Festival, and EXPO! EXPO!, where trade show professionals exchange ideas and trends. These gatherings expose us to cutting-edge approaches in event design, attendee engagement, and technology integration. Bringing insights back to AMT ensures that IMTS is ahead of the curve, delivering an experience that sets new standards for the industry.
Creating a world-class trade show demands a blend of vision, collaboration, and constant reinvention. By sharing the sources of our inspiration, I hope you feel encouraged to seek your own “borrowed genius” – and, of course, to share your ideas for IMTS with us.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m diving into creating a brand-new floor plan for IMTS 2026, set to be unveiled in April 2025. After all, when it comes to inspiration, there’s always more to discover.
To read the rest of the Emerging Technology Issue of MT Magazine, click here.
