POP exhibits & displays: Charting the course

Using graphics to guide, inform, and engage

By Miguel Cuenca and Analhi Sanchez
The check-in desk.
The check-in desk was made of aluminum composite panel (ACP) wrapped with self-adhesive vinyl. The stone desk was laminated with 3M Command Strips. Photos courtesy Multigraphics

In the bustling heart of Vancouver, Bentley Systems, an Amsterdam-headquartered company, held a major event, the Year in Infrastructure 2024: Going Digital Awards. The event needed clear and effective communication, and the company tasked Multigraphics Ltd. with providing a variety of point-of-purchase (POP) displays, wayfinding, and informational systems to help the participants navigate.

From freestanding boards to intricate vinyl wraps, the Multigraphics team was charged with creating a cohesive visual experience to guide, inform, and engage participants throughout the venue.

The project scope covered a variety of graphic displays, including 36 freestanding boards to showcase contestant projects, six column wraps, and nine sets of vinyl door graphics. Additionally, large-scale printed window film was applied, and various fabricated elements were included. These included freestanding wall graphics, backdrops, floor graphics, elevator graphics, and several types of POP displays.

Timeline and execution

The tender was announced in June 2024, with Multigraphics awarded the project the following month. The next step involved an on-site meeting to refine the project details and assess potential marketing opportunities. Following the meeting, prototypes were developed, and templates for the client’s artwork were created. The production team was prepared to handle any last-minute design adjustments in-house.

Fabrication began at the end of September, with a 10-day turnaround required to complete the production of all materials. This included both printing and cutting elements to fit the event’s specifications. Installation was completed in a three-day window, strategically planned to accommodate other ongoing events at the venue. Multigraphics co-ordinated with other vendors and trades to ensure the installation proceeded smoothly without disruptions. Multiple installation crews were deployed, each focusing on different project components, allowing the work to proceed in parallel to meet the tight deadline.

Various materials were selected to balance durability, esthetics, and functionality to achieve the desired outcome. The freestanding boards, backdrops, and wall graphics were produced using Falcon Board with textured Dreamscape digitally printed wallpaper, chosen for its high-quality print finish and sturdy nature. Bodhi Lite Stretch Fabric was used for the column wraps, providing a flexible, seamless appearance. Transparent film was applied for the large-scale window graphics, ensuring clarity and visibility. Structural elements such as ConVerd Board and Gatorboard were utilized for additional support, while custom acrylic bases were crafted for the freestanding boards and assembled on-site.

A collage of the different types of displays.
The columns were wrapped with Bodhi Lite Stretch Fabric, while dye-sublimation print was used.

Challenges and solutions

One of the significant challenges Multigraphics encountered was the logistics of transporting and installing large materials in a limited timeframe. To address this, the project team developed custom moveable pallets, allowing for efficient transportation of materials from their facility to the venue and easy handling on-site. These pallets helped ensure the graphics were delivered and set up as needed without delays.

Another challenge was co-ordinating with other vendors working at the venue during the same period. Multigraphics addressed this by deploying multiple installation teams, each focusing on specific tasks. This helped streamline the installation process and ensured all graphics were completed within three days. This approach improved efficiency and allowed adjustments to be made quickly without affecting the overall schedule.

Bentley Systems was impressed with the work, praising Multigraphics for their efforts in executing the project and the company’s ability to provide quality print and signage work. The event manager was particularly pleased that Multigraphics sent print samples to their house for inspection, allowing them to choose the perfect materials for each installation. The event manager also applauded the company for its timely assembly and dismantling of the boards.

Analhi Sanchez and Miguel Cuenca drive Multigraphics’ success through marketing and project management. With more than 15 years in printing, Cuenca co-ordinates offline marketing production from start to finish. Sanchez leads marketing initiatives, enhancing the company’s visibility. Together, their collaboration keeps the company at the industry’s forefront, delivering exceptional projects and strong marketing efforts.