September 1, 2026 – Kenosha, WI – Catalyst Exhibits is proud to share that our work was recognized in multiple categories at the 2026 ExSys Awards, earning two Bronze awards and an Honorable Mention.
The ExSys Awards, presented by The Experiential Design Authority (TEDA), recognize excellence in system-based exhibit design, adaptability, and innovation. The 2026 competition attracted more than 200 entries from exhibit designers, producers, and manufacturers around the world.
For Catalyst, this recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects what we strive to deliver every day: comprehensive exhibit solutions that bring creative visions to life through design, systems, fabrication, and execution, all under one roof.
Recognized Among the Best in System-Based Exhibit Design
The ExSys Awards feature a wide range of categories that recognize the many different ways exhibits can engage audiences. Because no two brands, audiences, or events are alike, successful exhibit experiences require thoughtful solutions tailored to each client and their goals. Catalyst was named a finalist in four categories:
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Best Design Concept: Abbott at CES 2026, in partnership with Factory360
- Best Graphics: Electrolit at NACS 2024
- Best Large Rental Exhibit: Siemens at ADLM 2025
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Best Small Rental Exhibit: Altimetrik at Money 20/20
From those four finalist placements, Catalyst received recognition for three projects:
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Bronze, Best Design Concept: Abbott at CES 2026, in partnership with Factory360
- Bronze, Best Graphics: Electrolit at NACS 2024
- Honorable Mention, Best Large Rental Exhibit: Siemens at ADLM 2025
The awards were presented during a ceremony in Chicago, bringing together professionals from across the experiential marketing and exhibit industry.
Abbott at CES 2026 | Bronze, Best Design Concept
Catalyst received a Bronze award in Best Design Concept for our work on Abbott’s exhibit at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026.
The exhibit was designed by Factory360, with Catalyst providing fabrication and system expertise. The result was an experience that transformed Abbott’s brand story into an engaging environment designed to connect with CES attendees.
The experience centered on Abbott’s mission and demonstrated how innovation can improve people's everyday lives.
Electrolit at NACS 2024 | Bronze, Best Graphics
Catalyst received a Bronze award for Best Graphics for our work with long-time client Electrolit at the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) 2024 event.
The exhibit used high-contrast brand colors and large-format product imagery to capture attention from the trade show aisles and draw attendees into the space. Graphics became an important part of the overall experience, helping guide visitors through the exhibit while reinforcing Electrolit’s bold brand identity.
One ExSys Awards judge described the entry as a “great use of large product imagery” and noted that it was the right approach for Electrolit and the show.
Catalyst provided the design and fabrication for the exhibit, demonstrating our ability to serve as a single-source partner for our clients' trade show needs.
Siemens at ADLM 2025 | Honorable Mention
Catalyst received an Honorable Mention for our work with long-time client Siemens at the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM) 2025 event.
The project brought together Catalyst’s capabilities in design, systems, and fabrication to create a dynamic exhibit environment that supported Siemens’ brand and engagement goals.
Celebrating Our Industry
The evening was an opportunity to celebrate the creativity and innovation happening throughout our industry while connecting with peers, partners, and vendors.
Awards like the ExSys recognize more than a finished exhibit. They recognize the strategy, creativity, collaboration, craftsmanship, and countless hours that go into bringing an experience to life.
The 2026 ExSys Awards also highlighted several trends shaping the future of experiential design:
- Experiential storytelling continues to be a major differentiator, with leading exhibits creating immersive visitor journeys rather than relying on traditional product displays.
- Technology integration is most effective when it enhances the story and attendee experience rather than simply showcasing technology.
- Modular and sustainable design remain important, with many successful exhibits incorporating reusable elements that can be adapted across multiple events.
- Creative architecture, interactive engagement, and measurable outcomes continue to distinguish exhibits that make a lasting impression.
These trends reflect an industry that continues to evolve and an opportunity for exhibit partners to think beyond the booth and create experiences that connect brands with people in meaningful ways.
Built Together, Recognized Together
While we are proud of these awards, the recognition truly belongs to our clients who trust Catalyst Exhibits to champion their brands and bring their visions to life.
It also belongs to our incredible team, whose creativity, expertise, craftsmanship, and dedication make these experiences possible every day.
We are honored to be recognized alongside talented professionals and companies from around the world, and we look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of exhibit design, fabrication, and experiential storytelling.
About Catalyst Exhibits
Catalyst Exhibits is a full-service trade show exhibit design and fabrication company that helps brands create engaging, results-driven exhibit experiences. The company provides strategic exhibit design, custom fabrication, modular and rental exhibit solutions, and comprehensive program management for organizations exhibiting at trade shows and events.
Learn more at www.catalystexhibits.com