the shomi team, Author at shomi!

SEG Fabric Displays – FAQ

the shomi team — Thu, 07 May 2026 18:02:00 +0000

What is SEG and other FAQ

Silicone Edge Graphics (SEG) shows up in almost every retail, trade show, and event environment we work in. Most clients haven’t been told how the format actually works until they’re mid-project. These are the questions worth answering before that point

What does SEG stand for in SEG fabric displays?

SEG stands for Silicone Edge Graphics. The display is a printed fabric panel with a thin silicone strip sewn along its edges. The strip presses into a matching groove in an aluminum frame, holding the fabric taut and edge to edge with no visible hardware.

What are the advantages of SEG over rigid signage or vinyl banners?

Three things separate SEG from rigid signage and vinyl banners: the finish, the workflow, and the lifecycle. The silicone edge gives a flush, frameless look with no visible seams or hardware. Aluminum frames are lightweight enough for one-person assembly and dismantle. Graphics can be swapped without replacing the frame, which makes SEG more cost-effective across multiple campaigns or store rollouts.

Are SEG fabric displays reusable?

Yes. The aluminum frame is the long-lived component, designed for repeated assembly cycles. The fabric graphic is washable and replaceable, so when the campaign changes the frame stays and only the graphic gets reprinted. This is the main reason SEG works well for retailers running seasonal or rotating displays.

Can SEG fabric displays be customized in size and shape?

Yes. SEG can be built wall-mounted, freestanding, suspended, curved, angled, or backlit, in custom sizes. The fabric flexes around shaped frames, which makes SEG one of the more adaptable display formats for non-rectangular or oversized environments.

How are SEG fabric displays installed?

The aluminum frame has a continuous channel running along its inside edge. To install, press the silicone strip on the fabric into that channel, working around the perimeter. The fabric pulls taut as it seats. No tools, no fasteners, no exposed hardware. Removing it is the same process in reverse.

Are SEG fabric displays suitable for outdoor use?

Standard SEG is designed for indoor use. Outdoor-rated SEG exists and uses different fabric, ink, and frame materials engineered for UV, moisture, and wind exposure. If the install is outdoor, this needs to be specified at the design phase, not adapted afterward.

What kind of printing technology is used for SEG fabric displays?

Dye-sublimation. The ink is heat-transferred into the fabric fibres rather than sitting on top of the surface, which is why SEG graphics resist fading and do not crack or peel with handling. The trade-off is that colour matching is slightly different from standard offset or inkjet printing, so brand colours should be approved on a fabric proof rather than a paper proof.

How portable are SEG fabric displays?

Very. Aluminum frame components are lightweight, and SEG fabric folds without permanently creasing, so a frame and its graphic typically ship in a soft case or compact crate. Most SEG displays are set up by one or two people without specialized tools.

Can SEG fabric displays be illuminated?

Yes. Backlit SEG uses an LED-edge or LED-array lightbox frame in place of a standard SEG frame. Light passes evenly through the fabric, creating a glowing display with no visible bulbs or hot spots. This is the format used in retail, transit, and trade show environments where the display needs to read at distance or in low light.

Do LED lights in SEG fabric displays consume a lot of electricity?

No. LEDs draw substantially less power than fluorescent or incandescent lighting at equivalent brightness output. Exact wattage depends on the size of the box and the LED array configuration, but for retailers running illuminated displays many hours per day, a backlit SEG lightbox is generally one of the lower-power options available among illuminated display formats.

When should I choose SEG over rigid signage?

When the message changes more than once a year, when the install needs to ship and reinstall multiple times, or when the environment calls for a frameless, oversized, or backlit look. Rigid signage still wins on permanent installations where the graphic never changes and weight is not a concern.

How long do SEG fabric displays last?

The aluminum frame is built for years of repeated use. The fabric graphic itself depends on handling, washing frequency, and lighting conditions, but a properly stored SEG graphic typically lasts through multiple campaign cycles before colour or surface degradation becomes visible.

Are SEG fabric displays suitable for different industries or events?

Yes. SEG is used across retail stores, pop-ups, and mall installations, trade shows and exhibitions, corporate environments, museums, conferences, and event spaces. The format works in any environment where a clean, frameless graphic surface is needed and the install conditions are predictable. The fabric weight, frame depth, and lighting configuration may change between use cases, but the underlying SEG system is the same.

Do you still have questions? We’d be happy to answer them. Email us at info@shomi.ca for more information.

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Acquiring and Using Sustainable Materials in Trade Show Design

the shomi team — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 22:53:02 +0000

Trade shows are a vital marketing tool, offering brands a platform to engage with customers and showcase their products. But let’s be honest—traditional trade show designs are about as eco-friendly as a plastic straw convention. Single-use materials, waste galore, and energy-hungry setups are the norm. Fortunately, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a movement. So, let’s talk about how to create show-stopping exhibits without leaving a carbon footprint the size of a T-Rex.

Understanding Sustainable Materials in Trade Show Design

Sustainable materials are like the superheroes of the design world—they fight waste, lower emissions, and still look fabulous doing it. These materials are renewable, recyclable, biodegradable, or made from recycled content. When picking your trade show materials, ask yourself:

Recyclability & Reusability – Can this material live another life after the event, or will it end up in landfill purgatory?
Biodegradability – Will it gracefully decompose like a rom-com protagonist’s heartache?
Sustainable Sourcing – Was this sourced responsibly, or did it sneak out the back door of an unethical supply chain?
Energy Efficiency – Is this material a gas guzzler or a lean, green, energy-saving machine?

Acquiring Sustainable Materials

Finding the right materials isn’t just about hopping on the green bandwagon—it’s about making smart choices that don’t compromise on quality or aesthetics. Here’s how to source eco-friendly options:

1. Work with Sustainable Vendors

Not all suppliers are created equal. Some are as green as a spring meadow, while others just slap an “eco” label on things and call it a day. Look for vendors with legit certifications like:

FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) – Because trees deserve ethical treatment too.
Cradle to Cradle Certification – For materials that keep coming back like your favorite TV show.
LEED Compliance – So your booth is as green as your marketing team’s dreams.

2. Opt for Recycled and Upcycled Materials

Why create new waste when you can turn old materials into something fabulous? Recycled aluminum, reclaimed wood, and upcycled fabrics are your best friends here. Think of it as trade show design with a redemption arc.

3. Consider Modular and Lightweight Materials

Think IKEA, but make it eco-friendly. Modular displays made from bamboo, aluminum, and fabric tension systems not only look sleek but also pack up efficiently, reducing shipping emissions (and saving your team from hauling around a ton of stuff).

Implementing Sustainable Materials in Trade Show Design

Now that you’ve sourced your materials, it’s time to use them like an eco-warrior with impeccable taste.

1. Design for Longevity and Reusability

Disposable booths? That’s so last century. Go modular, invest in high-quality materials, and create displays that can shapeshift for different events—like a chameleon, but make it chic.

2. Use Energy-Efficient Lighting

If your booth is lighting up like a Christmas tree, make sure it’s with energy-efficient LEDs. Better yet, solar-powered lighting? Now we’re talking next-level sustainability.

3. Reduce Waste with Smart Logistics

Stackable, compact designs = fewer trucks, less fuel, and more savings.
Return programs = materials that get a second life instead of a dumpster fate.
Local sourcing = supporting communities while slashing shipping emissions.

4. Communicate Your Sustainability Efforts

You’re making an effort, so shout it from the rooftops (or at least your booth signage). Use digital displays or QR codes to tell your sustainability story—because being green is cool, and everyone should know about it.

Going green in trade show design isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for business. Customers love a brand that cares, and making sustainable choices means your exhibits will look stunning without harming the environment. Plus, let’s be real—showcasing a sustainable, innovative booth makes you stand out from the crowd (and not just because of your fantastic lighting setup). So go forth, design responsibly, and let’s make trade shows greener—one reusable display at a time.

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A Brief History of Retail Displays

the shomi team — Fri, 31 May 2024 17:55:24 +0000

The Evolution of Retail Displays:

From Hand-Painted Boards to Digital Visual Displays

The world of retail displays has come a long way from the days of hand-painted boards and simple wooden signs. Today, digital visual displays and interactive technology are revolutionizing the way businesses attract and engage customers.

In this blog post, we’ll take a journey through the history of retail signage, explore the technological advancements that have shaped the industry, and discuss what the future holds for this essential aspect of retail activation and experiential marketing.

The Early Days: Hand-Painted and Wooden Signs (Pre-19th Century)

Historical Context
The origins of retail displays can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, where symbols and signs were used to advertise goods and services. By the Middle Ages, hand-painted boards became common in Europe, providing a personal touch that reflected the unique character of each business.

Vintage Tavern Sign

Interesting Fact: The ancient Romans were pioneers in using retail signage. They used terracotta plaques and painted murals to advertise shops and products. Even taverns had symbols such as ivy bushes to denote the availability of wine.

Craftsmanship
Creating hand-painted signs required a high level of artistry and skill. Artisans meticulously crafted these signs to capture the essence of the business, using vibrant colors and intricate designs. These signs were not only functional but also served as a form of visual art that attracted customers.

Interesting Fact: During the Middle Ages, innkeepers used elaborate and often humorous signs to attract patrons. Since many people were illiterate, these signs relied heavily on imagery to convey their message.

The Advent of Printed Signage (19th Century)

Peter Small demonstrating the use of the Gutenberg press at the International Printing Museum.

Technological Advancements
The introduction of printing technology in the early 19th century marked a significant milestone in the evolution of retail displays. The invention of the printing press allowed businesses to produce signage more efficiently and cost-effectively. Printed signs offered greater consistency and uniformity, which helped in establishing brand recognition.

Interesting Fact: The first known use of printed posters for advertising was in 1477, when William Caxton printed a poster advertising a book for sale. By the 19th century, lithography had revolutionized poster printing, making colorful and intricate designs possible.

The first ever printed poster – printed by William Caxton – promoting Caxton’s Sarum Pie, or the Ordinale ad usum Sarum, a handbook for priests.

Standardization and Mass Production
Printing technology enabled the mass production of signage, making it accessible to a wider range of businesses. This standardization meant that even small businesses could afford professional-looking signs that attracted customers and enhanced their storefronts.

The Neon Era: Lighting Up Retail (1920s-1960s)

Neon Pharmacy Sign

Cultural Impact
The neon sign boom of the 1920s to 1960s brought a new level of vibrancy to urban landscapes. Neon signs became synonymous with bustling city life, illuminating streets with their bright, glowing colors. They played a significant role in shaping the visual identity of retail districts and became cultural icons in their own right.

Interesting Fact: The first neon sign in the United States was installed in 1923 in Los Angeles. The sign, advertising a Packard car dealership, cost $24,000—a hefty sum at the time, equivalent to around $350,000 today.

Innovation and Design
Neon signs represented a leap in innovation and design. The ability to bend glass tubes into various shapes and fill them with different gases allowed for the creation of intricate and eye-catching designs. Iconic neon signs, such as those in Times Square, have left a lasting legacy in the world of retail displays.

Modern Day: Digital Visual Displays and Interactive Signage (2000s-Present)

Digital Revolution
The digital revolution in the early 2000s transformed retail displays with the advent of digital visual displays and interactive signage. LED signs, digital billboards, and interactive kiosks have become commonplace in retail environments. These digital solutions offer dynamic content that can be updated in real-time, providing businesses with unparalleled flexibility and control.

Customer Engagement
Digital signage enhances customer engagement by delivering personalized and relevant content. Interactive displays allow customers to engage directly with the brand, exploring products and accessing information at their fingertips. This level of interactivity creates a more immersive shopping experience that can drive sales and loyalty.

Case Studies
Numerous businesses have successfully implemented digital signage to boost sales and improve customer experiences. For example, a retail chain might use digital displays to showcase rotating promotions and advertisements, while a boutique store could use interactive kiosks to provide customers with personalized styling advice.

Pop-Up Shops and Retail Activation (2010s-Present)

Temporary Retail Spaces
Pop-up shops have become a popular trend in the retail industry since the 2010s, utilizing visual displays to create unique and engaging shopping experiences. These temporary retail spaces are designed to generate excitement and buzz around a brand or product launch.

“Kate Spade Saturday’s Meatpacking pop-up shop” by Bex.Walton is licensed under CC BY 2.0 .

Interesting Fact: The first documented pop-up shop was created by Vacant, a Los Angeles-based agency, in 1999. They set up temporary retail spaces in various cities to showcase emerging designers and brands.

Brand Engagement
Pop-up shops and retail activation events leverage design and experiential marketing to draw in customers. By creating visually stunning and interactive displays, brands can create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression. These events are often accompanied by social media campaigns, further amplifying their reach and impact.

The Future of Retail Displays
Emerging Technologies

Future of retail shopping using VR tech

The future of retail displays is set to be shaped by emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI). AR and VR can create immersive shopping experiences that allow customers to visualize products in their own environments. AI can provide personalized recommendations and dynamic content based on customer behavior.

Interesting Fact: AR and VR in retail are projected to be worth over $1.6 billion by 2025. Retailers are using these technologies to offer virtual try-ons and enhanced product visualizations, significantly boosting customer engagement.

Sustainability
There is a growing trend towards eco-friendly signage solutions in retail displays. Businesses are increasingly adopting sustainable materials and practices to reduce their environmental footprint. This shift towards sustainability not only benefits the planet but also resonates with environmentally-conscious consumers.

Interesting Fact: Sustainable signage options include using biodegradable materials, recycled plastics, and energy-efficient lighting like LEDs, which consume up to 75% less energy than traditional lighting solutions.

Retail displays have evolved significantly over the centuries, adapting to technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. As we look to the future, it’s clear that innovation will continue to drive the industry forward, creating new opportunities for businesses to connect with their customers in meaningful and impactful ways. Whether through digital visual displays or sustainable materials, the next era of retail signage promises to be as dynamic and transformative as those that came before it.

We invite you to share your thoughts on the evolution of retail displays and encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our services in retail activation, design, and experiential marketing. Discover how we can help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of retail displays.

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What is Retailtainment?

the shomi team — Sun, 28 Apr 2024 14:52:08 +0000

In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, there’s a transformative concept making waves – Retailtainment. It’s where the excitement of entertainment meets the practicality of retail, reshaping the way businesses connect and interact with their valued customers.

What is it?

Retailtainment is not just about transactions; it’s about creating immersive, enjoyable experiences that transcend the traditional shopping journey. Picture in-store events, interactive displays, and virtual experiences that captivate and delight your audience.

Why Should Retailtainment Matter to You?

Immersive Engagement: Transport your customers from the ordinary to the extraordinary by creating emotional connections to your brand during their shopping journey. Example: Arcadia Earth offers a captivating, immersive retailtainment journey, seamlessly blending art and technology to showcase Earth’s beauty and illustrate the impact of human actions. This experience not only inspires but actively involves visitors in the quest for a sustainable future, making each participant integral to creating a better world. Read about how shomi helped bring this exhibit to life

Unforgettable Brand Encounters: Stand out by offering unique brand encounters that leave a lasting impression. Example: Denmark’s LEGO House in Billund, Denmark offers an immersive experience, with interactive play, themed zones, and opportunities for creating your own LEGO masterpieces. It’s a unique and memorable brand encounter that goes beyond selling LEGO sets to creating a vibrant world of creativity

Enhanced Customer Loyalty: Foster loyalty by providing enjoyable and memorable experiences. Example: Glossier’s In-Store Experiences. Glossier designs its retail spaces to be more than just places to purchase products. In their flagship stores, customers encounter unique and Instagrammable spaces, including interactive installations and themed rooms. This ensures that the brand leaves a lasting impression by offering an experiential and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Differentiation in the Market: Differentiate yourself by offering more than just products – provide an all-encompassing experience. Example: REI’s Outdoor Experiences. Outdoor retailer REI differentiates itself by offering outdoor experiences to its customers. This includes organizing guided hiking trips, outdoor classes, and workshops. By providing an all-encompassing experience that extends beyond selling outdoor gear, REI positions itself as a brand deeply connected to the outdoor lifestyle.

Adaptation to Changing Expectations: Align with changing consumer expectations for meaningful connections with the brands they choose. Example: Zara’s RFID Technology Implementation. Zara, a global fashion retailer, has implemented RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology in its stores to adapt to changing customer expectations. Every garment has an RFID tag for quick product info, size, and style check via in-store touchscreens or mobile devices. This tech integration boosts shopping by offering instant info, and meeting the demands of tech-savvy, convenience-loving consumers.

Craft an Unforgettable Experiences by Embracing Retailtainment Today!

To thrive in today’s competitive retail landscape, consider integrating Retailtainment into your strategy. Explore innovative ways to captivate your audience, from in-store events to interactive displays. Remember, it’s not just about what you sell; it’s about the experiences you create.

If you need ideas on where to get started with Retailtainment for your business, give us a call at 1-866-667-4664 or get in touch here.

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Transforming Spaces: The Power of SEG Fabric Walls

the shomi team — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:37:44 +0000

In today’s dynamic world, businesses and organizations are constantly seeking innovative ways to transform their spaces and create memorable experiences for their audiences. One increasingly popular solution that is revolutionizing the way spaces are designed and utilized is the incorporation of Silicone Edge Graphics (SEG) fabric walls. From retail environments to corporate offices, trade shows, and beyond, SEG fabric walls offer a versatile and impactful solution for transforming any space into a visually stunning and engaging environment.

Elevating Brand Presence

One of the most significant advantages of SEG fabric walls is their ability to elevate brand presence. These walls serve as a canvas for showcasing vibrant graphics, branding elements, and promotional messages with unparalleled clarity and vibrancy. Whether it’s a retail store, event booth, or office lobby, SEG fabric walls provide businesses with a powerful tool for communicating their brand identity and capturing the attention of their audience.

Creating Immersive Environments

SEG fabric walls have the unique ability to transform ordinary spaces into immersive environments that captivate and engage visitors. By covering large surface areas with high-quality fabric graphics, businesses can create visually striking backdrops that set the stage for unforgettable experiences such as the exhibit shomi recently helped build for Arcadia Earth.

Whether it’s a themed retail display, an interactive exhibit at a trade show, or a branded environment in a corporate setting, SEG fabric walls have the power to transport audiences to another world.

Flexibility and Customization

Another key benefit of SEG fabric walls is their flexibility and customization options. These walls can be tailored to fit virtually any space or design vision, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether it’s a curved wall, a freestanding partition, or a hanging banner, SEG fabric walls can be customized to meet the specific needs and aesthetic preferences of businesses and organizations.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Despite their impressive visual impact, SEG fabric walls are surprisingly easy to install and maintain. So easy in fact, that shomi was able to help Canadian Tire to quickly transform a hotel conference room into a branded space, OVERNIGHT!

The lightweight aluminum frames and silicone edge graphics make assembly a breeze, allowing businesses to quickly set up and dismantle their displays as needed. Additionally, the fabric graphics are durable, wrinkle-resistant, and machine washable, ensuring that they maintain their vibrant appearance over time with minimal effort.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

In an era where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, SEG fabric walls offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional display solutions. The fabric graphics are reusable and can be easily swapped out to accommodate new campaigns or branding initiatives, reducing the need for disposable materials. Additionally, many SEG fabric walls are made from recyclable materials, further minimizing their environmental impact.

SEG fabric walls are a game-changer for businesses and organizations looking to transform their spaces into visually stunning and engaging environments. With their ability to elevate brand presence, create immersive experiences, offer flexibility and customization, ease of installation and maintenance, and sustainability benefits, SEG fabric walls are a versatile and impactful solution for any space transformation project. Whether you’re a retailer, exhibitor, or corporate brand, incorporating SEG fabric walls into your space design strategy can help you stand out and make a lasting impression on your audience.

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