Digital Hive Mind was contracted by Forest City Gear to design, build, and manage their exhibit at Motion + Power Technology Expo (MPT Expo), October 17-19 in Detroit. The biannual show, formerly called Gear Expo, was coordinated by the America Gear Manufacturers Association, and co-located with ASM International’s Heat Treat and IMAT conference. The combined show drew nearly 4,500 attendees and 336 exhibiting organizations.

Digital Hive Mind designed and built a new exhibit space for Forest City Gear to debut at MPT Expo. The components can be re-arranged into multiple floor plans, guaranteeing flexibility for future shows.

The design focuses on showcasing three core elements: Forest City Gear samples, industries served and capabilities. First, we designed a large gear table to display all types of gears. The 3D-printed gear table incorporates an old school rotating logo, bringing a retro feel to the display. The table is backed up by an illuminated wall that showcases industries served with an emphasis on FCG’s contributions to space exploration. The other side of the exhibit is a lounge area with 60s soft seating, providing a place for customers meet, relax, and view a Capabilities video that brings them into the FCG facility to witness the manufacturing process. Creatively, we wanted to merge modern cutting-edge manufacturing with a bit of nostalgia.

Jason Farris, Co-Founder & Creative Director, Digital Hive Mind

In addition to exhibit design and construction, Digital Hive Mind handled planning and execution for show promotion. A pre-show advertising campaign ran in print, social, and Google search channels promoting pre-registration for the show and driving show attendees to visit Forest City Gear’s booth. Digital Hive Mind also designed tumblers as show premiums, custom throw pillows adorned with Forest City Gear brand elements and slogans, and a “life-sized” cutout of the Forest City Gear mascot “Geary” for photos.