Why Custom Lanyards Are a Trade Show Must-Have
If you’ve ever been to a trade show, you’ve probably noticed one thing everyone seems to have in common: they’re wearing a lanyard. These simple straps around the neck have become a staple at events like these, especially in the USA, where trade shows are big business.

But what makes custom lanyards so popular, and why should you consider them for your next event? Let’s dive in.
A Practical Tool with a Purpose
At their core, lanyards are all about convenience. With a badge holder attached, they keep your ID, access pass, or business card front and center, no fumbling in pockets or bags required. At a busy trade show, where networking and quick introductions are key, this small detail makes a big difference.
Attendees can spot your name or company logo at a glance, sparking conversations that might otherwise never happen.
Custom lanyards take it a step further. Imagine your brand’s colors, logo, or tagline printed on a lanyard with a sleek badge holder. It’s like a walking billboard that follows your team, or even attendees, around the event.
In the USA, where over 12.6 billion dollars were generated by trade shows in 2015 alone (a number that’s only grown since), standing out in the crowd is no small feat. A well-designed lanyard helps you do just that.
By the Numbers: Lanyards in Action
Trade shows are a massive deal in the USA, with thousands of events happening yearly. According to industry insights, the average trade show sees anywhere from 5,000 to 180,000 attendees, depending on its size, like CES, one of the biggest, with over 180,000 visitors. Organizers often rely on lanyards to manage this chaos.
A 2022 report from Display Wizard noted that most exhibitors plan to increase their presence at in-person trade shows over the next few years, and custom lanyards remain a top choice for branding and logistics.
One study even suggested that booths using branded giveaways like lanyards see up to 40% more engagement from attendees. Why? People love useful freebies, and a lanyard with a badge holder is something they’ll actually keep using, long after the event ends.
More Than Just a Giveaway
Beyond branding, custom lanyards serve practical roles at trade shows. Event organizers often use different colors to mark staff, VIPs, or attendees with special access, think blue for exhibitors, red for security, or gold for speakers.
This simple trick keeps things running smoothly in a sea of people. Plus, they’re durable enough to last the day (or days) of nonstop networking, which is a win for everyone involved.
Why Go Custom?
Sure, you could grab plain lanyards off the shelf, but custom ones are where the magic happens. They’re affordable, especially in bulk, and let you showcase your identity in a way that pens or notepads just can’t match. Add a badge holder, and you’ve got a professional, polished look that says you mean business.
So, next time you’re prepping for a trade show, don’t overlook the humble lanyard. In the USA’s bustling trade show scene, it’s a small investment that delivers big returns, both in practicality and in making your brand unforgettable.