Imagine using a robot to mark the exhibition hall before your event moves in. While some trade and consumer shows are already using the tech to automate and streamline move-in, others may not be aware that it’s even a possibility, if their contractor or venue is not partnering with a supplier like August Robotics.

For the last five years, August Robotics has provided high-efficiency, guided robots to simplify event setup. As of Aug. 6, the company has marked 9.7 million square meters in 1,402 exhibition halls, saving more than 35,875 hours, according to August Robotics Chief Product Officer Leo Li.

At the Exhibition Services Contractors Association (ESCA) Summer Educational Conference 2024 in Hot Springs, Virg., TSNN’s Danica Tormohlen caught up with August Robotics VP, Sales North America Faris Irandoost in their booth to find out more about event tech. 

Here are the highlights from our Q&A with Irandoost. Watch the full interview here. 

Tell us about the product.

We've been around for about five years now, and our robots go around in pairs with guiding stations that guide them to make floor markings on the ground. We can mark on any surface—concrete, carpets, parking lots, etc. The robots mark roughly around 85 to 95 marks per hour. The aim is to make floor markings easier, more efficient, and cost-effective.

Who are some of the contractors that you are already working with?

We have done a lot of work for Freeman and GES. Fern has a long-term engagement with us. Some venues within ASM have engaged us for a trial, and we have other sporadic service jobs. We are flexible with our turnaround times and work quite a bit with production companies.

So you work with venues, production companies, and even venues directly, not necessarily show organizers directly, right?
Correct. Sometimes show organizers approach us directly, and we collaborate with their general service contractor to execute the task.

Tell us about some of the pros of using the technology.

With technology comes more automation, efficiency, and cost savings. Also, our robots can work around the clock handling complex layouts and designs.

What are some of the biggest shows you've worked with?

We've done notable work in Indianapolis and Columbus, Ohio, with events like Origins, and many large tech events in Las Vegas, such as Dell Technologies World and HP Discover.

What are some new features that have been recently introduced or are in development right now with the product?

We're introducing new features such as a snake path feature on iPads for easier follow-through, quicker calibration points, and enhanced consumable life cycles.

What are some challenges that might make it hard to work with a particular venue or a show?

Clearing floor space can be challenging, but our technology is designed to navigate obstacles. Also, educating the labor pool on using our technology is key.

Give us an idea about the size of the equipment.

Two people can pick it up, it's easily transportable, and we provide all necessary equipment and consumables.

Want to see the robot in action? Watch a video here.

Photos: August Robotics