From Reset to Recognition: OATI Elevates Its Trade Show Strategy
How Nimlok North transformed a logistical challenge into a credibility-building presence that drove their business forward.
Client Challenge: Realignment and Elevation
Open Access Technology International (OATI), a leader in energy software solutions, knew its trade show program needed a reset. Their existing booth no longer reflected the brand they had become. They weren’t just looking for a vendor—they needed a partner who could listen, understand and elevate their presence.
Before partnering with Nimlok North, OATI was managing too much internally—shipping, storage, last-minute fixes—and the burden on their internal team had become unsustainable. More importantly, their presence on the show floor wasn’t aligned with the credibility they had been actively earning in the energy market.
It took a misrouted booth shipment and an on-site scramble to catalyze change. The OATI team began the process of finding a new exhibit partner—one that could reduce internal challenges and help them elevate their image and grow.
“We were trying to do it all ourselves,” said Jerry Dempsey, EVP and Chief Business Development Officer at OATI. “We reached a point where we knew it wasn’t sustainable. Then add the mismatch between our growing leadership position in the market and our presence on the show floor. It became apparent we needed to look beyond our internal walls.”
Solution: A Strategic Fit
During a site visit and strategy session with Nimlok North, the turning point came. The team didn’t just pitch booth designs—they asked about OATI’s brand, people, engagement style and future goals. It was less about structure and more about strategic fit.
“Once I saw the actual builds Nimlok North had done and how they came to life through the in-depth process they use with their clients, I understood what we were missing. It was the real deal,” said Dempsey.
That consultative approach formed the basis of a long-term partnership. Nimlok North helped OATI evolve its exhibit presence over the years from a 40-by-50-foot booth to an 80-by-210-foot flagship space, with an additional 30-by-40-foot activation area.
“Each year, we review what worked, what didn’t and we iterate,” said Dempsey. “It’s not just a structure. It’s a story. A signal tothe market that we’re a serious player.”
From layout to electrical to on-site support, Nimlok North became a seamless extension of OATI’s team. But it wasn’t just about logistics—it was about showing up with purpose.
“We don’t worry about logistics anymore,” said Dempsey. “We show up. The booth is ready. We go to work.”
Results: Transformational Execution
The new custom modular exhibit didn’t just streamline execution—it changed perception. With a clear, well-executed space aligned to their brand and values, OATI’s presence was impossible to miss.
“It gave us credibility before we even said a word,” said Dempsey. “The visibility—our presence—it moved us into the top tier in our space.”
The booth became more than a structure. It became a symbol of how OATI shows up, what it stands for and where it’s headed.That presence turned heads and turned conversations. It made prospects lean in and competitors take note.
When the trade show floor becomes a brand stage, executionisn’t just tactical. It’s transformational. And that’s exactly what Nimlok North delivered.
