Welcome and thank you for choosing to be a participant in The National Franchise Show – Houston.
Please take a moment to read the exhibitor manual, which will provide you with all of the necessary information for the preparation and installation of your exhibit. Processing your orders at your earliest convenience will allow us and the service-contractors time to provide you with the best possible rates & service.
The Show Office will be set up at the George R Brown Convention Center, on Friday, March 13, 2026 at noon and management will be available to assist you for the duration of the Show.
Table of Content
- General Information (Location, Dates, & Times)
- Exhibit Application Inclusions
- Checklist
- Audiovisual
- Booth Backdrops
- Booth Cleaning
- Booth Installation & Dismantle
- Electrical
- Exhibitor Badge
- Federal ID Number
- Food Sampling
- Franchise Show & Conference Schedule
- Free Admission Passes
- Furniture (Show Decorator)
- Hotel
- Insurance
- Lead Retrieval System
- Loading Docks
- Move-in Instructions
- Move-out Instructions
- Parking
- Rules & Regulations
- Shipping & Deliveries
- Show Decorator (Furniture & Display Rental)
- Show Guide Ads & Sponsorship
- Telephone / Internet / WIFI
- Tips to Success
- Vehicles on Show Floor
GENERAL INFORMATION
Show Location
George R. Brown Convention Center
Ballroom A, B, & C (level 3)
1001 Avenida De Las Americas
Houston, TX
77010
Show Dates & Times
Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Exhibitor Move-in Times
Friday, March 13, 2026 | 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Exhibitor Move-Out Dates & Times
Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Produced By
National Event Management
Suite #102
260 Town Centre Blvd.,
Markham ON
L3R 8H8
Tel: (905) 477-2677 or (800) 891-4859
Exhibitor Coordinator
Emma Barnes – Chow
Tel: 905 477-2677 or (800) 891-4859 Ext 284
Email: emma@nationalevent.com
Exhibit Application Inclusions
Your exhibit application cost includes the following:
- Carpet
- 8 ft back drape
- 3 ft side drapes on each side of booth
- Up to 6 exhibitor badges
- Material handling for one (1) skid only (from loading docks to booth). Additional charges may apply for additional skids.
Items such as tables, chairs, and electrical are NOT included. If you require these in your booth, you may rent from our official show vendors identified below in this Exhibitor Manual.
All booth designs and activities must comply with the rules and regulations of the Show and Venue.
Exhibitor Checklist
Please print a copy of this checklist to assist you in planning for the Show. To take advantage of “early booking discounts” please note booking deadlines.
AUDIO / VISUAL RENTALS
ADVANCED PRICING DEADLINE: February 27, 2026
If you require audio-visual equipment in your booth, please place your ORDER ONLINE.
If you have questions, please contact:
Jackson Fowler
Office: 713-853-8063
Cell: 832-922-9676
Email: jack.fowler@stagingsolutions.com
Booth Backdrops
If you require a pop-up banner or backdrop, please contact:
Corporate Display Specialties (CDS)
Nina Cote
Tel: 1-800-367-2531
Email: nina@cdsdisplays.com
http://www.ezbackdrops.com/
BOOTH CLEANING
BOOKING DEADLINE: May 19, 2025
Exhibitors are responsible for maintaining their own booth space. If you require in-booth vacuuming, this service can be ordered from
George R. Brown Convention Center
Email: GRB-ExhibitorServices@houstonfirst.com
Tel: 713-853-8907 / 346-453-9544
BOOTH INSTALLATION & DISMANTLING
PRE-SHOW BOOKING DEADLINE: TBD
Should you require assistance setting up or dismantling your booth, these services can be ordered online.
Gamut Event Services is the official show decorator. To place any show services orders, please visit the online exhibitor portal. Gamut Event Services will be sending a unique login to the email we have on file, you will receive an email from ES@GAMUTSVS.COM All orders are online only. You may also visit their website at www.gamutsvs.com.
If you have any questions, please contact their exhibitor services department at:
Gamut Event Services
Tel: 626-7716-4436
Email: es@gamutsvs.com
Electrical
BOOKING DEADLINE: February 27, 2026
Electrical is not supplied to your booth. If you require an electrical hookup, you can place your order by filling in the ordering form below and sending it to customerservice@smartcitynetworks.com OR place your ORDER ONLINE HERE
If you have any questions, please contact:
Smart City Networks – George R. Brown Convention Center
Smart City Customer Service Line: 888-446-6911
GRB Houston Smart City Line: 713-853-8900
Email: customerservice@smartcitynetworks.com
SMART CITY ORDER FORM
ORDER ONLINE HERE
ELECTRICAL TERMS & CONDITIONS
Exhibitor Badges
BOOKING DEADLINE: March 6, 2026
We have implemented a new automatic badge system to simplify the request process. Exhibitors are provided with up to a maximum of 6 personalized name badges based on the size of your booth. Badges will be available for pick up at the Show Office during move-in and must be worn to gain admittance to the Show.
Visit the EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION PORTAL to register your booth staff for the Houston Franchise Show. You can visit this portal at any time to manage your company’s staff badges. You will need to enter your Access Code to manage your company’s account. Your Access Code will be emailed to the main contact from your company roughly 8-weeks before show date. Contact exhibitors@nationalevent.com if you did not receive your access code, please mention company name and show location.
Federal ID Number
The Federal ID Number for the venue is 76-0651209. You will require this number to clear customs.
Food Sampling
FORM SUBMISSION DEADLINE: February 12, 2026
If you are planning on sampling food or beverage product in your booth, please note there are two necessary steps to complete
NOTE: Items dispensed are limited to the products manufactured or processed by the exhibiting company and must be related to the theme of the show.
Food samples are limited to “bite size” portions of 3 ounce or less, and Beverages may be dispensed in containers holding no more than 4 ounces. NO ALCOHOL ALLOWED.
VENUE APPROVAL:
Please complete the VENUE SAMPLING FORM and return it to both emma@nationalevent.com and DWitherspoon@LevyRestaurants.com
Please ensure you are complying with the guidelines listed within the application. If you do not complete this form and do not comply with the guidelines, you could be closed down if an inspector comes to the show.
For questions concerning sampling, please contact:
Destiny Witherspoon
Email: DWitherspoon@LevyRestaurants.com
PUBLIC HEALTH APPROVAL:
Please note that there are two forms needed for public health approval.
1. Please complete the TEMPORARY FOOD PERMIT
2. Please contact emma@nationalevent.com to receive an “Event Coordinator Authorization Form” that must be submitted along with your temporary food permit.
Please email your completed application, the owner/agent/event coordinator authorization form, and any other required documents (photo id, copy of your Texas Sales and use tax id, food manager/handler certificate, etc.) as one or more attachments to TempFoodPermit@HoustonTx.Gov
NOTE: Links to applications on cloud-based sites are NOT acceptable. Please include the start date and facility/booth name in the subject line of your email
There are fees involved.
Your application will be reviewed and if approved, an invoice including instructions and options for making an online payment will be emailed to you at the email address provided on your application.
If your application is not approved, a notice of required revisions, corrections, and/or additional documents needed will be emailed to you at the address provided on the application. When responding to a notice of required revisions, please resubmit your entire application package.
VENUE SAMPLING FORM
TEMPORARY FOOD PERMIT
PUBLIC HEALTH APPLICATION WEBSITE & INFORMATION
Franchise Show & Conference Schedule
FREE ADMISSION PASSES
Raise awareness and let people know you will be at The National Franchise Show! Increase traffic to your booth by sharing free admission passes to the event. There is no limit to the number of FREE Admission Passes you may share to your email database, as well as on social media. Please share the registration link below for free passes or download a copy of our generic FREE Admission Pass.
- Free Admission Pass: https://unitytickets.com/se/FRANCHISEHOUS2026/Ticket?utm_discount=EXHIBITOR
- Generic Free Admission Coupon (.jpg): CLICK HERE
- Generic Free Admission Coupon (.pdf): CLICK HERE
Furniture (Show Decorator)
BOOKING DEADLINE: TBD
Carpet, 8ft back drape and 3 ft side drape are supplied for your exhibit space. If you require tables, chairs or additional booth supplies, these items can be rented online.
Gamut Event Services is the official show decorator. To place any show services orders, please visit the online exhibitor portal. Gamut Event Services will be sending a unique login to the email we have on file, you will receive an email from ES@GAMUTSVS.COM All orders are online only. You may also visit their website at www.gamutsvs.com.
If you have any questions please contact their exhibitor services department at:
Gamut Event Services
Tel: 626-7716-4436
Email: es@gamutsvs.com
Show Colours:
- Booth Drapes:
- Aisle Carpet:
- Booth Carpet:
Hotel
BOOKING DEADLINE: February 10, 2026
Rooms and discounted rate will only be held until the specified date.
Rooms will then be subject to availability at prevailing rates.
We have obtained a group rate of $259.00 + taxes at the Hiltons Americas.
Hiltons Americas – Houston
1600 Lamar St
Houston, TX
77010
Reservations may be made online using this BOOKING LINK
To receive this rate you must mention that you are with The Franchise Show – Houston when booking. Rates cannot be changed at check-in/check-out times if you fail to identify your affiliation at the time of booking.
Insurance
Insurance for booth/show
Exhibitors must have their own liability insurance covering a minimum of $1 million in damages. Please list National Event Management as “additional insured”.
Transportation Insurance
Show Management is NOT responsible for damages caused during the transportation of your products. We strongly recommend purchasing transportation insurance when booking your shipments.
Liability
Exhibitors will be liable for, will indemnify, and will hold harmless Show Management from any loss or damage whatsoever occurring to, or suffered by, any person or company. This includes, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, exhibitor, other exhibitors, management, the owners of the building and their respective agents, servants and employees, and members of the public attending the show, either (a) on the said space or (b) elsewhere. Neither the facility nor Show Management will be responsible for loss or damage to persons, exhibits, or decorations by fire, accident, theft, or any cause while in the exhibition buildings.
Insurance Supplier
If you do not already have insurance for the show, you may contact:
Exhibitor Insurance
Phone: 905-695-2971
Toll Free: 1-866-836-9066
Email: info@exhibitorinsurance.com
Exhibitor Insurance Brokers.com is offering a special price for the show at $139 + taxes.
Please click on the link here to access their form: ONLINE EXHIBITOR INSURANCE
Lead Retrieval System
We have implemented a NEW Lead Collection System at The National Franchise Show.
All attendees will now be badged! Attendees will have to register and obtain their QR name badge before stepping on the show floor, making it even easier for you to scan and capture their information!
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW THIS WORKS
TO ORDER LEAD RETRIEVAL (NOTE: your company will only be listed in the show’s drop-down if you have not already ordered)
Loading Docks
You are able to use docks 56, 58, & 59.
The address is Level 3, 615 Chartres Street. Entry is on the left, right before Texas Ave.
Loading Dock Access on Level 3, there is RAMP access (NORTH ramp).
For GPS entry to find the North Ramp, use this address – 615 Chartres St, Houston, TX 77003, USA
Take Avenida de las Americas South > Left on Polk Street > Left on Chartres (Road behind the GRB) > Pass the GRB by two blocks> Crossover Rusk Street and Capitol St > After driving over Capitol St at the end of the block before Texas Street the NORTH RAMP is on the left-hand side.
– North RAMP Entry Gate located on the left-hand side of Chartres Street/before Texas St.
– Stop at the Security post once the driver pulls into the Entrance Gate to check-in. Mention the event name.
– One way in and one way out, off the Ramp. Exit the opposite side.
– GRB Dispatch 24-hour Security # 713-853-8087 ( Call if driver gets lost and/or when they are at the bottom of the gate to open the interior gate if no guard).
– Once up the ramp, you can use the following Docks (56, 57, & 58) to unload, identified in LOADING DOCK MAP
Dollies and a pump truck will be available for your use. If you require a forklift to move material from the dock to your booth, a forklift will be available to you. However, if you have excessive forklift requirements (more than 1 skid of product), please contact Emma Barnes-Chow (emma@nationalevent.com) to discuss your needs. A charge may apply.
Move-in Instructions
Move -in Times: Friday, Marcch 13, 2026 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
- All exhibitors must officially register before setting up.
- All exhibits must be set up by 6:00 pm Friday. Exhibitors will not be permitted to set up during show hours.
- The aisle carpet will be in place Saturday morning. Dollies and carts WILL NOT be permitted on the carpet. Hand-carried items only may be brought in on Saturday.
- Children 15 years of age or younger will not be permitted in the exhibit area during move-in, set-up, or tear down.
Move-out Instructions
Move -Out Times: Sunday, March 5, 2026 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Please note that move-out will begin once the show has closed, the aisles are cleared and the aisle carpets removed. If you are able to hand carry your supplies out to your car, we encourage you to do so. Dismantling or removing your exhibit/exhibit materials before the end of the show is strictly prohibited.
All material must be removed by 8:00 pm
Items left on the show floor after move-out time will be forced off the floor. Show Management reserves the right to reroute shipments that are not picked up or refused by carriers. Should this occur, you will be responsible for any charges incurred.
Exhibitors are encouraged to remove small items and open cases of products from the show floor first. Show Management will take all reasonable security precautions, but immediate removal of these items is the best way to
prevent pilferage.
NOTE: All exhibitors using HAUListic must move freight after the show must have booth materials packed and ready for pick up at the loading dock. Please provide our sales staff onsite with your paperwork before leaving the show site.
Parking
Centrally located in downtown Houston, the GRB is easily accessible from all areas of the city- no matter how you choose to commute. There are several convenient parking options on campus located just a short walk from the convention center.
Rules & Regulations
Diagram #1: Sample of the drape provided for your booth
Diagram #2: Sample of display allowance
Upright banners & products must be within 4’ from the back drape, and a maximum of 8’ high. The front 6’ of the booth must be clear above 4’.
Booth Display & Restrictions
- Diagram#1 shows the drapes that are provided as a part of your booth cost.
- Diagram#2 shows the allowed clearance for displays, banners, and products within your booth.
- No exhibit may exceed a maximum height of 8 ft.
- Side panels 8 ft. high, must not exceed a depth of 4 ft. extending from the back of the display.
- The remainder of the 6 ft depth from the front of the booth must not exceed a 4 ft. height.
- Any exceptions to this must have pre-approval from Emma Barnes-Chow (emma@nationalevent.com)
Prefab booth partitions must be finished on both sides. If they are not, please request drapes prior to the show.
Signage
No signage or material may be extended above the 8ft height at the back of your booth nor hung from the ceiling or across the aisle, without approval from Show Management. All signs must be printed on one side only. Your brand messaging can only face the inner walls of your exhibit space.
Carpet or Flooring
Carpet is provided within your booth space. If you would like to change the colour, you may order different flooring through our decorator at your own cost or you may bring your own. *Please be sure to review the Tape Restrictions below.
Tape (Floor, Wall, and Carpet Damage)
This only applies to companies that choose to place carpet or flooring on top of the existing carpet.
It is important that you use the proper carpet tape in your booth. If you do not use the correct tape there will be a charge for tape removal.
Here are the models of two-faced tapes that are authorized by the facility.
- Polyken 105c LPDE
- Scapa 274004
- DC W002A
If you bring your own carpet, you must adhere to the above Tape Restrictions. If you do not have the proper tape, please notify Show Management before installing your carpet or tiles.
If you would like to install your carpet on top of the existing carpet, please contact Emma Barnes-Chow (emma@nationalevent.com)
Restrictions for Booth Installation
Painting, nailing, drilling, or screwing to the floors, walls or any other part of the building is not permitted. Exhibitors are also responsible for oil, grease, or any general damage to the carpeted area. Exhibitors wishing to lay any floor coverings may not fasten the coverings to the building floor. It is suggested that building paper or the approved tape (Polyken 105c LPDE OR Scapa 274004 OR DC W002A) is used instead.
Demonstrations/Distributions
Displays, demonstrations or distribution of advertising materials, are not permitted outside the confines of your booth. If audio visual equipment is used, the sound must be subdued to such an extent as to ensure it’s having no nuisance effect on neighbouring exhibitors. The use of microphones is not permitted without prior management approval.
Fire Regulations
All exhibitors planning to use any type of fuel (such as gas, oil, helium gas, or propane) in their exhibits are requested to contact Show Management. All displays or exhibited materials must be fireproof to conform to Federal, Provincial/State, and City Fire Laws.
National Event Management is obligated to abide by the Fire Code regulations in each city. We therefore retain the right to refuse any material or object that does not confirm to code. If you have a question or need information regarding the Fire Code please contact Emma Barnes-Chow (emma@nationalevent.com)
Animals in the Show
The facility’s policy prohibits the presence of animals unless they are used as a working dog. Permission must be obtained from the facility for any exception. Please contact Emma Barnes-Chow (emma@nationalevent.com) regarding approval and the necessary forms.
Helium Balloons
Helium balloons are prohibited in most venues. There is a large retrieval fee, charged to the exhibitor when balloons are lost. Please contact Emma Barnes-Chow (emma@nationalevent.com) if you wish to use helium balloons in your display.
Mechanical Conveyances
Mechanical Conveyances such as electric carts, scooters, or bicycles will not be allowed in the aisles during the show hours. The only exceptions to this rule will be in the case of handicapped persons visiting the show, or those with authorization from Show Management.
Non-Compliance
National Event Management reserves the right to make changes, amendments, and additions to the rules and regulations without notice, as considered necessary to the efficient and proper conduct of the show. Interpretation of these rules and regulations shall rest with Show Management and non-compliance can result in ejection of the offending exhibitor or in the closing of his/her exhibit.
SHIPPING & DELIVERIES
Shipping Direct To Show: Friday, March 13, 2026
PLEASE NOTE: The facility will NOT accept shipments prior to the Show move-in date. Show Management will sign for the delivery on your behalf during move-in hours only. Your materials will be left at the dock until you arrive. To move your items to your booth space, pump trucks and dollies will be available at no charge. Should you require assistance or the use of a forklift, please contact Emma Barnes-Chow (emma@nationalevent.com) as charges may apply.
The most cost-effective way to ship your items to the show is to arrange delivery during move-in hours with our Official Show Carrier;
HAUListic
Tel: (859) 254-4112 or (800) 388-4112
Email: LEX@shiphaulistic.com
Please address shipments to:
Exhibiting Name, Booth #
The National Franchise Show – Houston
You may choose to use another carrier; however, keep in mind that not all carriers deliver and pick up during our scheduled move-in/move-out times.
NOTE:
After freight is packed at the end of the show it must be moved to the dock area for pick up. Freight that is left on the show floor will incur a handling fee.
All exhibitors using Haulistic must move freight after the show must have booth materials packed and ready for pick up at the loading dock. Please provide our sales staff onsite with your paperwork before leaving the show site.
Pre-Show Shipping
Show Decorator (Furniture & Display Rental)
BOOKING DEADLINE: TBD
Carpet, 8ft back drape and 3 ft side drape are supplied for your exhibit space. If you require tables, chairs or additional booth supplies, these items can be rented online.
Gamut Event Services is the official show decorator. To place any show services orders, please visit the online exhibitor portal. Gamut Event Services will be sending a unique login to the email we have on file, you will receive an email from ES@GAMUTSVS.COM All orders are online only. You may also visit their website at www.gamutsvs.com.
If you have any questions please contact their exhibitor services department at:
Gamut Event Services
Tel: 626-7716-4436
Email: es@gamutsvs.com
Show Colours:
- Booth Drapes:
- Aisle Carpet:
- Booth Carpet:
Show Guide Ad & Sponsorship Opportunities
Stand Out at The Franchise Show
Boost your brand visibility with show advertising and customizable sponsorships designed to maximize your exposure before, during, and after the event.
- Our Show Guides are handed to every attendee and taken home—keeping your brand top of mind long after the show ends.
- Sponsorships: From onsite branding to digital promos, we offer a range of opportunities to help you connect with serious prospects.
Interested? Let’s find the right fit for your brand. Contact Michael Hyam at michael@nationalevent.com or 905-477-2677 ext. 270 for more details.
Telephone / Internet / WIFI
BOOKING DEADLINE: February 27, 2026
Please Note: This venue only has paid WIFI.
Complimentary WIFI is offered in all public spaces and meeting rooms.
If you require a telephone or internet line, or a WIFI connection in your booth, you can place your order by filling in the ordering form below and sending it to customerservice@smartcitynetworks.com OR place your ORDER ONLINE HERE
If you have any questions, please contact:
Smart City Networks – George R. Brown Convention Center
Smart City Customer Service Line: 888-446-6911
GRB Houston Smart City Line: 713-853-8900
Email: customerservice@smartcitynetworks.com
WIFI INFORMATION
SMART CITY ORDER FORM
ORDER ONLINE HERE
INTERNET TERMS & CONDITIONS
Tips for Success
Please review the "Tips for Success" PDF below for important information on how to make the most out of exhibiting with us!
Vehicles on Show Floor
No Vehicles are allowed on the Show Floor for this venue.