For the first time ever, The Experiential Design Authority oversaw the BOSS Awards (Best of Show Stand Awards) competition at the 2026 National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) Show in Las Vegas. This unofficial awards program highlights the most outstanding exhibits that elevate attendee engagement and push the boundaries of what is possible in exhibit design.

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What We Recognize

Our BOSS Awards honor exhibits that demonstrate:

• Creative Excellence: Unique and imaginative concepts brought to life through exceptional design.

• Innovative Integration: Seamless incorporation of technology, storytelling, and interaction to captivate audiences.

• Impact: The ability to create memorable, immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression.

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Judging Process

This is a complimentary competition with no entry fees. As such, all exhibits were evaluated onsite in Las Vegas, and a preliminary panel chose 30 finalists, as well as five finalists for a special Best Small Exhibit award that recognizes 10-by-10-foot spaces. Those finalists will then be scored by a seven-member panel of judges comprising members of our U.S. and international advisory boards. All finalists will be recognized during a live webinar in November, during which the final rankings will be announced. 

 

To ensure fairness and transparency:

• Judges are not told which exhibit houses or agencies are behind the entries.

• The highest and lowest scores are removed to avoid the impact of individual bias.

• Cumulative scores will be shared with participants after the program.

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Eligibility

To qualify, exhibits must be on the official NACS show floor (including the North and Central LVCC exhibit halls). At least 50 percent of the square footage and/or a substantial portion of the in-booth experience must be open to NACS attendees. In other words, off-floor activations as well as invite-only or by-appointment-only exhibits are ineligible.

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Recognition and Awards

Finalists were notified in mid-October and announced via a press release on The Experiential Design Authority and Exhibit City News channels.

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The top five exhibits, as well as the top-ranked Best Small Exhibit winner and People's Choice winner, will receive free custom trophies. Following the event, a press release will be distributed announcing the winners, which will receive coverage via The Experiential Design Authority and Exhibit City News outlets and social channels. Top-ranked exhibits will also be featured as a TEDA "Exhibit of the Day" in the coming months. All finalists will be invited to order trophies to commemorate their achievement. 

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Stay tuned as we unveil the finalists and winners who redefine the future of experiential design at NACS 2026!