The Association of Exhibition Contractors is a trade association representing contractors and suppliers of goods and services to the exhibition industry . It shares a secretariat with its sister organisation the Association of Exhibition Organisers (AEO) and thus benefits from the central information source and all the services developed by the AEO. The development of a closer relationship and understanding between organisers their suppliers and exhibitors can only benefit the industry as a whole.

This closer relationship is partly demonstrated by way of joint working groups covering a range of issues into which all sides of the industry have an important input. It is also a major step towards the goal of enabling the industry to speak with a united voice when striving to increase its share of the marketing cake. 

 
The aims of the AEC are to work in partnership with organisers and venues to promote quality and value for exhibitors thus raising the profile of exhibitions as a medium.and to offer support services to its members to help them achieve and maintain these standards 
 
 
Membership is open to any company whose principal business involves supplying organisers, exhibitors, venues and/or other exhibition contractors.

Companies must have submitted one set of accounts at Companies House.
 

• Joint working parties to address the key issues affecting the industry.
• Sharing a central source of information and customer research
• Organisation of training courses tailored to fit member needs
• Establishment of quality standards endorsed by organisers
• Member support services include recruitment, legal advice and health and safety
• Regular industry updates via the dedicated website and monthly magazine
• Networking events both business and social