In South America and Asia, offering your guests wine or a drink from a well-stocked bar is considered not only cordial, but essential. In China, where deals are always made in a vendor's private suite away from the tradeshow floor, drinks are an inseparable ingredient in the negotiations. Cigarette smoking is practically extinct in the U.S., but not so in other countries. In most of Europe, South America and especially Asia, people smoke everywhere. Consequently, a well-stocked booth isn't complete without a supply of ashtrays handy at least, and cigarettes to offer at best.
Smoking is also a factor to consider in the design of an exhibit as well.
Ashes and cigarette butts dropped during the show can make a mess of the wrong kind of flooring. Hardwood or other durable surfacing can minimize the destructive nature of burning cigarettes. Companies often avoid using exhibit hostesses in fear of criticism, bad press and even lawsuits from disgruntled employees. They usually have another day job and use trade show work for extra income. Some of the best do it on a full-time basis.