Introduction
The global events industry was valued at $736.8 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% from 2024 to 2035, reaching an estimated $2.5 trillion by 2035. Trade shows and events are integral to a company’s success in building relationships, generating leads, and driving sales. But as the competition grows fiercer, the challenge for event organizers and exhibitors is clear: how can they ensure that every interaction at the event translates into valuable data that can be used to follow up and convert prospects into loyal customers?
Enter lead retrieval apps. These digital tools are becoming essential in capturing and managing leads effectively, helping event participants turn brief interactions into long-term business relationships. But with numerous options available, it can be difficult to identify the best fit for your event. As the demands of event technology evolve, selecting the right lead retrieval app will play a critical role in maximizing ROI.
In 2025, lead retrieval apps have become more sophisticated. They not only capture attendee information but also enrich it in real-time, engage prospects, and seamlessly integrate with CRM systems for easy follow-up. Gone are the days of manual note-taking or clunky spreadsheets. Today’s apps streamline the entire lead management process, empowering exhibitors and organizers to make data-driven decisions with ease. A global survey of business meetings professionals conducted in late 2024 revealed that six out of ten respondents anticipated a rise in in-person attendance at such events in the year ahead.
In this post, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a lead retrieval app and introduce you to the top apps you should consider for trade shows and events in 2025.
What Makes a Great Lead Retrieval App in 2025?
Essential Features for Exhibitors and Organizers
When evaluating lead retrieval apps, it’s crucial to consider what features will make the process smoother for both exhibitors and organizers. A strong lead retrieval app should help streamline operations, enhance data collection, and improve lead qualification efforts. Key features include:
- Fast Data Capture: Whether through scanning badges or business cards, the ability to capture attendee information quickly and accurately is vital.
- Integration with CRM Systems: The app should seamlessly integrate with your existing CRM platform to allow for immediate follow-ups.
- Real-Time Data: The app should provide live updates so exhibitors can track leads as they come in and adapt strategies as needed.
The Shift from Manual Entry to Intelligent, Automated Lead Enrichment
Manual lead entry is time-consuming and prone to errors. In 2025, the best lead retrieval apps are implementing AI and automation to enrich data on the fly. For example, many apps automatically append company details, social media profiles, and relevant notes to leads captured during the event. This not only saves time but also ensures that the data gathered is rich and actionable.
Key Capabilities to Look For
As you look to adopt a lead retrieval app for your next event, make sure the app includes the following capabilities:
- AI-Powered Lead Enrichment and Qualification: Apps that use artificial intelligence can enhance lead data with valuable context, helping exhibitors better prioritize leads.
- Real-Time Engagement Tracking and Analytics: With in-app analytics, exhibitors can see how attendees interact with their booth, which can provide insight into interest levels and conversion likelihood.
- Seamless CRM Integration: Lead retrieval apps should integrate with your CRM for smooth lead transfer and follow-up scheduling.
- Offline Data Capture and Reliability: Trade shows often occur in locations with limited or unreliable internet access. An app that works offline and syncs data once internet access is restored is a must.
- Gamification and Attendee Engagement Tools: Many lead retrieval apps now include gamification features, such as rewards for booth visits or activities, which help keep attendees engaged and encourage them to share more information.
The Top Lead Retrieval Apps for Trade Shows and Events
1. Momencio – AI-Driven Lead Enrichment
Momencio stands out as a leading lead retrieval app thanks to its cutting-edge AI capabilities. It captures leads through badge scans and business card scanning, but what sets it apart is its ability to enrich leads in real time. With Momencio, exhibitors can capture richer prospect profiles, including company details, social media links, and engagement history, all while the event is ongoing.
- Key Features:
- AI-powered lead qualification and enrichment
- Real-time lead nurturing and engagement tracking
- Seamless CRM integration
- Excellent mobile app interface
This app is ideal for exhibitors who want a fully automated solution for not just capturing but also engaging and nurturing leads on-site.
2. iCapture – Universal, Fast, and Reliable
When speed and reliability are top priorities, iCapture is a great option. Known for its rapid badge and business card scanning, this app works well even in areas with limited internet connectivity. The offline mode ensures that no leads are missed, regardless of network issues.
- Key Features:
- Offline mode for uninterrupted lead capture
- Customizable qualifiers for real-time lead scoring
- Automated follow-up emails and gamification features
- Instant CRM sync
iCapture is a versatile app, perfect for large events where exhibitors need to process hundreds or even thousands of leads quickly and efficiently.
3. Boomset – Streamlined User Experience
Boomset provides an excellent lead retrieval app that is simple to use yet powerful in its functionality. With fast badge scanning and customizable lead tagging, exhibitors can tailor the app to their needs. It also provides robust reporting and analytics to help measure event performance in real time.
- Key Features:
- Fast badge scanning and lead tagging
- Real-time analytics for quick decision-making
- Flexible export options and CRM integration
- User-friendly interface for event staff
Boomset is an excellent choice for exhibitors looking for a no-fuss, reliable lead retrieval app with a strong focus on user experience.
4. Cvent LeadCapture – Seamless Event Ecosystem Integration
If your event is already using Cvent’s event management platform, then Cvent LeadCapture offers seamless integration with their ecosystem. This app captures leads instantly and segments them in real-time within the Cvent platform. With its comprehensive analytics dashboard, it enables exhibitors to track lead quality and measure ROI effortlessly.
- Key Features:
- Instant lead capture and segmentation
- Built-in analytics dashboard for real-time insights
- Ideal for users already on Cvent’s platform
- Integration with Cvent’s event management tools
Cvent LeadCapture is perfect for large-scale events where integration with a broader event management platform is beneficial.
5. Leadature – Classic Reliability with Automated Follow-Up
Leadature offers a classic yet reliable lead retrieval solution. It supports multiple methods of lead capture, including badge scans, business card scans, and manual entries. Its real-time dashboards and instant follow-up email functionality make it easy to nurture leads quickly.
- Key Features:
- Multi-method lead capture
- Real-time lead dashboards and follow-up email automation
- White-label branding and strong CRM integrations
- Reliable and simple interface
For event organizers seeking a dependable, straightforward lead capture system, Leadature provides solid performance with easy customization options.
6. Zuddl – Hybrid Event Lead Management
As hybrid events continue to rise in popularity, Zuddl offers an ideal solution for managing leads across both in-person and virtual touchpoints. This app supports badge scanning for onsite events and combines data from virtual attendees as well, allowing exhibitors to track leads across all event formats seamlessly.
- Key Features:
- Hybrid event support for both onsite and virtual events
- Combined engagement tracking across physical and digital touchpoints
- Real-time lead sync and exportable data
- Customizable lead capture workflows
Zuddl is an excellent choice for organizers hosting hybrid events where lead management needs to span both in-person and virtual attendee experiences.
How to Choose the Right Lead Retrieval App for Your Event
Matching Features to Your Event Goals
Before selecting a lead retrieval app, consider your event’s specific needs. If you’re hosting a large trade show, you may prioritize speed and offline capabilities. For smaller, more personalized events, AI-powered lead enrichment and engagement tools might be more valuable. Match the features of the app to the outcomes you wish to achieve, whether it’s increasing engagement or improving lead quality.
Pricing, Scalability, and Support Considerations
Lead retrieval apps vary in pricing, often based on the number of leads, features, and level of support provided. Be sure to assess not just the cost but also the scalability of the app, especially if you plan to use it for future events. Additionally, evaluate the level of customer support, training, and onboarding provided by the app vendor to ensure a smooth experience for your team.
Future Trends in Lead Retrieval for 2025 and Beyond
The Rise of AI and Predictive Analytics
As AI continues to evolve, expect lead retrieval apps to become even more intelligent, with predictive analytics that help exhibitors qualify leads more effectively. These advancements will enable businesses to follow up with prospects who are most likely to convert, making post-event engagement more efficient.
Enhanced Attendee Engagement and Gamification
Gamification is expected to become more prominent in lead retrieval apps. By offering rewards for actions like booth visits or data sharing, exhibitors can encourage deeper engagement and build stronger relationships with attendees.
Data Privacy and Compliance
With the rise in data collection, especially in a global context, privacy and compliance will remain a priority. Ensure that the lead retrieval app you choose complies with regulations like GDPR and CCPA to protect both your business and your attendees.
Conclusion
Investing in the right lead retrieval app is a strategic decision that can significantly enhance the ROI of your trade shows and events. The top apps in 2025 combine speed, AI-powered insights, and seamless integration with CRM systems, offering exhibitors the tools they need to capture, qualify, and engage leads effectively.
By choosing the right app for your event, you can maximize lead generation efforts, improve the attendee experience, and ensure that your team is set up for success long after the event ends. The future of lead retrieval is here, and it’s all about using smart technology to make smarter business decisions.
