Why is exhibition stand design important?
- Well designed visual elements for your exhibition stands can make you stand out in a packed exhibition hall.
- Following a couple of years of uncertainty following the COVID-19 pandemic, trade shows and exhibitions returned in 2022, with exhibitors expecting to attend even more events in 2023.
- With 48% of exhibitors saying an eye-catching stand is the most effective method for attracting attendees, we answer the top questions people ask about design for events.
What are the different types of exhibition stand?
When exhibiting, you will probably be limited only by space and budget. But, given the importance of a great-looking stand on the event’s success, you’ll want to maximise both. It’s also important to consider whether this will be for a one-off event, or whether you’ll want to reuse the collateral. Luckily, there are plenty of options out there, with these being some of the most popular solutions:
- Pop-up stands
As the name suggests, the design of pop-up stands makes them easy to transport and erect in minutes. Made to fit in smaller exhibition spaces and comprising a collapsible frame to which you can attach printed graphic panels, they’re a versatile option when you need a back wall for a show. For a more contemporary look, you can also place a printed fabric covering over the frame.
Designed so that you can easily change the graphics from exhibition to exhibition, these stands are easy to put up and pack away, requiring no tools for assembly, with the graphics attached using magnets.
- Modular stands
Easy to reconfigure and reusable, modular stands occupy the middle space between a pop-up and a custom-made bespoke stand. Made up of an aluminium frame, you can set them up in different configurations to fit the size available, with additional parts easily added to grow the display. The graphics are usually printed on Foamex boards or fabric and are easily attached to the frame. They’re also simple to erect and can be put up by just two people with no tools required.
Although a more expensive option than a pop-up, their versatility and longevity make them an excellent investment.
Additional embellishments could include LED lighting or TV screens.
- Bespoke stands
The most expensive option, but the one that gives you exactly what you want, bespoke exhibition stands are custom designed and built for an individual event and offer endless possibilities. This comes with downsides and up. Different from the other stands described here, bespoke stands are difficult to set up and take down. It’s likely they’ll involve wall panels and large structures that require a specialist team to install. They’re also more difficult to adapt for subsequent shows – although some companies will store your stand and rearrange the modular items in different configurations.
The upside is, of course, that you have full control over every element of the stand, from materials, size and additional embellishments.
Exhibition stand or booth?
An exhibition stand (or booth) is a promotional display used to attract attention in an exhibition centre. In the UK, the terms ‘stand’ and ‘booth’ are often used interchangeably, although booth is used more frequently when referring to a shell scheme. Booth is also more common in the US.
What makes a good trade stand?
In a large exhibition hall, it’s easy to get lost amongst hundreds of other stands. As we’ve already seen, 48% of exhibitors believe an eye-catching stand is the most effective method for attracting attendees. But what do you need to include on your stand to make you stand out?
- Branded elements – You’ll want your stand to be recognisable and memorable, so make sure your brand is front and centre of your graphics. Angle your logo towards the predominant flow of visitors to attract the most attention.
- Have a hook – Give the show visitors a reason to stop at your stand. This could be the launch of a new product or the offer of a free drink and a sit-down. Once somebody is at your stand, you have the opportunity to find out more about them and their needs.
- Have tangible elements –Having something people can play with will entice them in, while a brochure or other takeaway will keep them interested after the event. You can present these on built-in shelving or slat walling, or freestanding elements, such as literature racks or display plinths.
- Use technology – In the modern age, people want to interact with tech elements. There are many ways to engage your visitors, from video on a television screen to tablets and even interactive countertops.
