Welcome Exhibition Atmosphere
When selecting furniture for your stand, use just enough to create a welcoming atmosphere. Place tables for literature and other materials on the sides of your stand space and not at the front so you don’t create a barrier between the display and the aisle. Use chairs for visitors only; if your stand staff start getting too comfortable, they’ll have a tough time getting up to speak to prospects.
Flowers and plants are a fun and interesting way to liven up a dull or drab display. Buying your own plants will help save you money. Plants are useful to accentuate graphics, hide electrical wiring, and add a touch of natural life to the environment. Consider using silk plants as they’re more durable, and you’ll be able to reuse them at other shows.
Design Your Exhibition Stand
Your biggest decision will be choosing your exhibition stand design, so start the process 4 - 6 months before your show date.
- What is the history and reputation of the supplier?
- Do they offer the type of product, design service, field service and product guarantee required to create your ideal exhibition stand?
- Is the stand easy to transport and assemble?
- What are the on-going costs, and will it be economical to expand, reconfigure or refurbish for future shows?
- Are rental options available?
Your budget will dictate the type, size and make of stand you can afford. Consider your company image and how you want to be portrayed – quality, high-tech, established, contemporary, sporty or traditional? Shape, colour and design will help create the right image.
Pick a display that will best utilise your space and set you apart from your competitors. Keep in mind your audience.
- The display should say who you are, what you do, and the benefits of your product/service in just a few seconds.
- Exhibition stand design is a specialised field and should be undertaken by a professional organisation with experience in this field.
- You should prepare a detailed written brief that clearly states your objectives.
- Your corporate image and identity should be prominently featured.
- Avoid unnecessary physical barriers – you want visitors to access your stand easily and to feel comfortable.
- Demonstrations and presentations create movement – and movement attracts visitors.
- Be aware of the physiological effects of colour.
- Make sure you are within exhibition requirements for dimensions.
- Make sure you are within exhibition requirements for dimensions.
- Signs and displays should be placed high as visitors and furniture can block your message.
- Keep text on graphics to a minimum – pictures and visual imagery work best with succinct and punchy text.
- Use height – most organisers will allow you to build to 4m high. Some will allow you to go to 6m and/or to suspend overhead signage. You’ll need to supply structural drawings (small fee) for approval and to use riggers for overhead signs.
- Ensure staff are readily identifiable.
- Also, think about your accessories for the stand such as furniture, storage space, and lighting.
Remember - your goal is to create an inviting design and clear message. Ask yourself: 'Would I stop to visit this stand?'