Availability of good stand space will depend on how early you decide to book. You need to decide the type of space that best suits your objectives and how you intend to use it. If it’s a new show for you, you may decide to leave booking space until quite late as good deals can be available from organisers as it gets closer to the show dates. This tactic however can result in you having limited choice with space selection.
 
Some exhibitors are tempted to position their stand next to or close to the entrance but often many visitors walk straight into the exhibition, by-passing these positions. You could visit the show at earlier dates to observe visitor behaviour to help you decide.

Corner stands give a feeling of openness and therefore catch visitors easily. Also, the more sides open to aisles the better as it's easier for visitors to walk on. Areas of high traffic where people congregate like seating areas, cafes and refreshment points and toilets can also work well.

Look out for columns in your stand space as this will impact on your available display area, who will be exhibiting near you and any special height restrictions your space may have. Don’t be put off just because you have a large company next to you – this can work in your favour as you take advantage of high traffic.

Generally, space only stands can be designed up to 4m high. At some venues, stands can be built higher than this however, full structural drawings will be required to obtain approval.

In general, exhibition stand space that is smaller than 25 metres squared will use shell scheme and space over 25 metres squared will be a space only site.

The shell scheme option can be good for first time exhibitors or for those on a low budget but space only is cheaper and the saving can be offset against a more beautiful looking exhibition stand!

Space only renting is when you supply everything.

If you choose shell scheme, the organiser will generally provide you with carpet, walls, and your company name on a board. The standard size for shell scheme is 3 x 5 x 2.5 metres.

How much space do you need?

Knowing where best to position your company and having selected shell scheme or space only puts you half way to selecting your stand space. Next, you need to decide how much space you require.

Consider two factors:

• Your exhibiting objectives
• Your budget

These two elements determine how much space you need.

Some companies like to make a statement about their size to the market and book space accordingly. Others simply take enough space to allow their products to be displayed. If you intend to demonstrate a large piece of equipment, you need to plan for its footprint as well as space for the presenter and visitors.

Space is sold in metres and is priced per square metre. Space size can be as little as 1 x 3m. As a general rule you should allow 4.5 square metres per person. Add to this the exhibition stand, equipment to be shown and some extra space for visitors and you should have a pretty good idea of the space you require.