Location, Location, Location – How To Choose the Best Spot For Your Stand?
Choosing the right location for your exhibition stand is crucial, with many different spaces available at various price points. Spending more doesn’t always mean getting the best spot; it’s important to balance your budget between the location and creating an attractive stand. This blog will guide you through the key factors to consider, helping you make the best decision for your company’s goals and budget. We’ll explore nine essential points to help you find the perfect spot for your next event.
Why should you spend time deciding on the location of your stand?
The placement of your stand is a key factor in the success of your exhibition. It involves understanding the event’s traffic flow, the layout of the floor, and the positioning of your competitors. Corner booths are often a good choice as they provide clear views and ample height for your displays. Additionally, it’s important to consider the noise levels around your chosen spot.
Beyond your budget and the amount of space you need, there are several other important factors to keep in mind when selecting your exhibition space. The right location can lead to high engagement, while the wrong one might leave you with minimal visitors.
Choosing the optimal location for your stand can determine whether your event meets its goals. The right spot will maximise your brand’s visibility and accessibility, ensuring your message reaches a wide audience effectively. Here are some key considerations.
1. Get The Floor Plan or Visit The Exhibition Hall
If possible, take a trip to the venue before your event, preferably during another event, to observe where foot traffic is busiest and which areas are less frequented. This firsthand experience will help you identify prime spots and avoid less favourable ones. Understanding how visitors move through the space will guide you in selecting the best location for your exhibition stand. If visiting isn’t an option, obtaining floor plans from previous years’ exhibitions can still offer valuable insights to inform your decision-making process.
2. Early Bird Catches The Best Spot
Securing your stand 6-12 months in advance is akin to grabbing prime seats at a popular event. It’s a proactive move to establish your presence ahead of the competition.
3. Consider High Traffic Areas & Proximity to Event Features
When deciding on your stand location, focus on areas where there’s a lot of foot traffic. These spots include near the main entrance, food court, restrooms, and popular exhibitors. Being close to these busy areas increases the chances of attendees noticing your stand.
Another good spot is next to a Seminar Theatre, where you can benefit from the large crowds attending presentations.
Stands near catering areas also attract a lot of visitors. People tend to grab food or drinks, offering you an opportunity to engage with them during their break. Additionally, consider areas where visitors take breaks or relax, like seating zones. Just be mindful not to disrupt or annoy them with loud demonstrations or music.
While locations near toilets might seem busy, think about whether people are likely to linger there. Choose wisely to ensure your stand attracts visitors without deterring them.
4. Watch out for the noise level
Choose a spot away from noisy areas like music stages or loud exhibitors. Noise can be distracting and make it hard for attendees to focus on your presentation.
5. Avoid obstructed views & check the height
When picking your spot, choose one where your view isn’t blocked. Stay away from places behind pillars or walls that might hide your booth. Also, make sure your chosen spot can fit any tall displays or banners you plan to use, so people can see your stand easily.
It’s important to have good visibility, accessibility, and visual impact for your stand. Avoid spots near physical barriers that could hide or distract from your booth. Corner spots along aisles in the centre of the room are easier for people to reach and are more inviting. But avoid corners along the hall’s edges, as they might be overlooked, especially if blocked by other stands.
Pick a spot where you can see people passing by easily, so you can catch their attention. Stands in hidden spots might not get much eye contact, and you might miss people’s reactions to what you’re offering.
6. Avoid the entrance or exit
At larger exhibitions or trade shows, visitors tend to hurry away from the congested entrance as they get acquainted with the venue. They might not even notice your stand as they pass by. Similarly, by the time they’re leaving, they’ve probably done what they came for and are ready to go. It’s better to position your stand a bit further in or towards the centre of the exhibition hall.
7. Check out the corner stands
Corner stands are typically located at the end of aisles or where aisles intersect, offering two open sides for better visibility. These stands often draw more foot traffic as attendees naturally stroll along the aisles and may pass your exhibition stand from two different directions.
While the main thoroughfares might see higher foot traffic, competition among exhibitors is also fierce. If you opt for a prime spot on the main thoroughfares, your stand must be exceptionally attractive and engaging to stand out. Choosing a location slightly away from the main thoroughfare may cost less, but you’ll need to provide attendees with a compelling reason to visit, such as a free giveaway or a product demonstration.
8. Compare all spaces within your budget
Think about your budget and what locations fit within it. Could you consider a smaller floor space but allocate more funds to your stand for a bigger impact? The results you achieve depend on both the location and the impression you make there.
While it might be tempting to choose the smallest square footage possible, it’s essential to ensure you have enough space to effectively showcase your offerings. This means providing a meet-and-greet area that allows attendees to feel comfortable, without overcrowding. Always keep the size of your stand in mind when selecting the best spot. However, avoid selecting a space that’s too large as well. Aim to optimise both space and stand impact for the best results. Consult with your stand builder for their expertise and guidance.
9. Shall I keep my competitors close?
The largest exhibitors in your industry typically draw the most foot traffic to their stands. If you can secure a stand nearby, you’re likely to benefit from their traffic. Gathering information about stand positions can help pinpoint where the major players in your industry are located. Positioning yourself next to direct competitors can have two outcomes: it may decrease visitors to your stand, or it can offer an opportunity for you to gather valuable business insights and for visitors to make direct comparisons between businesses, products, and services. Alternatively, consider setting up next to a company in a related industry as it can provide excellent opportunities for mutually beneficial relationships.
Selecting the optimal location for your exhibition stand can truly make or break your event experience. It’s all about strategically positioning yourself to attract the right audience and maximise your impact.
At ExpoStands, we specialise in designing modular exhibition stands that fit your budget and goals. Our focus is on helping you get the best return on your investment. Whether you want to stand out among competitors or build connections with related industries, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a free quote and design render, and let’s work together to create an exhibition stand that meets your needs.