Exhibitions in the UK: A Guide To Exhibitions and Trade Shows

For businesses outside of the UK, exhibiting in the UK can be a highly rewarding experience with some of Europe's leading exhibitions taking place up and down the country. Exhibitions provide the opportunity for face to face meetings with brands and business folk alike, and when executed well can open up new doors in business. 

If you're exhibiting in the UK from abroad, there may be a few differences in how the trade shows work than you're used to, so we've put together a few points that you will need to think about to make the most out of your time here.

Choosing the right exhibition

The UK boasts dozens of world class exhibition venues, so choosing the right one can be difficult. London is well known throughout the world as the UK's business hub and features iconic venues such as Wembley Stadium and Excel London, but don't think it's the only place to exhibit. Further afield you have the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, the Edinburgh International Conference Centre and Bournemouth International Centre to name but a few. Don't be tempted to flock straight to London, consider your audience, and speak to the event organiser about expected attendance number, the quality of visitor as well as how many other exhibitors have made a firm booking. The biggest exhibitions aren't always necessarily the best. It's easy to get lost in the noise of other companies.

Keep in mind factors such as booking space and your trade stand location. The best spots tend to be on corners or near the entrance, that's where you're most likely to capture attention.

Types of Exhibition Stand

At UK trade shows there are four main types of exhibition stands that are commonly known, but new systems are being launched all the time. The main four are shell scheme stands, pop up stands, modular stands and custom built stands. 

Shell Scheme Stands

With shell schemes, you are assigned a blank shell by the exhibition organisers. They come in various sizes, but it essentially includes grey blank walls in metre gaps, a fascia board with your company name, carpet and power. You can make the stand look fantastic without breaking the bank through products such as shell scheme panels and banner stands.