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Before You Book That Space: What to Consider When Choosing an Exhibition Location

Before You Book That Space: What to Consider When Choosing an Exhibition Location

Choosing the right exhibition space can be the difference between a busy, successful event… and a stand that visitors walk straight past.
While design, graphics, and exhibition stand walls all play a huge part in your success, your location sets the stage for everything that happens on the day.

Before you sign that booking form, here’s what you need to consider to ensure your exhibition stand gets the visibility, traffic, and engagement it deserves.

1. Footfall: How Much Traffic Will Pass Your Stand?

Not all exhibition spaces are equal. Some areas attract heavy traffic naturally, while others sit in quieter corners.

Look for locations near:

  • Main entrances or registration desks

  • Walkways leading to popular zones

  • Catering or seating areas

  • Key seminar rooms or feature stages

These high-footfall areas mean more eyes on your branding and more opportunities to turn passers-by into leads.

2. Visibility From a Distance

Can visitors spot your stand from afar? This is where height, layout, and clever use of exhibition walls come into play — but your location must support them.

Avoid spaces:

  • Behind pillars

  • Tucked behind large competitors

  • In low-ceiling sections (limits wall height and signage)

A clear line of sight ensures your graphics, lighting, and focal points do their job long before visitors reach your stand.

3. Proximity to Competitors (Good or Bad?)

Exhibitors often overlook competitor placement — but it’s a strategic decision.

Being close to competitors can be beneficial if:

  • You want to attract their audience

  • You offer a direct alternative

  • You’re confident you can stand out with strong design and messaging

However, being too close can lead to brand overshadowing or diluted traffic.
Always study the floor plan carefully.

4. Stand Shape and Layout Options

Your chosen space determines what you can (and can’t) do with your layout.

Different stand types offer different advantages:

  • Inline stands → affordable but limited to forward-facing engagement

  • Corner stands → visibility from two sides

  • Peninsula stands → three-sided exposure

  • Island stands → maximum visibility from all angles

Think about how your exhibition stand walls will sit within the space. The layout should support visitor flow, not restrict it.

5. Power, Lighting & Technical Access

Do you need screens, lighting, demo equipment, or charging points?
If so, location matters.

Check for:

  • Power access (and how many sockets you’re allocated)

  • Overhead rigging options for lighting or signage

  • Wi-Fi strength in that area of the hall

  • Any venue-specific restrictions

Not all spaces offer equal technical flexibility — and retrofitting can get expensive.

6. Noise Levels & Visitor Behaviour

Some areas of the hall are louder, busier, or more chaotic than others.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you need a quieter environment for conversations or demos?

  • Will heavy footfall distract from your messaging?

  • Would a background stage be helpful — or disruptive?

Choosing a location that suits your engagement style is crucial.

7. Nearby Attractions (Both Good and Bad)

Being near big-name brands can increase traffic, but being too close to loud activations might drown you out.

Consider:

  • Is the neighbouring exhibitor compatible with your audience?

  • Will a flashy stand next door overshadow your visuals?

  • Are you next to restrooms or loading bays (avoid these!)

Think strategically — your neighbours impact your success more than you might expect.

8. Budget vs Impact

Premium locations come with premium price tags.
But a lower-cost space can still shine if you invest in strong design, clever use of modular exhibition walls, and impactful branding.

Ask yourself:

  • Would saving on location allow you to invest more in design or lighting?

  • Or would paying more for a prime space deliver better ROI?

Balance visibility and budget realistically.

9. Logistics: Setup, Dismantle & Storage Access

Before booking, check the practical details:

  • How easy is it to access your stand during build-up?

  • Are there tight corridors or difficult loading points nearby?

  • Is there space for storing packaging or equipment?

Smooth logistics save time, stress, and cost — especially for larger builds.

10. Your Future Plans

If you plan to attend the event year after year, securing a good location early is key.
Popular positions often get priority renewal for exhibitors who return annually.

Think long-term:

  • Does this space give you room to expand next year?

  • Will it still serve you well if your display evolves?

  • Does it fit your long-term exhibiting strategy?

A smart location now can pay off for years.

Conclusion: A Great Stand Starts With the Right Space

Before you think about graphics, giveaways, or lighting, your location sets the foundation for your exhibition success.
By evaluating footfall, visibility, technical needs, and how your exhibition walls will fit into the space, you can choose a stand position that maximises traffic, engagement, and brand impact.

A well-chosen location doesn’t just attract visitors — it sets the tone for the entire exhibition experience.

Need Help Planning Your Stand Layout?

We design, supply, and install modular exhibition stand walls and full display systems that work beautifully in any location.

Whether you’ve chosen a corner booth or a large island space, we’ll help you design a stand that stands out — and performs.

👉 Contact us today to start planning your exhibition with expert guidance.