Month: December 2023

Have you got exhibitions booked for 2024? What is your pre-show marketing plan?

The key to a successful show extends beyond the physical presence on the trade show floor. Strategic marketing plays a pivotal role in maximising the impact of your exhibition experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the essential marketing strategies that should be implemented before, during, and after exhibiting at an event.

Create a Buzz on Social Media

We all know the power of social media, these platforms are perfect to generate excitement before the event. Share sneak peeks of your booth design and setup, introduce team members, and use event-specific hashtags to connect with attendees and other exhibitors.

Email Campaigns and Invitations

Develop targeted email campaigns to invite existing clients, prospects, and industry contacts to visit you at the show. Clearly communicate the value proposition of stopping by, and consider offering exclusive previews or promotions for those who confirm attendance.

Optimise Your Website

Ensure your website is updated with relevant information about your exhibition presence. Create a dedicated landing page that highlights what visitors can expect on your stand, including product launches, demonstrations, or special promotions.

During the Exhibition: Maximising your Visibility

Engage Attendees with an Interactive Exhibition Stand

Working with your stand builder, make sure your stand is visually appealing and interactive. Incorporate technology, product demonstrations, and engaging activities that encourage attendees to spend more time with you and your team on the stand.

Live Social Media Updates

Keep your online audience engaged by providing live updates on social media platforms. Share real-time photos, videos, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your stand to maintain a connection with those who couldn’t attend in person.

Networking and Collaboration

Actively participate in networking events and collaborate with other exhibitors. Strengthening industry relationships can lead to mutually beneficial opportunities and extended reach.

After the Exhibition: Sustaining Momentum

Follow-Up Emails and Collaboration

Immediately after the event, send personalised follow-up emails to the individuals who visited your business at the show. Thank your visitors for their time, reiterate key points discussed, and provide additional information or resources.

Content Recap on Social Media

Recap the exhibition experience on your social media channels. Share highlights, photos, and key takeaways from the event. This reinforces your brand’s presence and showcases the success of your exhibition participation.

Post-Event Surveys

Gather valuable feedback by sending post-event surveys to booth visitors. Use this information to assess the effectiveness of your exhibition strategy and identify areas for improvement in future events.

Evaluate and Analyse Performance

Conduct a comprehensive analysis of your exhibition performance. Measure metrics such as lead generation, engagement, and conversion rates to understand the impact of your marketing efforts.

Implement Feedback for Future Shows

Incorporate feedback from both attendees and your internal team to refine your strategy for future exhibitions. Identify successful tactics and areas for improvement, ensuring continuous growth and success at your future exhibition.

By strategically planning and executing marketing efforts before, during, and after an exhibition, companies can not only maximise their presence at the event but also establish a lasting impact on their target audience. The key lies in creating a cohesive and engaging marketing strategy that seamlessly integrates with the overall exhibition experience.

At Oaks Exhibitions, we take pride in our versatility, offering expert design and construction services for a spectrum of exhibitions. From DIY self-build stands, perfect for those seeking a hands-on approach, to bespoke exhibition stands tailored to your unique vision, our team is dedicated to transforming concepts into captivating realities. Partner with Oaks Exhibitions for a seamless journey from design to build, ensuring your presence at any exhibition is not just a showcase but an unforgettable experience.

If you are planning an event this year maybe we could help? Contact the Oaks Exhibitions team on 01484 644 368 or email us on info@oaks-exhibitions.co.uk

In the dynamic world of exhibitions, making a lasting impression is essential for businesses aiming to stand out in the busy halls. An expertly designed exhibition stand can be the key to capturing attention, engaging visitors, and achieving your objectives.

As a leading company in the exhibition industry, Oaks Exhibitions understands the pivotal role a good stand design and build company plays in ensuring your stand not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

The first step in the process involves a clear understanding of your exhibition objectives. A skilled stand designer will collaborate with you to identify your goals, whether it’s increasing brand visibility, launching a new product, or making an impression on potential clients.

Tailored Design Approach

With your objectives in mind, the stand designer will embark on creating a tailored design that aligns with your brand identity and captures the essence of your message. The goal is not just to build a physical structure but to create an experience that resonates with your target audience.

Stand Layout and Flow

An experienced stand designer recognises the importance of a good layout. They will ensure that the flow of your stand encourages visitors to engage. The positioning of key elements, such as product displays, interactive zones, and meeting areas, should be planned to maximise impact.

Attention-Grabbing Graphics

In a busy exhibition hall, visual appeal is key. A good stand designer should create eye-catching visuals that draw attendees towards your stand. From vibrant graphics, lighting to innovative signage, every element is carefully considered to spark interest with delegates.

Interactive Elements

To entice people onto your stand, incorporating interactive elements is a good idea. Whether it’s VR experiences, product demonstrations, or engaging activities, a stand designer will integrate interactive features that captivate and leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Branding that Stands Out

Your stand should serve as a visual extension of your brand. A stand designer will work closely with you to ensure that your branding elements are integrated into the design, creating a memorable presence.

Maximising Space Efficiency

In the confined space of an exhibition hall, efficient use of space is important. A skilled stand designer will optimise the layout to make the most of the available area, ensuring that your stand doesn’t just occupy space but makes use of it.

Emphasising Attendee Engagement

Beyond attracting visitors, a stand designer focuses on creating an environment that encourages visitor engagement. Thoughtful design elements and interesting content will prompt attendees to spend time on your stand, making connections and potential business opportunities.

At Oaks Exhibitions, we take pride in our versatility, offering expert design and construction services for a spectrum of exhibitions. From DIY self-build stands, perfect for those seeking a hands-on approach, to bespoke exhibition stands tailored to your unique vision, our team is dedicated to transforming concepts into captivating realities. Partner with Oaks Exhibitions for a seamless journey from design to build, ensuring your presence at any exhibition is not just a showcase but an unforgettable experience.

If you are planning an event this year maybe we could help? Contact the Oaks Exhibitions team on 01484 644 368 or email us on info@oaks-exhibitions.co.uk

Unlocking the Rewards of Exhibiting at a Trade Show…

In the ever-evolving realm of business, where digital interactions often dominate, the power of face-to-face engagement remains unmatched. One avenue that consistently proves its worth in this regard is participating in trade shows and exhibitions. These events go beyond the traditional sales pitch, offering a multifaceted approach to brand promotion, networking, and product launches. There are many reasons why businesses should not only consider but prioritise showcasing their offerings at exhibitions. Here are just a few!.

Direct Sales

Speaking Directly to your clients and potential customers. Unlike other marketing channels, exhibitions provide a good platform where businesses can engage potential customers face-to-face, transforming casual interactions into concrete transactions.

Pressing the Flesh

In an era dominated by virtual communication, the significance of physical interaction cannot be overstated. Exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to ‘press the flesh,’ allowing businesses to connect with clients, partners, and prospects in a tangible and memorable way. This human touch bridges the digital divide, building trust and fostering firm relationships.

Brand Awareness

Creating an unforgettable impression. Exhibitions provide a stage where brands can step into the limelight. Through innovative stand designs, captivating visuals, and interactive displays, businesses can create a memorable brand experience. The immersive nature of exhibitions ensures that attendees not only see but also feel the essence of the brand, contributing to heightened brand awareness.

Networking

Making Connections That Matter. Beyond the confines of the office, exhibitions serve as a great networking opportunity. The diverse gathering of professionals from various industries presents a fertile ground for forging connections. Whether seeking partnerships, collaborations, or simply expanding professional circles, exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to tap into a rich reservoir of expertise.

Product Launch

Showcasing Innovation in Real-Time. For businesses on the cusp of innovation, exhibitions offer a spotlight for product launches. The buzz and anticipation generated within the exhibition environment provide a receptive audience eager to witness and engage with new offerings. The immediate feedback collected can be invaluable for refining and optimising products.

Building Lasting Relationships

Exhibitions go beyond one-time transactions; they lay the groundwork for lasting relationships. The personal interactions fostered at exhibitions create a sense of loyalty among customers and stakeholders. Attendees are more likely to remember and support a business with which they have shared a positive and memorable experience.

In essence, participating in exhibitions is not merely a checkbox in a marketing strategy; it is an immersive and strategic approach to business growth. The benefits, from direct sales and brand visibility to networking and relationship-building, position exhibitions as a cornerstone in the success of any business willing to seize the opportunities offered on the trade show floor.

At Oaks Exhibitions, we take pride in our versatility, offering expert design and construction services for a spectrum of exhibitions. From DIY self-build stands, perfect for those seeking a hands-on approach, to bespoke exhibition stands tailored to your unique vision, our team is dedicated to transforming concepts into amazing spaces. Partner with Oaks Exhibitions for a seamless journey from design to build, ensuring your presence at any exhibition is not just a showcase but an unforgettable experience.

In the fast-paced world of exhibitions and events, the need for flexibility and convenience has become paramount. Whether you’re participating in a small to medium-sized exhibition or a brief event, the prospect of transporting your exhibition stand in the boot of your car opens up a realm of possibilities. In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages of opting for a self-assembly DIY exhibition stand that not only fits in your car but also delivers a show-stopping presence.

DIY Exhibition Stands… The Benefits.

Fits in Your Boot

Transporting your exhibition stand in the boot of your car is a game-changer in terms of logistics. No more relying on external transportation services or worrying about the intricacies of handling large setups. A self-assembly DIY stand that neatly fits in your car ensures a hassle-free and cost-effective solution.

Space-Saving

Bigger is not always better…The compact nature of a self-assembly stand not only facilitates easy transportation but also saves valuable exhibition space. With a well-thought-out design, these stands maximise the use of limited space, allowing you to make the most of your allocated area and create a lasting impression on visitors.

Show-Stopping Design

Don’t let the size fool you – DIY exhibition stands can be visually striking and attention-grabbing. With careful planning and creative design, your stand can be a showstopper that turns heads and draws in potential clients. Compact doesn’t mean compromising on impact.

Networking

Making Connections That Matter. Beyond the confines of the office, exhibitions serve as a great networking opportunity. The diverse gathering of professionals from various industries presents a fertile ground for forging connections. Whether seeking partnerships, collaborations, or simply expanding professional circles, exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to tap into a rich reservoir of expertise.

While your space may be limited, there’s no need for it to be plain. Ensure your compact area stands out by coordinating with the exhibitions team to incorporate a selection ofItems.

Choose the Right Exhibition Space

Before the event, carefully choose the exhibition space that best suits your objectives. Factor in foot traffic, visibility, and proximity to complementary exhibitors. A well-chosen space can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your exhibition presence.

Arrange All Carpet and Cabling through the events team

To ensure a smooth setup process at the exhibition venue, organise all carpets and cabling beforehand. Proper organisation not only speeds up assembly but also contributes to the overall aesthetics of your stand.

Illuminate Your Space with Clip-On Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in showcasing your exhibition stand. Opt for clip-on lighting solutions that are not only easy to install but also enhance the visual appeal of your stand.

Take a seat… Selecting the right furniture can elevate the overall look of your exhibition stand. Consider hiring functional furniture that aligns with your brand image and provides a comfortable and inviting space for visitors.

At Oaks Exhibitions, we understand the diverse needs of exhibitors seeking convenience and impact. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of DIY exhibition stands designed to fit seamlessly into the boot of your car, ensuring a stress-free transportation experience. Our stands combine practicality with eye-catching aesthetics, allowing you to make a lasting impression at any event. 

If you are planning an event this year maybe we could help? Contact the Oaks Exhibitions team on 01484 644 368 or email us on info@oaks-exhibitions.co.uk

Eco-Friendly Practices Across Every type of Stand…

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, businesses are reimagining their approach to exhibitions, recognising that environmental responsibility can extend to every facet of their presence at trade shows. Let’s explore how exhibition stands, from roller banners to modular builds, can be designed with sustainability in mind.

Roller Banner – Biodegradable and Vinyl Options

Roller banners have taken a leap towards sustainability with the introduction of biodegradable materials. Opting for these eco-friendly alternatives reduces environmental impact while still delivering the versatility and visual appeal associated with vinyl banners. Roller banners can be used again and again, consider the content and images you include on the banners to keep the information up to date.

Cardboard Roller Banners

Pushing the boundaries of sustainability, cardboard roller banners offer a renewable and recyclable alternative. These banners are not only lightweight and easy to transport but also contribute to a circular economy by being reused or recycled after their initial purpose.

Modular Built Stands: A Commitment to Longevity

Limitless Reusability

The commitment to using modular stands is a commitment to sustainability. With a well-designed modular stand, there should be no need for frequent changes. Reusing the graphics, frame, and other components ensures that the stand evolves with your brand, reducing the demand for new materials.

Expansion Aspirations… Easy with a Modular Stand

Growing your presence? Instead of starting from scratch, you can expand your existing stand, minimising waste and maximising the value of your initial investment.

Aluminium’s Infinite Life Cycle  

The backbone of many exhibition stands, aluminium, stands out as a highly recyclable material. Beyond being eco-friendly, aluminium frames boast an almost unlimited life cycle. Reusing these frames not only reduces waste but also minimises the need for continuous manufacturing.

Why Change Your Print?

Branding Evolution

As your brand evolves, so too can your stand. Sustainable practices don’t mean sacrificing adaptability. Reprinting graphics to reflect your evolving branding instead of changing the entire stand, is a responsible way to stay on message.

Message Adaptation

Sometimes, your message needs tweaking. Rather than an entirely new set of graphics, change the ones the are no longer aligned with your current communication goals.

Sustainability is not a compromise but an enhancement to your exhibition strategy. From roller banners to modular builds, each stand type can be crafted with a commitment to environmental responsibility. By embracing sustainable practices, businesses not only reduce their ecological footprint but also showcase a forward-thinking approach that resonates with environmentally conscious audiences. Make your mark at exhibitions without leaving one on the planet—choose sustainability at every stand level.

At Oaks Exhibitions, we are dedicated to offering a myriad of options for sustainable exhibition design, ensuring that every showcase aligns with your brand values and environmental consciousness. From eco-friendly roller banners to versatile modular builds, our commitment to sustainability extends across our entire range. Contact us today to explore how Oaks can help you make a powerful impact at exhibitions while minimising your environmental footprint. Let’s embark on a journey towards sustainable exhibition success together.

If you are planning an event this year maybe we could help? Contact the Oaks Exhibitions team on 01484 644 368 or email us on info@oaks-exhibitions.co.uk

There are several key points to consider when you are planning your attendance at any trade show or exhibition. Whether it is a 1 day event or a 5 day trade show, you need to ensure you are fully prepared.

Trade shows can be a very competitive environment, often you are faced with your direct competition, so you need to work hard to stand out.

At Oaks Exhibitions, we have over 20 years experience and expertise doing just this. Our main objective at any exhibition is to make sure your business stands out, by creating show stopping stands, that capture attention. Our team will work closely with you and the event organisers to ensure a successful and worthwhile exhibition, Interested in getting started?

Below we have put together a list of hints and tips we have collected over the years to ensure a successful exhibition and a show stopping exhibition stand!

What do you do?

If this is the first question a visitor asks when they enter your stand, then I am afraid you have failed. Your stand should clearly show or state what your products or services are. If your brand isn’t well known, then you need to be clever with your messaging. If you manufacture hospital equipment then say that, but this is a wide and varied market, so go one step further. Show some images of the types of products you manufacture. If you are an I.T company, then list some of your key services. We understand that your graphics need to look professional however they are also a huge part of pulling in the crowd.

Above the belt (not below!).

As a rule of thumb, make sure your main messaging is above waist height. Visitors don’t tend to walk around looking at their feet (unless they have amazing shoes!). So make sure your messaging is clearly visible. Select a few key points displayed in a large clear font and hit them with it.

Nobody Likes Clutter

Whilst you don’t want a white box for a stand (unless you do). It is important to make sure the design on your graphics is not cluttered. Make sure there is space between messages and images. You do not need to tell them everything you do, just choose a selection of your specialisms and focus on that. The rest you can talk about when you get them on the stand!

So Fresh and So Clean…!

If you are using images on your stand, then MAKE SURE they are high resolution.

High resolution images are pictures or photos where the media has higher concentrations of pixels or dots, resulting in better quality and clarity of the image – as it contains more detail. By contrast, images with lower resolutions tend to have fewer pixels or dots and thus less detail. If you are using a graphic designer then they will know exactly what to do, they will also know if an image is not suitable. If they say, we can’t use this image as it is not a high enough resolution, then believe them and choose another!

Brand Consistency

Make sure that you keep your branding consistent, the more a visitor sees your logo, the more likely they are to remember you. It takes an average of 5-7 brand impressions for a customer to remember your brand. (Source Brandagility). If a visitor see’s your logo on your stand, and then collects a leaflet with the same logo and message on. If they then go on to find out more about you on your website, then this also needs to reflect the first, and then the 2nd time they saw  your brand. Are you keeping up? In summary, keep your brand and your messaging consistent! This may mean creating new marketing collateral and having some work done on your website BEFORE the show.

Show your True Colours

Colours have the power to influence our actions without us even realising it. This concept, known as colour psychology, looks at how different colours can affect behaviour and emotions unconsciously. Red is the colour of power. It gets people’s attention and it holds it, which is why it’s the most popular colour for marketing for example the word SALE is always red. When you want to be viewed as trustworthy, blue is the colour for you. Colour can provoke powerful reactions from humans both mentally and physiologically. So choose wisely!

Next Level Interaction

If you want to keep visitors on your stand, give them something else to do (other than talk to you). Competitions and games are always a draw for visitors. They get the chance to win a great gift in exchange for a business card or filling in a form. Please note if you want to use their data for marketing purposes after the show, then make sure they have ticked the opt-in form on your form!

At Oaks Exhibitions, we have over 20 years experience and expertise designing and building bespoke stands. Our design team will make sure your stand works for your  objective. Whether that is to launch a new product, brand or to introduce your business to potential new clients. Our main objective at any exhibition is to make sure your business stands out, by creating show stopping stands, that capture attention. Our team will work closely with you to make every exhibition your best. Contact us for details.

If you are planning an event this year maybe we could help? Contact the Oaks Exhibitions team on 01484 644 368 or email us on info@oaks-exhibitions.co.uk