Getting Exhibition Print Ready

With trade show season in full swing, we’ve gathered together some of our freshest tips and tricks for getting the most out of your exhibition print.

Be organised

Image credit: Doodlemoo at Top Drawer 

Exhibitions such as Top Drawer are a fantastic opportunity to get your brand out there, especially if you’ve never taken part in a trade show before. It’s also a very important networking space, so make sure to do your homework before showing up.

At least a month before the event, gather all the information you can in advance, such as exhibitor lists, attendee numbers and the running schedule too. Once you have a better understanding of the event detail, you’ll know where to focus your attention, and can start to think about stand design and product showcasing (see below!).

Top tip: It can be really helpful to reach out to someone you know is well-versed in exhibiting for additional ideas and mentorship. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice from those that you look up to!

Create the right collection

Bewilderbeest at Top Drawer London

When choosing products to showcase at your exhibition, make sure to focus on the core purpose of the show. Are you introducing a new product range or service? Advertising to new customers? Looking to make business connections?

Whatever the reason, you only have a finite space around your stand, so think about the exhibition print you want to showcase and how the different pieces could complement each other. Make sure you print enough to last the duration of the event, and take an inventory before and after. There’s nothing worse than running out of Postcards or Flyers for passers-by partway through the day!

Top tip: If you have a small exhibition stand, focus on your bestselling products only. You can always have a Brochure printed to showcase the rest of your range to any interested customers. 

Stand out from the crowd

Image credit: Tom’s Studio

You’ll have a very small window to make an impact on your audience, so make your stand as eye-catching as possible. Why not showcase your business’ success on bright Display Boards just outside your stand, or create a dynamic space using Roller Banners?

If you want to go all out, then you can cover your walls with statement Posters or Self-Adhesive Vinyl. At the end of the day, you’re working with a blank canvas, so whether you decide ‘less or more’ or to go all out, the possibilities are endless when it comes to the design.

Top tip: If you already know the size of your exhibition stand, why not create a mock exhibition space at home? You can mark out the dimensions of your space in real life, which can be really helpful as a practice run before the event.

Make your exhibition print memorable

Wild Living at Top Drawer 2021

When creating your exhibition print, consider luxury finishes such as Spot UV or Foiling. You’re probably going to be up against some stiff competition, so try some twists on classic print techniques to give yourself the edge. Get creative with how your Leaflets are folded, go for luxury Perfect Bound Brochures or perhaps make your Business Cards magnetic to really showcase something different from other exhibitors.

Top tip: To compliment your product display, don’t shy away from subtle decorations such as ornaments and plants to add to shelving units or floor space. This can add another dimension to your stand and make it more personable and inviting.

Spread the word

Top Drawer 2021

It’s one thing getting noticed when you’re at the event itself, and an entirely new challenge getting people there in the first place.

Make sure to shout about the event at least two weeks in advance on your social media to let people know that you’re going to be there. If the exhibition is advertising on social media as well then they will probably be more than happy to repost about your business too. You could also mention the event in any newsletters or email updates you send out, so your existing customer base knows what’s going on.

Top tip: Don’t forget about your marketing support materials! As with most trade shows, customers and stockists won’t be able to purchase items from you directly on the day. Having something to give out is crucial, to make sure that they remember you. This could be a look book, pin badge, Postcard or even a Branded Notebook.  

Put yourself out there

Sister Paper Co at the London Stationery Show

The idea of exhibiting for the first time can be a daunting prospect, but what have you got to lose? Aside from Top Drawer 2023 this September, there are a host of other events runnings across the country that you could get involved in. 

Our Exhibition Print Collection has all the print products you’ll need for your trade shows all in one place, at an affordable price. If you need any advice for you and your business, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Customer Service Team who are always more than happy to help!

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