Has somebody experiences with booths at exhibitions?

I’m trying to figure out what it actually takes to run a booth at an exhibition. My workplace is planning to show up at a few next year, and somehow I’ve ended up being the one looking into it. I’ve never organised anything like that before – I’ve only ever wandered through fairs with coffee in hand, not behind the table. I keep wondering how people even start: what kind of prep happens before it all looks neat and effortless. Are there things that always go wrong no matter how well you plan? Or moments that make the whole stress worth it? Would be great to hear from anyone who’s done it before, just to know what it really feels like from the other side.

 

What products and / or services do they provide to customers if such is engaged??

 

Beware of people pulling joints out of their noses. They might be interesting characters.

You don't want a booth right next to your competitor who hates you.

Unless it's a food convention with lots of food to sample, bring your own food and drink. Not only do conventions serve the worse food it's usually astronomically priced for the captive audience.

It can be stressful depending upon your attitude and goals being there. It's usually exhausting having to spend most of the time on your feet.

Make sure you have enough staff to man the booth. Expect people to flake out, either no shows or disappear leaving you to do everything.

All these conventions are places to network, source product, get contacts, and have a good time if that's possible and you're that kind of person.

 

Good last point there. You have to be "that kind of person". Attitude, personality and exceptional knowledge of product, service etc is also key. Enjoy!

 

@MeAgain: yeah, we already have a tax number, so at least that part’s covered – though paperwork still feels like a trap waiting to spring.

@~Zen~: your breakdown made it sound half adventure, half survival guide. Love the idea of space design, hadn’t even thought about light or noise. When you did those Cups, did you tweak your booth between events or keep it the same setup?

@scratcho: it’s for eco-tech gear, small scale systems for energy saving, kind of niche but still visual.

@Toker: you nailed what I fear most – exhaustion and missing staff. Did you ever have a day where it all went sideways?

@Etherea: that bit about attitude hit me – I’m not the loud type, but maybe authenticity works too if you care enough about what you show.