|
Visiting Trade Shows in the UK
Our diary dates should give you all the information and an enquiry form for all exhibitions in the UK relevant to independent retailers. If we have missed any that you think should be listed please contact us or tell the organisers to contact us.
It is worthwhile registering in advance of a show as entry is usually free of charge if you book in time. If you register on the door there is often a charge of anything up to £20.
Exhibiting at a Trade Show
If you supply the trade, at some point you may think it is worthwhile looking into exhibiting at a trade show. Although this will be expensive, it may be worthwhile, especially if your presence is well planned and the cost does not milk all of your marketing budget in one go. Remember most trade exhibitions in this country only last for 3 to 5 days.
Cost Considerations
Stand space - The cost can vary from £130/m2 for Select British to £260/m2 for Spring Fair at the NEC.
Most organisers of the major shows specify a minimum stand size of 6 metres.
Electrical Supply - You will need some sort of power on your stand. Even if you don’t need a socket, you will need some form of lighting and most organisers do not supply this. A single socket at Autumn Fair will cost you around £70.
Display - Promotional Literature, Posters, Signage and display stands / shelving.
Transport - You will have to have transport to get everything you want onto your stand plus whatever you need for the week. For many this entails hiring a van which, once you have unloaded, is going to sit empty until the last day but you will still be paying for it.
Food and Drink while in the hall - You are going to be at work from 9am until 6pm so you will need food and drinks during the day. If you are staying at a hotel, it isn’t easy to make your own sandwiches. Unfortunately the on site caterers are well aware of this and charge accordingly!
Accommodation - Unless you live within easy driving distance, you will have to stay over and, if it is a big event like Spring Fair or Harrogate Home & Gift, all the local hotels are going to be charging top price! Make sure you sort out your accommodation well in advance and consider self catering as a more comfortable and cheaper option.
|
