Their first time hosting a key industry event, Electricity North West wanted to move from a shell scheme to a custom stand, and maximise their prime position in the hall. They also wanted to be able to easily alter the design for future use.

With this custom exhibition stand design we achieved that, and more. The stand radiated a sense of welcome and collaboration, and helped our client thread their story over time.

Background

The LCNI (Low Carbon Networks & Innovation) Conference brings together energy sector experts to showcase the latest technology and innovations in electricity and gas network projects, which play a key role as the sector works towards a low carbon energy future.

The event, which changes location every year, was being held in the North West this time, the first our client was hosting.

Challenge

As hosts, Electricity North West wanted to not only move from a shell scheme to a custom-built stand, they also wanted to create a welcoming and memorable presence and maximise their prime position in the exhibition hall.

There was also a requirement to design and build the stand in a way that made it very easy to adapt for the same show the following year, at a different location and with a different company hosting. An easily adaptable stand would not only reduce costs for our client, it would also serve as a reminder for delegates of Electricity North West’s offering the year before, helping them thread their story, and present the evolution of their efforts from one year to the next.

Solution

We created a 10x8m custom exhibition stand design that can be easily repurposed to different locations, messaging and configurations.

The first year, we maximised the prime position in the exhibition hall, creating a stand that was four times the size of those nearby.

As hosts of the event for the first time, the Electricity North West stand invites delegates in by being open on all sides, even from above, transmitting an immediate sense of welcome.

Despite its simplicity and openness, the custom exhibition stand design is full of features that add to its appeal: a feature ceiling with downlights guides the delegates’ focus, graphics from our client’s brand then immediately capture the imagination, while columns of colour help flank the open space. A lockable central storage area doubles up as a hub from which everything radiates.

The cut-out logo, protruding off the ceiling, gives the stand a different edge against other exhibitors, while a bottom-lit wrap-around counter acts an attractive draw to get closer and find out more.

Messaging is prominent and tone is confident, while our client’s rounded font hints at their desire for discussion and collaboration to guarantee a sustainable future for all.

Bluetooth connectivity allowed us to incorporate a proximity marketing aspect to the experience, adding another channel for our client to communicate with delegates. The stand includes iPads with pre-installed apps and a digital content hub; both elements allow delegates to get more information on the latest innovation developments.

For the following year, messaging has been adapted to reflect the evolution in our client’s focus. We also made other changes to ensure differentiation with the year before, and demonstrate renewed energy in the company’s efforts towards the future of energy.

The wrap-around counter has been replaced by a smaller one, and a crisp white sofa and welcoming benches that mirror the flanking columns add a sense of comfort to the space.

Second time round, we included fewer iPads and added engaging calls to action near the content hub, as well as a presentation area – all designed to encourage interaction.

Our team also set up the under-floor cabling and Wi-Fi connections, adding to the seamless and engaging delegate experience provided by the custom exhibition stand design.