In short
A good stand position is on the route your buyers will really walk. Look for main aisles, junctions and your sector's zone, then think about what sits nearby: a big brand draws traffic, while columns, dead ends and loud neighbours can hurt. A corner on a busy aisle often beats a larger plot in a quiet one. Ask the organiser about the visitor flow, and check the floor plan before you sign.
Key points
- Being on the route matters more than having a bigger plot.
- Corners give two views and two entrances.
- Check for columns, doors and height changes.
- Book early, because the best plots go to repeat exhibitors.
Positions to look for and avoid
| Position | Upside | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Main aisle | High footfall | Higher competition and often a premium |
| Near a hall entrance | Early visibility | Visitors may rush past |
| Junction or corner | Two open sides | A premium, in many shows |
| Next to a big brand | Their traffic passes you | Their noise and height |
| Near catering or seating | People linger | Queues in front of your stand |
| Back of the hall | Cheaper | Less traffic unless visitors are drawn there |
| Beside a column | May be cheaper | It blocks views and takes floor |
Reading a floor plan
- Find the entrances, and work out how visitors arrive.
- Mark the columns, and any low ceilings or hanging restrictions.
- Check where food, seating and toilets are.
- Find your sector's zone.
- Note neighbours, especially loud ones.
- Check which way the stand numbers run.
Getting a good plot
- 1Rebook on site at this year's show, if you already exhibit.
- 2Ask the sales team about upcoming changes to the hall plan.
- 3Ask to be put on a list for cancellations.
- 4Be flexible on size: a smaller plot may fit a better spot.
- 5Check when priority booking happens at your show.
Design for the plot you got
Once you have a plot, find where visitors will approach from. That sets where the logo goes and which corner is the hero. See traffic flow and stand types. A poor position can be helped with height, a hanging sign, or invitations that bring people to you.
When the plot is already allocated
Many shows allocate plots by date of booking, past attendance or stand size, so a good position may be out of reach in your first year. Ask how the rules work, and what would improve your ranking next time. If you are placed badly, use invitations and a clear stand number to bring people to you.
Frequently asked questions
01What is the best position at an exhibition?
A busy aisle or junction near your sector, where your buyers will walk.
02Is it worth paying more for a corner?
Often, because two open sides give more frontage and easier access.
03Should I avoid being near big competitors?
Not necessarily. Their traffic may help, but check their height and noise.
04When should I book?
As early as you can. Many exhibitors rebook at the previous show.
Put it into practice
Design your trade show booth in 3D before you brief the builder
Design a trade show booth in 3D at your exact booth size, from a 10x10 inline to a 20x20 island, with renders and drawings for your builder.
Guidance here reflects common practice. Venues, organisers and countries set their own rules: always check the exhibitor manual and work with a qualified stand builder and engineer for structures.
