Choosing where to hold your next trade show isn’t always obvious. Trade shows are held at all different places and open to specific industries rather than the general public. Key factors to keep in mind are size and location, venue accommodations and staffing requirements. A little bit of planning goes a long way in ensuring a successful trade show with your name attached to it!

Below are a few tips for choosing the best venue for your next trade show, as well as ideas on where to host. Enjoy!

Size

One of the first steps in choosing a venue is assessing the space that you need. How many guests are you inviting? How many will attend? For attendants to be comfortable, they need to be able to move freely from booth to booth.

Location

Regional trade shows welcome guests from all over, so it makes sense to choose a venue that is located near an airport. This makes it easy for guests to make travel arrangements. Venues that are centrally located also tend to have other amenities nearby, such as restaurants and hotels. People will be more willing to come to your trade show if they don’t have to navigate through unfamiliar territory.

Accommodations

The venue you select should offer more than space. We recommend taking tours of each venue before making a decision, as things can look better or worse in pictures. Here are some of the small but important details to pay attention to.

• Available parking
• Entrances and exits
• Restrooms
• Accommodations for people with disabilities
• Electrical outlets, power cables, and extension cords
• Phone and internet access

Staffing

Generally speaking, staffing for your event will come from your own company. But, some services can be provided on behalf of the venue such as valet parking, security, catering, and more. Consider this money saved and an improved event.

Best Venues for Hosting a Trade Show

Below are a few of our recommendations for trade show venues.

• Banquet halls
• Convention centers
• Performing arts venues
• College and University complexes
• Hotels
• Field and Open grounds – Outdoors

Putting on a successful trade show starts with selecting the right venue that will encourage people to sign up. By following our suggestions above and consulting with design experts, you can find a venue that offers the amenities and accommodations that are needed for your event to run smoothly!