Trade show pop-up displays are the cornerstone of a stunning trade show booth. They provide you with a branded space in minutes, which elevates your presence and optimizes your participation. That said, there are several types to choose from, so how will you know which one is right for your booth?
In this blog, we'll dive deeper into everything you need to know about trade show pop-up displays, from finding the right display style to choosing the right size.
What is a Trade Show Pop-Up Display?
Trade show pop-up displays are free-standing displays used at trade shows, conferences, and events. They are comprised of two primary components: a collapsible frame and a full-color printed fabric that stretches over the frame. The frame comes in a variety of configurations; some unfold like origami, while others need to be assembled. Their primary purpose is to support the sign and any lighting elements. The fabric, which is often made from vinyl, is printed with your design and branding, acting as the billboard.
Pop-up displays are commonly used as backdrops for trade show booths, press conferences, and to temporarily brand spaces. They can be used for advertising, marketing, or branding purposes, depending on the goal of the display.
Let’s Talk Size for Trade Show Pop-Up Displays
Standard pop-up displays are approximately 8 feet tall. However, they can vary in width. Some of the most common widths are:
- 6 feet
- 8 feet
- 10 feet
- 20 feet
Choosing the right size is essential because of the following display factors: · The prominence of your presence on the trade show floor
- How much room your booth has access to
- Using the available space strategically
- The time and effort needed to set up and take down
- Ease of transport and storage
As a general rule, use the largest size you can for the available space; the larger the pop-up display, the more enticing your presence will be.
Choosing the Style of Trade Show Pop-Up Display
Another key factor to consider when designing your trade show pop-up display is its style. Some styles offer more advertising room, while others may suit your booth better. Here are some of the most common styles of pop-ups to consider:
- Standard Pop-Up Displays: As the most popular style, standard displays are lightweight and easy to assemble. They are large and flat, which makes them ideal for maximizing visibility.
- Fabric Pop-Up Displays: This newer style of display uses a collapsible frame. The frame literally "pops up," and the fabric sign drapes across it. These signs also provide a large, flat advertising surface.
- Modular Displays: These trade show pop-up displays are made of components that you can rearrange to suit the size and shape of your booth. Their customizability means you can use them more flexibly, though it does come at the cost of extra setup effort.
- Tabletop Displays: Designed to sit on top of tables, they are perfect for smaller spaces and compact booths. Their portability and small size mean you can even carry them if you're flying cross-country.
- Retractable Banner: If you’re looking for a staple choice for trade shows and events, you’ve found it! The vinyl banner retracts into a small roll at the base, making them extremely easy to carry around and store. What's more, you can swap out the vinyl banner easily.
- Interactive Displays: These displays incorporate spaces where you can install elements like touch screens or monitors.
- Backlit Displays: Backlit trade show pop-up displays have gained popularity recently because they are more eye-catching than traditional displays. These include lighting elements installed on the frame, which illuminates the sign from behind. They are especially effective in low-light environments.
- Curved Displays: These pop-up displays have a curved design, unlike the traditional flat style. The curved shape creates a more encompassing space and is a differentiator from typical signs. Another benefit of curved signs is that they allow more room to stand in front of the sign.
- 3D Pop-Ups: Instead of a single large sign, three-dimensional signs tend to have a few small signs. You can alter the depth and angle of these signs to achieve different appearances. You can print a single design spread across the panels or use each panel to display a unique message.
Essential Information When Designing Trade Show Pop-up Displays
With the knowledge of how large pop-up displays can be, as well as the styles available, the next step in your signage journey is finding the right one for your unique needs. Here are a few essential tips and tricks to consider when choosing your ideal sign solution:
Have Measurements for Your Booth/Space Ready Request the booth layout from the event organizer before embarking on your signage journey. Once you have the measurements, you'll know how large your sign can be. Make a note of any obstructions, such as supporting pillars, to ensure your sign will fit.
Leave Plenty of Time for Production
It's never too early to order your sign, but it certainly can be too late. Sign companies require a few days or weeks to prepare certain pop-up signs for you. If you wait until the last minute to order your sign, you may have to change the type or style to ensure it’s ready and shipped in time. Allow yourself complete freedom with your options by planning ahead!
Some displays allow additional features, such as shelving, touchscreens, and lighting, which can enhance not only the look of the sign but its utility too. Ask your sign company what options are available.
Budget
Pop-ups can start from as little as $200 for small tabletop signs to over $3,000 for larger, self-supporting signs. Make sure to explore the various options available to find the right choice for your business. It’s important to understand that cheaper does not always mean cheerful; a sign that's slightly more expensive upfront may deliver value for years, unlike a cheaper sign that breaks after one event.
Find the Right Material
Different sign companies offer different designs for their pop-ups. Some use aluminum tubes and frames that you need to install yourself. These are stronger, but their weight and the effort of installation should be kept in mind. Other options may offer self-assembling plastic frames, which are convenient but are not as long-lasting as metal frames. Depending on your needs and budget, certain materials may be more perfect than others. If you’re unsure, ask a sign specialist for their recommendations.
Quality Varies Between Sign Companies
While pop-up displays may seem the same from one signage company to another, this is often not the case. Each signage company has its own method of designing, manufacturing, and even installing sign solutions, which can affect their ability to accommodate your vision.
Choosing a signage partner that offers high-quality, cost-effective signage solutions, like Pacesetter Signs and Graphics, is an essential stage of your sign-making process. Look at reviews, request quotes, and check out galleries to determine the right company to work with.
Turn to Us for Trade Show Pop-Up Displays
Pacesetter Signs and Graphics is the go-to signage partner for businesses attending trade shows. You will work with a knowledgeable team that can handle all your signage requirements, leaving you free to prepare for the show. Whether you are a local Philadelphia business or coming in from out of town, we're here to make your trade show effortless. Talk to us today about your needs and find out how we provide end-to-end service.
