At the Business Design Centre (BDC), we host world-class events ranging from trade fairs to design showcases so we understand that knowing what to prioritise can ensure a seamless experience for both exhibitors and attendees. Here are five key factors to consider when choosing an exhibition space.
Location and Accessibility
When it comes to choosing an exhibition venue in London, location is everything. It can be the difference between whether your event is a running away success or a bit of a flop. So, when deciding where to host your next big event you should pick an exhibition space that is well connected. From excellent public transport links to enough parking bays for all your attendees, a well-located venue is a must.
Proximity to accommodation, restaurants, and attractions will also enhance the visitor experience and encourage longer engagement. Ensuring the venue has clear directions, accessibility features, and services to cater to all visitors, including those with disabilities helps to create an inclusive environment for all attendees.
Facilities and Amenities
The success of your exhibition can often depend on the quality and suitability of the venue’s facilities and amenities. A top-tier venue ensures flexibility and functionality by offering customisable spaces that can be tailored to various event sizes and formats. Whether you’re on the hunt for an expansive hall catering to a large exhibition or more intimate setups for unique boutique events, adaptable floorplans can accommodate diverse requirements seamlessly.
In addition to spatial flexibility, state-of-the-art technology is a crucial consideration. Advanced lighting systems, high-speed Wi-Fi, and cutting-edge audiovisual equipment help elevate both the visitor and exhibitor experience. This ensures that presentations, live demonstrations, and hybrid events go off without a hitch, and wow the crowd.
On-site amenities also play a significant role in ensuring convenience for exhibitors and attendees. Picking a venue equipped with catering facilities, storage options, and designated loading bays streamlines operations, from build-up to build-down.
At the BDC, our outstanding facilities include Jacks cafe where attendees can take a seat and refuel before heading back into the thick of their event. Combined with our friendly team of on-site support, our staff are always ready to help and reduce any logistical challenges you may be facing, enabling organisers to focus on delivering a world-class event.
Cost and Value
When checking out an exhibition venue in London, cost will be a key consideration. But don’t forget to weigh up the value provided by the venue too. Many venues include essential services, such as booth setup, utilities, and technical support offering excellent value for organisers working within a set budget.
It is important to account for any additional costs that may arise, such as overtime charges, specialised technical assistance, or premium catering services. Choosing a venue that will communicate these costs upfront and has integrated partnerships avoids unpleasant surprises and keeps you under budget.
Size and Layout
Venue size and capacity are make or break factors to consider when planning an event. You’ll want to ensure the space not only fits your guest list comfortably but also accommodates the expected number of attendees without overcrowding. After all, a relaxed and spacious environment contributes significantly to the overall environment of your event.
The venue layout, style, and aesthetics play a decisive role in choosing an event venue. These aren’t just details; they’re the foundation for creating a memorable atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re aiming for an intimate networking session or a large-scale trade show, the layout should align perfectly with your event’s goals and cater to the specific needs of your audience.
Then there’s scalability. A flexible space that can grow with your event ensures that future expansions are well accommodated for, without the need to change locations. This adaptability is what makes the BDC an ideal choice, as it offers spaces and exceptional value for both long standing exhibitions and first-time organisers. Many of the events at the BDC have been held here for many years and we love seeing how exhibits have grown each time when they return.
Reputation
A venue’s reputation speaks volumes, and it can directly influence the success of your event. Choosing a well-regarded space, lends credibility to your event. Plus, venues with experienced staff and strong support networks can make the planning process of your event run a lot smoother.
Here at the BDC not only are we a world-class event and exhibition venue in London but our reputation as a place of sustainablity precedes us, being a B-corp. Hosting at a sustainable venue doesn’t just reduce your event’s environmental footprint – it also demonstrates dynamic corporate responsibility.
The BDC is B Corp-certified and committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2030, so we’re a natural fit for events that prioritise green initiatives and forward-thinking ideas.We have received recognition with multiple awards, including the Exhibition News (EN) CSR Award twice and the EN ESG Award in 2022, which we took immense pride in winning. We are constantly looking for ways to benefit the world and help where we can, and that will remain a key objective of the BDC’s focus each year.
Why Choose the BDC?
The BDC is a versatile venue steeped in history and located in one of London’s most vibrant districts – Angel, Islington. Our modern facilities, eco-conscious practices, and adaptable spaces make us one of London’s leading destinations for an amazing array of events, from industry exhibitions to immersive shopping fairs. Our venue ensures a winning combination of an internationally renowned reputation, ideal central location and unrivaled amenities.
By prioritising visitor experience and exhibitor satisfaction, the BDC continues to be a top choice for organisers across various sectors. Discover how we can elevate your next event by visiting our exhibitor page for more information.
