News Center

Returning to events and exhibitions following Covid-19

 
Finally! It’s important to prepare ourselves for what to expect at that first exhibition back post Covid, it may be slightly different to how we remember. To name a few reasons - more controlled footfall, hybrid environments and more stringent health and safety restrictions. Not only this, but some of you may feel anxious at the thought of a crowded environment or that you’re a bit out of practice with events all together. However, don’t panic - we’re all in this together! Event organizers will be doing what they can to make you feel comfortable and ensure you have an enjoyable time whether you’re a visitor, exhibitor or contractor.
We chatted to some of our events industry pals to get their thoughts on returning to site, and we’ve detailed the most common advice below. 
1.     Embrace opportunity
Although digital events have dominated the market over the last year, the significance of live events, human interaction and face to face networking is clearer than ever. Our advice to you starts with embracing opportunity. Try not to shy away or fear the industry that will help increase your brand awareness and generate leads to grow your business.
2.     Prioritize health and safety
Whilst having enthusiasm for live events to return, we also must maintain and encourage health and safety instructions, as different exhibitions and venues may have different rules in place. The only way our industry can thrive once more is if everyone does their bit to stop the virus spreading – so make sure you follow all necessary precautions.
3.     Be open to change
Be open to the new reality and prepared for change in the industry. There will be a lot of big players who are no longer in operation, and people’s work schedules will be different. Flexible working and hours may impact communication, so don’t assume everyone will work the typical hours they used to. Covid may be on its way out, but flexible working isn’t going anywhere – this may take some time to adapt to, but the key is to be proactive in your preparation and organization.  
4.     Quality over quantity
The momentum surrounding exhibitions may be quite slow initially, everyone is going to be working on reduced resources, smaller workforce, and will need some time to remind themselves of how things work and adapt to the ‘new norm’. On that note, it’s important to realize the difference between quality over quantity. The days of a jam-packed shows are no more, not all businesses will have the budget to exhibit and the show floors will be more spread out to encourage social distancing and as a result, shows will feel less busy. Focus on the quality of the attendees and don’t be put off by a reduced visitor or exhibitor list.
 
Overall, the key is to embrace the opportunity, get your team and your brand back out there for people to interact with, but stay alert to how the industry has changed. Be prepared to support your team more than ever before - it is important to remember not everyone will be as confident with physical interaction as you may be. Our main advice is to be open to change, it’s up to all of us to make exhibitions and events even better than before. Almost pretend you’re starting from scratch and don’t assume anything is known already. Our final pearl of wisdom is something that will never change - remember to wear comfy shoes!