When someone walks into a trade show, they see colours, lights, movement, and then, what grabs them?
It’s not the free pens or the tin mints. It’s the sound, the screen, the glow, the energy. It’s how an exhibition stand feels. And behind that feeling is one thing: the right AV and display equipment.
Choosing the right kit is not just about plugging in a screen and turning up the volume. It’s about bringing your brand to life. It’s about standing out in a sea of “meh” and turning heads for the right reasons. And that all starts here, with the right AV and display gear working in harmony with your stand.
Let’s break it down, keep it simple, and get you fully prepped for the exhibition floor.
1. Start with the why
Before picking screens or lights, ask one simple question: What am I trying to achieve with this stand? Your purpose drives everything, from the tech you rent to how you set it up. Know the goal, then build around it.
Goal first, gear second
Choose technology that supports your specific aim, such as showing a product. Go for high-res screens. Building engagement? Add clear sound. Want to turn heads? Use bold lighting and interactive elements.
The right setup tells the right story
Your stand is more than a space. It’s a message. The equipment you choose should speak your brand’s language. Make your AV setup reflect your style, energy, and vision, so your story doesn’t just get seen; it gets remembered.
2. Know the space you are working with
Your stand isn’t a one-size-fits-all setup. The shape, size, and surroundings matter. Before renting gear, understand the space so your AV doesn’t fight against the layout; it works with it.
Size does matter
Too many stands go for huge LED screens only to find they overpower a small shell scheme. On the other hand, using a tiny monitor in a massive corner space can make you look like you forgot to show up. Measure your space and match your equipment to scale.
Light and sound levels count
If you’re near the entrance, you may have more natural light. If you’re near a busy walkway, you’ll deal with more noise. Choose displays with anti-glare features and speakers that can cut through background chatter without being rude about it.
3. Screens, LED Walls, & Monitors (What’s best)
Not all screens are created equal. Pick the wrong one, and you won’t grab attention or keep people around.
LED Walls
Perfect for high-impact visuals. They’re bright, bold, and impossible to miss. Great for showing off video content or branded animations. Just make sure your content matches the quality; blurry video on a crisp wall is a no-go.
Touch Screens
Want people to stop and stay a while? Add touchscreens. They’re great for interactive demos or digital brochures. They help reduce printed waste.
Monitors
Smaller monitors are ideal for product demos or showing slideshows. Use them wisely, don’t overload with text. Keep messages short and readable from at least 6 feet away.
4. Audio: The quiet power move
Sound is often the most important part of a great exhibition stand. You might not see it, but you’ll feel it. When used right, audio adds depth, pulls people in, and keeps them engaged without being overwhelming.
Sound speakers that don’t shout
You don’t need to blast sound to make an impact. Choose focused speakers or directional audio to deliver sound right where you need it, without annoying your neighbours.
Live sound setup
Got a presenter? A mic and a small mixer go a long way. Use lapel mics for hands-free chats. And always test your setup at least an hour before the show opens.
5. Lighting (More Than Just Bright)
Lighting doesn’t just help people see, it helps them feel. The right light can guide eyes, change mood, and make your stand unforgettable. Don’t just light up the space. Use lighting to tell a story.
Warm vs. Cool
Warm lighting feels soft and inviting. Cool lighting feels crisp and techy. Use a mix to direct attention and set the mood.
Spotlights and uplights
Use spotlights to highlight key products or messages. Uplights placed at the base of graphics or walls create drama without being flashy.
| 💡 Pro Tip: Don’t just light the stand, light the story. Focus attention where you want it. |
6. Don’t forget the graphics
Your graphics are the silent salesperson of your stand. They should instantly communicate who you are and what you offer, even before you say a word. Crisp, vibrant visuals create a strong first impression and draw people in. Investing in professional design pays off by making your stand feel polished and inviting, encouraging visitors to stop and learn more.
Screens + printed graphics
Printed banners and digital screens should work together, not fight each other. Keep colours consistent. Match fonts and tone. A cohesive look builds trust faster than you think.
Use motion wisely
Animations or motion graphics are great for catching eyes, but too much movement can overwhelm. Keep it simple and loop-friendly.
7. Practical matters (Cables, Setup, & Support)
Behind every great stand is a smooth setup that runs like clockwork. Planning ahead and organising your equipment carefully saves time and stress on the day. Make sure all components fit perfectly and that everything is easy to access for quick fixes. A well-prepared setup lets you focus on engaging visitors, not troubleshooting technical glitches.
Hide your wires
Loose cables ruin even the best-looking stands. Use cable covers and tidy management systems. Trip hazards don’t just look messy, they’re a safety issue.
Tech support on-site
Stuff breaks. Signals drop. It happens. That’s why having a pro team on hand makes all the difference. Don’t be the one standing with a blank screen.
Test Everything Twice
The night before. The morning of. Check it, and then check it again.
Top recommendations
Choosing the right equipment and setup can make a huge difference in how your stand performs. Think about your audience and what will capture their attention best. Focus on quality over quantity; sometimes, less is more when it comes to tech. And always plan for easy operation so your team can manage everything smoothly throughout the event.
Use AV equipment that suits your content
No point in hiring a massive video wall if you’re only playing a slideshow.
Keep it simple
Don’t try to cram in every gadget. Clear, clean setups win every time.
Go for a professional hire
They’ll guide you to the right gear, set it up, and troubleshoot if anything goes wrong.
Make it easy with AV Productions
Your display stand is more than just a space. It’s your brand’s time to shine. With excellent AV and display technology, careful setup, and a focused mind on what you need to achieve, you can build an experience that captures attention, communicates your story, and makes an impact.
So, if you’re exhibiting in London, AV Productions is your go-to for AV and display equipment. We’ve supported over 11,000 events, carry a massive 31,000+ stock of AV equipment, and have been doing this for over 25 years. Whether it’s a monitor or a full LED wall setup, AV Productions has the gear and the team to back it up.
- London-based, with same-day support.
- On-site technicians are available 24/7.
- Experts in exhibitions, trade shows, conferences, and more.
- Full-service AV production and content support.
Need a quote or a call back? Visit AV Productions and get started today. Don’t just show up, stand out.
