Hybrid events are on the rise

Content delivery at a trade show pre-pandemic. Things will look a little different at hybrid events

You may have heard the term "hybrid event."

It's in widespread use currently as trade show organisers come to grips with getting live events back-up and running. 

Hybrid events usually describe exhibitions with physical stands coupled with digital content. 

Visitors to events like these have access to both the physical and digital parts of the show or conference. 

Hybrid events are different from those pitched as "virtual." 

Virtual events are all-digital affairs. Digital stands coupled with webinars and podcasts. 

Hybrids take place in physical event venues, and there are real people on stands to meet and interact with real visitors. 

The digital content represents an extension of the seminar or conference programme supporting the show. 

It's not necessarily a replacement for on-site talks and discussions; instead, it's a means to increase the depth of coverage available to attendees.

Hybrid events also provide a means to reach people who choose not to attend due to travel restrictions or because of company policies restricting attendance at live events. 

For this audience, the content is not available until after the event has taken place; there has to be an incentive to attend the physical exhibition. 

So what are the opportunities for your business with this new form of a trade show? 

You can meet buyers on your stand just as you would at a "normal event.”

1. Your stand will need COVID safety measures designed in; see this page on our website
2. Attendances to trade shows are likely to be lower for a while but the good news is your company will be able to exhibit successfully with fewer people working on a stand 
3. Content opportunities for exhibitors are increasing due to digital. Organisers will use this dual audience approach as a means of offering exhibitors involvement in seminar sessions and virtual stand and show tours. You need to be ready to take advantage of this

Just as you would vet a physical event, so too, apply the same audience assessment process when deciding how much space to take at a hybrid trade show. 

And if you need help adapting an existing structure to fit a different shaped space, we can help. 

Alternatively, we can create a brand new design for a "safe" stand.

For immediate attention call Francesca Conners on 01702 662 111 or email  [email protected]