So, you have decided to make a bigger wave, and the idea of doubling your trade show booth area is now on the table. Every transition requires preparation, and we have prepared a step-by-step guide to pave the way into growing your booth from a ten footer to a 20 ft. area. Our main concern here is to help you with the budget options you now have, because double the size shouldn’t mean double the money.
Option 1: Start with what you already have
OK, so, before plunging into the “I need the price for…” thinking, let’s get started at where you are now. First things first, you need to understand and evaluate your goals. Whatever your motivation for the expansion is, you must have your ducks in a row as per what you are willing to obtain from it. Once this is done, your course of action should be clear, and hence, easier.
Now, ask yourself the “What have I got?” question. Most probably, you already have a trade show display waiting for a new chance to shine. Is it still relevant to your needs, in terms of branding message, product impact, etc.? If the answer is yes, that means savings. A little caution here: be honest about it. Don’t just try to save some money, but aim at the underlying exhibit objectives: that’s always the winning attitude!
Reuse or not reuse, that is the question
Well, if you answered “Yes” to the “Should I reuse what I have?”, a truly assertive decision requires a second assessment: Can you actually expand to a 20’ with it? Here we are going to be taxative: not every display is meant for expansion. We are going to be focusing mainly on tension fabric backwalls; we can assure they can withstand the test for growing into a larger booth setup. You may read our piece on Why tension fabric? to get the idea.
Straight or curved?
Chances are your current booth backdrop is a pop up display, either curved or straight. That is good news, because those curved babies are easily expandable to a 10’x20’ area. Indeed, it sort of goes in the way of “Easy setup, easy expansion”. Just you buy an extra one and a few adapters! However, you have to realize you will stick with curved shapes.
Ok, now, focusing on the curved configurations available, the concave-to-concave, also known as Gullwing, is your first option. It should be used if you need to replicate the alcove effect of a single display; it helps with separating areas, as the junction is going to be evident because of the shape. The complementary option is to go with the concave-to convex junction, a wavy S-shaped (a.k.a. Serpentine) setup. This one gives you an attractive, fluid look and feel. It uses up a bit more of your room, but may enhance visual impact.
At this point you might be wondering, “What about the SEG displays or light boxes?” If you already have one of those, the same thinking applies. So no worries, we’ve got you covered.
Mind your graphics
Here is the key issue: no matter what kind of display you have, which curved shape you choose, or what panels you join, get your 20ft artwork designed by a professional. It absolutely must be a proper design for whatever option you choose. Don’t create messy visual distractions by trying to save a little in design. Your trade show presence is more valuable than that, and our design services are free*.
One of the budgetary reasons why we specifically recommend to do the expansion on tension fabric rigs is you may have to replace the original graphics. That’s the beauty of tension fabric displays: with a single frame you may display any graphic you need. That’s where the savings are. But, remember to aim at your goal first, and to save later: your graphic setup should be impeccable.
In case you have a 10’ pop up, youmay choose to reuse your first graphic and add a new coherent one, which offers the advantage of versatility: you will then have artworks for both one 20’ and two 10’ booths. Or, you may choose to create an entirely new 20’ art, which shouldn’t be as expensive as a new 20’ booth display. Or…
Option 2: You may buy an entirely new 20ft display!
Yes! That’s an option! And, maybe, the easier option. We have a great selection of brand new 20’ trade show displays for you. With the knowledge you now have you can make an informed decision, or you may ask us for free expert advice. In any case, remember to ask our trade show experts about accessories to enhance visitor experience. Charging stations, information kiosks, or furniture; you name it. We are here to help you achieve your marketing goals.