Access Displays Ltd - Blog

Friends of Richmond Park choose Access Displays for Royal Event

2012-05-25T16:03:00.000+01:00

Richmond Council and The Royal Parks teamed up to host a large community event, celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

‘Wild London’ was the boroughs first festival aimed at celebrating London’s woodlands, parks and gardens. It was held in the borough’s finest open space – Richmond Park, on 15 May 2012 in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and Princess Alexandra.

The event featured a wide range of activities in a variety of zones, and ‘The Friends’ elected to hire Access Displays Panel & Pole displays for the conservation and inspiration zones, to showcase their many programmes and activities.

Friends of Richmond Park spokesman Richard Gray said “It was important for us that the quality of the displays matched the occasion, and despite the bad weather, we were very pleased with the panels and service provided by Access Displays”.

Peter Bowen, CEO of Access Displays commented “We were delighted that the day way such a success. Our premium hire products are robust, hard wearing and easy to install, making them ideal for these types of event”.

View our range of hire displays and furniture

The Queen at Richmond Park

Richmond Park information displayed on our hire display boards

Photos displayed on our Panel and Pole hire boards

The Modern Exhibitor Explores The Cultural Differences Whilst Exhibiting Abroad

2012-05-18T10:57:00.000+01:00

Taking time to understand and appreciate the cultural and religious differences when exhibiting abroad could make the difference between success and failure. We all look at things differently and dress and express ourselves in accordance to the cultures that we are familiar with. And so here we explore some of the key factors to take into account when exhibiting abroad.

What we say and how we say it is always an important part of exhibiting but what and how we communicate through the exhibition stand itself when abroad is crucial.

Failures on human and structural levels to recognise and respect the culture of the country or ethnic group that you are trying to attract as customers could have devastating and long lasting consequences. A little bit of research prior to your event is essential.

Consider local styles, fashions and materials when designing your exhibition stand and be aware of local rules and customs. In the US many States have different rules regarding the use of local labour which is vigorously backed by their Unions. These rules could severely restrict the design and build time of your exhibition booth. Make sure that your team or contractor’s team have taken this into account for both the design and build process.

Think about how you should introduce yourself to an exhibition visitor in a foreign country. Americans tend to address everyone by their first names in all forms of communications including meetings, emails and over the telephone. To many Europeans this is too familiar and disrespectful. They would prefer to be addressed by their title and surname. I.e. Mr Smith, Herr Smith or Ms Smith.

In some countries it is perfectly acceptable to be addressed purely as “Smith” but in others this would be seen as offensive.

Your exhibition staff might be meeting a potential customer for the first time face to face. You might have been trying to close this contact for years, so it would be devastating if you unintentionally offended them by addressing them incorrectly.

Will your exhibition visitors expect a hand shake or a bow?

In the US, a firm, short hand shake indicates self-confidence and masculinity, whilst a limp handshake by a man might be interpreted as a sign of being weak or effeminate. However in fact in most parts of Africa a limp hand shake is what is expected. In Africa it is common practice for the handshake to last several minutes whereas in the US a handshake that lasts more than a few seconds is only used to show familiarity, warmth or possibly sexual attraction.

It’s very important that your exhibition staff are aware of these differences so that they can recognise them and put their training into practice during the event. Any individual touch that you can portray will be highly respected and admired so try and be better than those around you.

What should you be wearing on an Overseas Exhibition Stand?

It might be appropriate to wear shorts or mini skirts in some parts of the world but in the Middle East this would be seen as disrespectful. It is always safer to dress conservatively if you are not familiar with the local customs and wish to have a chance of engaging in conversation with local business people.

Monochronic and Polychronic Cultures

Monochronic cultures tend to like to do just one thing at a time and don’t like interruptions, if you were speaking to a German visitor on your exhibition stand and decided to take a phone call whilst he was speaking to you then he would deem that as being disrespectful.

On the other hand Polychronic cultures such as Americans and French prefer to do many things at the same time and so that might not be as off putting for them.

In fact at a recent meeting in Paris my own Managing Director commented on how difficult it was for him to concentrate when presenting a proposal for a Global Exhibition programme when most of the board members he was presenting to, were looking at their mobile phones!

Using your mobile phone on any exhibition stand, wherever you are exhibiting is definitely and totally unacceptable. Make sure your visitors are given the appropriate level of attention without distraction. They want to be seen and treated as important individuals not just additional exhibition lead chaff.

Different cultures have differing views about time

Many cultures view time as a resource that will eventually run out so it needs to be respected and not wasted. Time is money so being late or missing meetings and appointments is unacceptable. But to other cultures time is endless and so trust becomes a key feature of the business relationship. Here you might find yourself waiting all day for a client to arrive at your exhibition stand only to then find out that they now plan to visit you on another day! On a business trip to the Caribbean I asked my host what the time was and he just looked up to the sky and replied “day time!”

Remember that if you are using a local contractor to build your exhibition stand don’t forget that they will be building and working to a standard and a speed that they think is acceptable to their culture. This might be very different to what you have experienced within your own culture so you might need to do your research first to avoid disappointment.

Reading Body Language

You might be familiar with reading the body language of your fellow countrymen but when abroad it can be very difficult. The Japanese can find it very hard to say “NO” whereas some Eastern European cultures avoid being positive or enthusiastic and purposely give negative responses and criticism. This behaviour, although off putting, might not be a reflection of poor communication so keep your pitch going, stay confident and don’t let negative comments affect your approach.

In some cultures nodding one’s head is seen as a sign of agreement but in Iran, Bulgaria or Turkey it could mean exactly the opposite! Touching someone with your left hand is seen as unclean in parts of Asia and the Middle East. In some cultures small talk or chit chat is used to break the ice before a more formal meeting but in France this could be seen as a sign of mental instability. Many devout Muslim men are not permitted to touch any woman other than their own wife or mother. In some cultures it is common practice to use kissing as a greeting in others it’s just a case of swapping business cards!

Being aware of these differences and acknowledging them whilst you are manning your exhibition stand will help you to gain respect from the visitors which will hopefully mean more sales.

Visual Communications

Companies that fail to research and respect the different cultures around the world have little chance of success.

Everything you design and produce for your exhibition stand should be checked carefully. Anything that is translated for your event such as websites, emails, invitations, blogs, exhibition graphics, and videos presentations, brochures and datasheets should be carefully checked by an expert in that culture.

Even though the world is becoming increasingly smaller these cultural differences still remain an important part of exhibiting. We all pride ourselves on our individual nuances and lets face it life would be pretty boring if we all looked and acted the same!

So wherever you decide to exhibit please remember that it’s not a case of just turning up and doing what you always do to get results. Research the country and it’s culture and treat their religious and cultural differences with respect if you want to experience positive results.

There are many companies that provide specific advice and cultural awareness training. Here is a link to one such company in the UK www.kwintessential.co.uk

Below I have detailed some of their best examples.

There are many well publicised business blunders that show how companies have failed to research and respect the different cultures and religions groups around the world. Here are a few of them.

A cologne for men pictured a pastoral scene with a man and his dog. It failed in Islamic countries where dogs are considered to be unclean.
Proctor and Gamble used a television commercial in Japan that was popular in Europe. The ad showed a woman bathing; her husband entered the bathroom touching her. The Japanese considered this ad an invasion of privacy, inappropriate behaviour, and in poor taste.
An American business person refused an offer from a Saudi businessman. Such a rejection is considered very rude and the business negotiations became stalled.
One company printed the “OK” finger sign on each page of it’s catalogue. In many parts of Latin America that is considered an obscene gesture.
A golf ball manufacturing company packaged golf balls in packs of four for convenient purchase in Japan. Unfortunately, pronunciation of the word “four” sounds like “death” and items packed in fours are unpopular.
In Taiwan, the translation of the Pepsi slogan “Come alive with the Pepsi Generation” came out as “Pepsi will bring your ancestors back from the dead”.

Happy exhibiting

What Sort of Exhibitor Are You?

2012-04-24T10:22:00.000+01:00

Generally there are three types of people that man exhibition stands can you tell which one you are?

The Exhibitor Expert

The Exhibitor Expert understands his objectives and knows how to engage with any visitor at any level. Confident in his own ability and social skills he uses positive body language to encourage visitors to enter into conversation and engagement. This allows him to establish potential prospect quickly and effectively ensuring maximum use of time. The Exhibition Expert’s primary purpose is to establish where the visitor is in the buying cycle. This will allow him to agree any follow up action after the event.
Carefully an accurately recording the visitors details he will make meticulous notes so that it is clear to see what the visitor was interested in and what further action is required. Before the visitor leaves the exhibition stand he will shake their hand and verbally confirm the agreed action by saying something like “Thanks for taking the time to visit our stand today. I am confident that we will be able to help you with your requirement and I look forward to discussing this project further next week”.

The Passive Exhibitor

The Passive Exhibitor is very polite and is always smiling. They are proud to promote their company at the annual exhibition. But as they have been exhibiting for several years they feel uncomfortable to ask their manager for advice on how to man the stand or what to do.
Instead they perch themselves on the corner of the exhibition stand and ask passersby if they would like a brochure or leaflet.
They work hard and at the end of each day they inform their team leader that they have been really busy and given out hundreds of expensive brochures”!
As far as they are concerned a visitor that smiles back is as good as a sale.
If they receive a really big smile they might even throw in a tentative one liner!
“Good morning are you enjoying the show?” or “Have you just arrived at the exhibition?”
What really throws them is when the visitor responds with a question about their company, product or service. In their mind that’s an answer for the Sales Director and he’s already talking to somebody so “Do you want a brochure?” is as far as they can take the conversation.

Exhibition Prisoner

We have all seen the Exhibition Prisoner. You know the one, that person that doesn’t want to be there and can’t wait to get out. They don’t value exhibiting. They knew even before the show started that the leads would be rubbish and the attendance poor.
They would sooner spend their time on their mobile phone than talk to prospects and don’t even think about approaching them when it’s lunch time, can’t you see that they are eating!
They’ve been to loads of exhibitions and it’s always the same every year.
They spend more time talking to other exhibitors about how slow the show traffic is than they do telling visitors about their products and services.
The only good thing as far as they are concerned is that they can go home early to avoid the traffic!

What sort of exhibitor are you?

Peter Bowen
C.E.O.
Access Displays Ltd

Are you addressing your exhibition visitor’s generation?

2012-04-02T13:49:00.000+01:00

We live in an unusual time where our exhibition visitors could be made up of several different generations. With this in mind we need to be thoughtful of how and what we communicate and how this will effect our exhibition stand designs.

Let me explain in more detail.

If your typical customer was born in the 1940’s or 1950’s then it is likely that they would have certain morals and values. This is a generation that was brought up at a time where money was tight and resources scarce. This generation values customer service, loyalty and professionalism so they might prefer to be sold to and communicated to in a traditional way and probably face to face.

They might prefer a handshake to an email, and to speak to a person not a voicemail.

In a generation where you get what you pay for and give as good as you get, gadgets and technology could be viewed with caution.

This generation is frugal and works in a matter of fact way. Brought up in a time when waste not want not was the order of the day, they might not want to see complicated or over designed exhibition stands with expensive giveaways and technological mumbo jumbo.

Customers that were born in the 1960’s would have a different perspective on things. This is the generation of prosperity, enterprise and achievement. After all they won the world cup and put a man on the moon so anything is possible!

Known as the baby boomers they were the first generation to take advantage of package holidays. They invented Tupperware parties, experienced Beetlemania and watched Opportunity Knocks on the very first colour TV’s.

This generation is open to ideas and challenges and is used to coping and experiencing change through technology.

Born in the 1980’s generation X was the first to fully engage and interact with modern technology.

From the release of pac-man video, mobile phones and faxes this generation's world became smaller and easier through technology. It has more concerns over environmental issues and sustainability by discovering a hole in the Ozone layer.

Capable of solving the Rubik’s cube puzzle this generation is used to interacting on exhibition stands through simulators and graphical user interfaces.

Generation Y or “I want it now”, live and expect a completely different visitor experience.

This generation’s mobile phones have always had cameras. Members belong to groups that have followers and virtual friends that like them! They would sooner tweet than speak in person and have found out more about your company and its products or services before your exhibition than any other generation. They can SHOUT about you or castigate you to thousands of others in a moment. They look for referrals and gather information in forums and chat rooms where they share ideas. They expect an interaction between the real and virtual world and can live comfortably in both. They don’t know what a record is and have never heard of the Berlin Wall. If they want something they can download it or order it online. If they want to try something before they buy, they can watch it on YouTube or discuss it on Skype.

This generation expects to be interactive and entertained through technology. It thinks that augmented reality is yesterday’s news and that everybody has a 3D TV in their home.

Taking the time to analyse and appreciate the demographics of your exhibition visitors will help you with its design and layout. It will assist you on how and what you communicate to your audience, pre and post exhibition, to ensure that you realise a better return on your investment.

Access Displays Ltd Shortlisted For National Award

2012-02-13T15:28:00.001Z

Exhibition specialist Access Displays has been short listed in the “Best Supplier to Exhibitors” category in the 6^th annual ‘Exhibition News’ industry awards.

The EN awards recognise outstanding business performance across the exhibition community and Access Displays’ CEO, Peter Bowen is naturally delighted by the announcement. “We are very proud of being short listed, given the incredibly fierce competition in this category” and adds, “I think our submission highlighted the key reasons why our clients keep choosing Access Displays; our specific knowledge of the industry, our expertise and understanding of our customers needs and our high level of service and personal attention – here’s hoping we win!”

This announcement continues the company’s excellent start to 2012, coming on the back of several major contract gains.

The Exhibition News Awards 2012 will be held at Olympia’s new-look West Hall on Thursday 29th March.

Peter Bowen, CEO of Access Displays Ltd

Exhibitions are a waste of time?

2012-01-24T09:46:00.000Z

Like most middle aged grumpy men I hate shopping. So on those very rare occasions when my wife manages to drag me out to purchase an item that needs a “joint decision”, I want to make it quick and easy. I’m very busy so I haven’t got the time or patience to go into shop after shop looking at televisions or laptops. I want to speak to an expert who knows the products inside out, someone who understands my requirement and somebody who can explain the options available to help me make my purchasing decisions.

But how often do we get the customer service, sales skills and product knowledge we deserve in the high street?

We have the same expectations at exhibitions. The only difference is that here potential customers have gone to a great deal of trouble and expense to attend, in order to find new suppliers and place orders!

A few months ago, with colleagues, I visited ‘EuroShop’ in Dusseldorf Germany. Billed as Europe’s largest exhibition relating to the exhibition, POS and shop fitting industry, this is the place where you would expect to find new products, design inspiration and the latest fashions and trends within our industry. This triennial event is where we meet up with old friends, exchange stories about the industry and reminisce over an Alt beer in Old Town, Dusseldorf.

Our mission was to source 200m2 of modular flooring to increase our hire stock, see what was new in display lighting and to find new products that would be of interest to our customers.

At the end of the first day we met up to compare notes. It was quite clear that we were all experiencing similar problems with the lack of sales skills and basic product knowledge of the exhibitors. What worried us most was the fact that these companies were from the exhibition industry so if they didn’t know how to man an exhibition stand or speak to potential customers then what chance would somebody outside of the industry have?

Some of the basic non-technical questions we asked, which went unanswered were –

Is this product in stock?
Do you have UK distributors?
Would there be a discount on 1,000 units?
Is this the only colour you have?
How much does it cost?
What is the lead time?
Do you have a brochure?

To make matters worse, when we saw exhibitors who did explain their products in great detail and answered all of our questions, they forgot to ask for our business cards or scan in our badge details!

So if you are involved in organising your company’s exhibition programme and your sales team returns from a show and says “Exhibitions are a waste of time” make sure you qualify what they mean!

A fantastic stand alone is not a guarantee of success.

The value of face to face selling at exhibitions is well documented, so in these testing times, where we all have fewer customers with less money to spend, it is imperative that we plan ahead and train our stand personnel to work harder and smarter than our competitors.

The following are a few useful tips that might make the difference and help you realise the true potential of exhibiting.

Agree your business objectives before the show and share with staff.
List the sorts of questions you are likely to be asked by your customers and make sure all staff know the answers or where to find them.
Set daily targets for each person manning the stand and measure their performance.
Give staff incentives to encourage activity and accuracy.

Data collection has never been easier. The latest technology is excellent, but there may be some limitations, so the good old enquiry pad can always help you add that important extra detail about the lead.
But however you do it – do it! There is nothing worse for a customer, who has spent half an hour on the stand explaining his requirement, than receiving a telephone call a week later asking him what he was interested in.

More tips on exhibiting

Peter Bowen

C.E.O.

Access Displays Ltd

http://www.accessdisplays.co.uk/

Isn’t it time you had a Double Decker Exhibition Stand?

2012-01-23T11:42:00.000Z

Many of our clients need a specific area within their exhibition stand to entertain visitors or have private meetings away from the busy exhibition floor where product demonstrations and general enquiries are taking place. One of the ways of doing this is by adding additional floor levels.

Double Deck Exhibition Stand for Chicago Pneumatic

Double Decker or even Triple Decker exhibition stands can increase floor space dramatically. There are obviously budget implications as well as numerous technical issues to over come; in fact some exhibition venues or show organisers won’t even allow this type of exhibition design.

Double Decker Exhibition Stand for SiS

As these exhibition stands are generally over 4 metre high they may be classed as a temporary build and need to be constructed to strict building regulations where planning applications have to be submitted and approved by the Local Authorities in the same way as a house extension or alteration would be. Structural calculations would need to be supplied along with full working drawings, risk assessments making sure that they comply with other health and safety issues including The Disability Discrimination Act. There are also fire regulations to take into account, if the second or third floor of your exhibition stand exceeds a certain percentage of the ground floor space the local fire officer may insist that a sprinkler system and fire extinguishers are installed. Even fire exit signs and escape plans might need to be in operation.

This might sound quite daunting, but here at Access Displays we deal with these sorts of issues every day. We know what the different requirements are in most countries around the world and take all this worry and form filling away by liaising with the necessary authorities.

Cost implications

Obviously there are serious cost implications to take into account when thinking about using a Double Decker Exhibition stand. Steel girders required for strength can weigh many tonnes and everything we use in building Double Decker Exhibition stands is bigger, stronger and heavier than traditional exhibition stand builds. This could mean higher transportation costs, additional man power and equipment costs and longer build times. That is why we look at each Double Decker Exhibition Stand project separately. As well as purchase we can offer the hire of a Double Decker Exhibition stand to keep costs down. If your exhibition is in another country we will almost certainly look to using one of our overseas exhibition partners so that we can source your Double Decker Exhibition stand locally. An advantage of this is that local exhibition contractors know the local exhibition rules, speak the language and have experience of working at certain venues and in some cases can get in early at no additional costs to the client.

If you would like to talk to us about your Double Decker Exhibition Stand requirement then please contact us.

Nigeria LNG Double Deck Exhibition Stands

Free hire equipment at The Business Show Swindon 2012

2012-01-19T11:23:00.001Z

The Swindon Business Show

1st February 2012

If you're attending this FREE event come and visit our stand. If you haven't booked, why not book today to secure your place!

Date: 1st February 2012, 9am - 4pm
Venue: STEAM Museum

Access Displays Ltd
Stand number: 26

As well as over 80 exhibitors from a range of business sectors and sizes, there are also free speed networking sessions and a conference cafe for networking, refreshment and one-to-one meetings available.

FREE HIRE EQUIPMENT FOR EXHIBITORS

We are offering FREE hire equipment for exhibitors at The Business Show Swindon this year*.

To be eligible for this offer you must follow @AccessDisplays on Twitter and post the following tweet:

RT @AccessDisplays Exhibiting at The Business Show Swindon? Follow us & RT to be eligible for FREE hire equipment. http://ow.ly/8yRT2 @swindonbizshow

* Free hire equipment is limited to our folding display boards, panel and pole and pop up displays only and subject to availability. Carriage will be charged for unless collection is possible for the equipment you require. Please call us on 01793 613088 for further details.

Links to free hire equipment:

Folding Display Boards

Panel and Pole Stands

Pop Up Displays

Access Displays offer an extensive range of Modular Display stands, Display Boards, Pop-up Display stands and Banner Systems and a range of exhibition furniture. We are a global supplier of exhibition panels and display equipment and have over 3000 different consumable items for both the trade and end users, including shop fitting, signage and retail displays.

For the more seasoned exhibitor we provide total customer Project Management from the initial FREE Exhibition Stand Design to installation anywhere in the world. With our own production facility we build Custom Made and Modular Display Stands, award winning exhibition stands and display equipment, all to the highest of standards. Shop fitting and reception design is part of our special projects portfolio.

The smarter way to improved efficiency and better value

2012-01-13T14:03:00.000Z

At the recent 2011 ESSA (Exhibition Stand Suppliers Association) G50+ conference, keynote speaker, Tony Wallis of Toyota Material Handling UK, delighted delegates with his presentation of business practices (as defined by the Toyota Production System), as part of a continuous improvement programme.

The inspirational presentation struck an important chord with long time ESSA member, Peter Bowen, CEO of exhibition specialists Access Displays. Peter explains, “The information coming across formalised some of the ideas we were trying to implement at Access Displays and I felt that we needed to know more.”
Access Displays expanded its relationship with Toyota, subsequently, when Production Director, Emma Thatcher, accepted a place at a TPS master class.

(The Toyota Production System empowers team members to optimise quality by constantly improving processes and eliminating unnecessary waste in natural, human and corporate resources. TPS influences every aspect of Toyota’s organisation and includes a common set of values, knowledge and procedures. It entrusts employees with well defined responsibilities in each production step and encourages every team member to strive for overall improvement.)

And what of the master class? Emma explains, “It highlighted many of the issues important to Access Displays, including service and teamwork.
I enjoyed, particularly, the practical elements, where the role play emphasised the major benefits to be achieved by setting clear goals and giving relevant training and instruction.”
But will this experience influence future plans? Emma believes that it will and envisages challenges ahead to ensure that any manpower changes are linked to improved process implementation, consistency of operation and optimum stock holding.

Peter Bowen agrees and concludes, “Involving staff in the decision making and jointly agreeing procedures to improve efficiency, is the smart way to reduce waste and give customers better value and service”.

Lindt choose Access Displays Ltd as their exhibition stand contractor

2012-01-12T11:13:00.000Z

Case Study – Lindt

Client : Lindt & Sprungli UK

First Show : P & H Pro Retail – 9^th May, Telford International Centre

Space : 4m x 3m

Background :

In March 2011, Access Displays received an enquiry, on its web site, from Andrew Lightowler, Lindt’s Trade Sector Manager. The enquiry was in relation to two exhibitions that the company was attending. Following receipt of a detailed brief, an initial meeting was set up to pitch some basic concepts and to investigate further, the balance between Lindt, the corporate brand and Lindt, the product, that can often end up in the corner shop.

During discussions, the client outlined the key brand aims to be reflected in their trade show presence, namely:-

- to be regarded as the everyday accessible luxury chocolate brand in the UK.

- to take ownership of the premium chocolate category.

- to create an emotional rather than a functional connection to the brand (ie a love for chocolate)

Brief:

Access Displays was asked to develop a stand design that addressed a number of issues:-

- to reflect the premium nature of the brand and it’s positioning in the market.

- to provide a more controlled approach to sampling.

- to employ reusable stand components with modular elements, so that a variety of size formats could be accommodated throughout the tradeshow programme.

Pitch:

In keeping with the brand values an elegant, contemporary style was proposed. A linking fascia, with high level branding and built in lighting to the underside, would complement the core product displays and would be built in sections to use on different size stands. A sampling table would be incorporated to prevent a ‘free for all’ approach, while a wood effect floor covering would bring through the golden tones of the graphics.

In addition to the design concepts presented, project management and cost visibility processes for the programme, were demonstrated and became important factors in securing the contract.

Result:

The client was very impressed with the initial proposals, particularly with our understanding of their brand positioning. Andrew Lightowler continues, “The flexibility and modularity of the design have created stand solutions that have worked well throughout the year and has enabled Lindt to attend a total of nine, successful exhibitions, in various size formats”.

Client profile :

“Master chocolatier since 1845”

Lindt is the No1. premium chocolate manufacturer in the UK and globally.

Lindt choose Access Displays Ltd as their exhibition stand contractors

Access Displays Ltd donate office equipment to 1244 Squadron (Swindon) ATC

2012-01-10T14:43:00.001Z

1244 Squadron ATC is based in Swindon and part funded by its own charity work. They raise their own funds to pay for their equipment such as their mini bus and activity kits and also raise money for several local charities through assisting local organisations with events and sponsored activities.

For a few years the squadron has been running on 2 very old computers and has considered taking components out of 4 older PC’s in an attempt to create another usable computer.

The computers donated by Access Displays Ltd include 4 desktop computers and 2 office printers. This donation will enable the Commanding Officer to have his own computer for the first time in the squadrons history. The remaining computers will allow the cadets to create a corporate communications section while the younger personnel can help create the squadron website, write newsletters and create posters/banners to help raise future funds. The photocopier and printer will be incredibly useful for this.

1244 Squadron ATC (Swindon): http://www.1244squadron.org.uk/

New sales appointment at Access Displays Ltd

2012-01-09T14:18:00.000Z

Exhibition specialists Access Displays Ltd have appointed Paul Hughes as Internal Sales Manager.

Paul joins the Access team from freight forwarding giants, D.B.Schenker, where he headed up new business development for the Contract Logistics Division, and will bring his wealth of experience in growing business activity to increase the penetration of Access Displays products in the market.

In addition to developing and implementing new strategies to increase sales revenue, the role will encompass coaching and monitoring of sales staff, to ensure the continued high levels of expertise and customer service are maintained.

Paul Hughes, new Internal Sales Manager at Access Displays Ltd

Festive offers on Folding Display Boards and Accessories!

2011-12-01T11:53:00.001Z

With Christmas just around the corner, for the festive period we have reduced the pricing on our most popular folding display boards and also all of the available accessories when you purchase them with one of our folding displays.

Folding displays are ideal for use at exhibitions, presentations and other events including at schools, colleges, art galleries and more.

Our most popular product, the lightweight 6 Panel Folding Display Boards including Carry Bag has been reduced from £129 to just £119 including free delivery to UK mainland.

6 Panel Folding Display Boards including Carry Bag

To purchase this system along with 25 meters of hook Velcro and 2 exhibition spotlights was £165. With our festive deals this is now just £148!*

Hook velcro

Powerspot 50 exhibition spotlight

For this and more great offers to order online or by telephone, visit our Folding Display Boards page today!

*Orders for velcro and exhibition spotlights must be placed at the same time as the order for a folding display board to qualify for the discounted prices.

How to Reduce Your Exhibiting Costs by 30% in a Recession

2011-11-25T11:15:00.001Z

If your marketing budget has been cut and you are struggling to justify the cost of exhibiting before you “throw in the towel” you might want to read my latest posting on how you can reduce your exhibiting costs.

We all know the value of face to face selling at exhibitions so these tips might help you make that exhibition budget go a little bit further.

Trade Association Discounts

Most major exhibitions are linked to a particular trade association or publication. Find out if there is an associated discount scheme with the organiser before you book your space. If your trade association hasn’t got an agreed discount structure in place, lobby them to negotiate on your behalf.

Exhibition stand hire

An obvious way of reducing your spend is to hire your exhibition stand and equipment.

For more information on custom built exhibition stand hire and simple self build modular exhibition equipment see the link below.

http://www.accessdisplays.co.uk/exhibition-stand-hire.htm

Find a contractor who is already building at your show

If you can find a contractor who is already building at your show it may be possible to get reduced delivery and labour rates. If they are already going to your show ask them for a discounted rate.

The Access Displays Ltd website features a list of exhibitions we will be building at. The list can be found on the following page:

http://www.accessdisplays.co.uk/exhibitions-attending.htm

Electrics

Show electrics are expensive so get your ESSA accredited exhibition stand contractor to work out what you need and get them to book them on your behalf. ESSA contractors are experts so they may be able to find ways of saving you money when booking multiple electrical sockets and other services. However you decide to book your electrics make sure you book them on time so you don’t get penalised by a surcharge!

Flooring and platforms

Try and get your stand designed so that you don’t need an expensive platform. Most venues in the UK have electrical service ducts under the floor so you should be able to get power to stand alone displays without a platform with careful planning. In the USA the power comes from the ceiling which is why they don’t generally use platforms.

Carpets and tiles

If you are building your exhibition stand directly to the hall floor i.e. no platform or raised floor, consider using carpet or carpet tiles laid by the contractors who are doing the gangways.

If you do want to use carpet, “cord” is much cheaper than “velour” and vinyl surfaces are cheaper than laminates.

What stand space?

Space only exhibition plots are generally cheaper than shell schemes but you will have the responsibility for supplying any adjoining walls. Speak to your ESSA contractor or the organiser if you are not sure which the cheapest option is.

Graphics

Get your graphic designer to design the graphics so that each panel can be used independently at other events or in your premises between shows. You might want to consider using vinyl lettering as a cheaper way of producing solid colour logo’s or bullet points on your stand.

Fabric graphics or direct to substrate are extremely lightweight, easy to store and transport and are a cost effective way of adding additional dimension to your stand without the need of expensive walling.

The video below shows a stand with simple yet effective use of vinyl logos and the use of fabric graphics as part of the stand structure.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lDDdEIwZzI

Investing for the long-term

Sometimes it’s worth investing for the long-term. The example below was specifically design with that in mind. After the initial capital outlay this design was so successful it became a regular feature at both the London and Southampton boat shows. Modular in construction and “set painted” it only needed minimal repair work so the client enjoyed just paying for the “installation and refurbishment” charge for the next ten years!

Custom built exhibition stand

Clearance Items

We have hundreds of exhibition and display items ranging from literature displays to complete exhibition stands on our clearance page at knock down prices. These products have either been discontinued, used on previous hire projects or are cancelled orders. You can even add your own unwanted display items and turn them into cash!

If you can’t find what you are looking for let us know so that we can add them to our wish list.

http://www.accessdisplays.co.uk/clearance-sale.htm

Pre-loved custom displays

Most ESSA exhibition stand contractors will have a whole range of existing exhibition equipment in storage that has been previously used on other stands in the past.

The may include reception desks, bar counters, product plinths and other stand alone features. With a little imagination (and negotiation) you might find that this is a more cost effective alternative to having something manufactured from scratch!

ESSA promote excellence throughout the UK and global exhibition supply chains, benefiting exhibitors, venue owners and organisers.

More information on ESSA can be found here:

http://www.accessdisplays.co.uk/beca.htm

Please note that all venues and exhibition organisers and contractors have their own rules and regulations so you should always check with them first before carrying out any of our suggestions.

I hope you found this information useful

Happy exhibiting

Peter Bowen

C.E.O.

Access Displays Ltd

http://www.accessdisplays.co.uk/

“FREE DISPLAY BOARD HIRE” for Charities in December

2011-11-09T11:45:00.000Z

My company, Access Displays Ltd offers one of the largest ranges of exhibition display boards and equipment hire in the UK. Throughout the year this equipment is used extensively for product launches, art exhibitions and poster displays.

We all know that funds are tight for everyone, so this year the staff at Access Displays have suggested that rather than sending out Christmas cards, we offer charities FREE use of our hire stock in December.

Our inventory is worth tens of thousands of pounds so we do have some terms and conditions attached but we are genuinely offering FREE hire equipment to Charities this December.

To qualify-

· You must be a UK registered charity.

· You must collect and return the equipment at your expense.

· You must have adequate insurance to cover any loss or damage.

· All equipment must be returned before the Christmas break.

All we ask is that you respect the fact that we will not be able to help everybody and all requests are subject to availability and are at our discretion.

We would appreciate photographs and copies of any publicity to use in our own marketing. Links from your website to ours will be greatly appreciated as well as any ‘follows’ or ‘likes’ on social networks such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

If you would like to find out more or want to discuss a particular project then please email the sales department at sales@accessdisplays.co.uk or telephone 01793 613088.

You can view most of our hire inventory at www.accessdisplays.co.uk

If this venture proves successful then we hope to repeat this “gesture of good will” again in the future.

Thank you for your time

Peter Bowen

C.E.O.

Access Displays Ltd

How To Maximize Your ROI At An Exhibition

2011-11-01T13:40:00.000Z

Peter Bowen, CEO of Access Displays

The value of face to face selling at exhibitions is well documented, so in these testing times, where we all have fewer customers with less money to spend, it is imperative that we plan ahead and train our stand personnel to work harder and smarter than our competitors. The following tips might make the difference and help you realise the true potential of exhibiting.

Think about why you are exhibiting. Is it to sell more products, improve brand awareness, meet existing customers, collect leads for future appointments, find distributors or something else?

What are your objectives for the show?

Think about how you are going to measure success or ROI?
Are you judging success by the number of leads, sales, visitors, conversions, or the amount of brochures you give out?
Set daily targets for each person manning the stand and measure their performance.
Communicate your objectives to the team and most importantly, measure.
Give staff incentives to encourage activity and accuracy.

Do your research about the show

Can the organiser back the visitor numbers up?
Is the exhibition ABC audited? www.abc.org.uk
Is the audience made up of your typical customer?
Speak to other exhibitors before you book.

Keep It Simple Stupid (KISS)

Keep your exhibition stand graphics simple. “Who you are” and “what you do” is often missed!
Make your space work for you with plenty of room to meet clients, discuss projects or demonstrate products.
Speak to expert Exhibition contractors. If you are looking for a reliable exhibition contractor who may already be building at your show then make sure you use an ESSA member - www.essa.uk.com

Pre-exhibition planning

Once you have agreed your objectives make sure you explain them to the people that are manning the exhibition stand and make sure that everybody knows who is responsible for what!

Invite your customers and prospects before the show using social media, your web site and direct mail.
Tell them something “interesting” and give them a reason or incentive for visiting.
Remember, most visitors have gone to a great deal of expense and trouble to attend.

Data capture

Whether you use bar code readers or a simple pad and pen, make notes on what your customers were interested in so that you can send them the correct information or speak to them in more detail after the show.

“There is nothing worse for a customer, who has spent half an hour on the stand explaining his requirement, than receiving a telephone call a week later asking him what he was interested in.”

Training

Before the show discuss what questions your customers are likely to ask and make sure you have the answers or know where to get them.

Train your staff on products, availability, distributors, prices, trade discounts, delivery costs, production times, service agreements, returns policy and don’t forget it your customers might want to “know who else has bought your product or service”.

For more tips on exhibiting go to http://www.accessdisplays.co.uk/tips-on-exhibiting.htm

Happy Exhibiting!

Peter Bowen, CEO of Access Displays

Clearance display boards

2011-10-27T15:43:00.001+01:00

We have just updated our clearance page with 23 different display boards ranging from table top display boards to panel and pole displays.

Prices start from just £65 including FREE delivery to UK mainland.

Click here to view our range of clearance items, whilst stocks last!

Aluminium 6 Panel Folding Display Boards

2011-09-14T11:17:00.000+01:00

Did you know that our hugely popular 6 Panel Folding Display Boards are also available with an aluminium frame?

For a limited time only you can purchase this fantastic exhibition display for just £170 including a carry bag and free delivery to UK mainland.

Product highlights:

Lightweight folding display boards
Aluminium frame
Includes carry bag
Ideal for displaying graphics or posters
Velcro and pin compatible
Weighs just 10kg

You wont find it cheaper anywhere else!

To take advantage of this great offer click on the link below for more information and to order online or by telephone:

View more information on Aluminium 6 Panel Folding Display Boards

Our exhibition stand at Event & Exhibiting Show 2011

2011-07-27T16:06:00.000+01:00

Earlier this month we exhibited at The Event & Exhibiting Show at the Business Design Centre in London.

Take a look at our exhibition stand below:

Access Displays exhibition stand at The Event & Exhibiting Show 2011

Church display boards loaned to Christ Church

2011-06-23T11:40:00.004+01:00

At Access Displays as well as providing high quality exhibition and display equipment, custom built exhibition stands and more, we also like to help out the local community and charities wherever we can.

We recently loaned some panel and pole display boards to Christ Church Broad Town for an Art Exhibition in the village church.

As a result we received a letter from the church warden thanking us for our efforts and for the church display boards.

“Please thank all your colleagues at Access who helped us out last weekend when you very kindly loaned us the screens for an Art Exhibition in the village church. We had a very successful two days. We received many positive comments about how the church looked and the way the art was displayed and there is no doubt we would not be able to achieve all this without your very generous support”.

Church display boards

Church panel and pole stands

We're exhibiting at EES 2011

2011-06-22T12:57:00.000+01:00

Access Displays are exhibiting at The Event & Exhibiting Show which will take place on 13^th-14^th July 2011.

The Event & Exhibiting Show 2011 is suitable for event, exhibition and conference organisers who are looking for the latest products, knowledge, inspiration and innovation that will help your next event be a success.

Due to the success at the show last year, Access Displays have decided to exhibit again in 2011.

Our experienced exhibition staff will be on hand to provide guidance and support on how you can benefit from exhibitions and using the services and products which we can provide.

Access Displays will be on Stand 205 where we will be showcasing some of our custom built exhibition stands as well as our Linx exhibition systems from our portfolio.

We look forward to seeing you!

Latest exhibition stands and live events

2011-06-10T14:44:00.000+01:00

Every year Access Displays build and install over 50,000 sq feet of bespoke exhibition stands for clients exhibiting at trade shows all around the world.

We have updated our website to include photos of some of our most recent custom exhibition stands at live events in London and worldwide.

Click here to view the latest exhibition stands and live events

UK exhibition vacancies updated

2011-06-08T10:02:00.000+01:00

Despite the economic downturn we continue to enjoy sales growth across all business areas.

We have just added 4 new exhibition vacancies to our website including the following:

Sales Support and Administrator Progressing to Internal Sales Advisor (Posted June 2011)

Exhibition Design and Build Workshop Foreman

Exhibition Stand Fitters and Carpenters (x2)

For more information on these roles and other available exhibition jobs, please visit our vacancies page.

Exhibition and display stand specialists

2011-05-23T09:56:00.011+01:00

Aside from over 20 years experience in the industry, what makes Access Displays exhibition specialists?

As well as being an online shop, our website is also an information resource for exhibitors, exhibition organisers, businesses and individuals.

Have you ever wondered how to create your own display stand or have been searching for a comprehensive guide and tips on exhibiting?

Look no further as we have all the information you need to exhibit successfully. If the information you're looking for is not on our website, give us a call and we can advise and point you in the right direction when it comes to exhibiting and what products will suit your requirements.

For the more seasoned exhibitor we provide total customer Project Management from the initial FREE Exhibition Stand Design to installation anywhere in the world. With our own production facility we build Custom Made and Modular Display Stands, award winning exhibition stands and display equipment, all to the highest of standards. Shop fitting and reception design is part of our Special projects portfolio.

Custom built exhibition display stands

Call us now on 01793 613088 or visit our website.

Welcome to our new blog!

2011-05-20T15:19:00.003+01:00

Welcome to the Access Displays blog.

This blog will allow us to keep you up to date on goings on with Access Displays as well as keep you posted on updates made to our website www.accessdisplays.co.uk.

If you're not already aware, we also have the below social accounts which you can follow us on:


Twitter	Facebook	LinkedIn	YouTube	Flickr

We hope you enjoy our blog! 6SR5E9RAXN4M