Guide
Template for planning a stock and trade exhibit layout
Use this template to plan how your stock is shown on a trade stand or in a showroom exhibit. It turns goals and a footprint into zones, a furniture list and measures of success.
Part of the stock and trade design series.
Template
| Section | Fill in |
|---|---|
| Goal | Orders, leads, launches |
| Footprint | Size, open sides, height limit |
| Zones | Hero, room sets, meeting, storage |
| Furniture list | Piece, dimensions, finish |
| Signage | Header, product signs |
| Lighting | Fixtures, wattage |
| Staffing | Roles and positions |
| Measures | Leads, orders, cost per lead |
Furniture list example
| Zone | Pieces |
|---|---|
| Hero | Sideboard with lamp and art |
| Room set | Dining table and chairs |
| Meeting | High table and bar stools |
| Storage | Lockable cabinet |
Spec sheets give exact dimensions for the plan.
How do you use the template step by step?
- Fill in the goal and footprint from the exhibitor manual.
- Divide the footprint into zones on a scaled plan.
- Choose furniture for each zone and record dimensions from spec sheets.
- Place signage and lighting on the plan.
- Check walkways and sightlines from each open side.
- Assign staff positions.
- After the show, record results against your measures.
How do zones change with booth type?
In-line booths keep displays at the back and sides; corner booths put the hero piece at the corner; island booths put storage in the centre and face displays outwards. See booth design specifications.
Common exhibit layout mistakes
Overfilling the space, hiding the best products at the back, blocking the front with a table and forgetting storage for bags, stock and literature.
Who publishes exhibit guidance?
The IAEE, TSNN and the EDPA publish exhibitor guidance and booth standards.
How do you plan a furniture exhibit timeline?
| When | Task |
|---|---|
| 3–6 months before | Book space, set goals and budget |
| 2–3 months before | Draw the layout, choose furniture, order graphics |
| 1 month before | Confirm show services, power and freight |
| 2 weeks before | Test build if new; brief staff |
| Show week | Build, stock, staff |
| After | Follow up leads, record results |
Furniture for the stand can be ordered from your own range or a trade supplier; with Artisan's no-minimum trade account, display pieces can be bought individually at 25% off MSRP and moved to your showroom after the show.
Related
Trade event layout plan template and stock and trade design.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best practices for exhibit layout?+
An open front, a hero product visible from the aisle, room sets, a meeting area and hidden storage.
How do you choose furniture for trade shows?+
Choose pieces that represent your range and suit the stand's look, plus practical seating and storage.
What tools help in planning exhibit layouts?+
Scaled drawings, design software, the exhibitor manual and supplier spec sheets.
What factors affect trade show success?+
Clear goals, an inviting stand, engaged staff, strong products and fast follow-up.
How far ahead should you plan an exhibit layout?+
Start several months ahead so furniture, graphics and show services can be ordered before the exhibitor manual's deadlines.