Trade show and event banner stands, often called booth banners, are convenient and cost-effective displays. You see them everywhere – retail shops, exhibitions, fairs, conferences, and even in offices. At first glance, you may assume they’re all the same, but there’s a wide variety in sizes, shapes, construction, and quality. Some are meant to last only a few shows. Others are engineered to last years.
When considering trade show booth banner design, perhaps no other display product embodies the “you get what you pay for” concept more than booth banners. A quick search on the Internet will show prices ranging from $99 to over $2000. And while it’s tempting to point, click, and buy a booth banner or banner stand, you should resist that temptation. Take time to chat with the online sales representative about the product or better yet, consult with a local exhibit professional.
Designing a Booth Banner to Attract Visitors
A booth banner is a type of signage that can be used to draw attention to a booth or display table at an event. Booth banners can be used to provide information, invite attendees to visit a booth, or highlight a product or service. They can be displayed in a variety of ways, including on banner stands or as tabletop banners.
A well-designed banner stand can be a powerful tool to draw attention and engage potential customers. Here are some key elements to consider:
Understanding Your Audience
- Who are you trying to reach? This will determine the tone, style, and content of your banner.
- What are their needs and interests? Tailor your message to address their specific concerns.
Key Design Elements
- Strong Visuals: High-quality images or graphics can instantly grab attention.
- Clear and Concise Messaging: Keep your text brief and easy to read.
- Strong Call to Action: Tell people what you want them to do (visit your website, sign up for a newsletter, etc.).
- Consistent Branding: Ensure the banner reflects your brand identity.
- High Contrast: Use colors that stand out against the background.
- Large Fonts: Text should be easily readable from a distance.
Additional Tips
- Consider the Environment: The banner’s design should complement the surrounding area.
- Use High-Quality Materials: A durable and professional-looking banner will make a better impression.
- Test Different Designs: Experiment with different layouts and visuals to see what works best.
- Leverage Technology: Consider adding QR codes or interactive elements to engage visitors.
Example of Booth Banner Ideas
- Product Showcase: Highlight your best-selling or newest products with compelling images and descriptions.
- Problem-Solution: Address a common pain point and offer your product or service as the solution.
- Testimonial: Share positive feedback from satisfied customers.
- Limited-Time Offer: Create urgency with a time-sensitive promotion.
- Interactive Element: Incorporate a game, quiz, or survey to engage visitors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Booth Banner Design
A poorly designed booth banner can be a missed opportunity. Because the upfront cost of a booth banner is relatively low compared to other displays, you may be tempted to skimp on graphic design services. Don’t! A poorly designed banner can do just as much damage to your marketing as a poorly designed island exhibit. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Design Mistakes
- Overcrowding: Too much information can overwhelm viewers. Focus on one key message.
- Poor Image Quality: Low-resolution images will look pixelated when enlarged. Use high-resolution images.
- Inconsistent Branding: Ensure the banner aligns with your brand identity.
- Poor Color Choice: Colors should be legible and complement each other. Avoid overly bright or clashing colors.
- Small Text: Text should be easily readable from a distance. Use a clear, legible font.
Content Mistakes
- No Clear Call to Action: Tell people what you want them to do (visit the website, call, sign up).
- Generic Message: Tailor your message to your target audience.
- Lack of Information: Include essential contact information.
- Typos and Grammatical Errors: Proofread carefully to maintain professionalism.
Technical Mistakes
- Incorrect File Format: Provide the correct file format (e.g., PDF, high-resolution JPEG) for printing.
- Incorrect Dimensions: Ensure the design fits the banner stand’s dimensions accurately.
- Bleed and Safety Margins: Follow the printer’s guidelines for bleed and safety margins.
Additional Tips
- Consider the Viewing Distance: Design elements should be easily visible from a distance.
- Test Your Design: Print a small version of the design to see how it looks in person.
- Get Feedback: Ask others for their opinion on the design.
10 Booth Banner Kits
3D Booth Banners
VK-1860 SEG Banner Stand | A 24” W x 90” H engineered aluminum banner stand with an SEG fabric graphic. Designed for trade shows and retail environments.
VK-1861 SEG Banner Stand | Identical construction to the VK-1860 but with a 36” width.
TF-600 Pillowcase Banner Stand | Aluminum tube construction with a double-sided pillowcase fabric graphic. Easy assembly using push-button connectors.
MOD-1601 LED Lightbox | This double-sided LED lightbox takes banner stands to the next level with backlighting and an aluminum extrusion frame.
Retractable Booth Banner Stands
QuickScreen 3 Banner Stand | Choose from 19.7” or 33” widths. Includes black padded carrying case.
Pronto Banner Stand | A popular, mid-priced banner stand available in three widths: 34”, 40”, and 48”. Silver or black finishes. Includes a padded storage bag. Lights are optional.
Pronto2 Double-sided Banner Stand | A two-sided banner stand that’s 34” wide and 90” high. Same excellent quality as the single-side Pronto with the benefit of an additional graphic.
Other Booth Banners
The Wall | A full-size stand in three height and width sizes, ranging from 96” x 96” to 144” x 144”. Includes a fabric graphic and carrying bag.
Sprint Telescopic Banner Stand | An adjustable banner stand in three widths and heights. Includes a dye-sublimated fabric graphic.
Compass X Style | A versatile banner stand that tilts forward and back and rotates 90 degrees. Graphics are printed on MicroKnit fabric with grommets.
1×3 Fabric Pop Up Display | A collapsible magnet pop-up frame with attached stretch fabric graphics. Easy to setup and simple to replace graphics.
V-Tube Displays | A free-standing pillowcase graphic display with a wide range of sizes. Displays pack in durable cases.
The Best Booth Banners for Different Events
Selecting the perfect banner stand can significantly impact your event’s visual appeal and overall success. What may be appropriate for an indoor Chamber of Commerce event may be inappropriate for an outdoor Arts and Crafts Fair. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Event Type and Location:
- Indoor or Outdoor: Different weather conditions require specific materials and features. Outdoor booth banners are designed for windy and rainy conditions.
- Size and Layout: The available space will determine the banner stand’s dimensions. There’s such a thing as a banner stand that’s too big and too small.
- Foot Traffic: High-traffic areas might need sturdier stands. For example, is it an event specifically for children? A retractable or lightweight banner stand could be a trip hazard if placed too close to the aisle.
2. Banner Size and Design:
- Content: Determine the information you want to convey. Be realistic.
- Visual Appeal: Consider the design’s impact on the overall look. You’ve got no more than 3 seconds to capture someone’s attention and communicate your message.
- Dimensions: Match the banner size to the available space and banner stand.
3. Banner Stand Type:
- Retractable Banner Stands: Popular for indoor events, easy to set up and transport.
- Pop-Up Banner Stands: Larger and more eye-catching, suitable for trade shows and exhibitions.
- Telescopic Banner Stands: Versatile and adjustable, good for various spaces.
- Outdoor Banner Stands: Weather-resistant and sturdy for outdoor events.
- Lightbox Banner Stands: Backlit fabric dominates trade shows. A lightbox may not be the right banner stand choice for every situation. But in the right situation, a lightbox has a visual pop that’s impossible to ignore.
4. Portability and Setup:
- Ease of Transport: Consider how you will transport the banner stand.
- Assembly Time: Quick setup is essential for busy events.
5. Budget:
- Cost: Balance your budget with the desired features and quality.
Even the best booth banner stands and graphics will eventually show their age. We’ve all seen those tired stands that should have been retired 12 shows ago. Don’t be that person. The graphics on most banner stands can be replaced with by the end user or by the printer. New graphics are a small investment with a huge upside.
Booth Banner Conclusion
It’s easy to get lost down a rabbit hole comparing booth stands. The variety is astonishing and the benefits and features aren’t always obvious. Getting the right one shouldn’t be a guessing game. Ask your trade show or exhibit partner for advice. They know not only the nuances of banner stand designs but also which manufacturers to use. Summarize the key points discussed in the article, reinforcing the importance of a well-designed booth banner.
For 30 years, Classic Exhibits has been designing and building creative custom solutions for our Distributor Partners and their clients. As North America’s largest private-label exhibit manufacturer, we have the unmatched capability, capacity, and creativity to create 3D projects ranging from 10 x 10 inline displays to 60 x 80 double-deck islands. Find success on the trade show floor with an exhibit that reflects your marketing message. For more information, see www.classicexhibits.com and explore Exhibit Design Search or request a meeting with a Classic Distributor Partner.