Types Of Trade Show Banners
Trade show banners aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The amount of space you have, budget constraints and venue rules may shape the choices you make. Different banner materials, types and sizes exist for different events and purposes:
- Retractable banners are lightweight and portable; you can easily set them up and take them down quickly, which makes them a great solution for travel.
- Fabric, vinyl and mesh banners can be fabricated for almost any size and installation, which means they are a terrific option for larger, longer-term trade show booths with space for a dramatic application. These banners can use a variety of hardware — from tension to pipe-and-drape — or hang from the ceiling via a chain or line.
- Backdrop or step-back banners are large-format backgrounds ideal for trade show booths that encourage visitors to stop for a photo opportunity.
- Full-color avenue and pole banners provide overhead messaging.
- Hanging banners are great for announcements and information or dramatic visuals.
- Table banners are ideal for covering generic folding tables or display counters and can be as simple or as complex as you need. Plus, they can be customized with brand colors, logos and lettering.
Trade Show Banner Design Best Practices
Below are some tips and ideas to consider for your next trade show banner design:
Banner Messaging
- Who is your audience? Do your research before finalizing your design and tailor your colors, lettering and message choices to reflect your audience.
- What message do you want to get across on your banner? Use banner space wisely. This goes beyond slogans. What will your design choices say about your business?
- Include social media or website information. This may sound like obvious advice, but you want everyone who notices your banner to be able to find you later.
Banner Readability
Trade shows are busy. Don’t make your visitors and those passing by work to take in your message, or you’ll lose their attention. Design your banner to be easy to read:
- Use bold imagery. If you have a logo or trademarked image, now is the time to deploy it front and center.
- Keep lettering viewer friendly. Use large text for critical information. Font and kerning should always be assessed for readability. Make use of white space, bullets and succinct text to ensure your message stands out.
Banner Colors
- Have you ever squinted at lettering because the font color was too pale, soft or poorly contrasted with the background? These are mistakes you can easily avoid with a professional design and printing partner who can help you get it right the first time.
- Use your brand colors to reinforce brand recognition in your trade show banner design.
Banner Sizes
- How do you determine the correct sized banner? A qualified print and design partner will be able to assess your trade show setup and what sizes and types of banner(s) suit your needs, but as a rule of thumb, your setup will determine your banner size(s).
- How many banners should you have? Once again, a design and branding professional will be able to best advise you on the right products for your trade show needs, including your trade show attendance schedule and the different locations of your setup (if applicable).
QR Codes
QR codes have been around a long time but rose to prominence as businesses pivoted to contactless communication during the Covid-19 pandemic. We think they’re here to stay and their popularity will only grow as companies find new ways to utilize them.
- What are QR codes used for? Perhaps the most widely adopted QR code use has been in the restaurant industry, where QR codes have popped up on table tents, food trucks and in pop-up kitchens. QR codes can also link to a website front page, an email-capture static page, a virtual business card, a coupon or special deal landing page or a social media landing site like Linktree. Some businesses link QR codes to free resources, instructions or other useful information.
- When to use a QR code: The best time to use a QR code is when you know your target audience will respond well to this type of communication. Beyond that, QR codes work well when display space is limited, when visitors are on the go and unlikely to stop to chat, or pick up physical pamphlets or flyers and when you want to reduce paper clutter and environmental impact.
- When not to use a QR code: QR codes are only recommended when you have a good place to send that traffic. Users who capture your QR code are expecting to land somewhere with a specific purpose. Sending them to a dead link or half-finished page reflects poorly on your business.
Trade Show Banner Branding Best Practices
Your trade show banner design represents a first-impression opportunity. Here’s how to get it right:
- Less is more. Choose an easy-to-read font and size that can be easily read from a distance. Keep copy text to a minimum. Simple is striking.
- Entice visitors. Use imagery and text that intrigues prospects and grabs their attention. Ask a leading question or make a conversation-starting statement.
- Be proud of your brand. Display your logo and company name using your brand colors.
- Consistency is key. Avoid confusing prospects by keeping your branding consistent across your entire marketing strategy, including your trade show banner design.
- List important information on top. The eye is drawn to the top of the “page” — in this case, your banner.
- Consider reusability. Some banners may be single-use only, while others could be repurposed for years to come.
With the right eye-catching trade show signage, your booth will draw the right kind of attention, attracting potential new clients and strengthening your reputation. Impactful trade show banner design boosts credibility and can make you stand out amongst the competition. If you’re ready to talk to an industry leading partner for your trade show banner creation, DGI professionals are ready to help. Contact us today to get started!
