sddisplays

Close Down for Christmas

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 10:34:14 GMT

Our office hamster Syd would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year.

At SD Displays, we understand how quickly calendars get filled up around this time of year, so here are our special Christmas opening hours to help you plan accordingly:

We are shut for Christmas from Monday 23rd December to Thursday 2nd January.

Bespoke Boards for GEWISS

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 10:45:31 GMT

SD Displays have been working with GEWISS for the past 3 years providing them with exhibition stands, graphics and Point of Sale (POS) boards.

GEWISS is a well-established leading market player in the international electrotechnical industry, with offices, subsidiaries, and production sites in more than 80 countries.

The POS boards are by far the most work we do with GEWISS as we make these in large quantities at a time. We create two sizes of boards with them – the large ones being 1100 x 800mm and the mini ones being 800 x 400mm.

These eye catching and lightweight boards are used to display their products such as industrial plugs and sockets and rotary isolator switches, in electrical wholesale outlets, exhibition stands and demos.

We print directly onto 19mm Strada boards and then attach their products to create the final display. We process about 50 – 100 boards per order and it takes on average 20 minutes to produce one board.

These are a great example of the bespoke displays we can produce for our customers, so if you have an idea in mind for your own products, get in contact to see how we can help.

Flexpo 2019

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 12:50:04 GMT

Flexible working and working from home is becoming more and more popular within our modern world, yet so many companies still don’t know how to deal with the requests from their employees. On 4th October, the UK’s first flexible working conference was held at Sandown Park Racecourse. It covered everything from interview tips and tricks, how to get back into a career after a break and how to handle being refused flexible working.

SD displays became involved with the conference after Maddy Cole from Venture Business Events gave us a call in search for some shell scheme stands. Flexpo were excited to have Anna Whitehouse aka MotherPukka chair the overall conference and after learning more from Maddy about the event, we were excited to get involved.

We supplied the conference with 3m x 2m shell scheme stands as well as graphics for the stands. We also created a theatre area which allowed speakers from the likes of Amazon, Linked In and HSBC to present.

After speaking with Maddy, she said “We saw 427 visitors and 19 exhibitors across the show. We had over 30 speakers, so we are pleased with the support and the feedback we had from what was an inaugural event.”

After such a successful event we are looking forward to working with Maddy again in the future.

Eco-Friendly T3 Stands

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:12:29 GMT

Without blowing your budget

Whether you are a first-time exhibitor or regularly attend events, you will know that trade shows are one of the best ways to connect face to face with your target market. Therefore, you will be aware of the costs behind hiring floor space and involved in building a stand – so why do so many exhibitors throw away their stuff at the end of a show?

With so much demand for an eco-friendly stand, SD Displays have the perfect solution. Our T3 stands are reusable and reconfigurable meaning you will never have to throw a stand away again! You do not need to cut back on creating a visual stand or even blow your budget. T3 is the world’s most innovative,compact, easy to build and flexible modular display system. With no tools required or levers to push, no other system can compete on speed of build or dismantle.

Top 3 reasons why T3 is a great eco-friendly stand

1. Reuse

As mentioned T3 stands are designed to be reused. The components twist and lock together to create a structure ready for your graphics to attach. After the show, the components can be taken apart again and stored for the next show. T3 stands are also perfect for one off shows, as you have the option to hire the stand rather than buying it. This allows the stand to continuously be reused and keeps it out of landfill.

2. Reduce shipping usage

T3 packs down smaller than most systems and certain sized stands can even be transported in cars, therefore less shipping required. The less shipping used; the less pollution is put into the air.

3. Eco friendly materials

Some materials will obviously be more environmentally friendly than others. If you want the most Eco friendly materials then choose ones made from recycled and/or recyclable materially, produced locally and ones without toxic finishes etc. Most stands use lighting but this can use a lot of energy so instead try using low energy lighting and fabric graphics to create alight box on the stand. Whatever stand you decide to go with, there will always be several options for graphics that you can use. Consider the ease of transport, the environmental properties, the ability to recycle and of course the ability to reuse. If all of these are considered during the planning process there will be a huge difference made to the overall eco-friendliness of your stand, and your exhibition.

Event coming up?

Speak to us at SD Displays on 01628 673864 to find out how we can help you with your upcoming events

Our year so far...

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 12:39:17 GMT

We have had such an amazing start to the year and can’t believe we are halfway through 2019 already. So much has already happened and we are excited to see what the rest of the year has instore for SD Displays.

At the end of 2018 we started talking with a new agency called We Are Process to supply a T3 stand for their event in February. We had 5 working weeks after the initial enquiry to turn around a 6m x 5m L shaped stand, counter and graphics. Like true champions we had the stand built and graphics supplied a week before the show.

Fast forward a month and we had the opportunity to work with Alzheimer’s Research UK for the second year running. They hold an annual event which provides insight into the latest findings in dementia research at the UK’s largest dementia research conference. This year it was held at the Harrogate Convention Centre.

We worked with the Research Grant Officer Beth Sivyer to provide 100 poster boards for the event. It allowed scientists and doctors studying dementia to showcase their research, from revealing the importance of brain support cells through to investigating the links between the immune system and dementia. It was an incredible experience for our team to be able to help such a great event.

Forward another couple of months and we saw May being our busiest month of the year so far. Not only did we have over a dozen customers hiring our 2m x 1m poster boards throughout the month, but we also attended our first event as an exhibitor at the pre ITT Hub event held at Farnborough International. The main event is in May 2020 which is focusing on electric vehicles and will bring together all the latest thinking and technological developments which are already reshaping the transport and logistics landscape. We are the shows preferred supplier for exhibition stands so it gave us the chance to meet the exhibitors and discuss potential stands for next year.

Also in May, we produced 5 bespoke display units for Zen Hair. They currently have units which display hair extensions, but they were starting to get a bit old and rusty and wanted something new and exciting. Working with Beth we came up with a drawing to show what we can do. They were on board with our ideas straight away so production could start taking place. In just a few weeks we were able to build the units, throw in some LED lights for affect and deliver them to Zen Hair in time for their hair show. We had a very happy customer and it’s not hard to see why.

With many different projects going on throughout the year, we are always excited to get our teeth into something new. So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have something out of the ordinary you want for your next event on 01628 673864

Providing Boards for the UK & International Veterinary Vaccinology Network Conference 2019

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 11:28:52 GMT

On 9th and 10th January 2019, the UK Veterinary Vaccinology Network and International Veterinary Vaccinology Network hosted the UK & International Veterinary Vaccinology Network Conference 2019 in The Tower Hotel, London and we’re proud to have helped out.

SD Displays provided 30 freestanding poster boards for the event, helping them to create the best displays possible in time for the conference. The conference brought together individuals from across the world, all of whom are hoping to improve vaccines for livestock and zoonotic diseases across the UK and internationally. To be able to provide such help at a large event like this was incredibly exciting as we pride ourselves on the quality of our displays.

The conference was composed of four individual themes: Vaccines for Ectoparasites, Vaccine Commercialisation, Antigen Discovery and Controlling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) with Vaccination. Each session during the conference consisted of presentations from invited speakers and selected abstracts. There was also a poster session to enable delegates to present their research in their chosen fields.

It was an incredible experience for the team to be able to help in such a capacity. About the experience, The International Veterinary Vaccinology Network said: ‘A huge thank you to the team at SD Displays for providing poster boards for the UK & International Veterinary Vaccinology Network Conference 2019. The poster session is a key part of our annual conference allowing delegates to present their work and network effectively. SD Displays were very efficiency and professional and we look forward to using their services again in the future.’

If you’re in need of any kind of exhibition displays, get in touch with us on 01628 673864.

How Our Discovery Day at Tecna Helped us Understand T3 Even Better

Wed, 02 Jan 2019 11:49:06 GMT

Recently, we were lucky enough to spend a Discovery Day at Tecna UK, our T3 display system suppliers. Tecna UK host a number of these interactive training experiences at their Farnborough premises. These are helpful events that Tecna run for all of their partners, where they showcase their offices and warehouse space, as well as do a bit of training with us regarding their systems.

At SD Displays, we already had a strong knowledge of how to build the T3 system, so we went looking for something a little different from Tecna. Instead, our Discovery Day focused on a variety of different aspects. When it comes to the T3 display systems, Tecna took the time to explain all of the pieces in great detail to enable us to better understand the systems and in turn, better sell it to our customers. Tecna explained T3’s different components, graphic materials, different options of stand design, lead times and some general design tips as well.

When the day was over we received certificates as part of the experience, and of course, Daisy joined us for the day as well!

SD Displays Christmas Opening Hours

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 15:32:45 GMT

Christmas is here, which means the festive season is heating up. At SD Displays, we understand how quickly calendars get filled up around this time of year, so here are our special Christmas opening hours to help you plan accordingly:

We are shut for Christmas from Monday 24th December to Wednesday 2nd January.

Everyone at SD Displays wishes you a Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year! There’s a lot to look forward to in 2019!

Kent Tattoo Convention was a Great Success!

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 09:20:45 GMT

A breathtaking event with live tattooing, modelling, live art and more...

SD Displays recently completed a fantastic job in Kent at the first ever regional Tattoo Convention! Not only did it feature general tattoo stalls, demonstrations and entertainment, it also hosted body painting, art competitions, live bands, burlesque shows, craft stalls and all kinds of food and drink. Award winning tattoo artists from all over the world came to exhibit their skills, so they needed a space to unleash their creativity on willing subjects! Below was the setup we created, and although it looks quiet now, it was soon buzzing with visitors looking to get inspired!

Our team loved being involved with such an unusual event! If you are looking for poster board, furniture or stand hire for an event, exhibition or fayre, don't hesitate to get in touch with our team on 01628 673 864 or info@sd-displays.co.uk , who will be happy to help.

What the Longest Existing UK Exhibitions Business has Learned

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:43:57 GMT

Attending an exhibition can be a little overwhelming, especially if you don’t have a clear strategy.
The key to success is careful planning for all your event activities and identifying the role in which
the exhibition plays in your marketing and sales strategy. Exhibitions allow you to interact with your
audience face to face and build lasting relationships, so we’ve put together some useful tips that will
help your brand stand out and succeed at every event.

1. Evaluate the Opportunity

Even for a large company, taking a stand at an exhibition is a big investment, not only in money but
in time and organisation. Therefore, you need to ensure that the opportunity sees a good return on
investment. Research the exhibition thoroughly. Make sure the event will match your marketing
objectives and reach your target audience. Question the anticipated number of delegates and how
they are planning to attract this audience (and specifically your target customers). If possible, visit
the exhibition as a delegate first, so you know what to expect. Contact previous exhibitors to explore
how successful they found the event. Research the exhibitors attending- are they your competitors?
The more homework you do before the event, the more likely the event is to be successful for your
company.

2. Set Specific Realistic Goals

Now that you have decided to go ahead with the exhibition, start planning WAY in advance. Begin
with creating realistic objectives, relating to topics such as sales generation, customer relationships,
brand building, market research, media relations and PR. Through these themes, create more
specific objectives such as:
- Generate 300 sales leads
- Meet 50 qualified prospects
- Hand out 2,000 samples
- Research 10 competitors
Prioritise your goals as it might not be realistic to achieve all in one event.

3. Plan Your Stand

Follow the exhibitor manual carefully when you receive it and ensure you organise everything you
need on your stand. Your stand should represent your prioritised goal, for example the launch of a
new product or campaign. Ensure you constantly have well-presented literature at the front of your
stand for delegates to browse. Accessories to your stand such as plinths and brochure holders can
really impact the audience. Size everything to fit the stand. Do not overcrowd the stand with small
tables and displays, however using bars and displays that are too big can dwarf your stand and your
staff. If you are having trouble organising your stand don’t hesitate to contact SD Displays on 01628
673864. Lighting can increase awareness of your stand between 30-50%, so ensure your lighting
maximises your stand to its best potential. Customise your stand to create a professional, ‘finished’
look.

4. At the Event

Make sure your staff are enthusiastic and welcoming-ensure they have frequent breaks as manning
a stand can be very exhausting. Keep a positive attitude and ask open (not closed) questions to keep
your audience engaged. Try to prioritise your leads as you go, for example keep a 6 tier system:

1. Hot prospects: with a large order and ready to buy
2. Warm prospects: with a large order and longer decision time, or smaller order and ready to buy
3. Luke warm prospects: with a smaller order and not yet ready to buy
4. Cool prospects: with the potential to become customers but not ready yet
5. Other “useful” contacts: media, potential associates, etc.
6. Other: people selling to you, browser, etc.

Perhaps colour code each lead for each section as a more subtle approach. This will make refining
your leads after the event a lot quicker and easier.
Make the most of publicity services during the day. Invite press along to view your stand and maybe
have something exciting happen at your stand to attract media attention. Film or live-stream the
event, as reactions to your products and testimonials can be incredibly useful in the future. Ensure
you take photos and post on all your social media platforms about the exhibition.

5. After the Event (Time for a beer)

The work isn't over, sorry!
Hold a debrief, with sections such as ‘successes’, ‘improvements’ and ‘lessons learned’. Follow up
the priority leads immediately to avoid losing sales. Warm leads need following up too, at least in
the next couple of days. Your ‘other’ leads should be filed and followed up with some useful info not
included at the exhibition, or a copy of the presentation to remind them of your presence. Put all
leads in your ‘keep in touch’ system.
As you go to more events you will build up your own expertise, and can elaborate on these initial
exhibition techniques, catering specifically for your company’s priorities and objectives.

How Our Partners Improve Our Services and Have Mutual Benefits

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 10:01:11 GMT

At SD Displays we understand how every project is different, having unique and specific requirements. Therefore we can see the benefits of having strong relationships with companies that offer services in the same sector as ours, such as audio-visual and event management companies. Through working with these businesses, we can offer a full range of services to our clients, knowing that our partners are reliable and responsive, ensuring even the most unique and challenging project can be completed to the best standard.

Audio-visual Services

We have strong connections with two audio-visual companies, ITM and City AV, and are always looking for ways to further benefit each other. ITM’s projects are often large and complex, so they will always come to us for large amounts of poster boards, booths, shell scheme stands, and for one project, bus stop signs. We will always recommend these companies if clients are looking to create a more interactive display with screens and lighting.

Event Management

We work with event management company, Evolution, for when more complex projects come in. Their services are invaluable for organising large world-class events, from the brainstorming stage to the post-event marketing communications. They will often hire poster boards and shell schemes for events abroad, and use SD Displays to purchase graphics for these events.

Recommendations

Sometimes projects come in that are at locations our team are unable to get to, or we may just be completely fully booked for that period. If a situation such as this arises, our team can recommend one of our partners as a solution. This keeps the relationship with our client intact, and gives them a way to complete the project needed.

If you think that your company could work with SD Displays as a mutually beneficial partner, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on 01628 673 864 or drop us an email at info@sd-displays.co.uk .

The Sheffield College Choose SD Displays Poster Board for Multiple Events

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 07:49:19 GMT

Our team have been working with The Sheffield College, which provides high quality vocational and academic training to enhance qualifications, skills and employability. They operate across six campuses in the Sheffield City region.

Looking to encourage a variety of passionate students to choose their qualifications and courses, their Enrolment Days are vital, taking place twice annually in July and September. The Sheffield College decided to opt for SD Displays’ poster boards to give the events a more professional image.

With the July Enrolment day having been a huge success, they are looking forward to using the poster boards in the upcoming September event.

If you have events coming up that would benefit from poster board displays, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on 01628 673 864.

SD Displays are Proud to Support the West London Business Show

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 08:28:36 GMT

The West London Business Show returns this year on October 2nd, at the Park Inn Conference Centre, Heathrow. SD Displays are proud to announce that we are the show’s officially contractor, so we’re very excited. We’ll be responsible for providing and setting up the shell scheme stands, creating graphics and hiring furniture for the show. To be involved at such an intimate level with the West London Business Show is fantastic, and we are looking forward to setting up a huge variety of stands for some brilliant businesses.

Exhibiting has never been more important than it is now. One of the reasons we’ve chosen to support the show is because we believe in the power of exhibiting to the general public - doing so raises your company’s profile and helps to generate leads. Not only that, but by going to a specific show, you’ve got yourself a tailored audience! At SD Displays we’re able to offer poster board hire and shell schemes perfectly suited for any exhibitor.

If you’re interested in exhibiting at the show, you can book a stand through the official website here . At SD Displays, we can help prepare you for the show with a fantastic poster board or display.

Free tickets are available to the show, so register here to claim yours! Meanwhile, if you are interested in exhibiting and need an impressive-looking stand, get in touch with us on 01628 673 864.

Shell Schemes for University Freshers Fairs

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 14:23:10 GMT

We all know how quickly the summer can fly by, so make sure you are ready for September/October time when school and university starts again! Multiple universities use our shell schemes and poster board hire to make their freshers fairs as exciting, informative and inspirational as possible, including Nottingham Trent University and Oxford Brooks University.

Here are a couple of benefits to using our display hire this autumn:

Providing you a blank canvas. Poster boards and shell schemes give each stand the opportunity to decorate large panels with posters, banners, sign-up sheets, brochures and graphics. Each stand can look impressive and eye-catching, especially compared to freshers fairs that use solely tables or desks.

Clear sections and layout. Shell schemes create clear sectors for each stand, so that students know exactly when each society starts and ends. They are easy to label ensuring the netball club and the basketball team don't get muddled! Poster boards are also a great way to separate different stands, and are double sided so that 2 juxtaposing stands can share one board.

Impressive and professional. Mismatched tables, chairs, desks, stools, boards and displays will make the event look messy, unorganised and confusing. Keep the fair looking consistent, ordered and professional with shell scheme sectors or poster board hire.

Strong and sturdy. Our stands are of top quality meaning you don't have to worry about a domino effect disaster! Our team will ensure the stands are erected and deconstructed efficiently.

Big or small? As manufacturers of Monoshell we can accommodate your needs for a shell scheme or poster board hire, however big or small your event will be.

Our team are ready to help. Our friendly and efficient SD Displays team will help you with the planning, implementation and provision of all equipment required when planning. Our team will help with the layout and floor plan, erect the stands and listen to all your specific requirements, so that you can be assured the fair will run smoothly and look fantastic.

Hire or buy! Our boards are available for either purchase or hire - just get in touch with our team on 01628 673 864 or info@sd-displays.co.uk for more details.

We look forward to working with you to create your best ever university freshers fair!

SD Displays Win Award For Best Event, Print & Promotional Company

Wed, 09 May 2018 09:38:45 GMT

Our team are proud to announce that SD Displays have won The Best Event, Print and Promotional Company Award in Berkshire.

Hosted by SME-News, we were previously nominated for this UK Enterprise Award a few weeks ago, and against fierce competition, managed to secure our place as award champion. It is fantastic that the hard work, business development and customer service creating and selling quality print and promotional materials has paid off.

The official press release will be available soon, so look out on our blog for its release.

Making the Most of your Venue - Why you Should Choose SD Displays

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 09:10:18 GMT

At SD Displays, we believe that making the most of your venue is key to a great exhibition. With over 60 years of experience and a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise, we have been able to help venues produce the best exhibitions, while making the most of their available space, ensuring exhibitors return year on year.

There are a number of reasons why venues choose to use SD Displays. We provide a free floor plan design on request, meaning you get to visualise where the exhibitions will go and the space they will use ahead of them being built. It’s the kind of forethought necessary to ensure you make the most of the potential of your venue. We also prize efficiency as a key reason as to why venues pick us - our patented hook and slot boards require absolutely no tools to assemble, meaning we can quickly and easily install exhibitions.

We’re able to provide a variety of panels ranging from the shell scheme and the walk-round display, to the zigzag and linked poster boards. Each of the boards are smart, portable and practical as well as being velcro-compatible, so as not to damage any of the graphics or imagery. The number of different configurations available ensures that you make the most of all of your floor space, while also creating the best exhibition experience possible.

At SD Displays, we put you first - that means our boards can be delivered, installed and then collected at a time that best suits you. Venues use us because we’re able to look after their clients. We understand how best to utilise available space and we have the tools necessary to provide the perfect boards and exhibition panels, while offering a wide range.

For more information, or to enquire further about our exhibition displays, contact 01628 673 864 or email info@sd-displays.co.uk.

Don’t Let Another ‘Beast from the East’ Tear Up Your Signage

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 10:14:40 GMT

With the weather last week wreaking havoc all over the UK, we really got a glimpse into how destructive low temperatures, snow, ice and strong winds can be. During extreme weather conditions fragile, low-quality and less durable exterior signage can be badly damaged.

Are your banners looking a bit worn after the weather conditions?

Luckily our banners are made from the most durable materials to ensure they are long-lasting and resistant to harmful weather conditions. Our full colour print services onto vinyl ensure your message stays proud and bright no matter the weather. We have a fast turnaround time for such banners, so send us your artwork for expert advice and we will get a quality sign back to you quickly and efficiently.

Is it time to shine with vibrant branded flags?

In dull weather, bright flags are the perfect way to stand out against other businesses. Our flags are of the highest quality, with their durability ensuring a long life span, meaning they can be used in the summer months also. Let your customers know what they’re missing out on with our fantastic flags - just fill out our quick quote form .

We are proud of our exterior signage solutions, but also have a fantastic range of indoor signage services such as poster board hire , bespoke exhibition stands and shell schemes . Get in touch with our friendly team on 01628 673 864 to discuss how we could fulfil your requirements.

The Bigger the Better - SD Displays is Moving

Fri, 16 Feb 2018 16:20:07 GMT

We’ve been exceptionally busy already this year and things are only getting more exciting here at SD Displays. We’re happy to announce that we are going to be moving to a new location with a bigger factory and more warehouse space. The move will enable us to build big stands before we deliver them to the customer, something we believe to be of incredible use. Our new address is Unit 6, Clivemont Road, Maidenhead, SL6 7BU!

In addition to the move, we have some very exciting projects in the works currently. One such project is building a large stand for Fern-Howard, who are attending the Light + Building 2018 show in Frankfurt. It’s a big one - it’ll take about four days to build, and another three to take down again! Our team are already hard at work in the new factory, making the most of the space, before we head off to Frankfurt to get everything set up. We can’t wait.

2018 has been and is looking incredibly promising for SD Displays and we’re just getting started. We’ve got multiple services on offer, so give us a call on 01628 673864 or drop us an email at info@sd-displays.co.uk.

SD Displays Nominated for the Lifetime of Achievement Award

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Our team are excited to announce that SD Displays' Managing Director, David Cooper, has been nominated for the Lifetime of Achievement Award. The Thames Valley Awards have been created to recognise businesses, charities and individuals who have made an outstanding contribution in the Thames Valley Region, and with over 300 nominees for the awards overall, we are very proud to have been shortlisted.

The team are excited to be attending the awards at The Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa in Ascot on the 31st of January, as it will be a fantastic evening to meet local businesses in the Thames Valley area and celebrate how David and the team have developed SD Displays into the successful business it is today.

Exhibition Display Trends for 2018

Wed, 10 Jan 2018 16:55:48 GMT

Happy New Year! 2018 is upon us and with it comes a fresh new year full of conventions and exhibitions. There’s no better time to get preparations in place to ensure that your exhibition display stands out from the rest of the crowd. There are a number of emerging trends in regards to exhibition displays that will help you take 2018 by storm - so take note and make yourself seen this year.

Technology is Key

People love technology. As a society, we’re addicted to it, so there’s nothing quite like it to spruce up your exhibition display. The information you’re displaying is important, but it’s just as important to impress on a surface level. Thankfully, implementing technology into your display is fairly easy and can be done with a subtle touch. For instance, you can showcase information through touch screen displays, allowing potential consumers to interact with the display itself. Another method of getting people involved is the implementation of QR codes as a way of accessing data by means of an interesting novelty. A level of interactivity means people will be more engaged with the display.

There are some other advantages as well. Digital displays mean video capabilities. Technology allows you to express your brand in a creative way, but it also comes with additional benefits. A digital exhibition display enables you to mix data collection into your showcase. Information gathered from attendees will give you a stronger chance at impressing them, or similar consumers, with successive displays.

Make it Feel Homely

Exhibition stands can come across as sterile, cold and corporate - not overly appealing to the average attendee. One of the trends of 2018 is to make them feel more welcoming and homely in an effort to get attendees to stay longer and generate conversation.

One way of accomplishing this is to include some furniture in the display layout. Creating a comfortable area for attendees can help them escape the hustle and bustle of a tradeshow and get them to take a lingering look at what you’re promoting. While creating the layout of the display, make it as eco-friendly as possible. Include natural wood to avoid that clinical feel, and also to create an eco-conscious impression among the consumers, some of whom may come to the display with sustainability in mind already.

Use Lighting in Smart Ways

One of the best ways to make your display stand out from the rest in a crowded hall is to employ clever use of lighting. Backlit displays are a perfect way of enticing people to your stand. Often able to add a clean, almost futuristic look to your display, LED lights are a bright and eye-catching method of attracting attendees.

LED accessories add a whole new layer to a display. For instance, adding towers with backlighting to a display that uses backlit screens adds a level of cohesion to the entire exhibition that will make it pop amongst a sea of dreary displays. Luckily, backlighting accentuates any kind of display - referring to the above point, even in a natural-looking stand, backlighting can help to attract consumers while still fitting the aesthetic. Using LED lighting also benefits your brand - you can use lighting cleverly to highlight certain parts of the brand that you want to distinguish, or even display large scale campaigns that will draw attention from across the hall.

Charging Stations

Whether you’re waiting in line for something or simply wandering a tradeshow, you’re likely to be on your phone. Phone batteries don’t last at tradeshows - so why not offer a charging station to help bring in prospective consumers? By offering a service in high demand, your exhibition is likely to see people flocking in. As they charge their phones, the attendee stays at the booth for an extended period of time, allowing your salespeople to engage with them.

The charging station is perfect for today’s world and is a certain trend in 2018 as exhibitors attempt to employ a means to hold attendees’ attention. Charging stations provide a mutually beneficial service to both the consumer and the exhibitor.

An Exciting Year: What Did 2017 Hold for SD Displays?

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

2017 was an interesting year for everyone, bringing us everything from a royal wedding to Donald Trump’s first year in presidency. Although SD Displays’ progress isn’t exactly international news, we’ve had some fantastic and exciting developments over the last 12 months that have made 2017 one of our most successful years yet!

1/ We organised our first ever exhibition event. In March our team were busy organising The West London Business Show at the Park Inn at Heathrow, an event aimed at businesses of all sizes who wanted to showcase their brand and any new product launches at a major networking opportunity. With incredible motivational speakers talking at the event and workshops being held around the building, the show was incredibly inspiring and a huge success.

2/ Jumping for success! Our own David Cooper made the brave decision to freefall abseil down the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the tallest sculpture in the UK, for charity! By the 19th May, David had raised enough money for Emerge Poverty Free, a charity dedicated to supporting communities in east Africa, to abseil over the Olympic Village at 262 feet above London!

3/ Our posterboard made it onto local news. Extensive plans for an 150 home development project at Lodge Farm in Holyport were discussed upon at a consultation event in August, with our posterboard being hired out to inform visitors on how the plans would affect the village and the details of the development. See the article here .

4/ Daisy’s famous! Our famous mascot become the star of our social media last year, and you can tell she’s relishing the attention! Look out for more of Daisy’s updates…

5/ It’s been a busy year working for our clients and for ourselves. Over the past 3 years, this year has been our busiest in terms of turnover. We want to thank everyone in the SD Displays team for the huge amount of work that they have put into some challenging and impressive designs, displays and exhibition stands. Not only have we been fulfilling projects for clients, we have been working on our own new marketing materials and rebranding our current signage, exemplifying the impact great marketing material can have on your business success.

We have had a fantastic 2017 and we are already in full flow into a busy 2018, so get in touch! With more services to offer than ever before and an innovative, experienced team, give us a call on 01628 673 864 or drop us an email at info@sd-displays.co.uk.

A Fantastic New Stand for Renowned Electrical and Lighting Company

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 08:50:46 GMT

Recently SD Displays have been helping to set up some impressive T3 stands for a variety of companies. One such company was Gewiss UK, the subsidiary of a leading international manufacturer of electrical and lighting solutions that boasts over 20,000 original products and 500 associated patents. Utilising the versatile modular T3 display system, SD Displays installed a unique, eye-catching and vibrant stand for Gewiss' appearance at Elex, Sandown Park and EMEX, at the Excel Centre, London.

The brief called for a large-sized, easy to build and transportable design that would stand out against competitors and impress potential clients. Including a small counter, large 3D wall display and digital screen, we ensured that the stand was interactive and engaging. You can't miss the huge orange logo featured on both the front and side of the stand.

Below you can see our senior dog expert doing the final inspection of the stand:

The stand was quick and simple to build, due to the easy twist and lock action integrated into the internal design, meaning that no tools are required. The stand can be adjusted without extensive redesign, all beams having the potential to be used in a vertical or horizontal position, making it predominantly reconfigurable. This means that Gewiss are able to alter and re-use the stand throughout their whole exhibition programme.

"We are so pleased with the look of the stand as well as its versatility", commented Natalie Keuroghlian, Marketing Manager, Gewiss.

At SD Displays we specialise in creating versatile stands that are easy to install, durable, innovative and primarily make a big impact. Stand out against the crowd and make a lasting impression - get in touch with our expert team on 01628 673 864 or drop us an email at info@sd-displays.co.uk.

Freshers Fairs are Coming Soon - Are You Ready?

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It’s coming up to that busy time when nervous yet excited students are leaving home to explore their new university and the various societies, clubs and sports teams that are open to them. To smoothly run a successful freshers fair you need to facilitate the students who are so passionately trying to build up their society members. So how can you best do this? Here are some tips to ensure you run the most exciting freshers fair to date:

Shout about it! If you haven’t already started making leaflets, branded freebies and other promotional materials then you should get to it now. University branded bags, stress balls, clothing, sweets, key rings and USB sticks are all great ideas to get the students interested and engaged with the upcoming fair.

Sort out stand layout. How many societies, clubs and sports team do you need to facilitate for, and what exactly do they need? Electricity, props or extra space are all things to consider when completing the layout of the fair. If part of the fair is held outside, which stands would need to stay indoors?

Talk to us about your display board hire requirements. We have a lot of experience with multiple universities providing shell schemes and poster board , so you can rely on quality, availability and a fast turnaround. Our expert team will help plan according to your exact needs to ensure that no society is left without a stand and that everything goes smoothly. Our boards are available for either purchase or hire, so get in touch .

“We use SD Displays for their poster board hire and we have always found them to be prompt, friendly and reliable suppliers. On the rare occasions when we have last minute requests, SD Displays have been prompt with their service”

- Senate House, University of London

Keep your students engaged. Use social media and email to update your students on how the freshers fair went, for instance let them know how many societies and students attended, and some of the big highlights of the day. A feedback form can also be distributed through these platforms, which can highlight issues and help you improve year on year.

We want your freshers fair to be an exciting, memorable and flawlessly organised event, and we can help. Get in touch on 01628 673864 or drop us at email at info@sd-displays.co.uk .

4 Ways to Create a Memorable Brand at an Exhibition

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

When you spend money, time and effort attending a networking or business exhibition, you want to know that the rewards will make these efforts worthwhile. Whilst getting email addresses and other contact details will undoubtedly create opportunities with possible clients or customers, these long lists of contact details often only attract a couple of truly interested parties. Your real aim within any exhibition is to make a real impact and brand memorability, ensuring that multiple customers will be knocking at your door in the future. Here are a couple of ways to ensure you create an unforgettable and positive reflection of your brand at your next exhibition:

1/ Think about the audience. What sector are you in and how will this affect the way visitors react to your stand? Is it a creative audience who would appreciate a particularly quirky and eccentric stand? Or a techy group who would be more impressed with a futuristic look?

2/ How is your logo displayed? Your name and branding should obviously be the one thing that is completely unforgettable, so get creative with it! In the past our innovative designers have come up with a huge variety of completely original branding displays, from light-up and LED logos and branded sculptures to suspended logos and evolving digital displays.

3/ Coherence is essential. There is no point having an incredibly creative logo which has no aesthetic relationship with the rest of your stand. Everything should meld together, to create one memorable impression of your brand. The combination of your display shape, graphics, digital displays, brochures and giveaways should embody your business perfectly.

4/ Great giveaways. Although your stand will have made a real impact with your visitors, they are busy people with a lot to see and a lot to do that day. Brochures are great reminders of how your business can benefit theirs, but are easily lost - why not try giving away something original and different, yet useful and relatable to your business (and we aren’t talking about branded pens). If you are in the hospitality and restaurant industry, why not get branded bottle openers, drinking bottles, mugs or placemats? If you work in retail, tote and hessian bags are a great help for visitors trying to carry round too many freebies! For the techy crowd go for technology accessories such as suction phone holders, mouse mats and screen cleaners.

For more ideas on a huge range of giveaways, visit our promotional items site .

Our team are experienced in coming up with creative and innovative ideas to ensure your exhibition stand is unrivalled in its originality and impact. And don’t worry, a stand doesn’t have to cost a fortune to have the memorable impression you desire - being unique comes from concepts not coins! Whether you are an event organiser or exhibitor, we will help you every step of the way from layout and design through to installation and management.

Get in touch on 01628 673 864 or drop us an email at info@sd-displays.co.uk for expert advice from our friendly team.

5 Tips to Stand Out at Your Next Exhibition

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Are you ready to take centre stage at your next business event? With the amount of freebies, business cards and enthusiastic promoters going around, it can feel very difficult to make a lasting impression. At SD Displays we can ensure that your stand will make a real impact with the right customers.

Here are a couple of tips to get you started:

1) What size space do you have? It’s impossible to start planning your stand if you don’t know the size of your allotted space. The potential of a large space is huge, however if not planned properly, can appear empty and disorganised - make sure you have enough furniture and staff to fill the space. Size does matter, but if you don’t have the budget for a large space, don’t worry. Small stands can have a great impact if they are bright, eye-catching and innovative (and our designers are pros at making it look fantastic!).

2) Keep it simple. It’s so tempting when you are a proud business owner to plaster your stand with claims about all the amazing things you do, however it’s more effective to tone it down. Let your leaflets and print content explain the details and leave your display to grab attention, focusing on your key features.

3) Furniture is key to your stand, but don’t go over the top! Well placed furniture is the perfect way to separate a large stand into social areas, creating a busier, more exciting space. We offer product displays, shelving, lighting, furniture, business card holders and plinths. However don’t go overboard - don’t let your stand look crowded and disorganised. Let us help you decide which pieces of furniture will be best for your stand and most utilised for the event you are preparing for.

4) Technology is key. Innovative lighting, screens and interactive technology will attract a crowd looking for a creative, ultra-modern, forward-looking business. Get creative with your technology - don’t just collect customer details on the iPads - create a presentation for your customers to scroll through, or even better, an interactive game for customers to get engaged with.

5) The overall theme should be consistent and represent your brand perfectly. From your brochures and furniture to your graphics and background design, everything should look integral and coordinated. At SD Displays we can ensure that all these aspects of your stand tie together perfectly.

SD Displays will work with you to provide the best product at the best price. Whether you are an event organiser or exhibitor, we will help you every step of the way from layout and design through to installation and management. Get in touch on 01628 673 864 or drop us an email at info@sd-displays.co.uk for expert advice from our friendly team.

David from the SD Team will be Abseiling Off the Tallest Sculpture in the UK!

Wed, 17 May 2017 09:19:13 GMT

We are excited to announce that David Cooper will be freefall abseiling down the tallest sculpture in the UK, in support of charity Emerge Poverty Free ! On the 19th May he will be at the Olympic Village ready to abseil down the crazy sculpture that is the ArcelorMittal Orbit, looking out over 262 feet above London.

Emerge Poverty Free work to sustainably help communities in east Africa, ensuring they have the tools, knowledge and resources to improve their lifestyle. Through Virgin Money Giving, you can sponsor David easily and donations will be quickly processed and passed directly to the charity. Any contributions would be AMAZING and greatly appreciated by SD Displays and the communities in east Africa that will so benefit from your sponsorship!

Sponsor David here !

5 Ways to Choose the Right Banner Stand for your Business

Tue, 07 Mar 2017 16:20:49 GMT

Banner stands are a hugely popular choice in marketing businesses, but with so many types to decide between, it can be difficult to select the best banner type to promote your brand. Our expert team have come up with 5 frequently asked questions on banner stands to give you an insight into finding the perfect option for your company.

1/ The Event

The type of event that you are attending will, to a certain extent, inform you on the type of banner stand you require. For instance, if the event is held outside you will need a banner stand that is specifically designed for outdoor use. We can provide banner stands that are made from materials that are able to withstand the elements. It’s not only wind and rain that can damage banner stands - the sun can have a bleaching effect after a couple of hours, so ensure your stands are good quality.

2/ Size

From tall, slim stands to wide interlocking stands, the size and shape can make a huge difference to its impact for different occasions. A great use for larger banner stands is utilising them to separate space creating sections within the business’ area. They also make brilliant backdrops to an exhibition stand or pop-up. However you don’t want to dwarf a small space. Using well designed, brightly coloured and innovative smaller banner stands can draw just as much attention in a more compact area for a smaller budget.

3/ Double Sided?

You may not be aware that many of our stands are double sided, meaning that you get twice the amount of advertising for the same amount of space! Think about your space and layout at the event and how you could utilise a double sided stand. For example you may want information and advice on your stand as people enter, and a leaving message and call-to-action as they leave your stand.

4/ Frequency of Use

Will you be using this stand once or for multiple events throughout the year? If you will use it once or twice, then a simpler, pop-up and cheaper version of you stand will suffice. On the other hand if you intend to use it multiple times then the putting up, putting down, movement and storage of the stand will damage a cheaper version. A really worthwhile investment is buying a top-quality, long-lasting stand that will make a huge impression at multiple events without breaking, fading or losing impact.

5/ Quantity

The last aspect that is sometimes forgotten is the number of stands that you want. One large stand can draw a huge amount of attention, but another option is to invest in multiple smaller stands. These can be more versatile for multiple different events, their arrangement and contrast always adjustable. Our designers are creative and innovative, able to create storyboards or show business processes through multiple stands.

We would love to chat through your stand requirements to see how we could improve your brand impact at events. Our expert team are ready to answer any questions and design, create and install the perfect banner stand for your business event. Get in touch on 01628 673 865 or drop us an email at info@sd-displays.co.uk.

How can a Bespoke Stand Benefit your Business?

Wed, 07 Dec 2016 10:03:01 GMT

It is so hard nowadays to stand out of the crowd; with so many innovative and unique businesses, technologies and creatives out there, to make something with original impact is incredibly difficult. However, in this competitive market, it really does pay to stand out of the crowd and get noticed. This can be exemplified within business exhibitions, each stand competing to out-do the other.

If your stand doesn’t catch the eye and have an impact on your potential leads, your competitors will obviously round them all up. However, with our innovative and unique bespoke stands, you can ensure that your stand is custom-built with all your needs in mind to attract all the right visitors, gain all the best leads and ultimately improve your business.

Custom-built pop-up stands and banner stands will always make a good impression if they are professionally designed with your brand in mind. Combined with quality small print such as leaflets and business cards, as well as promotional free gifts, your stand is bound to be a success. But these are all things that your competitors can and will be doing. A bespoke stand is designed to be totally unique and representative of your business, giving you a wow factor that will generate massive interest.

A bespoke stand will totally emulate your brand. The style, shape, colour and lighting will represent the spirit and branding of your company, meaning that visitors will automatically associate your stand with your business, even at long distance. These stands are so distinctive that they will be remembered long after the event.

The possibilities are almost endless. Depending on the amount of space you have at the exhibition, you can consider tall curvaceous walls, versatile and creative lighting, seamlessly embedded technology and entertainment as well as impressive integrated accessories and furniture. Our graphics and colours are flawless even blown up to huge sizes, creating a huge impact that is impossible to miss.

At SD Displays, we can discuss with you the exact impression that you would like to make at an event. Bespoke stands mean that every detail is taken into account when designing and creating your stand, from where you would like people to hand out leaflets or consult experts to where visitors can watch a mini presentation or admire your products. Our design experts can show you drawings and 3D Digital constructions (such as above) so you can see exactly what your stand will look like before the actual event.

Bespoke stands may be at a higher cost than personalised banners, but in the long run they will have huge benefits. All our stands are durable and can be dismantled for multiple events in the future, meaning that your stand will time and time again be increasing your business success.

Get in contact on 01628 673 864 or drop us an email on info@sd-displays.co.uk to discuss how we can build an impressive bespoke stand perfect for your company.

Preventing Disasters to Ensure a Fantastic Event

Mon, 14 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Disasters are always around the corner at live events. The unpredictability of live exhibitions means that even the most experienced event manager may be thrown into the deep end as opportunities at an event or exhibition unravel. When planning an event, think of yourself as the unluckiest person alive; prepare for every pitfall and eventuality to avoid any nightmares that might come your way.

1/ Your risk assessment of the event should not be a last minute ‘I’ll just jot some things down to keep to protocol’ scenario. Make a list of all the possible disasters, from your keynote speaker having a vehicle breakdown to your brochures not turning up on time. Think about the possible chances of each scenario happening and what you can do prior to the event to make the chances of disaster as small as possible.

2/ Contingency plans need to be available. Although some of these circumstances may be unavoidable, making the risk assessment will give you an idea of possible back-up plans available to you. Ensuring another colleague has a small talk prepared in case the keynote speaker does not arrive or bringing multiple business cards in case of brochure problems are a few alternative plans.

3/ Resources need to be available in case of disaster. When something goes wrong the unforeseen time, effort and expenses needed can become very intensive. Ensure you do not spend your entire budget prior to the event, as having this back-up money will reassure you that if something goes wrong, you have the funds to make it right. Don’t leave everything until last minute. Even if you order 500 brochures a few weeks in advance, they may arrive flawed or damaged a few days before the event. Make sure you are keeping track of all the resources needed to ensure that there are no panic attacks a few days before the event.

4/ The right event manager is key to a successful event, whether or not disasters happen. If everything runs smoothly, an experienced and innovative events manager will ensure that your event is the best it can possibly be. They will know the usual pressure points that can cause problems and will deal with them appropriately. If something unpredictable happens, a good manager will have the foresight and connections to ensure that problems are resolved quickly and smoothly.

5/ Keep everyone informed. Simple miscommunication is often at the basis of any event disaster. Communication managers are a good idea if you are leading a large team and ensure you have the resources for good communication, such as walky talkies if needed. Ensure that you don’t create panic, but explain the problem and show that you are dealing with it appropriately and calmly. Through letting people know what is going on, someone might come up with a solution that you hadn’t considered.

At SD Displays, we understand the effort, time, money and stress that can go into event. We are here to ensure that you can rely on the design, creation and installation of your stand, as well as any print or merchandise, being perfect for your event.

Is Bigger always the Way to Go? How to Really Stand Out at an Exhibition.

Thu, 22 Sep 2016 13:02:17 GMT

Generally we have, for centuries, tried to make everything bigger (and apparently better). From huge temples, churches, monuments and nowadays skyscrapers, everything seems to be increasing in size. And that goes for exhibition stands too. For example, HP at the drupa show in Dusseldorf have a brand space equivalent to a football pitch! You may not have the budget for that, but do you need it? Bigger doesn’t always mean better!

Obviously hiring a bigger space at an exhibition costs more. Your presence is increased, and you will come across as a ‘bigger player’ in your industry. It would be very easy to spend the majority of your budget on the space and the stand expenses, without putting much thought into how you will be attracting and converting footfall. A smaller booth means you can spend more on marketing campaigns, email, pre-show and at-show promotions. We’re not saying a small stand is always the way to go, but we’re here to weigh out the pros and cons, to help you make the most of your total investment.

The brands that have succeeded with large stands tend to consider the space not just a stand, but as hosting a brand experience. HP for instance hosted machines with a total weight equivalent to 65 elephants, which created a completely immersive experience as you walk around the space. However, the amount of space you need to fill is a definite challenge if you don’t have an endless budget. Bigger stands can look emptier- consider that a very busy 10′x20′ will appear more successful than a 20′x20′ booth with the same amount of people attending.

Bigger stands can seem overwhelming and impersonal, whilst smaller stands offer an intimacy that is essential in building quality business relationships. Private product demos, and a decent number of well trained staff can create a much more approachable and engaging stand, so whatever size of the space, this is essential. With a smaller amount of space, you know that only the essential and most interesting features/ displays will be on offer, whereas bigger stands often fill space with inane attractions, vaguely related or sometimes completely unrelated to the branding.

Creating the displays, banners and accessories for an exhibition stand can take a lot of time, thought and often budget. Yes, bigger displays can have a lot of impact, but smaller stands don’t necessarily make less of an impression. With less space to cover, each display can be completely targeted to your audience, so you know that you are making the most of your space. With less space to fill, more budget can go towards creating graphics tailored specifically to your sector.

The main thing to consider about hiring a big space at an exhibition, is everything else has to be the biggest and the best too. Crowds expect a lot from the largest of the displays, and if you don’t meet their expectations then your leads will be significantly decreased. If you think that you can immerse the visitors into a brand experience, using engaging presentations, technology and entertainment, then go for it. If your engagement tends to be more intimate and personal, a small stand may be the best way to attract leads.

SD Displays are experienced in creating stands of all sizes, and supply and hire out furniture, accessories and more. For a bespoke display tailored to your business, call 01628 673 864 or drop us an email on sales@sd-displays.co.uk .

Announcing The West London Business Show

Wed, 08 Jun 2016 11:45:59 GMT

We are delighted to announce that SD Displays are working in partnership and organising an exciting 'new exhibition' event called ' The West London Business Show '.

The event will take place on Thursday 23rd March 2017 at the Park Inn at Heathrow, this event is an ideal platform for all businesses of all sizes to showcase their brand, new product launch and networking with other businesses.

We are expecting 1500 visitors on the day, with 100 exhibitors, and 5 keynote speakers. We are overwhelmed with the interest thus far and look forward in inviting you all to the event as an exhibitor or attendee.

Please visit www.westlondonbusinessshow.com to find out more details about the event and to register for your free tickets. To book a stand please email events@sd-displays.co.uk or call us directly on 01628 673 8647 .

You can follow the West London Business Show on Twitter and Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest news as more exhibitors and speakers are announced.

Supporting the Brett Foundation with Easter Eggs

Fri, 18 Mar 2016 09:02:08 GMT

To follow our contribution over the Christmas period, we have now donated some Easter eggs to The Brett Foundation.

They are an incredible charity who support the homeless people in Maidenhead. From working with Foodshare to provide food for people who cannot afford to eat everyday, to school packs which give children all the supplies they need to start school. We are truly honoured to continue our support for this wonderful charity.

As Easter is coming around quickly, we decided to donate some Easter eggs, which will help The Brett Foundation to ensure all the children in the families they support receive some Easter chocolate. Year round the The Brett Foundation also ensure that all of these children receive birthday cakes. These gestures can help bring a sense of normality to the lives of these children and brighten their day.

Please visit their website to find out more about the amazing work they do, and for ways to show your support.

Sponsors Of The Young Enterprise Area Finals

reena@sd-displays.co.uk (Reena Sandhu) — Tue, 15 Mar 2016 10:35:21 GMT

SD Displays Group are delighted once again to be one of the sponsors for the area finals of the High Wycombe Young Enterprise. The event will be held at Bucks New University on Friday March 18th 2016. Young Enterprise empowers young people to harness their personal and business skills, so they can achieve their full potential and develop experience that cannot be taught through a textbook. We are honoured and delighted to be supporting such a wonderful charity.

Peter Newell, local board member for the initiative, stated that “SD Displays have been supporting the High Wycombe Young Enterprise for more than 10 years, we are very grateful for the invaluable help and service on this very important day in our calendar” .

Maidenhead & District Chamber of Commerce's Annual Dinner and Dance Gala

Thu, 10 Mar 2016 09:10:31 GMT

This year’s Maidenhead & District Chamber of Commerce ’s Annual Dinner and Dance Gala was held on Saturday 5th March at Fredrick’s Hotel and Spa in Maidenhead, and we were very excited and honoured to be exclusive Gold Sponsors of the event. The evening was thoroughly enjoyable and inspiring; it made us very proud to be members of the Chamber.

There were around 70 guests on the night, including special guests Rt Hon Theresa May and RBWM Leader, Cllr David Burbage (Conservative Party, Bray) who were seated on the top table along with the Chambers President Olu Odeniyi.

Theresa May was very complimentary about the great work SD Displays have delivered over the last 60 years and going forward. She highlighted the importance of local companies doing business with each other and was inspiring with her support of local trade. As part of our 2016 strategy we have committed to use more local businesses, and we are pleased this vision is supported by both Theresa and Olu.

Also in attendance was The Brett Foundation , a charity SD Displays already supports with donations throughout the year. It was wonderful to see Susan Brett, the founder of the charity, being honoured as the Chambers chosen charity to support on the evening. The Brett Foundation do amazing work supporting those who are made homeless in Maidenhead, from providing care packages and meals to a shelter throughout the colder months. Both SD Displays and the Chambers are proud to support Susan and her incredible work.

Celebrating 60 Years in Business

Wed, 02 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

We recently looked at how we got to this point in the business & how we can gear up for the next 60 years.

We recently celebrated our 60th year in business, making us one of the longest serving events & exhibition specialists in the UK today. Whilst some of our product offering may have changed over this time, our commitment to innovation and customer service is as strong as it’s ever been. When engaging the team, it is easy to see the passionate eye for detail which has transcended down through each generation of ownership and with it an unwillingness to settle for anything other than the best we can deliver.

Leading the helm today are brothers David and Simon Cooper, serving their virtual apprenticeships from their early years under their father John who ran the company for over 25 years, having started himself at the age of fifteen as a young apprentice. Simon, who has worked for SD for the past fifteen years, keeps a watchful and hands-on role in ensuring clients are set-up and ready to impress at every event and location they can. David, who has taken the mantle as the driving force of SD, spends much of his week engaging with both existing and new clients, creating bespoke stands and helping clients take advantage of their modular systems and display boards for hire.

David reflects back to his early memories growing up with a father who was a genuine craftsman and innovator in the sector. “I remember growing up playing with the exhibition stands and parts from of our innovative display boards whilst my jigsaws & Lego gathered dust. As I grew older I was amazed at how the big names from the TV were all around me as my father worked on new ways to help brands like Black & Decker, ICI Paints, Bandai and Kellogg’s showcase their products. He taught me the importance of being 100% customer focused and how to truly help our customers make the most of their own opportunities. Today we’re looking at technology opportunities to add in to the mix but that’s just a modern day interpretation of what we’ve always done here – looking ahead”.

Today we continue to work with clients new and old with products ranging from Pull-Up Roller Banners to large bespoke exhibition stands and anything in-between. Some clients have been long standing and loyal to our company, ranging from ten to twenty years.

We are proud to say that our 60th anniversary has also been published in Business Voice, the magazine of Thames Valley Commerce group, and Buckingham Business First, which has a distribution of over 8,000 members.

Gold Sponsors for the Annual Dinner Dance Gala

Thu, 25 Feb 2016 12:06:44 GMT

We are proud to announce we are Gold Sponsors at the forthcoming 'Maidenhead & District Annual Dinner Dance Gala' on March 5th 2016.

It is an honour to support our local Chamber of Commerce & Chamber President, Mr. Olu Odeniyi. We look forward to welcoming special guests to the event, such as the Rt Hon. Theresa May amongst other Chamber members. For more information, visit the link below.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/chamber-annual-dinner-dance-tickets-19111883157

7 Innovative Audience Engagement Ideas for Your Next Exhibition

Sat, 20 Feb 2016 14:36:32 GMT

We’ve all trudged round those exhibition halls, collecting meaningless brochures that you felt obliged to take, and collecting any random freebees that are worth fighting the crowds for. But there are always one or two stands that are innovative and engaging enough to stick out in your mind. Why can’t your business be one of these rare gems at the exhibition?

Exhibitions can be an expensive endeavour so you really want to engage as many potential customers or clients as possible, maximising both time and money so that the exhibition doesn’t become a lost opportunity. The aesthetics of your stand and successful engagement combined will help you stand out from the crowd and provide experiences that deliver real value to your audience.

Here are 7 audience engagement ideas to entice visitors to your stand:

1/ The aesthetics and layout of your stand

Don’t focus solely on conveying information in your stand design. SD Displays can help you design and create a bespoke stand that is colourful, dramatic and intriguing for your visitors, whilst integrating the information that you want to communicate to your audience. The layout of your stand should be easy to enter and get comfortable in; use accessories and furniture to create social spaces in your stand to discuss ideas with your audience.

2/ Refreshments

Consider offering decent coffee or other refreshments at your stand as this initially attracts people and makes your visitors feel more comfortable. As the coffee cools, a great opportunity is created to engage the customer, even if they only visited for the coffee. The caffeine also gives them more energy to beat exhibition lethargy. Plus, caffeine engages their pleasure receptors, creating a positive psychological link with your brand!

3/ Use Gadgets

Using new technology is always a great idea at your stand (as long as you know how to use it!). Gadgets attract intrigued visitors to your stand, but they can also be perfect for gathering contact details. What would you rather do? Write your details on a crumpled sheet of paper, or type it into the latest i-pad? This also creates he perception that you are up-and-coming, engaging with the technology of the future. Also, with clever software like qbit (developed by Quatreus), contact details can be collated instantly off-site via internet connection, allowing your sales team to get a head start on your lead nurturing process.

4/ Your Staff

There is no point in having an incredible innovative stand and all the gadgets in the world, if you don’t have engaging, confident staff manning your stand. A combination of knowledgeable and experienced staff, with younger, engaging and confident interns or apprentices is ideal. The younger staff can attract a variety of visitors through their engagement, excitement and enthusiasm about the business, whereas more experienced staff are essential to giving the stand authenticity and esteem.

5/ Visual Recordings

Although your staff may be the most engaging, interesting and sparky crew you could find, they can’t focus on too many people at once. Therefore a visual recording on loop (with subtitles in case the noise is too much) on what your company does is perfect for engaging visitors on the peripheral, who can then get more information from the staff when they are free. Animated videos are the big thing of 2016 so it is worth investing in an original and appealing animation for your company.

6/ Photobooths

Photobooths give a stand an extra interactive factor, appealing to the fun factor of an audience often a bit fed up of wandering around uninteresting stands. Ensure some kind of prop, background or watermark relates to your business, so you can then live stream these photos onto your Twitter feed.

7/ Interesting Demos

If your business has the potential to do demonstrations of certain fascinating products then go for it! For example, kitchen companies often sell weird gadgets and utensils; these would be great to demo at an exhibition stand. Even better if using those utensils can produce edible treats to give away. If you are selling software then onscreen large-scale demos are a great way to give visitors an insight into your product and how it can be utilised for their business.

Ensure you follow up on all the leads you get at the exhibition sooner rather than later. If you have the resources, make the contact as personal as possible. The email is more likely to be opened, and will then be more memorable to the potential client, doing wonders for the perception of your brand. Maintain the colour scheme of the exhibition stand and brochures to the email campaign design; this will help the lead recall their amazing experience at your stand. Exhibitions are a big investment, but with these tips, they are sure to deliver huge rewards. So book that exhibition and get in contact to start creating your perfect exhibition stand.

Supporting The Brett Foundation This Christmas

chris@digity.co.uk (Chris Lunn) — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

As a local family run business of over 60 years, one of the longest standing in the UK today, we are delighted to make a donation to The Brett Foundation this year, as our chosen Christmas Charity to support.

THE BRETT FOUNDATION helps families and individuals in need through a variety of ways, either providing white goods, school uniforms, household items or helping with form filling, room and job hunting or budgeting. They work in the community for the community, firmly believing that by joining together and working as 'one' they can change the world to be a better place.

The Brett Foundation’s vision is to eradicate all loneliness for people of all ages, to be a support to youngsters who maybe on the wrong track who need a guiding hand and to ensure that no one goes to bed hungry.

SD Displays managing Director, David Cooper said “We chose The Brett Foundation to support this year, as we were in awe of hearing about Susan Brett’s dedication in helping to support the less fortunate families and individuals. We felt as a family run business, the importance of supporting one another and the local community ties in with our own core values of ‘Team Work’, ‘Support’ and ‘Commitment’ and The Brett Foundation certainly have all these and more.”

If you would like to make a donation towards The Brett Foundation, you can do this at www.thebrettfoundation.org.uk

Planning An Exhibition? Here's Tip #5 To Help You Get The Most Out Of It

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Tip #5

After The Event

The work isn't over, sorry!

Hold a debrief, with sections such as ‘successes’, ‘improvements’ and ‘lessons learned’. Follow up the priority leads immediately to avoid losing sales. Warm leads need following up too, at least in the next couple of days. Your ‘other’ leads should be filed and followed up with some useful info not included at the exhibition, or a copy of the presentation to remind them of your presence. Put all leads in your ‘keep in touch’ system.

As you go to more events you will build up your own expertise, and can elaborate on these initial exhibition techniques, catering specifically for your company’s priorities and objectives.

This was the last of 5 tips to ensure you get the most out of an exhibition, however our blog will be featuring more interesting articles and helpful advice over the next few months!

Exhibitions give businesses an exclusive marketing advantage- the opportunity to meet, connect and build up prospects with potential and current customers. Exhibitions can obtain qualified leads that can then result in sales and ultimately profits, so you need to make sure you are utilizing this marketing facility. Although exhibitions can be a large investment, especially for smaller companies, the benefits are long-term, with collected leads often turning into loyal customers.

Planning An Exhibition? Here's Tip #4 To Help You Get The Most Out Of It

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Tip #4

At The Event

Make sure your staff are enthusiastic and welcoming-ensure they have frequent breaks as manning a stand can be very exhausting. Keep a positive attitude and ask open (not closed) questions to keep your audience engaged. Try to prioritise your leads as you go, for example keep a 6 tier system:

1. Hot prospects: with a large order and ready to buy

2. Warm prospects: with a large order and longer decision time, or smaller order and ready to buy

3. Luke warm prospects: with a smaller order and not yet ready to buy

4. Cool prospects: with the potential to become customers but not ready yet

5. Other “useful” contacts: media, potential associates, etc.

6. Other: people selling to you, browser, etc.

Perhaps colour code each lead for each section as a more subtle approach. This will make refining your leads after the event a lot quicker and easier.

Make the most of publicity services during the day. Invite press along to view your stand and maybe have something exciting happen at your stand to attract media attention. Film or live-stream the event, as reactions to your products and testimonials can be incredibly useful in the future. Ensure you take photos and post on all your social media platforms about the exhibition.

Planning An Exhibition? Here's Tip #3 To Help You Get The Most Out Of It

Thu, 19 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Tip #3

Plan Your Stand

Follow the exhibitor manual carefully when you receive it and ensure you organise everything you need on your stand. Your stand should represent your prioritised goal, for example the launch of a new product or campaign. Ensure you constantly have well-presented literature at the front of your stand for delegates to browse. Accessories to your stand such as plinths and brochure holders can really impact the audience. Size everything to fit the stand. Do not overcrowd the stand with small tables and displays, however using bars and displays that are too big can dwarf your stand and your staff. If you are having trouble organising your stand don’t hesitate to contact SD Displays on [number]. Lighting can increase awareness of your stand between 30-50%, so ensure your lighting maximises your stand to its best potential. Customise your stand to create a professional, ‘finished’ look.

Planning An Exhibition? Here's Tip #2 To Help You Get The Most Out Of It

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Tip #2

Set Specific Realistic Goals

Now that you have decided to go ahead with the exhibition, start planning WAY in advance. Begin with creating realistic objectives, relating to topics such as sales generation, customer relationships, brand building, market research, media relations and PR. Through these themes, create more specific objectives such as:

- Generate 300 sales leads

- Meet 50 qualified prospects

- Hand out 2,000 samples

- Research 10 competitors

Prioritise your goals if it might not be realistic to achieve all in one event.

Planning an Exhibition? Follow this Blog for helpful Tips & Advice

Mon, 19 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Tip #1

Evaluate the Opportunity

Even for a large company, taking a stand at an exhibition is a big investment, not only in money but in time and organisation. Therefore you need to ensure that the opportunity see a good return on investment. Research the exhibition thoroughly. Make sure the event will match your marketing objectives and reach your target audience. Question the anticipated number of delegates and how they are planning to attract this audience (and specifically your target customers). If possible, visit the exhibition as a delegate first, so you know what to expect. Contact previous exhibitors to explore how successful they found the event. Research the exhibitors attending- are they your competitors? The more homework you do before the event, the more likely the event is to be successful for your company.