How Do Pop Up Displays Work? A Guide for Trade Shows and Events?

Article Date: October 11, 2024

Pop up displays are becoming the norm for trade shows and indoor promotions. These simple and portable displays are great boons for trade show displays and are even used as photoshoot backdrops and stage designs. Lightweight, versatile, easy to assemble and transport, and visually vibrant, pop up displays are the perfect choice for businesses looking for fast and attractive signage.

In this article, we examine pop up displays in more detail and offer a quick guide to maximizing their potential. Whether you’re setting up at an event booth or organizing an expo, pop up displays can make a big impact with minimal effort.

What are the Perks of Using Pop Up Displays?

Pop up displays are a popular choice for businesses that need a simple yet effective way to showcase their brand at indoor events or sales. These displays consist of two key parts: a lightweight aluminum frame and a tension fabric design. The expandable frame can be set up with just a few movements — hence the name "pop up," while the fabric graphic stretches over it, creating a clean, professional backdrop.

What sets these displays apart is how polished they look. The large, seamless fabric graphic offers a vibrant, eye-catching presentation, helping your brand stand out in a crowded room. You can incorporate any design you want, and the taut graphic will make your artwork stand out and look more appealing, especially if you add lighting.

Another great advantage is that pop up displays are reusable. You can take them to multiple events, and if you ever want to refresh your look, you can swap out the graphics without buying a whole new display. This makes them a budget-friendly option for businesses attending several shows a year.

Whether promoting a product or service or just trying to build brand recognition, pop up displays make it easy to create a stylish and professional presence that people will be drawn to.

What Elements Should be Considered When Ordering Pop Up Displays?

Several key factors must be considered when ordering a pop up display, such as the venue, your target audience, and your overall goal with the sign. Once you've considered these objectives, you can easily choose the appropriate size, design, and accessories to meet your needs and significantly improve its use at the event.

Brainstorming the purpose, use, and audience
Start by thinking about where and how you'll use your display. Will it be the main attraction at a trade show booth or a subtle backdrop for a conference? If the goal is to grab attention from a distance, go for bold, visually stunning designs with bright colors and large fonts. Meanwhile, a clean, minimalist design might suit your needs better if it's for a backdrop. Consider whether you want to convey lots of information about your brand or stylishly showcase your products and services for awareness.

Designing your banner for the event
Once you've decided on the display's purpose, you can dive into the design details. You'll want to use high-resolution images and vibrant colors that align with your branding. Also, ensure your logo, tagline, and other branding elements are clear and prominent in the display. You should also add essential details like your website, contact information, or even a QR code to direct people to get more information about your brand.

Once you have the essentials, then you can apply your brainstorming. You can use a step-and-repeat pattern to make your branding visible even as a backdrop or go loud and prominent in your design if you truly want an attention-grabbing display. Regardless, try to create something that's both visually appealing and functional.

Banner materials, size, and durability
Regarding materials, you'll want something durable, especially if you plan to use the display for multiple events. Look for high-quality tension fabric that won't easily tear or fade. The banner size is also crucial — ensure it fits your event's space without blocking paths or overwhelming potential customers.

Additionally, think about the accessories. Lighting can highlight your display, making it more eye-catching, especially in dimmer venues. Stands and other accessories may also help stabilize the display and improve its professional look.

How to Set Up and Maintain Pop Up Displays

One of the best perks of using pop up displays is their portability. They're incredibly lightweight, making them easy to transport from event to event. Whether traveling across town or flying to a convention, you can easily carry them in a compact case and set them up without trouble. Here's a quick guide on setting up and taking care of your pop up display.

Setting Up the Pop Up Display

1. Empty the case and check the parts
   Open the carrying case and remove all components, including the frame, banner, and accessories. Ensure everything is complete and in good condition before starting the setup.


2. Assemble the frame and stand the display
   Unfold or "pop up" the frame and expand it to its full height and width. Lock the frame into place, ensuring all connectors are secure. Then, position the frame into place.


3. Attach the banner and ensure stability
   Carefully attach the tension fabric banner to the frame, starting from the top, and smoothly attach the other parts until the entire graphic is secure. Make sure the banner is evenly stretched and securely fastened at all corners. Finally, tug the fabric until taut. Double-check the frame's stability and adjust it if necessary.


4. Add lighting to maximize visibility
   If you ordered LED lights to accompany the display, attach them to the frame according to instructions. Plug the sockets and let the lighting help highlight the display and attract more attention at events.

Banner Maintenance Tips

1. Clean the tension fabric regularly
   To extend your banner's lifespan, gently clean the fabric graphic with a soft, damp cloth. You can also machine wash the fabric under the lowest setting, using mild detergent and cold water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the fabric or cause the colors to fade over time.


2. Maintain the frame's durability
   Most pop up display frames are made of durable, lightweight aluminum. Still, you should check the frame after each use to ensure no cracks or loose connections. Regularly wipe down the frame to remove dust or debris and handle it carefully to avoid bending or warping.


3. Properly store the display using the carrying case
   It’s common for pop up displays to come with a carrying case that protects them when not in use. Properly store all components in these storage bags, and ensure the case is securely closed and stored in a dry place to protect the display from damage or moisture during transport.

Conclusion

Pop up displays offer businesses a versatile way to promote brands and products using eye-catching visual presentations. Their ease of use, from portability to quick assembly, makes them great options for maximizing visibility at events, trade shows, or retail spaces. Whether promoting products or services or simply building brand awareness, these displays provide a sleek and vibrant look at any space they are placed in.

If you seek a cost-effective yet high-quality way to elevate your brand presence, consider incorporating customizable pop up displays into your marketing strategy. These create a lasting impression and drive engagement at your next event.