A hybrid trade show has a mix of both physical and virtual booths. These have gotten more popular because of the pandemic-induced restrictions on travel. Companies that are free from travel restrictions purchase physical booth space while global firms and those unwilling to travel exhibit using virtual booths and digital trade show displays.
Any kind of business can use a virtual trade show display. If you prefer, you can skip the physical booth and exhibit virtually or vice versa; the choice is yours!
So, which is better? Should you go the traditional route and rent a physical booth or should you exhibit virtually? Well, there are pros and cons to both approaches. In today's post, we highlight the pros and cons of physical and virtual exhibits so you can weigh all the factors and make an informed decision.
The Pros And Cons Of Physical Exhibits At Hybrid Trade Shows
Pros:
- You can enjoy face-to-face interactions with event attendees. In-person networking is an integral part of trade shows; it is also an excellent way to generate leads and widen your reach. While virtual events also offer networking opportunities, they don’t generate the number of leads you generate at a physical booth.
- You can enjoy a high level of engagement. Despite the advances in streaming and video technology, there is something charming about interacting with a real person who answers your questions and addresses your pain points.
- You can impress your audience with a grand spectacle. A well-designed physical booth has the potential to be buzz-worthy. You can impress your target audience with a grand show by using high-quality trade show displays like retractable banner stands, tabletop pull-up banners, and floor displays.
Cons:
Attending a physical trade show is a lot of work. You've got to book the booth far in advance, and you have to pay a hefty fee to secure your space. You must plan the display materials as well, and you have to arrange booth staff's transportation and accommodations. Getting all this work done might become challenging, especially if you're traveling a long distance to attend the event.
The Pros And Cons Of Using Virtual Booths At Hybrid Trade Shows
Virtual booths are relatively new to the scene. Since digital technologies are popular today, it's possible for companies to attend trade shows virtually. Live streams, interactive digital webinars, and video marketing can give your company a presence at a trade show, even if you don't attend it in person.
Pros:
- Attending a trade show virtually is more budget-friendly as you don’t have to spend on travel and accommodations. However, a digital booth has to be decorated and marketed just like a regular booth. So, there’s the cost of the display and marketing materials to consider.
- Virtual booths make it easy to attend trade shows in any corner of the planet. A company in Tokyo can exhibit in L.A. and vice versa. They’re great for expanding the global reach of your brand.
Cons:
One of the biggest drawbacks of a virtual booth is that you're reliant on technology. If your internet connection is spotty or your video files are in the wrong format, you're likely to have nothing but an empty booth with blank screens. So, stay on top of your technology and have a plan B in place to avoid any last-minute technical glitches.
Which Is Better: Physical Or Virtual Booths?
Why choose when you can have both. If budget isn't a constraint, you can rent physical and virtual booth spaces. Design your promotional and marketing materials so that your digital presence complements your physical booth and vice versa. If only one is possible, consider your goals and the potential benefits of both these options and choose the right strategy that best fits your business’ objectives.