The Beginner’s Guide to Exhibiting at the Surrey Business Expo
Exhibiting for the first time can feel daunting. What do you bring? What do you say? Will anyone stop at your stand?
If that sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. This guide is designed to take the mystery out of exhibiting at Surrey Business Expo — Surrey’s long-running and biggest B2B business expo —taking place on Wednesday 29th April at Sandown Park Racecourse in Surrey.
Step 1: Know What the Expo Is (and Is not)
Surrey Business Expo is a business-only event, bringing together hundreds of Surrey-based decision-makers, professionals, and business owners.
It is:
- About conversations, visibility, and relationships
- Relaxed, friendly, and welcoming
- Focused on local and regional Surrey business
It is not:
- A hard-sell environment
- A consumer exhibition
- A place where you’re expected to pitch non-stop
Understanding this sets you up for success from the start.
Step 2: Set Simple, Clear Goals
Before the day, ask yourself:
- Do I want leads, partnerships, or brand awareness?
- Who do I most want to talk to?
- What would a “good” day look like?
For beginners, clarity beats complexity. One or two clear objectives is plenty.
Step 3: Keep Your Stand Simple (and Approachable)
You don’t need anything fancy. The best beginner stands usually have:
- Clear branding and a simple headline
- Space for easy conversation
- A friendly, engaged team
- Ensure you have at least two team members to host the stand
A bowl of sweets, a simple giveaway, or an interactive element can help break the ice — but your attitude matters more than your furniture.
Step 4: Start Conversations, Don’t Sell
The easiest opener?
“Tell me about your business.”
Listen first. Ask questions. Share what you do naturally. If there’s a fit, you’ll both know. Surrey Business Expo is about starting relationships, not closing deals on the spot.
Step 5: Make It Easy to Follow Up
Bring:
- Business cards or QR codes
- A simple way to note who you spoke to
- A plan for follow-up within a few days
Even a short, friendly message after the event can turn a quick chat into a meaningful connection.
Step 6: Enjoy the Experience
The Expo is held at the iconic Sandown Park Racecourse, which adds to the buzz and scale of the day. Take time to:
- Walk the floor
- Network with other exhibitors
- Attend talks and sessions
You’ll often get as much value from who you meet casually as from planned conversations.
One of the things that makes our event so successful, is that our team of Paul Bridgland, Hannah Shephard, Steve Page and Paul Marcus are all local people, working every day, with local companies and business networks in Surrey. Leading up to each event we run advice sessions and pre-show events for exhibitors to meet up and discuss plans to ensure that the day is a success for your company.
With stand prices starting from just £545 + VAT, a supportive team, and a friendly local a Surrey Business Expo — Spring 2026
- 📅 Date: Wednesday 29th April 2026
- 📍 Venue: Sandown Park Racecourse, Esher
- 🕙 Time: 10:00–15:00
For more information visit www.businessinsurrey.co.uk
