Finding the right audience – similar to magazines exhibitions are often audited, so if it’s high volume and high quality visitors you are looking for check that the audit matches your list of prospects. Try www.abc.org.uk or ask the sales staff to provide a breakdown of the type of people who attend the event.

See who else is exhibiting – if your competitors are there then it’s a clear sign that you should be too. If they aren’t then you may be able to gain market share by tapping into new areas .

Trusting the organisers – a sign of a good organiser is whether the company is a member of an association such as the Association of Event Organisers

The event may also have support from a trade body or association who sit on a steering committee to ensure that the event represents the industry.

Getting the right location – if you’re looking to expand into new areas then an exhibition can create an ideal launch pad for demonstrating or handing out samples – whether in the UK or overseas the location of the exhibition will have an impact on the people that attend and can offer additional opportunities for wining and dining.

Still not sure? –  why not go along as a visitor and see what you think before committing.