Questions to ask when choosing your next exhibition venue.

When planning an exhibition, the venue plays a pivotal role in shaping the event’s success.

With over 40 years of experience hosting exhibitions and conferences, and as the UK’s largest integrated conference and exhibition centre, the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) has seen the evolution of exhibitions and understands how critical it is to select a venue that meets your goals.

With that in mind, we’ve spoken to our award-winning Exhibitions Team and have come up with some of the key questions you’ll want to ask as an event organiser when you’re considering your next exhibition venue.

1. How does the venue align with my event's objectives?

Every exhibition has its unique goals, and a common ambition will be budgetary whether it be a trade or consumer show. The venue ought to understand financial and logistical objectives and use these primary goals to support easy access routes, build brand awareness, launch new products, generate leads across Glasgow and Scotland and provide an opportunity for growth within a purpose-built flexible space.

At the SEC, our adaptable venue layouts cater to a wide range of event formats, helping you create an environment that maximises engagement and drives measurable outcomes.

2. Does the venue meet the needs of my audience?

Understanding your audience is essential to delivering a successful event. The venue should cater to specific needs, including accessibility, faith and parenting correlated rooms, good transport links, free Wi-Fi, variation of catering, marketing and operational support and with sustainability at the forefront of our awareness. A venue with excellent transport links and a large variety of accommodation in proximity can ensure a stress-free experience for visitors and contractors alike.

The SEC combines best-in-class facilities with accessibility and convenience. We hold a Gold Award from Attitude is Everything for our commitment to accessibility and work in partnership with AccessAble to ensure inclusive support for all visitors. In addition, we offer 1,500 hotel rooms on-site and a further 10,000 within a two-kilometre radius.

3. How flexible is the space in terms of size and layout?

The size and layout of a venue are vital for accommodating the varied elements of your event – from large-scale product showcases to smaller breakout sessions. A flexible space allows you to shape the event environment around the needs of both exhibitors and attendees.

At the SEC Centre, we offer 22,355sqm of diverse configurable event space, with five interconnected halls and our campus also includes the iconic 3,000-seat SEC Armadillo; and the OVO Hydro, a world-class arena with a capacity of 14,300.

This versatility means we can comfortably host events of all scales and formats. It’s not unusual for visitors to encounter Strongman, ComiCon, Engineering, construction and transportation experts and the latest dental drill technology all in one day – before catching a headline concert in the evening.  That’s just a glimpse of what a day at the SEC can offer.

4. What amenities and facilities do the venue offer?

We offer high-quality amenities such as innovative AV equipment, on-site catering & car parking, with resolute and experienced event support to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Though SEConnect,  we offer high-speed internet, our new venue-wide digital platform designed to streamline connectivity and communications. To complement this, our advanced AV infrastructure supports everything from live streaming to immersive presentations, while Evolv Express provides fast, touchless security screening for a frictionless visitor experience.  Onsite catering is delivered by our partners at Levy UK + Ireland, ensuring every aspect of your event – from set-up to completion – is professionally supported.

5. How does the venue support sustainability?

Sustainability is more important than ever. Ask about the venue’s environmental practices, including waste management, energy efficiency, and green initiatives. Choosing a venue that supports sustainability not only benefits the environment but also enhances your event’s reputation. 

The SEC is committed to net-zero by 2030, integrating eco-friendly practices such as waste reduction and energy optimisation into every event. Our focus on sustainability helps you minimise your event’s environmental impact and our dedicated sustainability team will guide you through our practices to allow you to share with your community to heighten the venue’s achievements and awards.

6. How can the venue enhance technology and branding opportunities?

Today we mostly live in a digital world where technology plays a significant role in enhancing event experiences. From interactive apps to digital signage, a venue equipped with modern technology can elevate your exhibition to attract your target audience. Additionally, consider the extensive and comprehensive branding opportunities available at the venue.

Together with our cutting-edge technology, including mobile apps, interactive screens, and live-streaming capabilities, the SEC also provides multiple branding opportunities, both digital and physical, so you can tailor the event’s look and feel to match your vision.

7. What support does the venue offer event organisers?

Even the most experienced organisers benefit from having a knowledgeable venue team on their side. When selecting a venue, ask about the level of hands-on support available – not just in the lead-up to the event, but during build, live days, and breakdown. Is there a dedicated team you can rely on? Do they understand the nuances of exhibition delivery? Will they be proactive in helping your problem-solve, adapt, and stay on track?

At the SEC, organiser support isn’t an add-on, it’s built into everything we do. Our dedicated Exhibition team are an extension of your team from day one, offering expert advice and logistical guidance tailored to your event’s specific requirements. We stay in close contact throughout, ensuring your build runs to schedule, operations are seamless, and that you have experienced professionals on the ground who genuinely understand the exhibition environment. It is this personal, hands-on approach, combined with decades of know-how that keeps organisers coming back.

8. What budgeting and post-event support options should I look for?

While cost will always play a role in decision-making, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. The real value of a venue often lies in the breadth of support it offers both during and after your event. Look for transparent pricing, flexibility around packages, and a clear understanding of what’s included.  Beyond the financials, ask about post-event support – are there tools or data that help you assess success? Can the venue help extend your reach through promotional activity?

At the SEC, we provide tailored guidance to help you get the most from your budget, and our support doesn’t end once the lights go down. Our dedicated comms, PR and social media team can promote your event across a range of digital channels – helping you reach new audiences and build momentum beyond your traditional fanbase. Post-event, we’re on hand to debrief and offer insights, ensuring every show is a step forward for the next.

Ultimately, choosing the right exhibition venue goes beyond just location or cost. It’s about ensuring the venue aligns with your event’s goals, audience needs, and sustainability values. With the SEC, you’ll find a flexible, tech-enabled space that supports your objectives and enhances the attendee experience.

Reach out to our team today to explore how we can help bring your next exhibition to life.  We await your call, and your audience awaits you.