With stand sizes typically 2m × 2m or 3m × 2m, success is not about oversized displays or elaborate setups. It comes down to your people, a clear message, and a simple idea that gives someone a reason to stop and engage. This playbook outlines ten proven strategies — refined through real The-Arc events — that consistently deliver the strongest exhibitor results.

How do you grab an architect’s attention at a supplier event?

You have approximately three seconds to catch an architect’s attention as they walk past your stand. A clear message, interesting product detail, or warm introduction works best — overcrowded displays and too much information are easily overlooked.

The-Arc events are fast-paced, high-energy environments. Architects move through the room with purpose, so your stand team needs to create an immediate reason for someone to pause, engage, and start a conversation.

What is the right mindset for your stand team?

Think of your stand like a small performance. Your team creates the energy — and that energy should feel open, confident, and engaging. Standing in front of your table, making eye contact, and offering a warm introduction makes all the difference.

The-Arc events are built on genuine human connection. Architects respond best to suppliers who are approachable, curious, and interested in discussing projects and product applications. Often, a simple natural hello is all it takes to turn a passing glance into a meaningful conversation.

The Arc Agency uses EventsAir for lead capture, making post-event follow-up simple and effective. Scan attendees’ QR codes throughout the evening, set up automated follow-up emails, and continue conversations promptly after the event. The most successful exhibitors follow up within the first week while interest and conversations are still fresh.

Photo: The-Arc ICONICA Sydney 2026. Scanning a visitor using EventsAir app.

“The-Arc events work best when stand feel open, engaging, and interesting creating an environment where architects feel comfortable stepping in and starting a conversation.”

- Debbie Morley, National Events Manager

What should your stand look like at a The-Arc event?

Create a stand that feels open, approachable, and easy to engage with. With no shell scheme at The-Arc events, exhibitors have creative freedom — but the stands that perform best are visually clean, welcoming, and built around clear, engaging messaging.

You do not need to limit yourself to one product, however avoid overcrowding your space with too many competing messages. Whether showcasing a range or a hero product, ensure there is a clear focal point or conversation starter that quickly helps architects understand who you are, what you do, and why they should stop and engage.

How do you encourage architects to spend more time at your stand?

Small, hands-on activities are some of the most effective engagement tools at The-Arc events. They create natural conversation starters, encourage longer interaction, and make your stand memorable — all in a way that feels authentic, engaging, and easy for architects to participate in.

Popular examples that have worked well at The-Arc events include:

• Spin-the-wheel prize draws that reward stopping by
• Mini putting or golf games (social, and easy to set up)
• Toss or target games that create a moment of friendly competition
• Quick design challenges tied to your product category

Hands-on product experiences are consistently the most memorable. Where possible, let architects explore materials, see finishes in different conditions, or watch your product in action rather than simply looking at it.

Photo: The-Arc Brisbane. Bean Bag Toss fun at the Grolife stand

What giveaways work best at architect supplier events?

Thoughtful, high-quality giveaways will outperform cheap branded merchandise. Architects are far more likely to keep and remember items that are practical, well designed, and useful in everyday life.

Strong examples include quality water bottles, notebooks, USB-C chargers, or other understated branded items. If your budget allows, a premium prize draw can also create excitement and encourage engagement throughout the evening.

Successful prize examples have included:

• Restaurant dining experiences
• Bluetooth headphones
• Premium whisky
• Curated gift baskets
• Architecturally inspired design objects

Photo: The-Arc Sydney 2026. Exploring products in miniature.

Top 10 Engagement Principles:

These ten principles cover stand setup, team behaviour, engagement tactics, lead capture and post-event follow-up, built specifically for The-Arc Events formats.

1. The 3-Second Rule
Use a clear message, product detail, or warm introduction to capture attention quickly.

2. Treat Your Stand Like a Performance
Stand in front of your table. Be open, natural, and welcoming.

3. Keep Your Stand Simple
Create a space that feels open, engaging, and easy to step into.

4. Encourage Interaction
Games, product demos, and tactile experiences increase engagement and dwell time.

5. Offer Something Thoughtful
Useful, high-quality branded items create stronger impression than generic merchandise.

6. Consider a Major Prize Draw
A premium prize can create excitement and encourage engagement throughout the evening.

7. Show, Don’t Just Tell
Let architects touch materials, explore details, and experience products firsthand.

8. Capture Genuine Leads
Scan QR codes throughout the event, automate follow-up emails in EventsAir, and reconnect promptly post-event. 

9. Make Follow-Up Personal
Reference something genuine from your conversation to continue the connection.

10.  Keep the Energy High
Open conversation, curiosity, and an engaged stand team consistently create the strongest results.

Photo: Clean, considered, and ready to connect — exhibitor stands at The-Arc Events

Frequently Asked Questions

What size are exhibitor stands at The-Arc Events?
Stand sizes are typically 2m × 2m or 3m × 2m. There are no walls or shell scheme — just your own open space to creatively showcase your brand. Ensure your displays, furniture, and products fit comfortably within your allocated area, and use banners or signage so architects can easily identify your brand from across the room.

Who attends The-Arc Events?
The-Arc Events attract registered architects and interior designers looking to discover products, build industry connections, and engage with leading suppliers in a more relaxed and meaningful environment.

How should exhibitors follow up after a The-Arc event?
Keep follow-up personal and prompt. Reference your discussion and reconnect within the first week while interest is still high. The Arc team will guide exhibitors through EventsAir — the lead generation platform used to scan attendee QR codes, capture leads, connect, and follow up post-event.

Is hard selling appropriate at The-Arc Events?
No. The most successful exhibitors are approachable, engaging, and interested in conversation — not aggressive sales tactics. The focus is on building relationships that continue beyond the event.

What prize ideas work well?
High-quality, useful, or experience-based prizes perform best. Popular examples include dining experiences, premium headphones, curated gift baskets, whisky, notebooks, water bottles, and architecturally inspired objects.

Get more information about The-Arc Events

Want to learn more? Our team can help you with any questions about our events.