Gearing Up for a Show-Stopping Exhibition Stand

SEW partnered with us to create an exhibition stand that spotlighted a selection of their machinery at the PPMA Show, including the Hugo Beck unit and a range of geared motors. The aim was to create a visually impactful, functional exhibition stand that not only displayed the machinery but also reflected the quality and innovation of the SEW brand.

Drawing inspiration from SEW-EURODRIVE's DriveAcademy®, the design focused on flow and visitor interaction. Machines were intentionally positioned to create a more engaging experience for attendees, while foliage and lighting were added for visual impact and brand consistency. The focal point of this piece was a 750kg metal-mesh hanging feature, safely rigged to support LED tube lighting and dense layers of foliage that tied the whole concept together.

Timber and painted MDF formed the backbone of the build, shaping the main walls and office structures. The plinths for the machines and desks were illuminated underneath for a halo effect. This gave a clean, modern, and vibrant aesthetic. An aluminium framework provided strength and stability throughout the installation, while 96m² of PVC-free floor vinyl provided striking, sustainable graphics across the 12 × 8 metre footprint. Xanita POS units added eco-friendly display options, complemented by acrylic elements used throughout the signage. Materials were carefully selected for their durability, finish quality, and reusability, resulting in a visually striking exhibition stand that can be reused at future shows, reducing waste while maintaining high-impact visuals.

Beyond the structural materials, integrated features elevated the visitor experience. Four large digital screens were positioned around the exhibition stand with seating areas, green areas, and storage rooms. This created a series of touchpoints for product demonstrations and multimedia content. The electrical setup was engineered to ensure safety and seamless performance throughout the show.

To achieve a high level of accuracy for such a complex build, the project relied on various high-performance machinery. EFI Vutek and swissQ printers delivered crisp, high-quality graphics, while the CNC and Zünd machines provided precise cutting of MDF, timber, and acrylic components. 3D and CAD concepts guided the early concepts, ensuring every measurement and interaction point was planned meticulously. This allowed every structural and visual element to align perfectly with the design intent.

Over six months of design and planning, the team prepared for a three-day build, three days on show at the PPMA, and a two-day derig — an impressive, efficient turnaround for such a complex installation. This success was driven by Imageco’s one-to-one, collaborative service model, which ensured a smooth process from concept to completion through clear communication and a strong understanding of the client’s goals. The client was blown away, and lots of attendees said it was the best exhibition stand at the PPMA show.

Delivering a project of this scale required a coordinated effort from a skilled team. Nathan Swinson Bullough led the project, with David Shackleton overseeing management, Matty Bullough managing detailed CAD engineering, Robert Lee handling 3D cardboard design. Dulcie Swinson Bullough added foliage and finishing touches, while Barnaby Ward took charge of joinery and on-site installation. The team was part of every detail, creating an immersive environment that reinforced SEW-EURODRIVE’s brand identity.