The Health & Safety Event 2026 at the NEC Birmingham. It’s a big one. For anyone exhibiting, getting the stand right is key. Your presentation matters, and so does the comfort you offer potential clients. We deliver furniture and equipment for events like this across England and Wales, and we collect it all afterwards.

Consider the visitor journey. Where will people stand? Where will you have those important conversations? For a professional exhibition stand, you need furniture that's practical but also says something about your brand. For many, this starts with a good set of chairs. At an event like this, you want something comfortable and sturdy. Our Wishbone chairs have a clean, modern look that works well in an exhibition setting. They’re comfortable enough for longer chats, and they don't take up excessive space, making them ideal for optimising the footprint of your stand. Our Cross Back chairs in oak lend a relaxed, approachable feel. They work well for brands that lean this way. Their rustic charm creates a welcoming atmosphere. This works for brands focused on natural materials or a down-to-earth approach. For a more formal setup, or if you're offering a small, private meeting space, consider our banqueting chairs. These offer comfort for extended periods. Important client discussions happen without distraction or discomfort.

Then there are the tables. What are you doing on your stand? Do you need a place for brochures, a laptop, or perhaps a demonstration? For small areas, a compact 6ft circular banqueting table can provide a central point without dominating the space, offering a versatile surface. We also have smaller square and rectangular options perfect for setting down literature or a coffee machine, allowing you to keep your display neat and organised. If your stand has a bit more room, or you anticipate longer meetings, a larger table might be appropriate. We’ve found that practical, sturdy tables are the most popular for exhibition environments. Simple surfaces perform. A clean surface stays tidy and looks professional. Consider our ranges of desks and counters for a more focused workspace or a dedicated reception area.

Consider hospitality. Offering refreshments can make a big difference. This is where bar furniture and bar stools come into play. A couple of Poseur tables with accompanying bar stools can create a casual, inviting area. It’s a place for quick conversations, or for someone to wait when a colleague is busy. We can also supply simple counters that work as makeshift bars or reception desks, providing a functional surface for serving or greeting visitors. If you're serving coffee or need a place to prepare drinks, a small bar setup is invaluable. Have the right bar equipment: ice buckets, bottle openers, and other items for serving drinks.

Our LED furniture draws attention for cutting-edge or creative products and services. Illuminated tables and bar units can draw attention and create a modern, dynamic feel. It’s worth considering if you want your stand to stand out from the crowd and create a memorable impression. We also have bean bags which are excellent for a relaxed, informal zone – perhaps for a product demo, a brief educational session, or a quiet corner for attendees to sit for a moment and recharge, fostering a more approachable brand image.

And what about comfort? Long days on your feet are common at trade shows. If you have space for it, a small lounge area can be a lifesaver for both your team and potential clients. Our sofas and armchairs, like the contemporary three-seater sofa in charcoal, offer a real place to relax and decompress. Even a single armchair provides a welcome respite. It makes a busy stand a haven. This is about creating a destination, not just a space to walk past, encouraging longer engagement and deeper conversations.

We also supply essential crockery, cutlery, and glassware. For a professional touch, having clean, appropriate items for serving refreshments is a must. Consider wine glasses if you offer wine, or simple plates for snacks. We even have fridges if you need to keep drinks cool and refreshing. And don't forget tablecloths to cover any tables you’re using, giving a more finished and polished appearance to your exhibition setup.

For an event at the NEC, delivery and collection logistics are straightforward. We plan routes for arrival and departure at the times agreed with the venue. Tell us where and when. We manage delivery and collection. Our team loads and unloads. This minimizes disruption to your stand setup or pack-down. We understand the importance of a smooth transition into and out of the venue, allowing you to focus on what matters most.

They’re there to find solutions, learn, and network. Making your stand comfortable, professional, and functional is how you achieve that. Providing a place to sit, a surface to work on, or a space to have a quiet chat can make all the difference in securing those important connections and leaving a lasting positive impression. It’s about creating an environment where business can flourish.

How does furniture hire work for an exhibition? We deliver the items you've ordered to your stand at the NEC on your agreed setup day. You use them throughout the event. At the end of the show, we return to collect everything. It is a straightforward dry hire service. This offers convenience.

What type of furniture is best for an exhibition stand? It depends on your stand size and what you plan to do. Comfortable chairs and sturdy tables provide essential foundations. Additional items like bar tables and stools can create a more welcoming and interactive space. Always consider the flow of your stand and the comfort of your visitors to maximise engagement and opportunity.

Do you provide setup and breakdown services? No, Expo Hire provides dry hire of furniture and equipment. You are responsible for placing the items on your stand and for packing them ready for collection. This allows you full control over your stand's layout and presentation.

What if I need something specific not listed? We have a wide range of items. We assist if you need something specific.