South West businesses invest the majority of their marketing budgets in attending shows and exhibitions, according to a survey conducted by market research firm Insight Data on behalf of Bristol-based live events specialist Clip UK.
Exhibitions Outpace Digital and Print Spending
The research targeted over 16,000 business leaders across the South West to examine how regional companies allocate their commercial marketing resources:
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Live Events Lead: 42% of respondents stated that attending exhibitions and shows accounts for the largest portion of their marketing budget.
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Digital Advertising: Online advertising took second place at 33%.
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Print Advertising: Traditional print advertising trailed significantly, securing just over 8% of total spend.
Annual Budget Distributions
The survey revealed clear spending tiers among regional businesses investing in trade shows:
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Under £25,000: 91.66% of respondents allocate up to £25,000 annually for their exhibition schedules.
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Over £75,000: 8.34% of companies operate with major event budgets exceeding £75,000 per year.
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Mid-Range Gap: Zero respondents reported spending in the mid-range £25,000 to £75,000 category.
Furthermore, 83% of surveyed businesses participate in up to 10 shows per year, with 75% actively considering expanding their event schedules to include more industry trade shows in the future.
“It is fantastic to see so many South West businesses recognising the value of face-to-face engagement. Exhibitions build long-term brand awareness, but they also deliver immediate commercial returns—a relevant show often pays for itself in the short term.”
— Paul Runacres, Sales & Marketing Director, Clip Exhibition & Display
Growing Demand for Reusable Stand Solutions
Clip has seen a corresponding rise in event frequency among its client base, reflecting broader regional market trends:
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Increased Event Frequency: Repeat business drives substantial volume as clients expand their annual show presence.
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Scalable Event Asset Management: More companies rely on versatile modular displays to maintain brand consistency across growing event schedules.
Partner with South West Exhibition Experts
Clip UK is a regional and international leader in custom and modular exhibition stand design, fabrication, and event management. Clip works alongside leading brands including Thatchers Cider, HSBC, Nando’s, Hilton, Google, Westons Cider, BT, and GSK.
Contact our Bristol-based team today to discuss your upcoming event schedule.