International Confex 2026: Stand Design Trends, Technology & Event Inspiration

Associate Events – Design Team

Stepping into International Confex 2026 at ExCeL London, one of the UK’s leading events and exhibition trade shows, felt like walking into the engine room of the events industry.

Confex truly proved itself to be the ultimate meeting place - an exciting overload of sensory experiences designed to inspire and delight. The atmosphere was buzzing with over 5,500 event professionals, from global brand representatives and creative agencies to seasoned organisers and association leaders.

For two extraordinary days, it was the place to be - somewhere to spark fresh inspiration and shape not just our events, but the future of the industry itself.

AE design team arrive at International Confex 2026

The Associate Events (AE) design team were there to experience bold activations, immersive environments and game-changing technology first-hand. The event featured high-level keynotes, brand-side panels, practical workshops and connection-building conversations, all centred around forward-thinking event strategies.

Exhibitors, speakers and guests connected over a shared goal: delivering powerful, profitable and purposeful events.

Perspectives from the design team

Here’s what ae’s design team thought about the experience:

Hannah shared:

“Attending Confex International was a wonderful opportunity to explore the industry in more depth. As designers we spend a lot of time behind the scenes and don’t often get to experience this work in person. Being able to see how all these aspects come together and how every detail is perceived is invaluable to our future work.

“My personal highlight from the day was seeing the extent of what’s truly available to us, from double decker stands to ginormous bespoke builds of sandcastles or the gates of heaven. Designing for stands in the future will be so much more ambitious after seeing these in person.”

Rose reflected:

“I found being surrounded by people who are passionate about events and have built such a unique, supportive community truly inspiring. Connecting with industry peers and attending insightful talks has given me a buzz and renewed sense of momentum for the year ahead.

“What excites me most about the future of our industry is the challenge of how we now blend advanced technology with a human touch and feeling to create meaningful, people centred experiences.”

Lucy added:

“It was refreshing to get out of the office and enjoy a day full of inspiration with my team at Confex International. From the moment of entering the hall, I was met with design ideas galore, from fun activations to awesome props and the latest tech displays as well as inspiring talks, from AI to floor plans and interesting insights around data and those key target audiences; something I found particularly interesting.

“It was great to see first-hand what’s out there and speak to exhibitors who are both enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The experience has excited me for what’s to come both in the industry and at ae.”

The ae team attending a talk about utilising your expo floor space

Our predicted exhibition trends and takeaways for 2027

As the events industry evolves, 2027 is set to bring fresh opportunities for brands to stand out on the exhibition floor. From immersive technology to interactive stand design, understanding these trends can help event organisers and exhibitors create experiences that engage, inspire, and leave a lasting impression.Walking the exhibition floor made several wider industry patterns clear — particularly around how brands are rethinking engagement, technology and physical stand design.

1. Interactive Stands Drive Engagement

Visitors are drawn to stands where they can participate rather than just observe. Interactive elements create energy on the show floor and encourage people to spend more time with a brand.

2. Freebies Still Pull the Crowds

Well-chosen giveaways continue to be a powerful way to attract visitors. When tied thoughtfully to the brand, they create lasting impressions beyond the event.

3. Statement Centrepieces Create Lasting Impact

A bold visual centrepiece can become the anchor of a stand, helping brands stand out in busy exhibition halls and making the space more memorable.

4. Cutting-Edge Tech Captures Attention

From immersive screens to AI-powered experiences, the latest technology consistently draws interest and helps brands demonstrate innovation.

5. Games Need Purpose

Gamification can be a great way to spark engagement, but if not planned carefully it risks becoming a distraction rather than a meaningful connection to the brand or offering.

Rose recommends:

“Brands must avoid the "rinse and repeat" trap, even after a successful event. Instead, use data as the fundamental basis for meticulously designing and choreographing successful floor plans and events.

I think the sweet spot for success moving forward will be brands who can combine nostalgia with innovation. Use smart, cost-effective technology to create spaces that don’t just attract attention, but invite participation and connection.”

Design inspiration

The Bottom Line

Confex International was a truly worthwhile experience. It sparked new ideas, strengthened connections and expanded our network. We were particularly impressed by the sustainable initiatives leading the way across the industry.

Many of the innovations we saw, particularly in immersive technology and sustainable fabrication, have clear potential to shape how future exhibitions and event environments are designed and delivered.

We returned brimming with inspiration and ready to take our bold, innovative ideas even further - supported by new technologies, sustainable solutions and flourishing relationships.

The event reinforced how quickly the exhibition landscape is evolving. From immersive technology to sustainable fabrication and data-led design, the ideas seen across the Confex floor signal an exciting future for event professionals and brands alike.

If your brand could benefit from a creative refresh, a striking new stand design or an innovative, interactive event experience, get in touch with our team of exhibition and event design specialists.