Exhibiting at a trade show is much like attending a job interview or networking event – preparation is key if you want to maximise the benefits.
The Highland Spotlight business-to-business exhibition returns on Tuesday 22 September at the Drumossie Hotel, offering an ideal opportunity to network, make new contacts, and raise awareness of your business. Alongside the exhibition, you can expand your knowledge by attending the free seminar AI, Amplified: Protecting your brand and governing your growth.
As AI reshapes the business environment, the real risk isn’t using it, it’s using it without a clear plan. Join Strut and BC Technologies for a joint session exploring how growing businesses can harness AI to strengthen their brand, not dilute it, while building the governance and security foundations to use it responsibly.
Highland Spotlight not only provides the chance to meet visitors coming through the door, but also to build relationships with your fellow exhibitors. From discovering new local suppliers to uncovering fresh partnership opportunities, there’s plenty to gain. Here are some key ways to get the most from your day.
Before the event
Spread the word – Share that you’ll be exhibiting on your channels, tag Inverness Chamber of Commerce, and use #HBWeek2026 to maximise visibility.
Plan your team – Decide who will run the stand and create a rota, ensuring lunch breaks are covered.
Make your stand out – With over 70 exhibitors, an eye-catching display can really help drive engagement.
Engage visitors – A friendly smile goes a long way but consider an interactive element such as a quiz or game to create a buzz.
Know who you want to meet – Review the published exhibitor list and floor plan in advance. Identify the companies you’d like to connect with and research them beforehand.
Bring the right materials – Stock up on flyers, brochures or, for a sustainable twist, share resources digitally with a QR code linking to your website.
Don’t forget business cards – Hundreds of people attend, and cards are an easy way to keep the conversation going.
Don’t forget business cards – Hundreds of people attend, and cards are an easy way to keep the conversation going.
On the day
Arrive early – The Drumossie Hotel has plenty of parking, but it will be busy. Car sharing is encouraged and parking at the side of the hotel is recommended for exhibitors.
Check in – Collect name badges and your show guide from the registration desk before setting up.
Get your bearings – Once your stand is ready, do a walk around to familiarise yourself with the layout.
Network actively – Speak to other exhibitors as well as visitors. Listen, learn, and share business cards – and take notes so you remember who’s who at the end of the day.
Stay visible online – Post updates, photos, and tag us throughout the day using #HBWeek2026 to join in the social buzz online.
After the event
Follow up promptly – Connect with people on LinkedIn, follow their business pages, or arrange follow-up meetings while the conversations are still fresh.
Share your wins – Made a great deal or partnership at Spotlight? Let us know at info@inverness-chamber.co.uk
Help us improve – Complete the post-event survey to share your feedback and shape future events.
Relive the day – Look out for our event highlights and photo gallery, which we’ll share shortly after the event.
With the right preparation, Highland Spotlight can open doors to valuable opportunities, spark new collaborations, and give your business a real competitive edge.
Photos and our highlights reel from last year’s event can be found here.