We were approached by Outbound to support the delivery of an exhibition stand for HP ( ( Hewlett-Packard ) Having worked together on a number of projects over the years, we have built a strong working relationship based on trust, collaboration and a shared understanding of what it takes to deliver successful exhibition spaces. This project was another opportunity to combine our production and installation expertise with Outbound’s creative vision to bring the stand to life.
The brief consisted of three key elements:
a large stand within the main exhibition hall, a smaller stand on the upper level to serve as a meeting and office space, and a branded archway positioned above the front desk. Working from reference imagery and a clear objective to achieve the appearance of a custom-built stand, we carefully planned how our beMatrix system could be utilised as the foundation of the structure.
The challenge was to create clean, angled walls that felt bespoke while incorporating striking bands of HP blue throughout the design. Through thoughtful frame planning and detailing, we were able to achieve the desired look while retaining the flexibility and efficiency of a modular build system.
With two substantial stands being built simultaneously, the project required careful coordination and efficient use of resources. We were fortunate to be supported during the build by Jamie Ellis from Spiral Creative, whose assistance proved invaluable in helping the team deliver both stands successfully within the available build schedule.
Much of the work on a project of this scale happens long before the build begins.
As many of the graphics were applied individually, every element had to be printed and prepared as a separate vinyl application. We then applied backing tape to each piece, allowing intricate lettering and smaller graphic elements to be installed accurately without shifting or losing alignment. While it can be a time-consuming process, this preparation is essential for achieving the crisp, professional finish seen on the completed stand. And while the work itself wasnt all that complex it was time consuming.
Several elements were prepared ahead of the event, including the slatted counter, which was custom-built in-house by Richard and featured integrated lighting and hidden cable management for the displayed products.
The counters also incorporated preserved moss panels, painted to achieve the vibrant green colour shown in the reference imagery. Using preserved moss allowed us to achieve the desired look without the maintenance requirements of live foliage.
Build day is always more work than you expect, and this project was no exception. To achieve the seamless finish required by the design, the entire stand was wrapped in white vinyl to conceal the beMatrix framework beneath. Every logo, graphic, photograph and piece of text then had to be carefully measured and applied on site. With two large stands being installed simultaneously, careful planning and teamwork were essential to keep everything on schedule. To complete the stand, a large hanging banner was suspended above the structure, helping draw visitors in from across the exhibition hall and giving the space the sense of scale the client was looking for.
GroundsFest 2025 was a real milestone for us here at Impact. This project wasn’t just about building one large-scale stand, it was about creating three unique spaces, each with its own atmosphere, challenges, and objectives. We couldn’t be prouder of how the team rose to the occasion.
For us, this build really highlighted the power of collaboration. From the dedication of our in-house team to the support of our trusted partners, everyone pulled together to make something truly special happen. Every detail, from the containers and truss structures to the interactive experiences and hospitality spaces, was the result of careful planning, creativity and good old-fashioned teamwork.
What GroundsFest 2025 showed more than anything is that when we put our heads together, ambitious briefs can be turned into experiences that don’t just meet expectations, they exceed them. This wasn’t just another project. For Impact, it was a showcase of who we are: collaborative, creative, and capable of bringing bold ideas to life. We’re incredibly proud to have built it for Kress and even more excited about what’s still to come.
A huge thank you for all your hard work in getting the exhibition stands not just planned, designed and ready, but delivered with a smile and a flourish, and then supported for every minute of the show.
Nicki Jones - Head: Marketing, Positec UK Ltd.
