Hillhead exhibition

GL Events UK has been a trusted supplier for event organisers and exhibitors at Hillhead since the early 1990s, providing a wide range of structures to meet their diverse needs across the 135,000 sqm site. 

In recent years, our team have worked with several clients to deliver structures for the event, including long-standing partner Jack Saward, from Saward Marketing & Events. 

Over the years GL events UK have supplied many unique temporary buildings at Hillhead and 2024 was no exception, with our wide range of structures covering a total area of 2,174 sqm across the site.  

Each of the stands was constructed using our versatile Absolute or Ultimate structures, tailored to meet the individual needs of each client. Some of our temporary event structures provided a more enclosed, indoor space, while others created a seamless indoor/outdoor experience to make the most of the striking quarry surroundings.  

2024 also saw us working with new clients, including Event-Exhibitions Ltd to deliver a stand for Volvo. Collaborating closely with their team, we were able to support their vision of an exceptional experiential space that celebrated the history of the brand.

Using a 15m x 35m temporary structure on a 4m leg, we created a blacked-out area within the space that became a walk through “time-tunnel” with graphics and video content, including a cinematic area, narrating the story of Volvo through the years. VIP spaces were also included as part of the build. 

We also worked with Saward Marketing & Events to deliver structures for their clients across the site, including a returning exhibitor from the 2022 event. We enhanced our previous design to include a new outdoor seating area and to incorporate a 4m leg, increasing visibility of the stand to attract more visitors.   

Every GL events UK structure was carefully designed with the clients' vision in mind, guaranteeing a bespoke solution that aligned with their goals.

One of the most unique aspects of Hillhead is its location within an abandoned quarry in the heart of the Derbyshire Peak District. This challenging setting presented several obstacles, with limited network and phone signal being a primary concern. To address this, our team carried radios to provide seamless communication between each other and with clients whilst working in the quarry. 

Another key challenge was the unpredictable weather, as the quarry seemed to have its own microclimate! The first few days on-site were particularly challenging due to high winds, which posed safety risks, especially when lifting and securing roof skins. Safety precautions were strictly enforced to protect the team and ensure the build progressed smoothly.

The GL Events UK team also provided ongoing support during the three-day exhibition, with a Supervisor and Chargehand on-site to address any client concerns or emergencies.

Hillhead 2024 was a great success, drawing over 19,500 trade visitors and showcasing 599 exhibitors over three action-packed days.  

The collaboration between GL Events UK and our long-term partner, Jack Saward of Saward Marketing, was essential to the successful delivery of our structures. Reflecting on the partnership, Jack noted:

This successful project underscored GL Events UK’s reputation for delivering reliable, high-quality solutions tailored to meet the needs of clients in challenging environments.

If you need reliable support for your next event, get in touch to see how GL events UK can contribute to the success of your event.