Twelve Spaces, One Standard - 100% Optical 2026
100% Optical is one of the optical industry's leading trade events, held at ExCeL London and bringing together thousands of professionals across keynotes, panels, product showcases, and networking. Closer Still Media appointed PSP Exhibitions as their technical production partner for the full event.
The brief covered twelve spaces across the venue, each running simultaneously, with requirements ranging from a large-format main stage to feature installations and seven additional theatres throughout the exhibition hall.
The Challenge
Delivering consistent, high-quality AV across twelve spaces in an active exhibition environment is not straightforward. Open-plan theatres within a busy hall create real challenges around audio spill and visual legibility. The main stage required a 2m high riser, which meant structural drawings and formal sign-off from engineers Campbell and Reith before installation could begin.
On top of the technical production, Closer Still Media needed their digital signage to operate as a single, centrally managed system across the entire venue. Accessibility provision, including ramps and hearing loops, was a firm requirement throughout.
The Delivery
Main Stage
PSP Exhibitions focussed on a fully visible LED wall from walking into the exhibition hall, therefore full structural drawings were proposed for the 2m high LED riser, which were reviewed and signed off by Campbell and Reith before installation began. The set backdrop was fitted with a large-format LED screen, selected for its brightness and legibility across the open hall environment. Video was managed through a Barco PDS 4K switcher with full fibre distribution, keeping signal clean and reliable across all sources. A full d&b digital sound system was paired with Shure Axient radio microphones in both headset and handheld configurations.
Catwalk Theatre
The catwalk space was upgraded with LED stage lighting and LED moving lights, adding atmosphere and energy to the programme. Two 86-inch screens with full control infrastructure handled content display, supported by a d&b audio system and Axient radio microphone coverage.
Central Bar Installation
A 2m diameter by 6m ROE Circular LED wall was installed at the central bar, giving sponsors a high-impact branding platform fully visible from across the hall. A compact d&b sound system completed the installation.
Seven Additional Theatres
PSP Exhibitions delivered full AV across seven further theatres, with four complete set builds supplied directly by PSP Exhibitions. For the remaining spaces, PSP Exhibitions coordinated with set suppliers appointed by Closer Still Media to ensure screens were correctly positioned and integrated within each configuration.
Network and Digital Signage
A point-to-point network system was installed across the venue, enabling Closer Still Media's digital signage to be updated from a single control point at the touch of a keyboard. This is not reliant on any venue Wi-Fi, all designed to ensure Closer Still Media can have their digital signage accessible at any time.
Accessibility
Accessibility ramps and hearing loops were installed throughout, in line with Closer Still Media's standard event requirements.
Kit in Focus
Barco PDS 4K Switcher and Fibre Distribution
The Barco PDS 4K handles switching, scaling, and signal management across all video sources on the main stage. Running via full fibre distribution, it delivers clean, high-resolution signal without degradation across the infrastructure.
In a live show, presentations, camera feeds, and video playback all need to transition without the audience noticing the joins. The PDS 4K is what makes that possible, keeping content sharp and the programme moving without interruption.
ROE Circular LED Wall
The 2m diameter by 6m ROE Circular LED wall at the central bar offered 360-degree visibility, making it well suited to a central position within an open exhibition hall. For sponsors, it provided a prominent, always-on branding platform visible from multiple angles across the show floor.
The Result
Twelve spaces, running simultaneously, each delivering a consistent technical experience for speakers, exhibitors, and delegates throughout the day. The structural approvals were in place ahead of schedule, the network performed without issue, and the LED installations gave the event a strong visual presence from the moment delegates walked through the doors.
"PSP was amazing to work with, from the initial design phase to onsite delivery. They adapted to everything I threw at them and delivered an impressive show, with great feedback from speakers and delegates. Can't wait to see how we can make the next one bigger and better again!"Conference & Logistics Manager, Closer Still Media
This is exactly the kind of project that demonstrates what PSP Exhibitions are built for.
Proud to be Your Team Behind the Scenes.