Apply early
Circuits and series organisers allocate trade space, often well ahead of the season.
Guide hub
Trading at motorsport and automotive events
Race meetings, track days and car shows run to set timetables with large crowds and strict paddock rules, so confirm trade space, access times and insurance with the organiser early. These guides cover trading at motorsport and automotive events.
JN
Written by Jack NeedhamSpecialist in motorsport and automotive events
The short answersRace meetings Car shows Track days Paddock rules
Four things to know before you book
Enthusiast crowds
Shows such as the Classic Motor Show at the NEC draw buyers who spend time at each stand.
Smaller and regular
Track days are smaller events, usually based in the paddock, with set arrival times.
Follow the safety briefing
Access times, vehicle movement and fire rules are strict. Ask for them before you travel.
The guides
Every guide on motorsport and automotive events
Trading at race meetings
How trade space is allocated and what to prepare.
Trading at car shows
Choosing shows, setting up a stand and talking to enthusiasts.
Setting up in a paddock
Access, vehicle movement and layout in a motorsport paddock.
Products that sell at motorsport events
What visitors to race meetings and car shows tend to buy.
Motorsport event insurance
What organisers usually ask for from traders.
Common questions
Motorsport and automotive events: frequently asked questions
How do I get trade space at a race meeting?
Contact the circuit or series organiser. They set the application process, the fees and the deadline, often well before the event.
Which car shows are worth trading at?
Look for shows with a crowd that matches your product. Ask traders who have attended before how the footfall compared with the pitch fee.
Do I need special insurance for motorsport events?
Organisers usually ask for public liability insurance and may set a minimum level. Check the trader terms for each event.
What rules apply in a paddock?
Each venue sets its own access times, vehicle movement and fire safety rules. Ask the organiser for the trader briefing before you travel.
What sells well at car shows and race meetings?
Products linked to cars and motorsport, such as merchandise, accessories, food and drink. Match your range to the crowd at each event.
From Gala Tent
Marquees for larger events
Race meetings and large shows often call for more cover than a single gazebo. Gala Tent makes modular marquees for festivals and events.
More from the Gala family
Useful pages on our sister sites
Event Industry Trader is published by Gala Tent. These pages from Gala Tent and the wider Gala group go further on the kit, branding and payments covered here.
Sources
Where to check the rules
Rules vary by council and by event. Confirm requirements with the organiser and the relevant authority before you act.