PIMCO

PIMCO PENSIONS UK CONFERENCE

The Brief:

PIMCO approached us with a clear ambition: to create an exhibition stand that would truly stand out in a crowded hall and leave a lasting impression. The space needed to be bold, memorable and engaging, while celebrating PIMCO’s impressive 50+ year legacy as a global investment leader.

Alongside this, the stand was required to subtly reference PIMCO’s Californian roots — blending heritage with warmth and approachability — and strike the right balance between openness, hospitality and brand authority. The result needed to feel inviting and human, without compromising the credibility and professionalism synonymous with the PIMCO name.

The Concept:

Our design response centred around a hospitality-led concept, placing guest experience at the heart of the stand. Rather than a traditional exhibition layout, we created a space designed to attract, welcome and naturally engage delegates — encouraging conversation through atmosphere rather than formality.

The concept celebrated PIMCO’s journey and identity through bold visual storytelling, carefully selected materials and an unmistakable centrepiece that captured attention from across the show floor.

6m x 4m

Size

ICC Edinburgh

Venue

Edinburgh

City

The Design & Build

At the heart of the stand sat the undisputed focal point: a full-scale, retro VW van. Fully branded and repurposed to serve drinks throughout the event, the van became both a functional hospitality feature and a powerful brand statement. Wrapped in bespoke vinyl, it offered a nostalgic nod to PIMCO’s Californian heritage, injecting warmth, personality and a sense of fun into the space.

Anchoring the stand was a striking 4-metre-high back wall, featuring a scenic open-road graphic. This delivered immediate visual impact while subtly symbolising PIMCO’s 50-year journey, long-term vision and forward momentum. Together, the van and back wall created a strong visual narrative that was both meaningful and memorable.

The overall aesthetic remained clean and contemporary, using PIMCO’s core brand palette alongside warm wood-effect flooring and a feature branded planter.

This combination softened the space and introduced natural texture, ensuring the stand felt welcoming and refined rather than corporate or closed-off.

Driving Engagement with a Bold Nod to PIMCO’s Roots

The retro VW van proved to be the defining feature of the stand. More than just an eye-catching centrepiece, it became the social heart of the space — drawing delegates in, sparking conversation and creating a steady, organic flow of visitors throughout the event.

Its nostalgic character subtly referenced PIMCO’s Californian origins, adding warmth and authenticity to the hospitality offering while breaking down traditional barriers often associated with financial services brands. Delegates were instantly drawn to the van, many stopping to take photos and share the experience, turning it into an organic, shareable moment of brand engagement.

By combining bold creativity with thoughtful functionality, the stand delivered a distinctive exhibition experience that celebrated PIMCO’s heritage while reinforcing its position as a confident, forward-thinking global investment leader.

Stand Features

Hanging Banner With Living Plants Feature Lightboxes Bespoke Bar With Living Top Water Feature Mix of Modular & bespoke Timber Build Touch Screen Totem 3D Halo Illuminated Logos LED Screen Massage Experience Semi-Private Meeting Space Festoon Lighting Lockable Storage Living Grass Floor & Walls 55 TV’s Inbuilt Sink & Tap