How to choose the right space for your first pop-up

A first pop-up is a test. You want to learn as much as possible, spend as little as possible and leave with customers who remember you. The space you pick decides most of that. These are the questions we see successful brands ask before they book.

1. Who walks past?

Footfall only helps if it is your footfall. A busy station brings volume but little time to stop. A quiet street with design shops brings fewer people who stay longer. Visit at the hours you plan to open and count the people who look like your customers.

2. How much space do you really need?

Most first pop-ups need less room than expected. A small, full space feels busy and inviting. A large, half-empty space feels unfinished. Plan your layout on paper first: products, a counter, a place to try or taste, and room for two people to pass.

3. What is included in the price?

Ask what the daily price covers: electricity, internet, heating, cleaning, insurance and a sign on the facade. A cheaper space that needs a generator and a cleaning crew is often not cheaper in the end.

4. Can you open the way you want?

Check opening hours, music, events after closing time and what you may stick on the windows. Ask the landlord for the space rules before you book, not after.

5. Does the landlord help?

Landlords who have hosted pop-ups before know the neighbours, the permits and the quiet days. A short call before you book tells you a lot.

Book the space where your customers already are, not the space you can make look nice in photos.

Ready to look? Use the filters on Find a space to search by city, size, price and what is included.