Whether you’re planning a trade show, product launch, corporate event, or festival, hiring the right staff is essential to ensure your event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression. But one of the most common questions clients ask is: how much does it cost to hire event staff in the UK?
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down what affects event staffing costs, average hourly rates, tips to manage your budget, and how to get the best value for your money.
Average Cost of Hiring Event Staff in the UK
The cost of hiring event staff in the UK can vary depending on the type of role, location, experience, and duration of the event. Here are general average hourly rates for different event staffing roles:
| Role | Average Hourly Rate (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Brand Ambassador | £14 – £18 |
| Trade Show Staff | £15 – £20 |
| Hospitality Staff | £14 – £18 |
| Leaflet Distributors | £13 – £16 |
| Promotional Models | £16 – £25 |
| Team Leaders/Supervisors | £18 – £25+ |
Source: Aggregated data from Event Industry News, Indeed UK, and agency-specific pricing structures.
These rates may increase for:
- Weekends or public holidays
- Short-notice bookings
- Long travel distances or overnight stays
Factors That Affect Staffing Costs
1. Location
Event staff in London or major cities like Manchester and Birmingham typically cost more due to higher living and travel costs.
2. Experience Level
Experienced brand ambassadors, lead generators, or multilingual staff often command higher fees due to their added value.
3. Event Duration
Full-day or multi-day events may allow for a lower hourly rate compared to short 2–3 hour shifts.
4. Type of Event
Events that require specialised knowledge—like tech expos or luxury events—may require staff with niche experience.
5. Role Complexity
Greeting guests is different from running demos or capturing data. The more complex the role, the higher the cost.
What’s Included in the Cost?
Hiring through a professional event staffing agency typically includes:
- Pre-event briefing and training
- Uniform coordination
- Insurance and payroll
- On-site check-in support
- Replacements in case of staff emergencies
At Events Family, all of the above is included to ensure you’re never left in the lurch on event day.
Real Example: Trade Show Staffing Cost Breakdown
Let’s say you’re exhibiting at a 2-day trade show in Birmingham:
- 2 Brand Ambassadors @ £17/hour
- 1 Team Leader @ £22/hour
- Each working 8 hours per day
Total cost:
(2 x £17 x 8 x 2) + (1 x £22 x 8 x 2) = £816
Don’t forget to budget for meals, travel reimbursements, and potential accommodation if required.
For more information on planning trade show staffing, check out our dedicated Trade Shows Page.
How to Get the Best Value for Your Budget
✅ Book Early
Rates are often more affordable when you book well in advance. Last-minute bookings can incur rush fees.
✅ Choose the Right Roles
Not every booth needs 10 people. Define roles clearly to avoid overstaffing. Our Leafletting service can be a cost-effective way to drive traffic to your booth.
✅ Work With a Reputable Agency
Agencies like Events Family ensure trained, professional staff show up on time and represent your brand flawlessly. Poor staffing choices may cost less upfront but more in long-term damage to brand perception.
✅ Bundle Services
Need hosts, leafleters, and supervisors? Bundling roles through one agency can often save money versus hiring separately.
External Tools to Help You Budget
- CIM – Chartered Institute of Marketing – Tools for marketing budget planning
- Eventbrite Pricing Calculator – Budget template and tools
- The Hub by Event Industry News – Guides on managing event costs and logistics
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to hire event staff in the UK? It depends — but with proper planning, clear objectives, and a reliable partner, your budget can go a long way. Investing in great event staff pays off in stronger engagement, more leads, and better event results.
Want a detailed quote based on your event needs? Contact Events Family and we’ll tailor a staffing solution that fits your budget and goals.