Standard Non-Locker Phone Charging Stations vs Lockable Phone Charging stations at Event Exhibitions conferences or festival

For brands setting up event exhibition booths or pop-up stands across the United Kingdom—from London to Manchester to Birmingham—offering phone charging solutions is no longer a luxury but an expectation for phone users.

While lockable phone charging stations have been the go-to option for years, there’s a growing argument for a smarter, more interactive alternative: the standard non-locker phone charging station. These open-access stations not only power up devices but also power up brand engagement in realtime.

This explores in-depth why non-locker charging stations are the superior choice for marketers, exhibitors, and experiential agencies looking to make a memorable impact.

Whether you are attending a trade show, a conference, or a pop-up activation, keeping your mobile device charged is essential.

Fig 1: Chargezone Phone charge station

What Are Standard Non-Locker Phone Charging Stations?

Standard non-locker charging stations are open-access units where attendees can charge their devices without having to lock them away. These stations come with built-in fast charging cables or USB ports and often support wireless charging.

Unlike locker-style stations that hide users’ phones during charging, non-locker options require users to stay nearby while charging. This creates a unique opportunity for brands to grab attention, spark conversations, and deliver real-time marketing experiences.

What Are Lockable Phone Charging Stations?

A phone charging locker is a secure, multi-compartment phone charging station that allows users to safely store and charge their mobile devices—like smartphones, tablets, or smartwatches—while they attend an event, shop, work out, or wait in public areas.

Key Features of a Phone Charging Locker:

  • Lockable Compartments: Each locker bay is individually secured using PIN codes, keys, RFID cards, or biometric access.
  • Multi-Device Charging: Each locker typically includes multiple built-in charging cables (Lightning, USB-C, Micro USB) and/or wireless charging pads.
  • Security: Users can leave their devices locked and unattended, protected from theft or loss.
  • Multiple Bays: Units often come with 6, 8, or 10+ compartments, allowing several people to charge devices at once.
  • Custom Branding: Many models allow custom wraps, logos, and screens for advertising or sponsorship.
  • Use Cases: Commonly found at events, festivals, shopping centres, gyms, airports, universities, and corporate offices.

A phone charging locker is a secure phone charging solution that lets users lock away their phones while they charge, offering convenience and peace of mind in busy environments.

Why Choose Non-Locker phone Charging Stations for Your Event?

Here are the core reasons why non-locker charging stations are ideal for event exhibition booths and pop-up stands in the UK.

1. You Have Their Undivided Attention

When someone plugs their phone into a standard charging station, they need to stay with their device. Unlike lockers that allow them to walk away, non-locker stations keep them physically present and visually engaged.

This presents a rare and powerful window for real-time interaction:

  • Product demos
  • Brand storytelling
  • Sampling
  • Lead capture (QR codes, app installs, surveys)

2. Real-Time Marketing Opportunities

While users stand and wait, their eyes are up and their hands are free. That’s prime time for:

  • Looping videos or dynamic screens showcasing your product
  • Printed signage with compelling call-to-actions (CTAs)
  • Brand ambassadors initiating conversations or giveaways

This is not passive marketing—it’s active engagement in real time.

3. Phone in Hand = Higher Conversion

With a phone in their hand and power flowing in, users are more likely to:

  • Scan QR codes
  • Follow your brand on social media
  • Download an app
  • Redeem a digital coupon

Locker stations delay this engagement. Non-locker stations make it immediate and actionable.

4. No Barriers to Use

Non-locker charging stations are simpler and more intuitive:

  • No pin codes
  • No keys to lose
  • No RFID cards
  • No learning curve

This frictionless experience encourages more users to plug in, which means more impressions and engagement for your brand.

5. Smaller Footprint, Greater Flexibility

Non-locker stations are usually more compact, lighter, and easier to deploy at:

  • Tight booth spaces
  • High-traffic aisles
  • Outdoor pop-up locations

Plus, they can be wall-mounted, tabletop-based, or freestanding, making them ideal for any venue layout.

Real Examples of Engagement at Charging Points

Imagine your brand is launching a new beverage at a lifestyle expo in London. You set up a non-locker phone charging station with your brand fully wrapped around it. As attendees plug in their phones:

  • A brand ambassador offers them a sample
  • A nearby screen plays a 30-second promo video
  • A QR code invites them to scan for a chance to win a free case

Now imagine the same scenario with a lockable charging locker—they plug in and walk away. You miss the moment.

How Standard Phone Charging Stations Drive Brand Metrics

Non-locker charging stations are more than just utility—they deliver measurable marketing ROI.

Impressions

Every user who stops to charge their phone sees your brand repeatedly for several minutes.

Dwell Time

The longer they charge, the longer they’re exposed to your brand.

Engagement

Interactive content (QR codes, games, surveys) gets higher participation because users are standing still.

Conversations

On-site staff can approach and interact in a natural, non-intrusive way.

Custom Branding for Non-Locker Charging Stations

These stations are a blank canvas for your message. Customization options include:

  • Vinyl wraps with brand colors and logos
  • Digital screens for ads, product launches, or tutorials
  • Custom signage with QR codes, hashtags, and offers
  • Branded charging cables

Imagine a charging station that not only powers phones but also:

  • Delivers your elevator pitch
  • Plays your ad reel
  • Directs users to your landing page

It becomes a micro experience zone within your exhibition.

Perfect for All UK Events and Venues

From major exhibition centers to mobile pop-ups, non-locker charging stations thrive at:

London Venues

  • ExCeL London
  • Olympia London
  • Business Design Centre

Manchester

  • Manchester Central
  • Victoria Warehouse

Birmingham

  • NEC Birmingham

Pop-Up Locations

  • High streets
  • Shopping malls
  • Outdoor festivals
  • Airports & train stations

Wherever you exhibit, non-locker phone charging stations ensure users don’t walk away from your booth or your message. Also, you have your target clients attention in real time.

Educational Value & Demonstration Zone

Beyond marketing, phone charging stations serve as educational platforms. While users stand by:

  • Showcase a product how-to video
  • Play a behind-the-scenes brand story
  • Run a silent explainer loop

You are not just powering their devices—you are powering their understanding of your brand on a mobile phone charging platform.

Easier Logistics & Setup

Compared to locker units, non-locker phone charging stations:

  • Weigh less
  • Cost less
  • Require less technical setup
  • They are easier to move around during multi-day events

That means you spend less time worrying about operations and more time focusing on engagement.

Overcoming Common Concerns about non-locker phone stations

Some event marketers fear that non-locker phone stations are less secure, but here’s the reality:

Myth: “Users won’t stay with their phones.”

Reality: Most people do. They check messages, scroll Instagram, or simply wait. That’s your moment to shine.

Myth: “Lockable phone charging stations look more premium.”

Reality: With the right branding, non-locker phone charging stations can look just as high-end and far more interactive.

Phone Charging Station

A standard non-locker phone charging station is not just a utility. It’s a:

  • Marketing tool
  • Customer engagement device
  • Brand experience platform

If you’re planning an event booth or pop-up activation anywhere in the UK, this simple addition can transform your setup from functional to phenomenal.

You’re not just offering power—you’re capturing attention, building loyalty, and delivering real-time ROI.

Ready to Power Up Your Event Phone charging Station?

We supply branded standard non-locker charging stations across the UK. From London to Glasgow, our units are fast, flexible, and fully customisable. And yes, we handle delivery, branding, and tech support.

Let’s turn Phone charging station rental hire into a conversation.

Contact us today to book a unit or get a free quote with 50% off !