The Insider’s Production Guide to Fira Gran Via: Logistics, Rigging, and Safety
Are you planning an exhibit for MWC (Mobile World Congress), ISE, or CPhI in Barcelona?
If you are an international Event Manager, landing at Fira Gran Via can be daunting. It has over 240,000 m² of floor space. Additionally, it has strict logistical windows. Therefore, it is one of the most complex venues in Europe.
At Saez Decom, we have been building stages and temporary structures at Fira Barcelona for over three decades. We don’t just know the venue. We know the security guards, the rigging points in Hall 3, and the quickest route through the service tunnels.
This guide covers the technical and logistical realities you need to know. It will ensure a smooth build-up in Barcelona. Consequently, you will save time, budget, and stress.
1. Logistics & Access: The “Sot del Mig” Reality
Unlike smaller venues, Fira Gran Via operates like a small city. However, the most critical bottleneck for any production company is access.
The Service Tunnel: Most loading operations for Halls 1, 2, and 3 happen via the underground service road. Locals call it the Sot del Mig.
Wait Times: During peak build-up days, like MWC Day -2, traffic is heavy. Waiting times for trucks can exceed 3 hours if you do not book early.
Local Advantage: As a local partner, Saez Decom manages these slots effectively. We use smaller, agile vehicles for last-minute runs. This allows us to bypass the heavy trailer queues that trap foreign logistics companies.
Loading Docks vs. Ground Level
Halls 1, 2, and 3: These are primarily accessed via underground docks. Therefore, you will need forklifts or pallet jacks.
Halls 4, 5, and 6: These offer better ground-level access. However, they often have stricter floor load restrictions.
2. Technical Rigging & Floor Loads
Do not assume your standard stage deck design will work. You must check the specific specs of your Hall first.
Floor Load Capacities
Generally, the floor load capacity at Fira Gran Via is 5,000 kg/m². However, this changes dramatically over service trenches.
Our Solution: We use adjustable stage decks. These are Rosco or Layher types that distribute weight evenly.
Heavy AV Walls: For LED screens, we calculate the point load carefully. This ensures it stays within Fira’s safety margins.
Rigging Points & Height Limits
Hall 3: This hall offers excellent height clearance. It goes up to 14m in some areas.
Rigging Restrictions: Fira acts as the exclusive supplier for primary rigging points. But, for secondary structures like truss grids, you need a certified partner.
Saez Decom Expertise: We design self-standing Ground Support structures. We do this when ceiling rigging is too expensive or technically impossible.
3. Fire Safety Regulations (The C1 vs. B1 Confusion)
This is the number one reason international stands get fined. Also, it causes delays during inspection.
Spain follows strict CTE (Código Técnico de la Edificación) and European standards.
Germany uses DIN 4102 (B1).
France uses NFP 92-503 (M1).
Spain requires UNE-EN 13773 (Class 1).
Does B1 work in Barcelona? Usually, yes. But only if you have the correct homologation paperwork translated.
The Safe Bet: All Saez Decom textiles come with Class 1 (C1) certification. This includes our Pipe & Drape, Trevira CS Molton curtains, and Cycloramas. They are fully compliant with Spanish law. We provide the dossier directly to the Health & Safety officer. So, you don’t have to argue with inspectors.
4. Why Use a Local Production Partner?
Bringing your own crew and materials from abroad adds three risks. These are transport costs, Carbon Footprint, and unforeseen delays.
The Sustainable Option (BeMatrix)
We are big advocates of the BeMatrix system for temporary walls and stands.
Zero Waste: We rent the aluminium frames locally. You only print the textiles.
Speed: We can build a 100m² structure quickly. It takes half the time of traditional wood carpentry.
Eco-Friendly: There is no need to truck heavy wood across Europe.
Last-Minute Problem Solving
What happens if a graphic arrives damaged? Or what if you need 10 extra meters of black masking drape 2 hours before the show opens?
The Foreign Solution: Panic.
The Saez Decom Solution: We send a van from our local warehouse. It is only 20 mins away.
Summary: Your Checklist for Fira Gran Via
Book Loading Slots Early: Do this especially for the Sot del Mig tunnel.
Check Fire Certs: Ensure all drapes and carpets are C1/Class 1 certified for Spain.
Validate Floor Loads: Watch out for LED walls and heavy machinery.
Go Local: Partner with a Barcelona-based production team. We handle the “last mile” logistics.
Ready to build at Fira Gran Via?
Contact Saez Decom today. We act as your local production arm. We handle everything from Stage Construction and Pipe & Drape to Sustainable Stand Building.
