How Much Does A Bespoke Exhibition Stand Really Cost?

Creating the physical exhibition stand ready for an event is a large part of the cost of exhibiting.  There are many aspects that can impact this, from the size of the exhibition space purchased to the complexity of the build and associated branding. But how much does it really cost?

The answer is: there is no straightforward answer. The sheer number of variables means every event will be different and it is likely that the percentage of budget allocated to stand design, manufacture and build will also differ from exhibition to exhibition.

How Much Does An Exhibition Stand Cost?

Rather than focusing on exhibition stand costs, it’s important to understand the main categories of spend associated with exhibiting, because they are all intrinsically connected to the design and build of a bespoke stand.

Floor Space & Size Of Stand

This is often the first cost you’ll be presented with and is highly dependent on where the space is located and how big it is. The more desirable the location, particularly in high footfall areas, and the larger the plot, the higher the cost per sq ft. But with this cost comes tangible benefit: more potential stand visitors, increased brand visibility and more space to be creatively memorable when it comes to stand design and layout.

Type Of Stand

The floor space and size of plot will typically dictate what kind of stand build is most suitable for the space. Shell schemes, which are enclosed spaces with partition walls, offer a smaller floor space and have limited options for stand design due to space constraints. 

When larger plot sizes are involved, there is the option to have either a bespoke modular build based on elements that will best serve the space available, or a custom build which offers the utmost in flexibility and innovation to help brands really stand out from the crowd.

Stand Features

As well as the core exhibition stand, most builds need added extras to bring the stand build to life.  This could be as basic as power, lighting and somewhere to sit, through to hard-wired wifi, dedicated AV and sound equipment and bespoke furniture. Elements such as flooring also need consideration, with cost variations between carpet, laminate and more bespoke choices.

Venue Fees

In addition to purchasing space, venues typically have separate charges for amenities connected to your stand.  This could include waste, water, electricity and even gas if needed.

Once all of the above are understood, these will likely influence the design conversation you have with your stand contractor to help inform the creative concepts.  Once a design has been chosen and the complexity of manufacture and installation understood, further decisions can be made about the process of going from a 3D rendered visual of an exhibition stand to being live in an exhibition hall.

But don’t forget… there’s more to a memorable exhibition presence than just being there.  There are also costs associated with staffing the stand over the duration of the event and any marketing collateral to support the event objectives, which may also include promotional materials, technology and printed literature. Once the event is over, there may also be costs associated with stand storage to consider.

A good event partner will answer the question ‘how much does a bespoke stand cost?’. An exceptional event partner, which is the standard we hold ourselves to at Aboveline, will start by asking what you’re hoping to achieve from exhibiting at the event and work with you, collaboratively, to guide you through a series of questions that will help you make decisions about how this can be achieved. Only then will the topic of budget come up but with a range of options available, all designed and manufactured from our UK-based site, we’re confident we’ll have a solution that’s affordable without compromising on impact.

If you’re considering investing in a bespoke exhibition stand, whether for a single exhibition or as part of a multi-event strategy, talk to us today. You can complete this quick online form, email us or contact one of our team by calling 01270 848 650.