A Guide to Standard Sizes of Exhibition Stands

A Guide to Standard Sizes of Exhibition Stands

As a creative director at the design agency NeosCreative, I have witnessed firsthand the power of a well-designed exhibition stand to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression. However, one of the key challenges faced by exhibitors is determining the right size for their stand. In this article, we will delve into the world of exhibition stands and explore the standard sizes that are commonly used. Whether you're a seasoned exhibitor or new to the game, this guide will help you make informed decisions and ensure your presence stands tall at any exhibition.

Understanding the Importance of Standard Sizes: Adhering to standard sizes offers several advantages when planning for an exhibition. Firstly, it ensures compatibility with the available exhibition spaces, minimising the risk of logistical issues. Secondly, working within established sizes allows for efficiently utilising resources, such as graphics, display materials, and furniture. Lastly, adhering to standard sizes enables seamless integration with existing exhibition systems and structures, reducing setup, dismantling time and cost.

The Shell Scheme Option: The shell scheme is a common type of exhibition space that provides a structured framework for exhibitors. These spaces are pre-built with walls and often come in standard sizes. The most frequently used shell scheme sizes in the UK include:

  1. 3m x 2m: This compact size is ideal for smaller exhibitions and allows exhibitors to showcase their products and services in a limited space effectively.
  2. 3m x 3m: A versatile and popular choice, this size offers more room to engage with visitors and incorporate additional display elements creatively.
  3. 6m x 3m: This larger size allows for more elaborate displays, enabling exhibitors to create impactful and immersive experiences.

Custom-Built Stands: For exhibitors seeking a unique and tailored presence, custom-built stands are the way to go. These stands are designed from scratch and can be customised to fit specific requirements. While the size options are virtually limitless, here are a few commonly used sizes in the UK: 

  1. 6m x 4m: Offering a generous space, this size allows for integrating multiple zones, interactive elements, and distinct brand experiences.
  2. 9m x 6m: A size often chosen by medium to large businesses, this stand provides ample room for product showcases, meeting areas, and engaging displays.
  3. 12m x 9m: For exhibitors aiming to make a grand statement, this size offers an expansive canvas to create awe-inspiring exhibits, immersive environments, and theatrical experiences.

Portable Displays and Accessories: In addition to the traditional exhibition stands, portable displays and accessories have gained popularity for their versatility and ease of use. These items can be used to complement larger stands or as standalone displays for smaller events. Common portable display sizes include banner stands, pop-up displays, and modular systems, which offer flexibility and adaptability to fit different exhibition spaces.

Making the right decision on the size of your exhibition stand is incredibly important for your success at trade shows and exhibitions. You can choose the best size by understanding the standard options available. This will enable you to make informed choices, engage your target audience, and achieve your exhibition goals. Whether you choose a shell scheme or a custom-built stand, it's essential that your design aligns with your brand identity and effectively communicates your message. You should aim to be creative and innovative, allowing your exhibition stand to become a powerful expression of your brand's essence.

Summary

In this article, we explore the world of exhibition stands and the importance of choosing the right size for a successful presence at trade shows and exhibitions. Adhering to standard sizes offers advantages such as compatibility with available spaces, efficient resource utilization, and seamless integration with existing structures. The commonly used shell scheme sizes in the UK include 3m x 2m, 3m x 3m, and 6m x 3m, catering to different exhibition needs. Custom-built stands provide a unique and tailored presence, with commonly used sizes being 6m x 4m, 9m x 6m, and 12m x 9m. Portable displays and accessories, such as banner stands and modular systems, offer versatility. Making informed decisions about the size of the exhibition stand allows exhibitors to engage their target audience and achieve their goals, while ensuring that the design reflects the brand's identity and effectively communicates its message.

Back to blog