Shell Scheme vs Space Only – Choosing your Stand Space

If you are considering exhibiting, you will soon need to decide whether you would like to opt for a shell scheme or space-only exhibition stand space. Each space has the capacity to host a truly standout display, though there are definite pros and cons to each.

In this guide, we discuss the difference between the shell scheme and space-only options, and reflect on the advantages and disadvantages of each.

The decision to use a shell scheme booth or space only stand is usually dependent on your budget, business and goals. Let’s explore the main differences between the two.

Shell schemes use a partition system that exhibition organisers use to segment the floor and divide the space. They offer a basic structure, including walls, flooring, lighting and power.

They also generally include a fascia board for your company name/branding. Popular with first-time exhibitors, shell schemes are standard on the trade show floor and are generally perceived as an economical solution for exhibitors. 

Space only is exactly what it sounds like: an empty space on the floor, marked out with tape or chalk. With this type of floor space, it is your responsibility to create a structure and build the walls. You also have to supply your own flooring, lighting and power to the stand.

Now that you know exactly what a shell scheme exhibition stand is, here are some of the main advantages of shell scheme spaces:

 1. Clear Lines of Responsibility / Defined Space

The walls, fascia, and grid systems of the shell scheme design clearly show the space that you, as an exhibitor, are responsible for. This makes liability and build checks much simpler. 

2. Lighting and Electrics

You don’t have to worry about arranging electrics, as these are usually included in the package at no extra cost. This not only saves you money and hassle, but also makes it pretty straightforward to install AV on your shell exhibition stand.

3. No Structure Necessary

When you opt for a shell scheme, you already have a starting structure. For many, this makes the exhibiting process simpler, as you only need to organise shell scheme graphics. However, we also offer full shell scheme transformations, where a stand structure can be positioned in front of the shell scheme for a space only look! 

 4. Easy to Apply Shell Scheme Graphics

Think of a shell scheme like a tent structure, with lots of interlocking poles, grid systems and fascia. The way that these structures are put together makes it easy to apply graphics yourself.

These shell scheme graphics might not be the most dynamic, usually consisting of pop-up banners, slide-in panels or posters. 

5. Cost-Effective

A shell scheme stand is typically the more cost-effective option when it comes to price. Floor space is usually sold per m2, and both shell scheme and space only usually cost the same price. Because shell scheme prices usually include the additional products and services, such as flooring and electricity, it typically works out cheaper overall.

It’s worth noting that when working with a shell scheme space, you can still use a free-standing custom-designed structure. Here at Quadrant2Design, we offer complete shell scheme transformations, where we remove the confining overhead “shell” before inlaying a custom-designed, modular exhibition stand. In many exhibitions, we can build upwards to 4m, allowing your shell scheme stand to tower above neighbouring competitors.

For very small spaces, we recommend our shell smart solutions, which utilise a combination of shell scheme graphics and the Prestige Events System, to maximise the use of space.

Here are some examples of Quadrant2Design, shell scheme and shell smart transformations.

Shell schemes do have some disadvantages:

• Your shell scheme stand will be the same shape and size as many other booths in the exhibition hall. This will make it difficult to stand out from your competitors.
• The enclosed nature of these stands can feel less welcoming for prospective visitors. 
• You are limited in the type of exhibition stand you can fit into a shell scheme. Only modular is suitable unless you can have the grid removed, which can make it more challenging to stand out.
• You are in an aisle location with other stands on either side of you, which can make it more difficult to capture attention.

Now that you know exactly what space only entails, here are the main advantages of a space-only stand: 

1. Bespoke Exhibition Experience

Space-only options offer a complete blank canvas for your design. This gives you the space ot create a truly bespoke, eye-catching design and experience. 

2. Display Larger Products

Space-only options tend to be larger than shell schemes, giving you the room to integrate products into the display professionally.

3. Standalone Space

With shell-scheme stands, you’re literally neck-to-neck with your competitors, which can make it difficult to stand out. Space-only options physically set you apart from the competition, usually positioned in prime locations with a large flow of traffic.

4. Easy Access

A huge perk of exhibiting in a standalone space is the ease of access, which makes it much more inviting for visitors. 

5. Reputation

The big players in your industry are likely to choose space only. They have larger budgets and want to ensure they make a lasting impression with a stand-out custom modular or custom-built exhibition stand. By choosing space only, you are positioning your brand as a serious competitor in your industry.

Cost

You will need to pay for not only the space but also a stand, power, lighting and flooring. You will generally need an exhibition stand contractor to build your stand for you, too.

Logistics 

Having a bigger stand means you also need to establish how to transport it to the exhibition. Modular stands and pop-ups fold down quite small and can be moved in an estate car or small van.

However, custom-built stands often require lorries to get them to the site.  A good compromise is our custom-designed modular stands, which give you the appearance of a custom-built stand with the benefits of a modular – they will fold away so can be easily transported, stored and reused.

Now that you understand the difference between shell scheme and space-only stand spaces, you can make an informed decision for your exhibition!

Whether you opt for a shell scheme booth or a space-only design, you’ll need an attention-grabbing design. Our design consultants have helped thousands of companies bring their exhibition stands to life. Give us a call at 01202 723 500 or email us at design@quadrant2design.com for a free, no-obligation design proposal.