Should you Choose a Shell Scheme Booth? Pros & Cons explained

If you are preparing to book a space at an exhibition, one of the first things to decide is whether to choose a space-only or a shell scheme space.

While shell schemes are popular among SME’s and start-ups, they are also used by larger companies to ensure a presence at smaller events.

In this guide, we break down the benefits of shell scheme spaces and share the best ways to make an impression within a shell scheme space!

Shell scheme spaces are the all-inclusive resort of exhibition stand spaces, not too dissimilar from pipe and drape setups in the US. They’re a standardised exhibiting setup that includes walls, flooring, lighting and power. While used by a range of companies, these are most popular among SME’s and startups.

While shell schemes are more famously known for their aluminium shell, they can also host a bespoke stand in the same way as a space-only plot.

Shell schemes may be most well-known for their cladded shell look, but these stand spaces can also host beautiful bespoke stands. We call these “shell scheme transformations”.

As part of our transformation, we remove the restrictive overhead fascias and ceiling grids, giving us much more height to work with. Shell Scheme is just 2.5m. With the ceiling grid removed, you can extend this height up to 4m, instantly improving the stand’s impact. We then inlay a bespoke, custom-designed stand, which can host integrated showcases, lighting, games, and a wealth of other features. These stands can be completed with a photo-floor, offering the same custom look as space-only options.

Depending on the size of the space, some people prefer to opt for our Shell Smart Solutions, which combine shell scheme panels with a bespoke structure.

Our modular exhibition stands have a minimum footprint of 30cm, which is what enables them to host custom and bespoke elements. However, in very small stand spaces, such as 2m x 2m, floor space is extremely valuable. This is where Shell Smart is most suitable, employing a combination of shell scheme panels and stand structure.

All of the examples below are hosted in a shell scheme space!

Shell scheme spaces are ideal for first-time exhibitors, startups and SMEs. However, it’s not exclusively small companies who opt for Shell Schemes; sometimes larger companies use them to maintain a branded presence across smaller shows.

There are a wide range of benefits to shell scheme spaces, including:

One of the major advantages of shell scheme exhibitions is the potential for cost savings.

Although space-only plots may appear more affordable per meter, shell schemes come with essential on-site services, such as electricity and carpeting, which can help reduce overall expenses. Additionally, since there’s no need to invest in a standalone structure to comply with show regulations, they can be a significantly cheaper option.

Since shell schemes come with many services preset, the process can feel simpler.

In many ways, shell schemes can offer a simpler process. With a space-only stand, you create the exhibition stand design and then determine the utilities required to bring it to life. Whereas, with shell scheme spaces, you work to a prearranged setup, removing much of the thought process and legwork.

While we often recommend our shell scheme transformations, you don’t need to organise a structure to cover all of the joining walls in order for your stand to meet requirements. You could exhibit with just shell scheme panels, or a banner if you wanted to. This can make exhibiting much more accessible for smaller businesses and those wanting to test the water.

While shell scheme spaces offer a range of advantages, there are some drawbacks:

Without investing in an engaging exhibition stand for your shell scheme, it can be very hard to distinguish yourself. The stands do not vary in shape or size, and so it’s easy to get lost in the crowds.

While in many exhibition halls, organisers allow shell scheme users to remove the overhead aluminium fascia to add more height, some organisers implement more restrictions, making it more difficult to stand out.

Here at Quadrant2Design, we have successfully completed thousands of exhibition stand projects across shell scheme, pipe and drape and space-only plots, and can confidently offer advice on how to maximise impact within your stand space.

If you would like a design proposal, contact our team at design@quadrant2design.com or call us on 01202 723 500 for a free, no-obligation design proposal.