In this guide, we cover everything you could possibly need to know about one of our favourite topics: modular exhibition stands!
What are Modular Exhibition Stands?
Modular exhibition stands are a flexible and versatile exhibiting solution made from interlinking components. The stands usually consist of a linking structure made from aluminium, and an enveloping media such as graphic panels or stretch fabrics, though each individual system varies in weight and style.
For example, our modular exhibition stand systems consist of a durable concertina frame, enveloped by high-impact, seamless graphic panels. Other modular systems use heavier frames, partially concealed by stretch fabrics or graphic media.
Since modular stand solutions are made from separate interlinking sections, they can be reused in different configurations and sizes.
The Benefits of Modular Exhibition Stands
A Sustainable Exhibition Presence
Modular exhibition stands are the most sustainable exhibiting solution on the market! They are reusable, the greatest of the three R’s, but also reconfigurable, meaning they can be used in countless different layouts.
Seamless Graphics for Powerful Brand Storytelling
With seamless panoramic graphics, modular exhibition stands offer the perfect canvas to showcase your brand. Using a modular exhibition stand solution like the Prestige Events System, every inch on show is customisable to your brand – no boring corners or generic panels.
Cost-Savings Across the Event Calendar
Modular exhibition stands offer outstanding value and cost savings across a calendar of events.
An Easy, Simple Exhibiting Process
With modular stand solutions, you already have the building blocks and graphics, so instead of designing a new stand each time, you only have to rearrange existing components to suit your new space. This makes the whole exhibiting process much simpler and easier.
Consistent Branding for Quick Brand Recall
It’s impossible to maintain a consistent brand image when using a different contractor for each event. By using one contractor, you maintain brand consistency at every show, throughout the UK and Europe.
When to Use a Modular Exhibition Stand
Modular exhibition stands are extremely flexible and can cater to nearly all design briefs, ideal for those who are:
- Attending many exhibitions – The ability to reconfigure and reuse makes lightweight, modular stands ideal for those attending many events.
- Sustainability-focused – Sustainable modular stands are perfect for strict ESG audits.
- Need flexibility – Flexible modular stands are convenient for those exhibiting in a range of different spaces.
- Valuing consistent branding – You never have to sacrifice brand consistency when you use a modular stand.
- Working with tight budgets – By reusing the same components, you save money and time!
When Not to Use a Modular Exhibition Stand
Although modular exhibition stands are suitable for most exhibitors, there are a few occasions when they are not.
- Double-decker stands – The structural requirements of a double-decker are usually beyond truly modular solutions.
- Extremely large structures (200+ square metres) – At this scale, lightweight stands become less cost-effective, and the need for modularity reduces.
- Very heavy product display – When mounting very large or heavy products within a stand structure. Modular solutions are generally lightweight and clad in graphics, while solutions like prestige are capable of mounting substantial items; there is always a limit.
- Very low budget – If your budget is in the hundreds or low thousands, you’re probably not in a position to invest in a worthwhile modular system. If you want to take the modular route, you need to invest.
- Mid-rebrand – If you have an approaching rebrand, it might not be worth investing in a modular solution.
- Heights above 4m – If you want to build a stand over 4m in height, you enter into the realm of temporary structure building regulations, which are very complicated, time-consuming and expensive. Most modular solutions aren’t suited to this.
Some say that modular exhibition stands are unsuitable for spaces of 6sqm or less, due to the necessary “footprint” of modular exhibition stands.
How Much Does a Modular Exhibition Stand Cost?
When it comes to modular exhibition stand prices, it really depends on the size, the number of custom features, and the chosen service plan, as they can be commissioned on a purchase or hire basis.
However, on average, modular stands in the UK range from £5000 to £30,000.
We always recommend exploring our virtual tour for examples of prices. Enter the tour and click the stand spec for price details and reinstallation costs.
How Do Modular Stands Compare to Custom-Built Stands?
While both of these stands are very effective in exhibition halls, modular exhibition stands are a more flexible and sustainable option, suitable for reuse throughout and beyond full exhibition calendars, and custom-built stands offer more design freedom for complex builds.
Designing a Modular Exhibition Stand
Modular exhibition stand design has come on leaps and bounds over the last few years, now offering brilliant design freedom. Custom elements can be integrated into the stands, and each has a completely bespoke design. At Quadrant2Design, this is coined custom-modular: a completely custom yet reusable exhibition stand.
Modular exhibition stands are typically designed with future reconfigurations in mind, considering more than one configuration and even industry, at the initial design stage. This design process is best handled by an expert, who can help you visualise the separate components and understand how they will work in new arrangements.
Reusing & Reconfiguring Modular Exhibition Stands
By rearranging components, exhibition stands can be used in many different spaces, from large stand to small, open-1 side to open-4, and even from one industry to another. Here are some examples.
Modular Exhibition Stand Storage
There are many options for modular exhibition stand storage, but your specific requirements depend on the type of stand that you have and the contractor that you use.
Modular exhibition stands usually pack into compact cases, which are easy to transport and store. If you’re purchasing the stand, it can usually be stored within your own premises, or in private storage, so long as it is dry and clean.
However, for rental solutions, contractors often offer stand storage as a part of the plan. For example, Quadrant2Design’s Free-Hire Pro plan includes free storage.
The Sustainability Benefits of Modular Stands
Modular exhibition stands are the most sustainable option on the market, not only because they are reusable, but also because they are versatile.
There is, unfortunately, quite a lot of greenwashing in the exhibition industry, with contractors hiding less than eco-friendly credentials and disposable stands, under eco-looks, often using materials like bamboo, MDF, chipboard and cork.
Modular stands in contrast, are built with longevity in mind, both in their materials and their flexible nature. The graphics are strong and durable, and consistently outlast branding, and the flexibility of the design means they can be used in many different spaces. This versatility allows stands to be used in all stand spaces, preventing unnecessary repurchases.
Buy or Hire a Modular Exhibition Stand
Modular exhibition stands are available to purchase or hire! Hire options are usually the most cost-effective and sustainable, where you invest in the graphic panels and hire the hardware for your stand. However, as modular stands work within a system, they can also be purchased to self-build. Consult with your exhibition stand contractor to determine the most suitable option for your specific needs.
Watch the case studies below to hear direct insights on hiring and purchase exhibiting plans.
Case Studies
Conclusion + Next Steps
Modular exhibition stands are changing the way that people approach exhibiting. Rather than thinking one show ahead, people are now considering entire exhibition calendars.
If you’re feeling inspired and would like to see your own branding visualised on a modular exhibition stand get in touch with our design consultants. You can email our team at design@quadrant2design.com or call +44 (0)1202 723 500 to arrange a free, no-obligation design proposal.
