Custom Stands. Modular Stands. Portable Stands
Exhibition Stand Types for All Event Types—From Local Shows to International Expos
Whether you need a fully custom-built showstopper or a lightweight portable stand, ABL Design specialise in creating sustainable, eco-friendly exhibition & event stands tailored to your needs, event goals, and budget, backed up by full-service project management & support at each stage of your project: from design & build, to installation & tear-down.
Which Stand Type is Right For Your Business?
With options ranging from 100% fully bespoke stands to purpose-built modular and lightweight portable displays, here's a quick checklist to help you decide which one is right for you.
- Choose a Custom Stand if you want to make a bold statement & position your brand as market leader—Price Range: £XXXX
- Choose a Modular Stand if you attend multiple exhibitions & need a flexible, cost-effective solution—Price Range: £XXX
- Choose a Portable Stand if you need a lightweight, simple setup for smaller shows or frequent travel—Price Range: £XX
Exhibition Stand Types Explained—A Guide to Choosing Your Ideal Exhibition Stand Type
The following guide aims to explain the 3 most popular stand types you're likely to encounter within the Exhibition Stand Design industry. ABL Design & Build can also offer hybrid stand solutions to meet your unique requirements. Please don't hesistate to contact us if you're still unsure, and need help choosing—our team would be delighted to help guide you.
Custom Exhibition Stands
Fully Bespoke Custom Trade Stands are 'one-off builds', best for brands wanting full creative control, delivering maximum impact displays and a completely unique presence with high-impact displays for major shows. One-off builds. for major shows.
Description:Custom exhibition stands are designed and built from scratch to meet the exact specifications of your brand and event goals. These stands offer complete freedom in terms of size, layout, materials, unique architecture and design features. They often include high-end finishes, integrated lighting, multimedia displays, and bespoke architecture to create an unforgettable experience.
Key Benefits:- Tailored precisely to your brand identity
- Maximum visual impact and visitor engagement
- Ideal for large exhibitions, product launches, and premium brands
- Typically a higher investment
- Longer lead times for design and build
- Usually intended for one-time use or with minor adaptations
Modular Exhibition Stands
Companies attending multiple events who want flexibility and cost-effectiveness due to their reusable and scalable components, including reconfigurable frames and changeable custom graphics.
Description:Modular exhibition stands are made from pre-engineered components that can be assembled in different configurations depending on the event space. Think of them like high-end building blocks that allow you to reconfigure, rebrand, and reuse your stand across multiple exhibitions. Modular systems often include frames, panels, and fittings that can expand or contract to fit various booth sizes.
Key Benefits:- Flexible layout options for different event spaces
- Easy to refresh branding for different shows
- More sustainable and cost-effective over time
- Less creative freedom compared to full custom stands
- Still requires professional installation for larger setups
Portable Exhibition Stands
Budget-conscious small businesses, startups, and companies exhibiting in shell schemes or smaller shows, that need lightweight easy to transport solutions that are quick and easy to set up.
Description:Portable stands are lightweight, compact, and designed for quick assembly and disassembly without specialized tools or equipment. Common types include pop-up displays, roll-up banners, fabric backdrops, and portable counters. These solutions are ideal for shell scheme spaces or smaller venues where fast setup and budget-conscious options are essential
Key Benefits:- Easy transport and self-assembly
- Ideal for smaller exhibition spaces or regional shows
- Lower cost compared to modular or custom stands
- Limited customisation compared to modular or custom stands
- Best suited for smaller spaces, not large-scale exhibits.
Key Differences
Choose the right trade stand to make an impact at your next event.
| Feature | Custom Stands | Modular Stands | Portable Stands |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design Freedom | Full creative control | Flexible modules | Limited designs |
| Cost | Highest | Medium | Lowest |
| Reusability | Single-use or minor reuse | High (multi-event) | Very high (lightweight) |
| Setup Requirements | Professional team | Professional preferred | DIY possible |
| Ideal For | Large exhibitions, product launches | Multiple exhibitions | Small spaces, shell schemes |