Different Types of Exhibition Stands
- 5 min read
Choosing the right exhibition stands for your business is crucial for boosting visibility, engagement, and ROI at any trade show, expo, or industry event. With so many types, designs, and configurations available, understanding the differences in layout, build style, and practical considerations can help you make the best decision for your brand.
This guide will walk you through the different types of exhibition stands, their layouts, build options, and key factors to consider when planning your next event.
Exhibition Stands Type By Build
This focuses on how the stand is constructed and the materials or style used. Build type affects flexibility, portability, setup time, and overall appearance. Explore the examples below to find the best build type for your brand.
Custom / Bespoke Exhibition Stands
Custom exhibition stands are fully designed to match a brand’s identity, layout, and goals. Every element, from graphics and materials to interactive zones, can be tailored for maximum impact, showcasing professional exhibition stand design. These stands are ideal for high-profile events and flagship product launches, offering a fully immersive experience. Although they require more planning and budget, the visual and engagement impact is unmatched. Perfect for brands that want to stand out on busy expo floors.
Pros:
- Fully unique design tailored to brand objectives
- Ideal for immersive storytelling and interactive experiences
- Allows multiple zones for demos, hospitality, and displays
- Maximises presence on high-traffic exhibition floors
- Flexible to adapt to any venue or event size
- Supports branding consistency across multiple events
Cons:
- Longer design and build timelines than modular or portable stands
- Requires professional support for planning and installation
Best For:
- Flagship exhibitions and product launches
- Brands with larger budgets and ambitious goals
- Multi-zone setups for demos, interactivity, or hospitality
- Companies aiming for maximum exhibition stand recognition
Modular Exhibition Stands
Modular exhibition stands use pre-fabricated panels that can be rearranged or expanded for multiple events. They are flexible for brands attending different trade shows and allow consistent branding across venues. These stands are cost-efficient over time and easier to maintain than custom exhibition displays. While not as visually unique as bespoke builds, they provide a professional presence and are suitable for repeated use across exhibitions.
Pros:
- Reusable across multiple exhibitions, saving future costs
- Flexible design for adding zones or changing layouts
- Quick assembly and dismantling compared to custom stands
- Maintains consistent branding across multiple shows
- Adaptable to different floor plans and venue sizes, providing versatility for multiple events
Cons:
- Less creative freedom than custom exhibition stands
- Some limitations due to pre-fabricated components
Best For:
- Companies attending multiple trade shows or expos
- Medium-sized brands with evolving booth needs
- Exhibitors seeking cost-effective and reusable exhibition display stands
Portable Exhibition Type
Portable expo stands are lightweight, easy to transport, and quick to assemble. They are perfect for roadshows, temporary events, outdoor exhibitions, or smaller regional expo stands. Many feature foldable frames or panels, portable displays, making them convenient for multi-location setups. While they may not have the visual impact of custom or modular exhibition stands, they provide practical solutions for mobile teams.
Pros:
- Quick to assemble and dismantle, saving time and labour
- Lightweight and easy to transport for multiple events
- Ideal for temporary or regional exhibitions
- Practical for small teams on the move
- Cost-effective for multiple events without heavy investment
- Flexible setup for different venues and floor plans
Cons:
- Smaller footprint and less visually imposing than custom stands
- Limited customization options
Best For:
- Roadshows and regional events
- Small to medium-sized exhibitions
- Multi-location or temporary campaigns
- Teams needing practical, fast setups
Shell Scheme Exhibition Stands
Shell scheme booths are organiser-provided exhibition stands with standard walls, flooring, and lighting. They are often used by first-time exhibitors or those with limited budgets. Branding is usually limited to graphics, signage, or minor enhancements. Despite being basic, a few upgrades or custom exhibition displays can make them stand out. They provide a ready-made, compliant space with minimal setup effort.
Pros:
- Low cost and quick to set up
- Compliant with organiser and venue regulations
- Ready-made exhibition space suitable for testing concepts
- Practical for first-time exhibitors
Cons:
- Limited design flexibility
- Can appear generic without enhancements
- May require extra features to attract visitor attention
Best For:
- First-time exhibitors
- Budget-conscious participants
- Test-and-learn exhibition programs
- Brands seeking a simple, practical start
Exhibition Stand Types By Layout
This focuses on how your exhibition stand is arranged on the floor; its shape, open sides, and position relative to other stands. Layout influences visitor flow, visibility, and interaction. Explore the examples below to find the best build type for your brand.
Inline Exhibition Stands
Inline stands are set in a row with neighboring stands on both sides, open at the front. They are commonly used by first-time exhibitors or smaller businesses. The back wall provides a great area for branding, signage, or digital display for exhibition. With proper lighting and exhibition display stands, even a compact booth can feel welcoming. These expo stands are practical for focused messaging without extra frills.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly and ideal for smaller companies or first-time exhibitors
- Easy and fast to set up, which reduces time and labour costs
- Large back-wall space allows clear branding or messaging
- Compact layout makes staffing and management straightforward
Cons:
- Limited visibility and interaction as visitors can approach from one side only
- Minimal exhibition space for demonstrations or interactive elements
- Can feel overshadowed if neighboring stands are larger or visually dominant
Best For:
- Businesses entering trade shows for the first time
- Simple promotions or single-product focus
- Small exhibition areas under 36 sqm
Corner Exhibition Stands
Corner stands open on two sides, located at the end of a row, making them more visible than inline stands. These provide extra layout flexibility for seating, demos, or custom exhibition displays. Medium-sized brands often use them to combine visibility with cost-efficiency. With good design, a corner stand can stand out even in crowded show floors.
Pros:
- Increased visitor flow thanks to two open sides
- Flexible design options for interactive zones, exhibition displays, or seating
- Higher visibility than inline stands, drawing attention from multiple directions
- Can be creatively branded to stand out from neighboring booths
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost due to premium location
- Requires careful planning for visitor circulation to avoid congestion
- Side-facing areas may need extra signage for maximum visibility
Best For:
- Medium-sized exhibitors wanting greater exposure
- Product demonstrations or interactive display for exhibition
- Booths aiming to combine engagement with strong branding
- Companies seeking more creative layout freedom
Peninsula Exhibition Stands
Peninsula stands are open on three sides, usually at the end of a block of stands, allowing multiple visitor approaches. Storage or staff areas are typically at the rear, keeping the front free for interaction. These layouts suit medium to large booths with multiple zones. They strike a balance between accessibility, visibility, and creativity, making them versatile for demos or hospitality.
Pros:
- High visitor access from three sides increases engagement opportunities
- Ideal for demonstrations, interactive exhibition displays, or hospitality zones
- Multiple branding surfaces and creative design possibilities
- Encourages visitors to spend more time at the booth
Cons:
- No dedicated back wall unless custom solutions are implemented
- Requires careful planning to manage visitor traffic effectively
- Higher cost than inline or corner stands
Best For:
- Exhibits requiring multiple engagement zones
- Medium to large footprints (50+ sqm)
- Product demonstrations or interactive experiences
- Brands wanting high visibility and open design
Island Exhibition Stands
Island stands are open on all four sides, offering complete access and creative freedom. They are perfect for large-scale events or flagship exhibitions. Multiple zones for products, demos, and seating can be incorporated. Visitors can engage from any side, so design must impress from every angle. Ideal for making a bold statement and attracting maximum attention.
Pros:
- Unrestricted access from all directions encourages engagement
- Perfect for immersive experiences and multi-zone layouts
- High visibility, ideal for high-traffic exhibition areas
- Allows integration of multiple interactive or demo zones
- Creates a strong visual statement for brand presence
Cons:
- Higher cost per square meter due to size and complexity
- Requires careful design planning to maintain visual appeal from all sides
- Managing visitor flow in crowded areas can be challenging
- More complex setup and logistics compared to smaller layouts
Best For:
- Large-scale or flagship exhibitions
- Multi-product, interactive, or experiential displays
- High-traffic show floors
- Exhibitors aiming for maximum brand visibility and impact
Walk-Through Exhibition Stands
Walk-through stands connect two aisles to guide visitors through a structured path. This layout encourages exploration and sequential engagement zones. Ideal for interactive experiences, product demos, or storytelling setups. Proper planning ensures visitors stop at key areas and experience all zones effectively.
Pros:
- Unique visitor flow encourages exploration and interaction
- Ideal for sequential experiences or storytelling displays
- Can integrate multiple engagement zones in a structured layout
Cons:
- Visitors may pass through without stopping if engagement isn’t strong
- Limited wall space for branding
- Requires thoughtful planning to manage congestion at peak times
Best For:
- Experiential or interactive exhibitions
- Medium to large footprints needing structured visitor flow
- Brands combining demonstrations with storytelling
- Exhibitors aiming to create a journey through the booth
Double-Decker / Mezzanine Exhibition Stands
Double-decker or mezzanine stands have two levels, maximising floor space. The upper level is often for VIP meetings or lounges, while the lower level hosts general visitors and displays. Multiple zones can be included, from demos to hospitality areas. These stands make a strong visual impression on large exhibition floors. Structural compliance and planning are essential.
Pros:
- Maximises floor exhibition space for multiple engagement zones
- Upper floor provides privacy for meetings or VIP experiences
- Creates a visually impressive presence on the exhibition floor
- Can include a variety of interactive or demonstration areas
Cons:
- High cost and complex logistics
- Requires structural approvals from venues
- Longer lead times for setup and compliance checks
Best For:
- Major product launches or brand showcases
- Large footprints needing multiple zones
- Multi-level, interactive experiences
- Exhibitors aiming for a premium, high-impact presence
Choosing the Right Exhibition Stand for Your Business
See below for the best trade exhibition stand layouts and build types to match your business goals and make a strong impact at trade shows, expos, or events.
Goal: Lead Generation / Networking
- Best Layouts: Walk-through stands, corner stands, island stands
- Best Build Types: Modular or custom stands with interactive zones
- Why: These layouts allow multiple entry points and encourage visitor interaction, making it easier to capture leads and host meetings.
Goal: Brand Awareness / High Visibility
- Best Layouts: Island stands, double-decker / mezzanine stands, peninsula stands
- Best Build Types: Custom or modular stands with bold graphics
- Why: Open sides and multi-level exhibition stand design make your presence prominent and memorable on busy show floors.
Goal: Product Demonstrations / Experiences
- Best Layouts: Peninsula stands, walk-through stands, island stands
- Best Build Types: Custom or modular stands with space for demos and interactive displays
- Why: Visitors/potential customers can easily see, test, and engage with products, creating a hands-on experience.
Goal: Cost-Efficiency / Temporary Participation
- Best Layouts: Inline stands, corner stands
- Best Build Types: Shell scheme booths, portable stands, pop-up displays
- Why: The cost of exhibition stands can be high, but these are cost-effective solutions that are quick to set up, reusable, and ideal for smaller budgets or first-time exhibitors.
Goal: Multi-Event / Regional Programs
- Best Layouts: Inline stands, modular stands
- Best Build Types: Modular, portable, or pop-up displays
- Why: Easy to transport, quick to assemble, and adaptable for different venues.
Barrett Exhibition Group in Perth can help you plan, design, and build the perfect exhibition stand or exhibition display to meet your goals, ensuring your brand stands out and attracts maximum engagement.
Conclusion
Selecting the right exhibition stands is key to making an impact at trade shows, expos, or events. Understanding layouts like inline, corner, peninsula, walk-through, or island stands helps you meet your goals, while choosing the right build, like modular, custom exhibition displays, portable, pop-up, or shell scheme, ensures practicality and strong branding. The right exhibition display stands combine visibility, engagement, and cost-efficiency to showcase your brand effectively.
Frequently Asked Question
1. What is an exhibition stand?
An exhibition stand is a branded space at a trade show, expo, or event designed to showcase products, services, or your company. It can range from simple pop-up displays to large custom booths.
2. What makes a good exhibition stand?
A good exhibition stand attracts attention, engages visitors/potential customers, and communicates your brand clearly. Layout, design, interactivity, and clear messaging are key factors.
3. How much does an exhibition stand cost?
Costs for an expo stand vary depending on size, design, materials, and services. Options range from budget-friendly shell scheme booths to premium custom exhibition stands.
4. How to attract visitors to your exhibition stand?
Use eye-catching graphics, interactive displays, demonstrations, lighting, and friendly staff. Layout and accessibility also help increase foot traffic. Barrett Exhibition Group can assist in exhibition stand design and setting up your exhibition stand to increase visitor engagement and make your brand stand out.
5. Does Barrett Exhibition Group provide custom exhibition stands?
Yes! Barrett Exhibition Group in Perth designs and builds custom exhibition stands and trade show booths tailored to your brand, event, and goals. From interactive walls and banners to modular or bespoke displays, they create exhibition solutions that maximise visibility and engagement.
6. Can Barrett Exhibition Group handle the setup and installation of exhibition displays?
Absolutely. Barrett offers full-service support, including bump-in, setup, and installation of display stands and exhibition booths. Our team ensures your stand is ready for conferences, expos, or trade shows, providing a seamless experience from design to event execution.
What Our Clients Say
“These guys have handled all our signage for 10 years, vehicle wraps, shop fronts, and exhibition displays. Simon, Shane, Gayle, Peter, and the team are creative, knowledgeable, and professional. Highly recommended for projects big or small.”
Mat Collins
Operations Manager, Woodside
“Much better to deal with than some of the other large exhibition companies.”
Mondo P
Trade Show Manager, Westfield
“Barrett Exhibition Group made setting up our trade show stand really simple. The team was friendly and helpful, and everything was ready on time. I was surprised how good it looked, we got lots of compliments from visitors.”
Chloe Mitchell
Business Development Manager, Reece
“The signage and display turned out exactly how we imagined. The installers were on time and really organised, and the stand made a big difference at the event. I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.”
Sarah McKenzie
Marketing Manager, Landcorp
“We needed a stand that was easy to transport and set up, and Barrett nailed it. It looked professional, and people kept stopping by our booth. The whole process was straightforward, which made things so much easier.”
James O’Connor
Business Owner, ConocoPhillips
“From start to finish, the team made everything easy. They listened to what we wanted and got it done without any fuss. The display looked great, and the setup was quicker than I expected.”
Emily Parker
Events Coordinator, Caterlink
“We’ve done a few exhibitions with Barrett now, and it’s always smooth. They know what they’re doing, turn up on time, and the stands look really good. Makes life a lot less stressful during events.”
Daniel Roberts
Sales Director, Covs
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