A Complete Guide to the Types of Exhibition Stands

When planning for a trade show or exhibition, one of the first big decisions you need to make is choosing the right type of stand. Your exhibition stand is more than just a physical space, it sets the stage for how your brand communicates with visitors and makes lasting impressions.

With so many options available, from basic shell schemes to high-impact island stands, it can be difficult to know which style suits your business best. This guide will take you through the most common stand types, explain their advantages and help you to make an informed choice for your next event.

Why choosing the right stand type matters

The stand type you select has a direct impact on how people perceive your business at an exhibition. A well-chosen stand not only reflects your brand identity but also maximises visitor engagement.

Here are a few reasons why getting this choice right is important:

• Budget efficiency – Your budget will determine the size, design and features of your stand. Some stand types will be more cost-effective than others.
• Space and location – The layout of the exhibition floor affects what stand type will work best. Stands with more open sides for example tend to offer better visibility.
• Brand goals – If your aim is to showcase products, you’ll need a design with plenty of display areas. If you’re focused on networking, you may prefer a layout that includes a meeting space.
• Frequency of exhibiting – Businesses attending multiple shows may prefer modular or reusable options, while one-off exhibitors often choose simpler setups.

In short, the right stand type for you balances your goals, budget and the nature of the event.

The different types of exhibition displays

Shell scheme exhibition stands

A shell scheme is the most basic option, often provided directly by the event organisers. It usually consists of plain walls, carpeting and a panel displaying your company name. While not the most flexible, it’s an affordable way to get a presence at a trade show.

Exhibitors often add graphics, banners and furniture to personalise the space. Shell schemes are ideal for newcomers to exhibiting or those with limited budgets.

Modular exhibition stands

Modular stands are built from interchangeable components, making them a practical choice for exhibitors who attend several shows a year. They can be reconfigured into different layouts depending on the space available.

These stands offer more creativity than shell schemes while remaining cost-efficient. They’re also relatively easy to transport and assemble, making them a favourite among businesses that are looking for that extra flexibility.

System frame exhibition stands

System frame stands use aluminium or steel frames as their structure, allowing for a sturdy yet versatile design. Panels, graphics and shelving can be added to the framework to create a polished and professional look.

The benefit of system frame stands is that they provide a strong foundation while still being adaptable. They are especially popular for medium to large exhibitions where durability and structure are important.

Fabric exhibition stands

Fabric stands have gained popularity thanks to their lightweight design and smooth, modern appearance. Using printed fabric stretched over frames, they provide a seamless look that avoids visible joints or panels.

They’re easy to set up and transport and they allow for high-quality graphic printing. While less robust than system frames, fabric stands are an excellent option for creating an elegant and eye-catching presence without using heavy structures.

Space-only exhibition stands

A space-only stand means that you’ve rented a blank floor space without any walls or structure included. This option gives you maximum creative freedom but also requires working with a stand builder to design and construct your booth from scratch.

Space-only stands are best for companies that want a fully bespoke look. They’re common at major trade fairs where making a strong visual impact is essential.

Row exhibition stands

Row stands, also called inline stands, are positioned in a line alongside other exhibitors. They typically share walls with neighbouring stands and are open on one side facing the aisle.

This type works well for businesses that want a simple layout but still need space to display products or graphics. Though limited in visibility, row stands are cost-effective and easy to customise within the available wall space.

Corner exhibition stands

Corner stands are located at the end of a row and are open on two sides. This gives you more visibility and allows for better visitor flow.

Exhibitors often use corner stands to display graphics on two walls or to create an L-shaped layout that naturally draws in traffic. If you want more exposure than a standard row stand without committing to a larger space, corner stands are a smart choice.

Two-corner exhibition stands

Also known as peninsula stands, two-corner stands are open on three sides and share just one wall with a neighbouring exhibitor. This offers excellent visibility and multiple entry points for visitors.

These stands provide more flexibility in design and allow for creative layouts such as U-shaped banners or multi-directional displays. They strike a balance between cost and exposure, making them popular at busy events.

Island exhibition stands

Island stands are the most premium and eye-catching option. Open on all four sides, they allow free access from every direction and can be designed to include lounges, meeting rooms, or product displays.

They are the most expensive stand type, but they deliver the highest level of visibility and engagement. For companies looking to make a bold statement at major international exhibitions, island stands are the ultimate choice.

Build your vision with our custom exhibition stands

While standard stand types provide a useful starting point, every brand has unique needs. That’s where custom exhibition stands come in. Working with a professional stand builder allows you to adapt a row, corner, or island configuration into a design tailored specifically to your business.

At Maverick, we combine creativity with practicality to ensure your stand isn’t just visually impressive but also functional and cost-effective. Whether you need a reusable modular system or a one-off bespoke build, we’ll help bring your vision to life.

Contact us to get a quote for your custom exhibition stands for your next event today.

FAQs about the exhibition stand types