Trade shows can feel like entering a different world. The excitement. The buzz. That sense of possibility as you walk past stand after stand, knowing yours needs to stand out.
I’ve been there, guiding businesses through the maze of trade show booth costs and choices.
The truth? Planning a successful presence starts with understanding what you’ll pay, and what you’re getting for your investment.
Let’s get right to the point: how much do trade show booths cost, and what does that price actually include?
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned exhibitor, I’ll break it down with real insights and tips from years of experience.
Quick Answer: Trade Show Booth Cost Ranges
- Basic shell scheme booth (2m x 2m): £1,000–£2,500 for rental and graphics
- Modular custom booth (3m x 3m): £3,000–£8,000
- Fully bespoke stand (large, double-decker or high-tech): £10,000–£50,000+
These costs cover design, build, graphics, hire, delivery, and installation for UK shows. They don’t include the actual event floor space fee (which organisers charge separately), travel, or extras like AV, furniture, or giveaways.
The cost of your trade show booth depends on size, materials, design complexity, and whether you rent or buy. Let’s dig into the details so you know what to expect, and where you can save or invest for real results.
What Actually Affects Trade Show Booth Costs?
I get asked this all the time. I always answer honestly: it’s not just about square metres. Here’s what really matters:
- Booth size: Bigger means more materials, more labour, and a bigger impact on your budget.
- Design complexity: Simple shell schemes cost less than bespoke, double-decker, or highly branded stands.
- Materials and finishes: Premium materials, large custom graphics, and unique features drive up prices.
- Rental vs. purchase: Renting is cheaper for one-off events, while buying can pay off if you exhibit regularly.
- Location and timing: London venues or last-minute builds push up costs.
I once worked with a client who doubled their spend by adding interactive screens and custom lighting. The result? Twice the engagement, but it definitely stretched their budget.
Typical Trade Show Booth Cost Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at where your money actually goes:
- Design and planning: 10%–20% of total cost
- Build and materials: 30%–50%
- Graphics and branding: 15%–25%
- Transport and installation: 10%–20%
- On-site services (power, cleaning, etc): 5%–15%
Don’t forget: The event organiser’s floor space fee is a separate charge. For example, a prime spot at a big London show can easily cost £5,000–£15,000 for a 3m x 3m plot.
Types of Trade Show Booths and What You Get
Trade show booths come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. Here’s what you’re likely to encounter:
Shell Scheme Booths
This is the entry-level choice for many UK businesses. You get a basic structure, carpet, walls, and usually a fascia board with your company name. Graphics and furniture are extra.
- Pros: Affordable, quick to set up, perfect for first-timers.
- Cons: Limited branding, less visual impact.
My first trade show stand was a shell scheme. It worked, but I quickly realised the importance of bold graphics and friendly staff to draw people in.
Modular Booths
Modular systems offer flexibility. You can reconfigure them for different shows and add features as needed. Costs vary based on size and extras.
- Pros: Reusable, scalable, more options for branding.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, storage needed if you buy.
Custom and Bespoke Booths
When you want to make a statement, go custom. These stands are designed from scratch, often with unique shapes, lighting, AV, and interactive features.
- Pros: Maximum brand impact, tailored to your goals.
- Cons: Higher cost, longer lead times.
For companies aiming to wow the crowd (or host meetings on the stand), a bespoke design often pays off. But you need to budget carefully and plan early.
Real Examples: What UK Businesses Spend
Most UK exhibitors spend between £3,000–£12,000 for a trade show booth, not including the organiser’s plot fee. That figure can rise fast for high-profile events, large footprints, or fully custom designs.
Here’s a quick list of what you might pay for a typical UK trade show:
- 2m x 2m shell scheme with branded panels: £1,200–£2,000
- 3m x 3m modular stand with custom graphics: £3,500–£7,500
- 5m x 4m bespoke build with AV and meeting space: £12,000–£25,000+
Tip: Always ask your stand builder for a full breakdown. Some include delivery, setup, and storage in the price, but others don’t.
Where Can You Save or Splurge?
You don’t have to break the bank to exhibit well. Focus your spend where it matters most:
- Save: Choose rental furniture, reuse graphics when possible, and keep layouts simple.
- Splurge: Invest in strong visuals, lighting, and interactive elements that stop people in their tracks.
- Negotiate: Ask for package deals or discounts for booking early or for multiple shows.
A well-designed booth can pay for itself many times over by attracting the right visitors and making your brand memorable.
Helpful Resources
- For a deeper dive, check out this Exhibition Stand Cost Guide by Eventbrite for UK-specific numbers and tips.
- Read the AEO Guide to Exhibiting for official advice on planning your trade show presence.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Investment?
Trade show booths are a big commitment, but they can deliver huge returns if you plan smartly. I’ve seen hesitant first-timers become regulars after realising the power of face-to-face connections and a well-designed space.
Remember, it’s not just about the money you spend, but how you use your booth to tell your story and win new business.
If you’re weighing your options or planning your next event, take time to list your goals, budget, and priorities. Then, talk to a stand builder who understands your market and can give clear, transparent pricing.
