How much does an exhibition stand cost?

Rental stands typically start from £350 per square metre, including custom graphics, full installation, logistics, and project management — ideal for one-off shows or brands testing the waters.
Purchased modular stands start from around £5,000 for a 3x3m layout, rising to £20,000+ for larger builds with integrated AV, lighting, lockable storage, and premium finishes. This route offers full reusability, reconfigurability, and long-term value for regular exhibitors.
We also offer hybrid solutions — blending modular frameworks with bespoke joinery, LED video walls, and premium brand architecture. These projects vary in cost depending on scope, but allow for standout visual impact without sacrificing flexibility.
Whether you rent, buy, or go hybrid, every stand we deliver is fully branded, scalable, and designed around your objectives.

No two exhibition stands cost the same — because no two briefs should be.
Pricing is shaped by several key factors: stand size, whether you choose to rent or buy, and the structure type — from fully modular systems to hybrid builds that blend reusable frameworks with custom joinery and integrated AV.
At 5 Studio, we don’t offer off-the-shelf solutions. We work backwards from your objectives — designing a stand that delivers visual impact, logistical efficiency, and long-term value. Whether you’re exhibiting once or ten times a year, your quote reflects what’s essential, scalable, and smart.

Modular stands typically have a higher upfront cost because they use precision-engineered aluminium frameworks and are built for repeat use.
Traditional “build and burn” stands — often made from MDF or timber — may seem cheaper per show, but they’re single-use. After the event, they’re scrapped — so you’re starting from scratch (and paying again) every time.
If you’re exhibiting at multiple events, modular becomes more cost-effective over time. It also offers advantages in sustainability, setup speed, and storage between shows.

Total exhibiting costs in the UK typically range from £8,000 to £30,000+, depending on your stand size, the venue, and the nature of your stand design, features, and setup.

In addition to your stand, budget for:

• Stand space (venue cost): £300–£500 per m², charged by the organiser

• Stand design & build:

  • From £350 per m² for rental modular stands

  • From £5,000–£20,000+ for custom modular or hybrid purchase builds

• AV, lighting, furniture & flooring: £1,000–£5,000 depending on spec

• Electrical service orders: ~£150 per 500W socket (venue-ordered)

• Transport & logistics: Typically £500–£2,000

• Storage (for reusable stands): £500–£1,200 annually

• Travel, hotels & staff expenses: £1,000–£3,000+

• Marketing materials & giveaways: £500–£2,000

At 5 Studio, we help you plan strategically — whether you’re renting for a one-off show or investing in a scalable system. Every quote is tailored to your goals, with clear, itemised costs and expert guidance from day one.

Renting an exhibition stand is usually the cheaper short-term option, especially if you’re only exhibiting once or twice a year. Prices typically start from £350 per square metre, including 3D design, custom graphics, logistics, and full installation — all wrapped into a fixed package.

Buying a modular stand involves a higher upfront investment, typically from £5,000–£20,000+, depending on size, features, and level of customisation. But for brands exhibiting at multiple events, buying can reduce your cost per show significantly over time.

At 5 Studio, we also offer hybrid options — combining reusable modular frames with custom features like integrated AV, LED walls, or bespoke joinery. These are ideal if you want long-term flexibility without sacrificing visual impact.

In short:

• Rent if you need simplicity, flexibility, and one-off impact

• Buy if you’re building a multi-show presence and want long-term value

A 3x3m stand (9m²) is one of the most common starting footprints — especially for first-time exhibitors or shell scheme upgrades. Here’s how the costs break down:

• Rental modular stand:
  From £3,000+, based on a rate of £350 per m². This includes 3D design, custom graphics, logistics, full on-site installation, and dedicated project management — with no hidden extras.

• Purchased modular stand:
  From £5,000–£8,000+ depending on structure type, finishes, and whether you require integrated AV, flooring, or storage. This is ideal for brands attending multiple shows per year, as the system is reusable, reconfigurable, and scalable — allowing you to adapt layouts for different floorplans and expand the setup over time as your presence grows.

While smaller footprints like 3x3m are a cost-effective entry point, many brands find greater long-term value from larger stands (e.g. 6x4m, 6x6m, or island configurations) — where the cost per square metre often decreases and design impact increases. Larger stands also allow more flexibility for product displays, storage rooms, hospitality areas, or interactive features.

At 5 Studio, we design scalable systems that grow with your event schedule — so whether you’re starting small or building toward a multi-show presence, we help you get the most from your investment.