In the UK, exhibition stand costs typically range from £500 to £20,000+, depending on size, structure, and features.
In the UK, exhibition stand costs typically range from £500 to £20,000+, depending on size, structure, and features.
Modular exhibition stand hire often starts from around £350 per m², including graphics and installation.
Exhibition stand costs in the UK vary depending on the type of stand, size, and level of customisation. Most businesses choose between modular exhibition stand hire, purchased modular systems, or fully custom builds — each offering different levels of flexibility, reusability, and cost.
Modular exhibition stand hire typically starts from around £350 per m², including a fully bespoke exhibition stand design, custom printed seamless fabric graphics, installation, logistics, and project management.
This is the most cost-effective option for many businesses — ideal for one-off events or brands looking for a fully managed, all-inclusive service without upfront investment.
Purchased modular exhibition stands start from around £5,000 for a 3x3m stand, increasing to £12,000–£16,000+ for larger, more premium builds. At this level, you can expect features such as full-height branded structures, curved or segmented backwalls, integrated LED lightboxes, seamless graphics, and defined areas for product display or meetings — creating a much stronger visual presence on the show floor.
This option is best suited to brands exhibiting regularly, offering full reusability, reconfigurability, and long-term ROI.
Custom exhibition stands or ‘hybrid builds’ typically range from £12,000 to £20,000+, depending on the level of bespoke fabrication, integrated technology, and overall design complexity.
At this level, modular structures are elevated with experiential features such as dynamic LED lighting, LED video walls, gamification elements, hospitality zones, and bespoke joinery — creating a more immersive and engaging brand experience.
These builds combine the flexibility of modular systems with the impact of custom fabrication, making them ideal for brands looking to stand out, increase dwell time, and deliver a more memorable presence on the show floor.
Exhibition stand cost isn’t just about size — it’s influenced by how your stand is designed, built, and delivered. Whether you choose exhibition stand hire, modular exhibition stands, or a custom build, factors like layout, reusability, and integrated features all play a role in the final investment.
While bigger stands allow for greater visual impact, they also demand more framework, graphic surface area, and installation hours — particularly for open island or multi-sided spaces where all sides must be dressed.
Modular exhibition stands are designed for reusability. Using standardised framework systems allows your stand to be reconfigured across multiple events — improving long-term ROI and reducing the need for reprinting or rebuilding.
Full-height, seamless graphics across your exhibition stand create a premium, high-impact look but cost more than panelled or semi-rigid graphics. Show-specific reprints also contribute to the overall investment.
Integrated lightboxes, LED halo effects, AV screens, or large-scale LED video walls significantly elevate the experience — and the budget. These features require not just supply, but structural support, wiring, and pre-testing.
Features like storage cupboards, hospitality counters, shelving, or curved elements involve bespoke fabrication and more complex installation. These add function and finish — but also time and cost, especially for timber or hybrid builds.
Exhibition stand cost is also influenced by logistics — including venue access, installation schedules, and transport. Exhibition stand hire often includes these elements as part of a fully managed service, simplifying the process for exhibitors.
Choosing between exhibition stand hire and purchasing a modular system isn’t just about budget — it’s a strategic decision based on how often you exhibit, your growth plans, and how much flexibility you need.
Here’s a simple framework to help you decide which approach is right for your business.
These real-world examples show how exhibition stand costs scale — from shell scheme upgrades through to large, experiential builds — depending on size, structure, and level of finish.
Exhibition stand hire typically starts from around £350 per square metre in the UK, including bespoke design, graphics, installation, and project management.
Purchased modular exhibition stands start from around £5,000 for a 3m x 3m layout, increasing depending on size and level of finish. Hybrid and experiential builds can range from £12,000 to £35,000+ for larger, high-impact stands.
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.
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 £4,000–£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.
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 Hire or Purchase, 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.
The most effective way to reduce exhibition stand costs is to use a modular exhibition stand system, which can be reused and reconfigured across multiple events. This avoids the need to redesign and rebuild your stand each time, significantly improving long-term ROI.
Exhibition stand hire is also a cost-efficient option for many businesses, as it removes upfront investment and includes key services such as installation and project management. Keeping layouts efficient, reducing bespoke elements, and planning for reuse across multiple shows can all help control overall spend.
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.
Exhibition stand hire typically includes everything required to design, build, and deliver your stand for the event. This usually covers a fully bespoke exhibition stand design, custom printed graphics, modular framework, lighting, installation, dismantling, logistics, and full project management.
Our hire packages are all-inclusive, meaning you don’t need to coordinate multiple suppliers — everything is handled for you. Optional elements such as AV screens, furniture, flooring, and storage can also be incorporated depending on your requirements and budget.
Want to understand the full advantages? Read our guide on the benefits of fixed-price exhibition stand hire.
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
The best way is to request a free 3D design and quote based on your stand size, objectives, and event requirements. This allows you to see exactly what your budget can achieve before committing.
Not sure what your budget can achieve? We’ll create a free 3D exhibition stand design and quote, tailored to your space, objectives, and event requirements — so you can see exactly what’s possible before committing.
Let’s book a call to discuss your brand goals, upcoming projects, and how our team can help bring your ideas to life.
Let’s book a call to discuss your brand goals, event calendar, and how a Hybrid and/or Immersive stand can elevate your future presence
