Shell Scheme vs Space Only: Choosing the Right Exhibition Stand Setup

While exhibiting at a trade show, selecting an exhibition shell scheme or a space-only stand are two options you must choose from. This choice directly impacts the level of exposure your brand receives. Additionally, it impacts visitor engagement as well as the overall success of the show. Knowing how each option operates helps you make the most informed decision for your company.

What is the Shell Scheme?

Shell scheme is a pre-built exhibition stand framework. These schemes are uniform structures for all exhibitors that can also have custom designs per your brand image. The panels can be printed with your company logo and a strip at the top that can also have your company’s name on it.

What is a Space-Only Stand?

With Space Only stands you get a blank canvas upon which you can create any exhibition stand style. These are ideal for more aggressive branding as you have total control over the structure, graphic design, and how visitors will interact with the stand.

Shell Scheme vs. Space Only: Key Differences

1. Cost Considerations

Shell Schemes allow exhibitors to save on cost by providing an already constructed structure. Space Only requires a more significant investment because it involves custom plans, additional components, and payment for hired help for design.

2. Setup and Installation

Shell Scheme stands require hardly any setup by the individual exhibitors as they are set up by the organiser beforehand. On the contrary, Space Only stands are more complicated since they require comprehensive scheduling, construction, and coordination with designers and other specialists.

3. Design and Customisation

Space only permits designs that the exhibitor might find appealing. It has an impressive and unique design, perfectly showcasing the brand image. On the other hand, Shell Schemes permit little or no branding due to their rigid structures. However, you can design your poster and paste it on it.

4. Flexibility and Scalability

Shell schemes give you a stand that is already set up and tidy. This makes your time at the show easy and less stressful.
Space Only needs lots of planning and organising. But shell schemes already have a set layout. You avoid the hassle of designing and building your stand from the start. This means you can focus on meeting people and showing your products. You won’t need to worry so much about getting the stand built.

5. Engagement and Interaction

Shell schemes are a simple but good way to meet visitors. They give a bright look, and all shell stands look similar across the show.
Space only stands; however, it needs much more work and creative ideas to design something interesting. You often need extra money for things like lights, seating, or fun elements for visitors.
With a shell scheme, it’s easy to add your branding to the walls they give you. It means you don’t need an expensive custom build. Your standstill looks tidy and professional.

6. Time and Effort in Preparation

Shell schemes are good if you want something quick and easy. They don’t need much planning before the show.
Space Only takes a lot more work. You need to plan carefully, get permission from the organisers, and sort out getting everything there. This is better for companies that have done shows before.

7. Suitability for Different Businesses

If you’re a small business, just starting, or new to shows, a Shell Scheme is easier. It costs less and is more straightforward to manage.
More prominent companies often want to make a big impression or show off their products well. Space Only lets them build exactly what they want and show off their brand.
Choosing the Right Stand for Your Business

Choosing the Right Stand for Your Business

Consider your business needs when picking between a shell scheme and Space only. Also, think about your budget and your plan for the show. Here are some key things to help you choose:
  1. How Much Can You Spend: If you don’t have much money, a shell scheme lets you attend the show without considerable upfront costs. If money isn’t a big worry and you want to stand out, Space is only worth paying for.
  2. Your Brand and Getting Noticed: Do you want people to remember your brand? Do you want visitors to have a great experience? Then Space only gives you the best chance. You can show off your products and services in remarkable ways.
  3. Your Experience with Shows: Are you new to exhibiting? A shell scheme is a simple way to join in without much stress. If you’ve done shows before and want people to remember you, Space only helps your business attract visitor’s eyes.
  4. Personalise Your Design: Space only is the best pick if you want freedom with the design, the layout, and what goes inside. A shell scheme will do the job if you just need simple signs and a standard stand.
  5. Your Time and Help: A shell scheme is perfect if you have little time or staff to sort out a custom stand. Space only needs more planning time, but you can control how it looks.

How Can Avondale Exhibitions Help?

Avondale Exhibitions, a professional exhibition stand builder and full-service exhibition contractor focuses on making powerful exhibition stands that are custom-made for your needs. We offer various services, including expert shell scheme design installation, electrics, floorcovering, furniture and graphics. Our experts know how to position your brand effectively and to make the best for you. We ensure to stay in touch with you throughout the process.

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