When you decide to participate in a trade fair or professional event, one of the first key decisions is the type of stand to use. Is a modular stand or a customised stand more suitable? What are the real differences between the two? In this article, we answer all your questions to help you make the best decision based on your objectives, budget and brand needs.
What is a modular stand?
A modular stand consists of predefined structures that are assembled as a system of reusable parts. Its main advantage is its versatility, as you can adapt the size, shape and design to suit the event space.
Advantages of the modular stand:
- Reusable: perfect if you participate in several trade fairs each year.
One of the greatest benefits of modular stands is their ability to adapt to multiple events without losing quality or functionality. Thanks to their removable and configurable structure, you can use the same modular system at different trade fairs simply by adjusting graphic elements or the layout of the space. This makes them a strategic long-term investment for brands with an active events calendar. They also facilitate logistics between national and international trade fairs. - Economical: as it is preconfigured, the cost is lower.
As these are standardised structural systems, there is no need to design or manufacture from scratch. This reduces both production and labour costs. Assembly is also optimised, reducing working hours and technical resources. It is an ideal option for companies looking to attend trade fairs without compromising their marketing budget. Although it offers less creative freedom than a bespoke stand, there are many ways to customise it visually to maintain brand identity. - Quick to assemble and disassemble: ideal if time is limited.
Modular stands are designed for efficient installation. The interlocking parts system, together with technical manuals and the supplier’s expertise, allows the stand to be assembled and dismantled in significantly less time than a customised stand. This speed is essential at trade fairs with limited set-up times or in cases where the team has to travel with little logistical margin. - Lightweight and portable: designed for teams on the move.
The materials used in modular stands are usually lightweight, durable and easy to pack, such as aluminium, PVC, stretched textiles, etc. This facilitates both domestic and international transport, allowing the marketing or production team to travel with the essentials without relying on large logistical setups. In addition, many structures are designed to fit into flight cases or compact packaging, which reduces shipping costs. - Sustainable: reduces waste by reusing materials.
Modular stands promote a circular economy approach: by reusing the structure at various events, the constant production of new materials is avoided and waste is minimised. Well-maintained modular systems can last for years, and many parts can be recycled at the end of their useful life. It also allows the design to be adapted without having to rebuild everything from scratch, significantly reducing the environmental footprint of trade fair marketing.
In conclusion, a modular stand is ideal for companies that frequently participate in events and want a functional, adaptable and more economical solution.
What is a customised stand?
A customised stand is designed from scratch, combining creativity, temporary architecture and branding to create a space that is 100% aligned with your visual identity and commercial objectives.
Advantages of a customised stand:
- Maximum visual impact
A customised stand allows you to create a visual concept that is fully aligned with your brand identity. This type of stand tends to be more eye-catching because it breaks with the repetitive or generic structures of modular stands. A good customised design turns your space into a natural attraction within the trade fair, multiplying opportunities for interaction with potential customers. - Exclusive design: Each element adapts to your needs.
Each customised stand is unique, created from scratch for you, taking into account your objectives, your product, your target audience and the type of event. This allows you to convey specific values, concepts or messages through shapes, materials, lighting or spatial distribution. Whether you are launching a new product, need private meeting spaces or want to stand out from your competitors, a customised stand can be fully tailored to your needs. - More creative freedom
There are no limits to a customised stand. You can create double-height structures, curved shapes, eye-catching volumes, lighting effects, guided tours, or even stage sets. This creative freedom allows you to develop immersive experiences that connect more deeply with visitors. It is the ideal type of stand for brands that are committed to experiential storytelling. - Greater potential for technological integration
A customised stand provides the space and technical planning necessary to integrate advanced technological solutions that enhance the brand experience, such as LED screens, virtual reality, etc. These tools not only capture attention, but also allow interactions to be measured. and offer dynamic content.
In conclusion, a customised stand is ideal for brands that want to stand out, launch products, generate awareness or seek a powerful and memorable user experience.
Both modular stands and customised stands have clear advantages. The ideal choice will depend on your business objectives, budget and brand strategy.
The important thing is not just being at the fair, but how you are there. A well-designed stand can make the difference between going unnoticed and becoming one of the most visited spaces at the event.
Are you seeking personalised advice for your next stand? At Dextail, we are experts in the design and construction of modular and customised stands. We help you find the best solution to make your brand shine at trade fairs and events.