The Ultimate Handbook To Modular Display Stands

Good news first! The UK exhibitions industry is bouncing back. It is showing strong resurgence and promising results post-pandemic, which means business is thriving. So, if you are considering whether to buy or hire an exhibition stand, you are on the right track.

It’s a great time to get information on modular display stands for exhibitions, and we are here to guide you. 

Let’s explore different types of modular display stands then their benefits. But don’t worry, we won’t just stop there! We will also assist you in determining whether these stands are do-it-yourself kind or not. If so, we will walk you through the process of setting up modular exhibition stands.

But before we indulge in details, let’s first understand the basics of modular exhibition stands.

What is a modular display stand?

A modular display stand is an exhibition stand that can be adjusted in size. These portable exhibition displays can easily be assembled according to the design. Modular exhibition stands fit together and can be connected in different combinations to achieve the desired style.

Modular displays are popular compared to traditional exhibition stands because of their convenience and usage benefits. 

Benefits of Modular Displays

Deciding the type of display stand is part of exhibition stand planning. And there is more than one reason why exhibitors prefer modular stands for exhibitions. Here, I am going to discuss the ones that set them apart from other exhibition stands:

Flexibility and adaptability

First things first, if there’s one thing that makes modular display stands special is its flexible nature. You can create modular exhibition stands in various layouts depending on your imaginative exhibition design.

Modular display systems come in different shapes and sizes, but they all consist of a basic frame. You can use multiple components as building blocks to create a modular display stand of the desired size. They are easy to break down and rebuild according to the new structure design, brand needs, and space usage.

Quick and easy setup

Setting up an exhibition stand is tough and often tedious for participants. If you have ever been to an exhibition, you know the dreadful working conditions and strict deadlines. 

Believe me, I have been to exhibitions, and installing exhibition stands in the perfect way is no joke. This is why I am a strong supporter of modular display stands. They are easy to assemble and set up in the desired shape without breaking a sweat.

The biggest benefit of modular exhibition displays is that you won’t need a professional setup crew. You can install your stand in a hassle-free way in minimal setup time without requiring tools.

Ease of transportation and storage

Logistics is another area where modular display stands take the lead over their counterparts. Most companies that provide modular exhibition stands hire services deliver pre-built systems to your location. But if you have bought one of your own, transporting it won’t be difficult.

Modular stands are compact and lightweight, which means you can transport these stands on your own. Since they are made of modular systems, you can quickly install them when you are on a tight schedule. I am fond of modular exhibition systems for this very reason. When the job is done, you can easily dismantle them.

It doesn’t matter whether yours is a large, medium-sized, or small modular stand; you can pull it apart in small and manageable pieces. This makes packing easier for your team at the end of an exhibition. The little to no transportation and storage requirements reduce logistical costs and make them ideal for companies attending multiple exhibitions.

Economical and reasonably priced

Modular display stands are economical for exhibitors, considering their usage and lifetime value. Aside from the initial buying cost, their economic benefits come from their transportation, adaptability, and installation features.

The economic benefits of modular stands for exhibitions include:

• Reusability (can be used in multiple events and different layouts)
• Low transportation costs
• Lower setup and dismantling costs (labour and time) 
• Minimal maintenance charges

Companies that frequently participate in exhibitions and events can achieve a higher return on investment with modular stands. Since they will be reusing the same components for multiple events, the initial cost is spread over time.

Sustainability and eco-friendliness

Anything which we can reuse or recycle is eco-friendly, and the same is the case with modular exhibition systems. You will minimise industrial waste by reusing the same structures and only updating the graphics. Furthermore, modern modular stands are made from materials like recyclable plastics and aluminium.

And let’s not forget, you can attract more people to your exhibition stand by showing your eco-friendliness.

Types Of Modular Exhibition Displays

There are different types of modular exhibition displays available on the market, and we’ll be discussing the top three here:

Pop-up modular display stands

These are linkable modular display stands, and they work exactly as the name suggests. You can connect more than one pop-up modular stand for exhibitions to create your ideal display. Such exhibition stands are more suitable for shell schemes or events requiring multiple frames.

Fabric modular exhibition displays

If you plan to attend retail expos or smaller exhibitions, choose fabric modular stands.

Fabric modular exhibition displays are made of large, interconnected rectangular or square aluminium frames. Tension graphics are usually fitted across the frame according to the design and space requirements. The best thing about fabric modular stands is that you can use them to create back walls at exhibitions.

Custom modular exhibition systems

You may have to spend extra on a custom modular exhibition system, but the investment is worth it. With customisation comes the freedom to choose suitable graphics, which further instils brand identity.

Custom modular stands also require some effort to install, as you have to push-fit the graphics into the frame. So, I recommend that you train the staff about the installation and dismantling of custom modular displays.

How big are modular displays?

Modular exhibition displays come in all shapes and sizes, small and big, and are easy to reconfigure. You can hire a small 2x3m modular display stand for exhibitions or buy a frame with 10m back walls. However, the standard sizes of modular display stands are 2x3m, 3x3m and 4x3m.

Depending on your needs, you can rent L-shaped exhibition stands and U-shaped modular stands with back walls. Custom modular exhibition stand hire services can also provide you with even more personalised sizes or shapes depending upon your unique requirements.

Are they do-it-yourself exhibition stands? 

Modular displays are somewhat do-it-yourself exhibition stands, but remember to consider the size. Above all, make sure that the seller or rental company guarantees that the products are “self-build exhibition stands.” Due to their size, it’s easy to connect and assemble a modular display stand for smaller exhibitions. However, installing custom exhibition stands is a whole new ball game.

So, if you are buying a more customised or high-end modular display stand, training becomes necessary. This will provide you with reassurance that your team can assemble and dismantle modular exhibition systems on their own.

When and why to use a modular stand?

You should hire and use modular exhibition stands:

• If you want to install an exhibition stand in a limited time.
• If you wish to participate in multiple exhibitions but want to save both time and money.
• If you want complete creative freedom to represent your brand with flexibility. You can connect or integrate various modules into the structure to further enhance the overall design look.
• If you want to self-build an impressive display stand while protecting the environment.
• If you need a one-size-fits-all structure and design for different stand spaces. 

How to set up an exhibition stand – Assembling Modular Displays 

Different modular displays require different assembling techniques. Therefore, it’s essential for an avid exhibitor to learn how to set up a modular exhibition stand.

Installing a Pop-up modular display stand

Obviously, you will have to extend the frame of your pop-up exhibition stand fully. One thing that you should keep in mind is fixing the magnetic bars on the frame. This will make sure that the graphics are properly attached.

Setting up a fabric modular exhibition display

The frame of a fabric modular display is made of aluminium tubes that connect together. Next, you have to slide the graphics over the frame and create tension by zip-closing it.

Installing a custom modular exhibition system

Custom modular systems consist of numbered aluminium frames, which you have to assemble using an Allen key. Once the frame is ready, you can push the graphics into the channels. A Pro tip is to taper edges using Silicone. It makes adjusting graphics and creating tension super easy to ensure better visibility.

Should you invest in modular display stands?

Investing in modular display stands for exhibitions is a wise choice if you plan to participate actively. You can save time, money, and the environment simultaneously without requiring a skilled crew for setup. Modular exhibition systems are easy to install, and your team can quickly set them up on their own.

If you are still unclear, feeling double-minded, or having second thoughts, contact EMS Events. Ask our seasoned experts, and they will help you make an informed decision after hearing your requirements.