When it comes to exhibitions, chosing your exhibition stand is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Not only does it define how your brand is perceived, but it also affects your logistics, costs, and long-term flexibility. Two of the most common options are modular stands and custom-built stands. But which one is right for your business?

Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of each – and why modular stands are often the most practical and strategic solution, especially in 2025’s fast-paced exhibition world.

What Is a Modular Stand?

A modular stand is made from pre-engineered components that can be assembled in various configurations. It’s like a high-end building kit: versatile, professional, and designed to be reused and adapted to different layouts and spaces.

On the other hand, a custom-built stand is tailored specifically for one brand and often for a specific event. Every detail – from the structure to the graphics and furniture – is uniquely designed and built from scratch.

Advantages of Modular Stands

✅ Cost-effective over time
One of the biggest benefits of a modular stand is that it can be reused for multiple events. Once you invest in a high-quality system, you can adapt it for different booth sizes or marketing campaigns without starting from zero.

✅ Quick and easy setup
Modular stands are designed for efficiency. They’re lightweight, easy to transport, and can often be assembled without tools – saving you time, effort, and labor costs.

✅ Flexible and scalable
You can start small and scale up your stand over time by adding new panels, lightboxes, or accessories. This makes modular systems ideal for growing businesses and brands that attend multiple types of events.

✅ Eco-friendly
Because they are reusable and often made from recyclable materials, modular stands are a more sustainable choice compared to custom builds that may be discarded after one use.

✅ Storage-friendly
Modular components are designed to be compact and easy to store, which helps minimize warehouse space and reduces wear and tear between events.

Disadvantages of Modular Stands

- Limited creative freedom
Although modular stands can look amazing, there are some limitations in terms of complex shapes or very unique design features. However, modern modular systems – like those offered by Formtex – are pushing these limits more than ever.

- Not always suitable for highly artistic or thematic builds
If your brand relies on theatrical impact or highly immersive storytelling, a custom-built stand may allow more creative freedom.

Advantages of Custom-Built Stands

✅ Fully tailored experience
Custom stands are ideal when you want a one-of-a-kind experience that immerses visitors in your brand world. From unique materials to architectural features, the possibilities are endless.

✅ Maximum visual impact
A well-designed bespoke stand can be a showstopper – creating a memorable impression through bold design and immersive elements.

✅ Great for flagship events
If your company participates in just one or two key expos each year, investing in a custom stand might make sense for maximum impact.

Disadvantages of Custom-Built Stands

High costs
Custom stands can be expensive to design, produce, transport, and assemble. And because they’re usually built for a specific event, they are not easily reusable.

Time-consuming
Custom builds require more planning, approvals, and execution time. Any changes or adaptations may delay the project or increase costs.

Less flexible
A custom stand designed for a specific space or layout is not always adaptable to future events with different stand sizes or requirements.

Not ideal for frequent exhibitors
If you’re attending multiple trade shows per year, the logistics and cost of using custom builds for each one can quickly become unmanageable.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you attend several exhibitions a year?

• Are flexibility and reusability important to your team?

• Do you want a cost-effective, easy-to-use solution that evolves with your brand?

If the answer is yes to any of the above, a modular stand is likely your best bet. It offers a professional look with modern design flexibility – without the heavy investment or logistical complexity of a custom build.

That said, if you’re planning a major product launch, or you're aiming for a "wow" effect at a single flagship event, a custom-built stand could offer the impact you're looking for.

At Formtex, we believe that a successful stand is one that balances form, function, and strategy. Our modular systems are designed to be practical, stylish, and scalable – ideal for companies that want flexibility and impact without compromise.

Not sure which option suits your brand best? Let’s talk! Our team is ready to help you choose the right stand solution for your next event – and make sure it delivers results.