Exhibition stand design and build workshop

Exhibiting businesses, event organisers and marketing agencies that outsource stands.

Fixed quote per stand covering design, build, graphics, transport and install, plus extras like storage and reuse of stands for repeat shows.

• Carpentry or fabrication
• Basic 3D design and drawing
• Quoting and project scheduling
• Dealing with clients under deadline pressure

• Public liability insurance, as venues often ask for a certificate with a minimum cover amount, so check each venue's requirements
• Any electrical work on stands must usually be done by a licensed electrician, check your state's rules
• Check whether workers need a construction induction (white card) or other tickets for venue sites
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire staff or casuals, check your state scheme
• Tight, fixed show dates mean late or failed builds are costly, so build in buffer time
• Check council zoning for your workshop and rules on noise and dust

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your workshop rent, tools and equipment, and how much you spend on materials and software. Treat these as estimates and get your own quotes before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on how many stands you build, the size of each job and how busy the trade show calendar is. That is revenue before costs such as materials, rent and wages.

Check each venue's public liability requirements, as they often ask for a certificate with minimum cover. Also check your state's rules on electrical work by licensed electricians, white card or venue tickets, workers compensation once you hire, and council zoning for noise and dust.