Exhibition Stand and Display Maker
Design and build custom exhibition stands and shop displays for local firms and trade show exhibitors.
- £4k-20k
- Part-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
What it is
A small workshop that designs and builds modular exhibition stands, counters, shelving and point-of-sale displays in wood, board, metal or acrylic, made to a client's brand and brief.
Your first three steps
- Make two or three sample stands or counters and photograph them for a simple portfolio
- Find a workshop unit or shared makers' space and price up your tools and materials
- Introduce yourself to local exhibition contractors, print shops and marketing agencies who need a reliable maker
Who pays
Small and medium businesses exhibiting at trade shows, exhibition stand contractors, retailers, brands and marketing agencies.
How it makes money
A quoted price per project covering design, materials and making, plus extra for delivery, installation and storage between shows. Repeat orders and re-useable stands help build steady work.
Skills that help
- Woodworking or fabrication
- Basic design or CAD drawing
- Accurate quoting and costing
- Working to tight show deadlines
Watch out for
- Public liability and product liability insurance, plus employer's liability if you hire
- Fire safety rules for materials used at exhibition venues; check what venues and organisers require
- Workshop safety, dust extraction and machine training; check HSE guidance
- Check your unit's planning use class and lease terms before you commit
- Fixed show dates mean late delivery can cost you the client
🔒 Full research report for UK
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start an exhibition stand business?
Startup costs are typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on your workshop, machinery and materials. Monthly revenue is estimated at around £1,500 to £7,500, depending on the number and size of projects you win.
What rules should I check for making exhibition stands?
Check fire safety rules for materials used at exhibition venues, and what venues and organisers require. Also check workshop safety, dust extraction and machine training against HSE guidance, plus your unit's planning use class and lease terms.
What skills do I need to make display stands?
Useful skills include woodworking or fabrication, basic design or CAD drawing, accurate quoting and costing, and working to tight show deadlines. Fixed show dates mean late delivery can cost you the client.
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