Small exhibition stand design and build studio

Small and medium businesses exhibiting at trade fairs, plus event organisers and marketing agencies that outsource stand work.

Fixed project fees per stand covering design, build and installation, with extra income from graphics, storage, repeat shows and stand hire.

• Design and 3D visualisation basics
• Joinery or fabrication
• Quoting, project planning and sales

• Public liability, employer's liability (once you hire) and cover for goods in transit and your workshop contents
• Venue rules on fire-retardant materials, structural safety and electrical work, so check what each venue requires
• Electrical elements should be fitted by a qualified person
• Health and safety duties when managing builds, including construction design and management rules, so check what applies to you
• Late changes, tight deadlines and cash flow, so use deposits and written scope agreements
• Check planning and lease terms for workshop use of a unit

Startup costs are typically around £6,000 to £30,000, depending on your workshop, equipment and transport. These are estimates, so get quotes for your own unit and tools before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on how many stands you build and the size of each project. Late changes and tight deadlines can affect cash flow, so consider deposits.

Check insurance including public liability, employer's liability once you hire, and goods in transit. Check venue rules on fire-retardant materials, structural safety and electrical work, plus health and safety duties, and your workshop's planning and lease terms.