The Contractor Decision Is More Critical Than You Think
We’ve seen it happen too many times: a brand books the cheapest quote, the stand arrives late, the graphics are wrong, and the most important trade show of the year becomes a disaster. Choosing your exhibition stand contractor is one of the highest-stakes procurement decisions your marketing team makes.
1. Do You Have an In-House Workshop?
Contractors who outsource fabrication to third parties lose quality control and add unnecessary markup. Ask for a factory visit — any credible contractor will welcome you.
2. What Is Your On-Time Delivery Rate?
The industry average is 87%. Top contractors like ExpoLexi maintain 98%+. Ask for client references specifically on delivery performance at high-pressure shows.
3. Can You Show Me 5 Recent Stands in My Industry?
Industry-specific experience matters enormously. A pharma stand at CPHI has different regulatory requirements than a consumer goods stand at Ambiente.
4. Who Will Be My Dedicated Project Manager?
You need one named contact with direct mobile access — not a call centre. Confirm this in writing before signing.
5. Do You Handle Venue Regulations and Permits?
Major European venues have strict technical requirements. Your contractor must know these inside out.
6. What Materials Do You Use?
For European shows, fire-rated materials (B1 in Germany, M1 in France) are mandatory. Failure to comply can result in your stand being refused entry to the hall.
7. Can You Handle International Logistics?
Customs carnets, import paperwork and local transport coordination are complex. A contractor with an in-house logistics team is worth significantly more.
8. What Does Your Contract Cover If Something Goes Wrong?
Understand exactly what is and isn’t covered. Who pays for on-site repairs? What happens if a component goes missing in transit?
9. Do You Provide Storage Between Shows?
If you exhibit multiple times per year, modular storage between events can save you 30–40% on annual build costs.
10. Can You Provide 3D Visualisations Before Sign-Off?
Never approve a stand design from a 2D floor plan alone. Photorealistic 3D renders are the minimum standard in 2025.