Shell Scheme vs Custom Exhibition Stall: Which Should You Choose?
Shell scheme, custom build or modular booth — how the three compare on cost, lead time and brand impact, and how to pick the right one for your show.
By Expo Stalls Fabrication · Published 3 October 2026
Choose a shell scheme when you need a quick, lower-cost presence at a smaller or first-time show. Choose a custom exhibition stall when brand impact, product display or space planning matters enough to justify a longer build and a higher budget. A modular booth is the middle option for exhibitors who show regularly.
Shell Scheme
- Standard walls, fascia and basic lighting supplied or built to a template
- Faster to install in a tight move-in window
- Lower cost and fewer decisions
- Limited design and branding flexibility
- Best for first shows, small in-line booths and short events
Custom Stall
- Designed around your brand, products and visitor flow
- Allows meeting areas, storage, feature walls and bespoke lighting
- Longer lead time: design sign-off, materials and build
- Higher cost, quoted against the final drawing
- Best for flagship shows, island booths and brand launches
Modular exhibition booths are built from reusable panels and frames. You pay for the system once and reconfigure it for different booth sizes and shows, which can reduce the cost per show if you exhibit several times a year. The trade-off is a more standardised look than a one-off custom build.
Shell-scheme fit-outs are usually the cheapest route, modular systems sit in the middle, and custom builds vary the most because size, materials and joinery change the price. As an indicative reference, a 10×10 ft booth typically starts from around PKR 94,499, and a custom piece or larger island stand rises from there depending on the design. Treat these as starting points only — the final price is quoted against your drawing. Our exhibition stall cost guide shows starting prices by size and type.
Ask these questions before choosing a format.
- How important is brand impact at this show? If visitors compare many stands, a custom design helps you stand out.
- How much time do you have? With less than four weeks, a shell scheme or modular booth is usually the realistic choice.
- Will you exhibit again? Repeat exhibitors often get better value from modular or reusable systems.
- What does the booth need to hold? Heavy products, demonstrations or private meetings point towards custom.
- What does the organiser allow? Check the exhibitor manual for height limits, flooring and electrical rules.
A rough guide: 4 to 6 weeks for a shell-scheme fit-out or modular booth, and 8 weeks or more for a custom stall. Peak exhibition months need more lead time because fabrication slots and hall access both tighten. For a step-by-step view of the build, read how expo stall fabrication works.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a shell scheme stall?
A shell scheme is a standard booth package — walls, fascia and basic lighting — that exhibitors brand with graphics and furniture. It is quick to install and usually the lowest-cost option.
Is a custom exhibition stall worth the extra cost?
It is worth it when brand presence, product display or meeting space directly affect your results at the show. For small or first-time exhibitions, a shell scheme is often enough.
Can I upgrade a shell scheme with custom elements?
In many cases yes — feature walls, counters, lighting and branded graphics can be added, subject to the organiser's rules. Check the exhibitor manual first.
Which is faster to build?
Shell schemes and modular booths are faster. Custom stalls need design approval, materials and a full build, so they need a longer lead time.
How do I get an accurate price?
Send your booth size, hall, show dates and brand details. We quote against the final drawing, so the price reflects your actual materials and finish.
Not Sure Which Format Fits?
Tell us your show, booth size and budget range, and we will recommend shell scheme, modular or custom.