A Practical Guide on Shell Schemes for Exhibitors

What is a shell scheme?

A shell scheme stand is a stand structure that comes pre-built, often provided by the event organiser. In most cases, a shell scheme stand consists of a lightweight aluminium frame, wall panels and a fascia board, which is a sign that has your company name. The stand can then be customised exactly how you’d like it, with your own graphics and furniture.

Why are shell schemes popular?

You’ll notice a lot of shell schemes at exhibitions and trade shows, as they are an incredibly popular type of stand. Shell scheme stands are cost-effective, as having the basic structure means not having to invest in a bespoke stand, which can keep costs down. However, as they are customisable, you can still create a high-impact exhibition stand.

Event organisers set them up in advance in most cases, so that you won’t have to worry about managing the construction of the stand. If you’re a first-time exhibitor this is particularly beneficial, as there is already so much to juggle, but anyone exhibiting will benefit from the convenience of a shell scheme. By having it already constructed, it reduces setup time and makes event logistics easier.

For organisers, shell schemes help to keep everything look consistent, as having uniform, organised exhibition stands can create a better experience for exhibitors and visitors.

What is and isn't usually included in a shell scheme package?

Although show scheme packages will vary across events and organisers, there are some components that are always included. The structure itself is included, which comprises metal uprights and wall panels. In most shell schemes, a fascia board will be included, which is the sign that goes above your stand and features your company name and stand number, to help visitors identify you as they move around the hall.

Depending on the show package, basic lighting and power may be included, although the number and type of lights will vary according to the stand size and event. However, as this varies by organiser and venue, you will need to check the stand package information and exhibitor manual carefully to see what’s included in your stand.

Whilst the wall panels are usually provided in a shell scheme, you will need to source printed graphics to cover them. Furniture also doesn’t come as standard in a shell scheme, so if you need tables, chairs, counters or display units, these will need to be hired separately as part of a stand package.

Flooring upgrades, additional power supplies, audiovisual equipment and storage solutions also need to be ordered as extras, as they aren’t included in a basic shell scheme packaged. Because of this, it’s so important to check in advance what is going to be provided - promotional stand images might show a stand that’s fully kitted out, but that’s not to say all the extras are included.

How to shell scheme graphics work?

One of the main things exhibitors need to understand about shell scheme graphics is that they are designed to fit the individual panels, not the overall stand dimensions. For example, if a stand is 3m wide, it doesn’t mean that there is 3m of printable graphic space. This is because the framework contains uprights and connecting sections that reduce the amount of space available for graphics.

Because of this, shell scheme graphics need to be printed according to the dimensions of the individual panels. Depending on the shell scheme, a single wall might be split up into multiple panels that each require its own specifications.

The last thing you need when you’re preparing for an event is to find out that your graphics are printed to the wrong dimensions, so you must make sure that you don’t estimate the graphic sizes based on stand dimensions alone. Instead, use the official panel measurements provided by the event organiser or stand contractor.

How many panels do I need?

There’s no exact answer to this question, as the number of panels you will need depends on a few different factors. Of course stand size is a consideration, but the layout of the stand will also impact this. Stands with one open side will have more wall space than a corner stand with two open sides, so will need more graphic panels.

Similarly, the type of shell scheme you choose will affect the number of panels, as they will all have different panel widths and configurations. Two stands could be the same size, but it doesn’t automatically mean they have the same number of panels.

Before putting in your order for graphics, review your stand plan carefully and confirm the shell scheme that you will be using to get an exact picture of how many panels are available and what graphic sizes you’ll need. 

Common shell scheme mistakes exhibitors make

Accidents happen, and if you’re a first-time exhibitor, there are some particularly common mistakes that we have seen first-hand…

Ordering the wrong number of panels
This most frequently happens when exhibitors overlook open sides on their stand, or don’t consider the specific shell scheme configuration that is being used. Always double check how many panels your stand will need before ordering graphics.

Leaving artwork too late
We know how many plates you have to spin in the runup to an event, so it’s little surprise that for some exhibitors, this can result in last-minute submissions. Late artwork submissions can lead to rush charges and production delays, and there’s not much wiggle room to correct errors, so make sure to submit artwork as soon as possible.

Not planning the stand layout
Think carefully about how the additional items you will be incorporating into your stand design - you don’t want to go to the effort of printing wall graphics only to end up blocking them from view with roller banners or furniture! Plan the layout in advance to ensure you’re creating a more effective space.

Forgetting to organise extras
Not everything that you’ll need is included in a shell scheme package, such as furniture or storage. Check what your package comes with to make sure that you have plenty of time to organise purchasing or hiring your stand extras.

How GES can help

Getting to grips with shell scheme specifications can be a challenge, especially if you’ve never done it before. GES works with exhibitors to make the process as easy as possible. Read our FAQs for more insights.

At GES-supported events, we can offer guidance on shell scheme systems, panel dimensions, graphic specifications and ordering requirements, as well as graphic options and stand enhancements. We want to make the experience as stress-free as possible for exhibitors, helping them to avoid unexpected costs and last-minute panics. Get in touch with the team today.