What Is Included in a Shell Scheme Exhibition Stand?

"Shell scheme" is one of those exhibition terms everyone nods along to until it's their first stand. Knowing exactly what's included avoids the two most common surprises: paying for something that was already provided, or discovering on bump-in day that something essential wasn't. Here's a plain-language breakdown of what a shell scheme usually covers and what exhibitors typically need to add themselves.

Outline

1. Quick answer
2. What a shell scheme usually includes
3. What exhibitors commonly need to add
4. Shell scheme versus space-only
5. Common mistakes to avoid
6. A simple checklist
7. Frequently asked questions
8. Talk to Displays 2 Go

Quick answer

A shell scheme exhibition stand typically includes basic walls, a fascia sign with your company name, carpet and basic lighting. It generally does not include furniture, power beyond a single outlet if any, internet, additional display equipment or graphics beyond the fascia. Confirm the exact inclusions for your specific event with the organiser, since packages vary between venues and exhibitions.

What a shell scheme usually includes

• Modular walls forming the boundary of your stand
• A fascia board with your company name in standard signage
• Basic carpet across the stand floor
• Basic overhead or spotlight lighting

What exhibitors commonly need to add

• Furniture such as counters, seating and product displays
• Additional power outlets beyond what's included
• Internet or wifi access
• Branded graphics beyond the standard fascia signage
• Audio-visual equipment, screens or digital displays
• Storage for stock, bags and personal items
• Additional lighting for products or feature areas

Shell scheme versus space-only

Shell scheme gives you a ready-made structure with limited design freedom, which suits exhibitors who want a straightforward setup without commissioning a custom build. Space-only booking gives you an empty floor footprint with complete design freedom, but every element — walls, flooring, power, lighting — needs to be arranged and approved separately. Space-only usually means more planning time and often a larger budget, but allows a fully custom stand design.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Assuming furniture or power is included without checking the organiser's package details
• Ordering fascia graphics that duplicate what's already included
• Leaving additional power or internet orders until close to the event, when supplier lead times are longer
• Not confirming height restrictions if you plan to add graphics above the standard wall height

A simple checklist

1. Get the organiser's exact shell scheme inclusion list in writing.
2. Compare it against what your stand needs to function.
3. List everything missing: furniture, power, internet, graphics, storage.
4. Order additional items with enough lead time before the event.
5. Confirm height and structural restrictions for any added graphics.

Frequently asked questions

Does a shell scheme include a counter or table?

Usually not. Furniture is typically ordered separately, either through the event's official supplier or brought in independently, depending on the event's rules.

Can I put my own graphics over the shell scheme walls?

Often yes, within the organiser's guidelines. Confirm fixing methods, since some events restrict what can be attached to shell-scheme panels.

Is power included in a shell scheme package?

This varies by event. Some include a single outlet, others charge separately for any power connection. Always confirm before assuming it's covered.

Talk to Displays 2 Go

Displays 2 Go can help you fill the gaps in a shell scheme stand with furniture, graphics, lighting and display equipment. Bring your organiser's inclusion list, and we'll help identify exactly what else your stand needs.