How do I fix common pop-up stand problems?

What is a magnetic pop-up stand?

A magnetic pop-up stand is an expanding frame with roll-up graphic panels that attach to it by magnets. Our Executive pop-up exhibition stand works this way: a pop-up frame with magnetic support bars, roll-up graphic panels and a hard-shell wheeled case. Assembly needs no tools and takes minutes.

Because the panels hang on the frame and the bars, most problems on the day come down to three things: a frame that isn't fully open, a support bar that isn't seated, or a panel that isn't lined up on its magnets.

Why do pop-up stands sag or come apart?

Many faults start at pack-down. A frame collapsed with the bars still fitted, or panels squashed into the case, put strain on the parts that hold the wall flat. The steps below fix the common problems on site.

IMPORTANT: Our Executive pop-up carries a 1 year warranty on the non-graphic components, for the original owner. It doesn't cover mistreatment or normal wear and tear. If your stand is under warranty, call us before you try to straighten or replace anything.

Steps to fix sagging or uneven graphic panels

1. Take the panels off and check the frame is fully expanded. Stand in front of or behind the frame and pull it open from the middle until it can't open any further.

2. Check the frame isn't upside down. The spotlights clip onto the top of the frame, so if you can't find the clips, turn the frame over.

3. Level the frame. Stand it on a flat floor and check it doesn't rock. A frame on an uneven floor pulls the panels out of line.

4. Re-hang the panels in order, starting from the centre. Line each panel's edges up down the centre of the magnetic bar, so neighbouring panels meet edge to edge.

Note: Panels are often labelled on the back. Sort them into order on the floor before you start.

Steps to fix loose magnetic bars

1. Find the loose bar. A bar that isn't seated lets the panels on either side bulge or drop.

2. Refit the bars from the bottom up. Line each bar up with the centre of the hub on the frame and push it on until it snaps into place.

3. Check the bar is straight. A bent bar won't sit flat on the hubs, so the panels won't either. Set it aside and contact us for a replacement bar rather than forcing it in.

Steps to deal with a bent frame arm

1. Stop and don't force it. If the frame won't open or close smoothly, or an arm is visibly kinked, forcing it can make the damage worse.

2. Collapse the frame gently. Take off every panel and every magnetic bar first, then fold it closed slowly.

IMPORTANT: Always remove the magnetic bars before you collapse the frame.

3. Take a photo of the damaged arm and contact us with it. We sell replacement frame arms.

Finally, pack it down the right way

Take the panels off and roll each one up, graphic side out. Remove all the magnetic bars and keep them together, then collapse the frame and pack everything into the hard-shell wheeled case. Store the case in a cool, dry place, and you're done!

If the panels themselves are creased or out of date, we can produce a new or replacement set of graphic panels to fit your existing Executive frame. Looking after a pull-up banner too? See our guide on how to fix a retractable banner stand.