Booking the exhibition stand builder is probably the most crucial decision for the fate of your event. There is more to the booth than an ordinary marketing space – it is the company’s face in three dimensions. The smallest mistake in communication can ruin thousands of pounds and the reputation of the business. However, finding a reliable partner with no hidden catches may seem like an almost impossible task. But it is possible. The key is to ask the right questions. Here are 10 crucial questions that can help you find an affordable and competent builder who will deliver the project on time. Let’s begin…
1. Is The Company Able to Provide a Full Range of Services from Design to Installation?
Although it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option on the market, the risks involved in such a decision may be enormous. One of the most common mistakes is to assume that a design agency or a broker can provide a full range of services, while in reality, they simply subcontract the work to manufacturers. The ideal choice is to book an exhibition stand builder who will control the production from start to finish. Not only will such a company provide high standards of quality due to the personal involvement in each stage, but it will also save you precious time and effort.
2. Can I See Examples of Completed Stands?
The portfolios can be misleading, as some exhibition stand companies specialize in creating stunning 3D prototypes that rarely see the light of day. Ask to see the pictures of the completed stands that are currently on the exhibition sites. Request specific images relevant to your needs, i.e., inquire about the stands of the required size and complexity. That way, you will be able to ensure that the builder has the necessary skills to manufacture a full-scale prototype based on the initial concept.
3. Which Details Are Covered and Not Covered by the Quotation?
It may come as a shock to some clients, but the differences in the quotation figures may be explained by the discrepancies in the services included. The best option is to request a detailed breakdown of costs and ensure that the builder covers all the necessary elements. Some companies may quote a lower price for the design and construction but add several tens of thousands of pounds for the transportation and graphic printing. Make sure that the quotation explicitly states the inclusions and exclusions. Ask for clarification on whether the final cost covers the dismantling and disposal of the structure, additional charges imposed by the venues, and other potential expenses.
4. What Materials and Methods Will Be Used to Construct the Stand?
The materials used for the construction determine the overall look and feel of the booth. That’s why you must request a detailed list of all the materials and construction methods that the manufacturer will use, e.g., wood, metal, textile, paints, etc. Low-quality composite materials may damage the reputation of the business beyond repair, as they tend to be highly susceptible to scratches and bumps. In addition, ask if they will provide eco-friendly options for sustainable businesses.
5. Can The Builder Take Care of Venue Compliance, Permits, and Electrical Permits?
Building the exhibition stand involves a series of documentation formalities, which may be highly time-consuming for the business. Some builders can provide a full range of services, from submitting the risk assessment and method statements to all the electrical orders. Such companies usually have extensive knowledge of the requirements of the venues and their specific regulations. In addition, it is worth discussing the possibility of submitting the documents in time to receive early-bird discounts.
6. What Is the Project Timeline?
Time is arguably the most valuable asset for the exhibition business. Thus, a tight deadline for the construction of the booth is rarely an option. Ask to see a detailed project plan that will outline all the major stages and dates. The schedule should include the expected dates for the layout approval, product testing, fabrication, and transit. Having a clear picture of the timeline will help you to submit the necessary graphic files and approve the final designs in time.
7. How Flexible Are They in Case of Design Changes or Emergency Requests?
The initial plan for the booth rarely remains the same during the production process. Changes in the corporate identity or unforeseen circumstances with the exhibition stand dimensions two weeks before the event can be highly stressful. Ask the builder about the revision policy and the costs involved in the emergency changes. A competent builder with extensive experience will always have an efficient system in place in case of modifications to the booth design.
8. Will I Have an Assigned Project Manager on Site?
Some of the large exhibition agencies have a policy of assigning a project manager to each client throughout the duration of the project. However, in many cases, the employee who initially handles the request receives no further involvement in the process. Ask the company to provide an exact list of project managers that you will be dealing with. Inquire whether the project manager will be present on the day of the event to answer any questions and oversee the final stage of the booth construction.
9. What Level of On-Site Support Can I Expect During the Event?
The responsibility of the builder does not end on the day of the event. Technical issues with the audiovisual equipment and the overall appearance of the booth may require emergency fixes during the days of the exhibition. Ask the company about the technical support they will provide at the venue in case of breakdowns or other issues. Find out what to do if a cleaner accidentally damages the booth and how long does it take for the technical staff to arrive on site.
10. Can The Components of the Stand Be Reused or Stored for Future Events?
If the company plans to participate in multiple exhibitions throughout the year, it may be worthwhile asking the builder if the components of the stand can be reused for another event. The ideal option is to choose an exhibition stand builder who will design the booth in such a way that its parts can be reassembled differently for future events. It will also be helpful to discuss the storage solutions offered by the manufacturers. In some cases, the builder may charge additional fees for the storage of the booth components between the events.
Conclusion
The answers to these questions will ensure that the exhibition stand builder will not only provide high standards of service but also be transparent about the process and pricing. In addition, a reliable partner will always provide the support needed during the event. If you are looking for an exhibition stand builder and contractor that can help you in building your dream booth without any stress, hire Expert Exhibits GmbH today. We are the best exhibition stand design company for your next display. Call us now and get your booth!
