How much does a booth at a trade show cost?

There’s no single answer, but there is a clear way to figure it out

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Want to know how much YOUR booth will cost?

We know every company and every trade show is different. That’s why we created a tool that lets you estimate the approximate cost of your fully assembled booth—using our new VisualWall system—in under a minute

When a company decides to take part in a trade show, there’s always one question that comes up before making the leap: how much does a booth cost? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are several key factors that directly impact the final budget. In this post, we’ll help you understand all the variables that affect booth pricing—and we’ll share a tool that lets you calculate your budget online in under a minute.

Taking part in a trade show: investment or expense?

A booth isn’t just a physical space inside an exhibition hall. It’s your business card, your temporary storefront, your showcase. And its cost depends on much more than just the square footage. Making smart choices and planning strategically can be the difference between going unnoticed and making valuable connections—and sales.

Booth types: modular, custom-built, or hybrid?

The first step in estimating the cost of a booth is knowing exactly what type you need. Here’s a breakdown of the main options:

Modular booth

It’s the most affordable and quickest option. It uses pre-configured structures that can be customized with your own graphics. Perfect if you’re just starting out or attending multiple trade shows on a tight budget. Prices typically start at €150 per square meter.

Custom-built booth

Fully custom-designed. Ideal if you’re aiming for strong visual impact, want to stand out from the competition, and showcase your brand identity. Prices typically range from €300 to €600 per square meter, depending on the level of customization and materials used.

Hybrid booth

A combination of modular structure and custom-built elements. It delivers an attractive look at a more balanced cost. Highly recommended for companies looking to level up their presence without going over budget.

Factors that influence the cost of a booth

Beyond the type of structure, there are other key elements that play a major role in determining how much a booth at a professional trade show will cost.

Surface area (m²)

It’s the foundation of your budget. You’re not just paying more for taking up more space—you’ll also need more structure, more design work, and more staff. Most costs are calculated per square meter, and this is where a large portion of your investment goes.

Materials and finishes

The difference between a booth with PVC walls and one built with wood, acrylic, or premium finishes can add up to hundreds—or even thousands—of euros. Materials directly affect the perceived quality of your space… and your overall budget.

Audiovisual elements

LED screens, decorative lighting, ambient sound, touchscreens… These features can significantly boost your booth’s appeal—but they also drive up the cost. In some cases, audiovisuals can account for up to 30% of the total budget.

Transport, setup, and teardown

Especially if you’re exhibiting at trade shows outside your city. This category includes packing, logistics, technical staff, and setup time. Partnering with a company like Servis, which handles everything for you, helps avoid surprises and keep costs under control.

Additional services

Don’t forget to include:

  • Furniture (tables, chairs, counters)

  • Printed or backlit graphics

  • Daily cleaning services

  • Staff for customer service

  • Catering, Wi-Fi, or storage

  • Travel expenses

  • Meals and per diem

  • Hotel accommodations

It all adds up—and if you don’t factor it in from the beginning, it can throw your entire budget off track.

Conclusion: Your booth, your most valuable investment

Knowing how much a booth costs is essential when planning your trade show presence. It’s not just about choosing the cheapest option—it’s about finding the right balance between budget, visibility, and results. At Servis, with over 60 years of experience, we offer something every company needs when exhibiting: the peace of mind that comes from knowing everything will go smoothly.

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Find out how much your booth will cost

We’ve developed a tool that lets you find out the price of your booth in under a minute