Troubleshooting common custom exhibit issues

Custom exhibit issues are the problems specific to bespoke stands. Custom builds have unique parts, complex assembly and less margin for error than kits, so problems tend to be bigger and harder to fix on site. Most come from planning gaps and can be prevented.

This guide is part of the custom exhibit solutions series.

Which issues are most common?

How do you prevent build problems?

Do a full test build at the workshop, photograph it, label every part and crate furniture separately with padding. Share final drawings with the organizer early so any rule issues are caught on paper, not on the show floor.

How do you fix structural problems on site?

Work from the drawings, check the floor is level, use adjustable feet and shims, and call your builder before improvising. Never remove structural parts to make something fit.

How do you fix damaged finishes and furniture?

Carry touch-up paint, markers, wax sticks and felt pads. Solid wood can be touched up and later refinished; laminate and painted MDF chips are harder to hide. Pack furniture in blankets with corner protectors.

How do you fix lighting and AV failures?

Total the wattage before the show, spread load across circuits, test every fixture and screen on build-up day and carry spare lamps, cables and adapters. Report power faults to the venue early.

How do you fix low engagement?

If visitors walk past, simplify the header, open the entrance, add spotlights to products and get staff standing at the front. See best practices for booth design and interactive trade show technology.

How should custom stands be maintained between shows?

Inspect after each show, repair before storage, replace worn fixings and store crates somewhere dry. EDPA-member exhibit companies offer refurbishment and storage services.

How do you stop problems recurring?

Debrief after every show, log each issue with its cause and fix, and update drawings and packing lists.

How do you plan for problems before the show?

Hold a short risk review with your builder: list the most likely problems (late freight, power faults, damage, rule breaches), decide how you'd handle each and assign an owner. Agree who on site can approve extra labour or changes, and keep the builder's emergency contact handy during build-up.

What should happen after a difficult show?

Run a debrief within a week. Record each problem, its cause, its cost and the fix, then update drawings, crating and packing lists. Share lessons with the builder so the next build avoids them.

Which issues are specific to large stands?

Large custom stands bring extra risks: crane or forklift scheduling, rigging approvals, raised floors, structural calculations and longer build times. Each needs approval and scheduling well ahead of the show.

How do you protect furniture on a custom stand?

Crate or blanket-wrap furniture separately from the structure, place it last during build-up, use felt pads on raised floors and carry touch-up supplies. Agree with your builder who handles furniture and who is responsible for damage.

How do you handle rule breaches found on site?

If an inspector finds a height, sightline or fire-safety issue, fix it immediately: lower or remove the element, swap uncertified fabric or move items back from the aisle. Prevent it next time by sending drawings to the organizer for approval in advance.

Portable or modular issues instead?

See troubleshooting portable displays and troubleshooting modular displays.