Should You Store or Rebuild? Making the Most of Your Exhibit Investment

Trade shows require careful planning, creative energy, and a significant financial investment. When your event is over, you’re then faced with a key decision: should you store your exhibit for future use or rebuild from scratch next time? Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your brand’s goals, budget, and show calendar. 

At IGE Group, we offer flexible solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking to build a custom exhibit for repeated use with convenient storage at our facility, rent an exhibit for a one-time event, or invest in a modular design that adapts to various configurations, we provide options that align with your goals, budget, and show schedule.

Let’s explore how to make the most of your trade show exhibit investment.

The Case for Storing Your Exhibit

Storing your exhibit can be a smart, cost-effective move, especially if you plan to exhibit at multiple shows throughout the year. With this option, you can maximize your ROI, as a well-built custom exhibit can last for several years. Storing it allows you to get more mileage out of your investment. 

Another benefit to storing your exhibit is that you can enjoy faster setups. With a pre-built exhibit, you eliminate the design and fabrication timeline, making your next event prep smoother and quicker. Plus, a consistent booth design helps reinforce brand recognition, especially for companies with a regular trade show presence. 

We recommend storing your exhibit if:

• Your exhibit is modular or designed for repeat use.
• You participate in multiple shows with similar layouts or target audiences.
• Your branding and messaging will remain consistent in the near future.

The Case for Rebuilding Your Exhibit

Sometimes, a fresh start is the better choice. If your current booth is outdated or no longer aligns with your marketing goals, rebuilding may offer more value. For instance, if your company is undergoing a major rebrand or launching a new product line, a new booth design can better support your messaging. 

Also, if you’re attending a different type of event, such as a smaller venue, international show, or virtual hybrid, you may need a new format that better fits the space and the audience. Rebuilding your exhibit each time also combats design fatigue. Even the best designs can feel stale after a few years. A fresh exhibit can boost team morale and attract renewed attention from attendees. 

We suggest rebuilding your exhibit if: 

• Your brand has evolved significantly since your last show.
• Your existing exhibit no longer meets your functional needs.
• You want to incorporate new technology, trends, or design innovations.

The Best of Both Worlds: Refresh, Don’t Replace

If your existing exhibit still has a solid foundation, consider a refurbishment or partial redesign. This option allows you to preserve what works while refreshing your look and feel. Updating graphics, reconfiguring components, or adding new digital elements can give your booth a whole new impact without the cost of a complete rebuild.

Talk to the Experts

At IGE Group, we help brands make strategic decisions about their exhibit assets. Whether you need secure storage, a cost-effective redesign, or a full custom rebuild, our team can guide you toward the best solution for your goals, timeline, and budget.

Not sure which direction is right for you? Let’s talk. We’ll help you evaluate your current assets and create a plan that maximizes your investment and elevates your presence at every show. Contact us today for a consultation at 800-557-1227 or fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch!