As event schedules and booth needs evolve, rental exhibits are emerging as a smart, modern solution for exhibitors of all sizes.
Rental exhibits give exhibitors an affordable and adaptable way to stand out at events without the commitment of owning a custom display. They offer flexibility, polished design, and the freedom to adjust your booth from show to show. For many organizations, rental exhibits provide the right balance of impact, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
Rental displays have gained popularity as exhibitors look for ways to show up confidently while managing budget, logistics, and varying booth sizes. This article explores why rental exhibits are such a smart choice, how they compare with custom display ownership, and when they deliver the most value.
A flexible exhibit strategy helps exhibitors show up with confidence.
Rental exhibits are pre-engineered booths that can be tailored with customized graphics, branding elements, and layout choices. They allow exhibitors to make a strong visual impression without investing in a full custom build.
Many exhibitors choose trade show booth rentals to stay flexible, especially when navigating new markets, infrequent event schedules, or varying booth configurations. Industry insights show that rental exhibits are particularly beneficial for first-time exhibitors or organizations testing new event strategies (Source: Exhibitor Decisions: Renting vs. Owning Your Trade Show Exhibit — Freeman).
Savvy budget choices start with a smart rental strategy.
Rental exhibits significantly reduce upfront investment and remove long-term expenses associated with owning a booth. This makes them one of the most budget-friendly ways to maintain a professional presence on the show floor.
- Lower upfront investment: Renting allows teams to present a polished booth without the financial commitment of a custom build.
- No storage or maintenance fees: Owned exhibits require storage, repairs, and occasional updates. Rentals eliminate these recurring costs.
- Consistent, predictable pricing: Rental packages often include core structure and hardware, making budgeting clearer and more manageable.
Modern rental booths support strong custom branding.
Despite being pre-engineered, rental exhibits offer extensive customization options. Today’s structures are designed to accommodate unique branding and create a cohesive experience for attendees, including:
- Custom graphics: Printed panels, fabric graphics, and branded elements help rentals look and feel like a custom design.
- Flexible layout options: Rental systems support 10×10, 10×20, and island configurations, giving exhibitors freedom to adapt their footprint.
- Add-on enhancements: Lighting, counters, shelving, kiosks, and interactive features can be added for a more engaging experience.
Renting shines when exhibitors need options, not limitations.
Rental exhibits work particularly well for organizations that value flexibility or have fluctuating event schedules.
- First-time exhibitors: Renting allows new exhibitors the opportunity to explore layout and design preferences before committing to a purchase.
- Occasional exhibitors: Organizations attending only a handful of shows each year often find ownership unnecessary.
- Brands testing new markets: Rental displays reduce risk when entering unfamiliar industries or geographic regions.
- Changing booth sizes: Rentals adapt easily when booth spaces vary by event, especially at large venues.
Both renting and buying offer valuable benefits.
Renting and purchasing have their own advantages, and the right choice depends on your long-term strategy:
Benefits of Renting
- Lower upfront costs
- Flexible sizing and layout
- No storage or upkeep
- Easy updates between shows
Benefits of Buying
- Fully customized structure
- More cost-effective for frequent exhibitors
- Complete ownership and design control
A conversation with an exhibit professional can help determine which option aligns best with your goals and schedule.
A clear, simple process makes renting a snap.
Working with an experienced exhibit partner like Adler Display keeps the rental process streamlined and stress-free.
Step 1: Consultation
Share your event goals, booth dimensions, and schedule.
Step 2: Design and Graphics
Your rental structure is customized with branded graphics, colors, and messaging.
Step 3: Logistics and Installation
Your exhibit partner coordinates delivery, setup, and dismantling for a seamless experience.
Step 4: Future Options
Your rental can be updated or reconfigured for future events, providing ongoing flexibility.
Is renting the right decision for your next trade show?
For many exhibitors, the answer is yes. Rental exhibits offer a smart combination of flexibility, cost savings, and polished design. They allow organizations to make a strong impression without the commitment of ownership, and they make it easy to pivot as event schedules or strategies evolve.
A rental exhibit may be exactly what your team needs to exhibit confidently and stay on budget. Adler Display can help you choose the right rental solution, customize it beautifully, and handle the logistics from start to finish. Reach out today for a quote or to explore rentals for your next event.
About Adler Display: For over 85 years, Adler Display has been one of the best-kept secrets behind so many businesses looking their best. Designing and producing a wide variety of high-quality recognition displays, trade show displays, signage and exhibits, lobby and corporate interiors, and historical timelines, Adler’s expert team includes consultants, designers, project managers, and fabricators. Working from a 17,000-square-foot facility in Baltimore that includes a precision woodworking shop, Adler Display handles printing, construction, and finishing on site. Learn how to achieve your imaging goals and make your business look amazing at: www.AdlerDisplay.com.