One of the biggest decisions you'll have to make before a trade show is this: should you buy or rent a trade show display? Well, there are pros and cons associated with both options. In this post, the advantages and disadvantages of each option are weighed. After you go through this post, you’ll know which option is best for your business.

Trade Show Display Rental – Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Lower Cost – If you rent your trade show displays, you’ll save a lot of money. This is the best option for those who are strapped for cash.
  • No Storage Or Shipping Expenses – When you rent a trade show display, you don't have to worry about storing or shipping the displays before and after the show. Therefore, you save time, money and energy.
  • No Worrying Over Repair & Maintenance Costs – Again, since you’re renting the display, you don't have to spend on maintenance. The rental agency handles the repair and maintenance costs. All you have to do is pay the rental fee. The process couldn’t be any simpler!
  • Get A New Look For Each Show – This is one of the biggest advantages associated with renting displays. You can rent a fresh design for each show and avoid monotony.

Disadvantages

  • Higher Cost In The Long Run – While renting a display can be cheaper, the cost-effectiveness of renting is diminished significantly if you participate in numerous shows throughout the year. It's typically less expensive to purchase a display if you even use it twice, so frequent exhibitors should buy their displays.
  • Your Preferred Choices Are Not Available – Since many companies will be renting from the agency you’re renting from, your preferred options may not be available.
  • Your Booth May Look Bland – This will be a big bummer. When you rent a trade show display, you have to use generic designs and outdoor stands. They’ll make your booth look bland in a crowd.

Trade Show Display Ownership – Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Cheaper In The Long Run – Buying your own displays, retractable banner stands, and outdoor signs may seem expensive initially, but the cost of doing so actually turns out to be cheaper than renting in the long run. Purchasing tends to be cheaper if you use the display only twice, so it doesn't take long to see the savings.
  • Customizable – You have total control over the design of your booth. You can build it exactly the way you want and highlight your brand accordingly. If your booth and the displays you use stand out in the crowd, you’ll get a lot of booth attendees, and that’s exactly what you want.

Disadvantages

  • Initial Expense – Most business owners don’t like the upfront cost associated with display ownership. However, you can pay for a high-quality display in installments. In the end, having your own trade show displays is worth it, especially if you’re going to be participating in a lot of trade shows.

Which Is The Better Choice: Renting Or Buying?

The answer here ultimately depends on your situation. You have to consider several factors, including:
  • The number of trade shows you attend every year
  • Whether you want to try different booth designs before committing to just one
  • Whether you’ll be exhibiting at multiple shows at the same time
Consider all these factors so you can make the right choice. If you still cannot make a decision, you can always reach out to Power Graphics, the top supplier of retractable banner stands and other trade show materials. Our friendly team can work with you and help you choose the best option for your business.