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How to Choose the Right Exhibition Booth Size

CD Business Group Team · July 2026 · 4 min read
Row of shell scheme booths with fascia boards at the World Physiotherapy Africa Region Conference

Booth size is the first decision every exhibitor makes and the one that quietly shapes everything else: your layout, your furniture, your staffing, even how long visitors stay. Here is how we help clients think it through.

Know the standard footprints

Shell scheme booths come in modular sizes built from panels. The sizes we install most in Kigali are 2m x 2m, 2m x 3m, 3m x 3m, 3m x 4m, 3m x 6m and full island stands up to 9m x 9m. Every one comes with a fascia name board, lighting and carpet as standard.

Match the size to the job

2m x 2m, the conversation booth. Room for a consultation counter, a brochure rack and one or two staff. Ideal when your goal is contacts and flyers, not demonstrations.

3m x 3m, the workhorse. Fits a reception counter, a small meeting table with chairs and a screen. This is the size most exhibitors should start with: enough space to hold a real conversation without shouting over the aisle.

3m x 6m and corner stands, the demo space. When you need a product display zone and a seating area, a double-width booth keeps them from fighting each other. Corner positions add a second open side more walk-in traffic.

Island stands (up to 9m x 9m), the brand statement. Open on all four sides, with room for a lounge, demo stations and storage. Choose this when the show is your marketing plan for the quarter.

Safe Air custom exhibition stand with printed walls, lounge chairs and glass table
A custom build we delivered for Safe Air, printed walls, lounge seating and a story on every panel.

Three mistakes we see every season

Booking space before planning furniture. A 3x3 booth with a counter, four chairs, a table and a TV is already full. List what must fit before you book the floor.

Forgetting storage. Boxes of brochures stacked in a corner undo a beautiful booth. Bigger booths should reserve a lockable counter or curtained corner.

Ignoring sight lines. Your fascia board and screen should face the main aisle, not the wall. Ask for the floor plan before choosing your position.

Open-air shell scheme booths with counters and brochure racks
Booths work outdoors too, shell schemes with counters and brochure racks, built on open ground.

The shortcut

Send us your goals for the show, leads, demos, hosting and the number of staff on the stand, and we will recommend the footprint and a furniture package to match, with a written quotation. Booth packages cover the standard three event days.

Planning an exhibition?
See Booth Options