FAQS
If you still have questions regarding how we operate here at Graphic Mill, we’ve put together a list of our frequently asked questions. Keep reading to learn about project costs, how long the process takes, and much more.

Exhibition Stand FAQs
Shell scheme stands are the most common choice for exhibitors, offering a simple and cost-effective solution. They come with basic structures, often including walls, flooring, and lighting. While they provide a solid foundation, shell schemes are limited in terms of customisation and size. To maximize your impact, consider using our Air Frame system for seamless and reusable graphics. While shell schemes are a great option for many, remember that they offer less flexibility, and a smaller footprint compared to space-only stands.
Space-only stands offer ultimate flexibility. You design and build your ideal space, from the floor to the ceiling, tailoring it perfectly to your brand and objectives. This freedom allows for creative, impactful designs that can be reconfigured and reused for future events, saving you money and reducing environmental impact. Island stands are the pinnacle of space-only options, offering complete independence and visibility. These prime locations are perfect for making a bold statement and attracting maximum attention. While space-only stands require more planning and paperwork, our expert project management team will handle everything, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.
Planning your exhibition stand early is key. Ideally, for most mid to large spaces we aim to start 12 weeks before your event. The first weeks are for concept development and design, followed by finalising graphics and technical drawings. The last weeks are dedicated to production, quality checks, and pre-build. This allows for a smooth installation and any last-minute adjustments. While we prefer a 2-week buffer before the first installation, we can work with tighter deadlines if needed.
When you hire an exhibition stand from us, our expert installation team will handle every step of the process, from delivery and setup to dismantling and return. This allows you to focus on what truly matters: engaging with your audience and achieving your business goals. For portable stand solutions, such as sampling counters, we'll deliver the components directly to you for easy on-site assembly.
The decision to rent or buy an exhibition stand depends on several factors, including your budget, exhibition frequency, and desired level of customization. Renting an exhibition stand is a cost-effective option for infrequent exhibitions. It offers flexibility and allows you to try different configurations without a significant upfront investment. Renting also reduces storage costs and environmental impact. Buying an exhibition stand is a long-term investment that can save you money in the long run, especially if you exhibit frequently. It allows for greater customization and branding opportunities, and you can potentially reduce installation and de-installation costs. However, it requires a larger upfront investment and ongoing storage costs.
The cost of an exhibition stand is influenced by several factors, including the size and type of space, the desired design and features, the materials used, and whether you're hiring or buying assets. Shell scheme stands offer a more affordable option, providing a basic structure with limited customisation. Space-only stands, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility and allow for more creative and impactful designs, but they typically require a higher investment. Additional costs to consider include logistics, electrical fees, rigging, and storage. If you're exhibiting internationally, logistics costs can significantly increase. Venue fees may also include charges for electrical sockets, internet access, water / waste and ceiling boxes. To get a better understanding of your budget and the potential designs, get in touch with our helpful team who will provide expert advice, create tailored design proposals, and help you maximize your budget.
We specialise in creating impactful exhibition stands that elevate your brand. Whether you're in the food industry or technology sector we offer tailored solutions to meet your unique needs. For food businesses, we can design and build sampling stations or live cooking areas to engage visitors. For technology companies, we provide eye-catching demo stations with high-definition screens to showcase your products. To capture attention and drive engagement, we offer a variety of interactive games, including prize wheels, basketball hoops, and custom-branded games. These elements, combined with captivating visuals and sound, can create a memorable experience for your visitors. To enhance your digital presence, we provide a range of display solutions, including touchscreens, 4K screens, tablets, and video walls. These tools can be used to showcase marketing videos, product catalogs, interactive quizzes, or lead capture forms.
Exhibition stands are typically constructed from a variety of materials, including aluminium, wood, and fabric. Aluminium is a popular choice due to its lightweight, durable nature and is used in our modular wall systems and frameworks. Wood, such as MDF, MFC and Plywood, is used for custom-built structures and furniture, while fabric is frequently used for our seamless tension graphics. Additionally, sustainable materials like recycled plastic and honeycomb paper boards are increasingly being incorporated into exhibition stand designs.
Your show organisers will require some essential documents to ensure your stand is safe, compliant, and ready to impress. These documents typically include technical drawings, outlining the dimensions, layout, and power points of your stand. Additionally, a risk assessment and method statement are necessary to demonstrate the safety and competency of your installation team. Don't worry, our experienced project management team at Graphic Mill will handle all the paperwork, so you can focus on what truly matters: creating a stunning and effective exhibition stand.
At Graphic Mill, we believe in creating exhibition stands that not only impress but also respect the environment. That's why we design with reusability in mind. During our initial consultation, we'll discuss your future exhibition plans to identify elements that can be repurposed. Fabric and panel graphics, if handled with care, can be used multiple times. However, certain types of wall graphics, like those with halo-illuminated logos or shelving, may require replacement due to modifications required during the installation process. Custom-built assets, such as counters or display units, can also be reused with proper care and occasional refurbishment. We offer convenient storage solutions for your exhibition materials between shows, ensuring they're protected and ready for your next event. Some custom assets even find a second life in your office, adding a unique touch to your workspace.
Once your exhibition stand design is finalised, we'll provide you with precise templates to guide your own graphic designer in creating stunning visuals. These templates are specifically designed to match the exact dimensions of your stand's walls and furniture. We recommend using Adobe Illustrator for optimal results. Once your graphics are complete, simply send them back to us, and we'll finalise the design, providing both 2D and 3D proofs for your approval before moving to the printing stage. If you don't have an in-house design team, don't worry! Our talented designers are ready to assist you. We can create compelling artwork that aligns perfectly with your brand guidelines, utilising high-resolution assets that you provide.
Raised sub-floors are a valuable tool for managing cables and elevating your stand's appearance. By concealing cables beneath the floor, you create a cleaner and more professional look. Additionally, sub-floors can help define your stand space and provide a premium feel. We use a modular sub-floor system, which is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. This system allows for easy installation and removal, reducing waste and minimising our environmental impact.
The Graphic Mill installation team are constantly on the go, at venues across the country from Excel to Manchester Central. You’ll find us at most of the UK’s major trade shows, and we’re always excited to add new shows to our schedule. We can also cater for European shows at major cities such as Paris, Cologne and Barcelona.
Window Display FAQs
A stunning window display is the first impression your store makes on potential customers. To ensure your vision comes to life, it's crucial to start planning early. Ideally, we recommend starting the design process 12 weeks before your display's unveiling. The initial weeks are dedicated to concept development and design, where we'll explore creative ideas and refine the overall look and feel. Once the design is finalised, we'll move on to creating detailed technical drawings and selecting the perfect materials. The final weeks are reserved for production, quality checks, and meticulous installation. This approach ensures a seamless process and a flawless final product. While we strive for a 2-week buffer before installation, we're flexible and can adapt to tighter timelines if needed.
We can bring your window display vision to life using a variety of materials. Recyclable paper honeycomb board is a popular choice for its rigidity and versatility. It can be easily cut into any shape and used for both suspended and freestanding display elements. Printed window vinyl is perfect for adding bold graphics, logos, and messaging directly to your glass windows. And to complete the look, we can incorporate floor coverings to enhance the overall aesthetic of your display.
A striking window display can significantly boost your sales. Consider using oversized 3D products as a captivating centrepiece to maximize brand visibility. To encourage interaction, incorporate call-to-action elements like QR codes and social media handles. Bold colours can instantly grab attention, while a clear and concise brand message reinforces your brand identity. Remember, consistency is key. Maintain a cohesive look by using your brand's signature colours and logo and strategically use lighting to highlight your display's key features.
Once your window display design is finalised, we'll provide you with precise templates to guide your own graphic designer in creating stunning visuals. These templates are specifically designed to match the exact dimensions of your activation’s printed assets. We recommend using Adobe Illustrator for optimal results. Once your graphics are complete, simply send them back to us, and we'll finalise the design, providing both 2D and 3D proofs for your approval before moving to the printing stage. If you don't have an in-house design team, don't worry! Our talented designers are ready to assist you. We can create compelling artwork that aligns perfectly with your brand guidelines, utilising high-resolution assets that you provide.
When you work with us on your window display, our expert installation team will handle every step of the process, from delivery and setup to dismantling and return. You can choose to sign off your window display in-person, or through photos sent once the installation is completed.
Your custom-made display elements and branded graphics can have a longer life beyond your current activation. Panel graphics and custom-built assets can be repurposed for future window displays, exhibition stands, or even office branding. While printed window vinyl is typically single-use, we ensure responsible disposal after your campaign. To protect your valuable assets between activations, we offer secure storage solutions. This allows you to efficiently reuse your displays, saving you both time and money.
Brand Activation FAQs
To ensure we design and build the perfect solution for your space, we typically conduct a site survey. This allows our team to assess the specific dimensions, layout, and unique characteristics of your location. With this valuable information, we can create custom solutions that are not only visually stunning but also highly functional.
When you work with us on your brand activation, our expert installation team will handle every step of the process, from delivery and setup to dismantling and return. You can choose to sign off your activation in-person, or through photos sent once the installation is completed.
Your custom-made display elements and branded graphics can have a longer life beyond your current activation. Custom-built assets can be repurposed for future activations, window displays, exhibition stands, or even office branding. To protect your valuable assets between activations, we offer secure storage solutions. This allows you to efficiently reuse your assets, saving you both time and money.
About Graphic Mill
Schedule a quick exploratory call with one of our specialists! Simply fill out our contact form or email us directly at hello@graphicmill.co.uk. We'll discuss your project goals and explore how Graphic Mill can help you achieve them. After the call, you'll receive a free proposal with draft visuals and a detailed quote outlining the investment for your project.
Absolutely! We've built strong relationships with design agencies, providing white-label services for brand activations, exhibition stands, and window displays. We can collaborate directly with your client or work seamlessly behind the scenes. You can trust us to deliver exceptional service under your direction. We'll discreetly handle all aspects of the project, ensuring our branding remains invisible to your client.
From initial concept to final installation, our team handles every aspect of your project. Our in-house design studio, print shop, and woodworking workshop enable us to deliver bespoke, high-quality solutions. We combine innovative design with expert craftsmanship to create impactful displays that leave a lasting impression. Our dedicated project management team ensures seamless execution, from initial design to final installation and storage.
We prioritise sustainability by using modular and reusable exhibition stand components, such as our Aluvision wall system, which can be adapted for various show sizes. We also focus on repurposing elements like graphics, furniture, and custom-built pieces. Additionally, we optimise logistics, encourage eco-friendly practices, and offer sustainable flooring solutions. By adopting these practices, we aim to minimise our environmental impact and create more sustainable exhibition experiences.
At Graphic Mill, we believe in creating marketing activations that not only impress but also respect the environment. That's why we design with reusability in mind. During our initial consultation, we'll discuss your future to identify elements that can be repurposed. Many of our graphics and custom-built assets can be reused with proper care and occasional refurbishment. We offer convenient storage solutions for your assets between activations, ensuring they're protected and ready for your next event.
For our rental services, including exhibition stands, brand activations, and window displays, we typically require a deposit to secure your booking, followed by instalments due 4 weeks and 1 week before your event. For custom projects and stand purchases, a full upfront payment is required to cover the costs of materials and bespoke elements.
Ready to get started?
A quick call with one of our team will give you a scope of costs, lead times and new ideas to make your brand stand out from the rest. Talk to us to find out what is possible.
Book a meeting with our exhibition specialists Miles, Ben or Morgan at a time that works for you.
Prefer a call or email? You can reach us at +44 (0)800 4647974 or hello@graphicmill.co.uk
