Pop up stands are probably the most practical and cost effective way to create impact and get your message across for all kinds of promotions – including exhibitions, trade shows, conferences and retail displays.

But how on earth do you choose the right pop up stand to match your requirements?

Well the first thing you need to understand is how the sizes work on a pop up stand. Unlike the rest of the world, which is measured using either metric or imperial measurements, pop up stands have their own unique measurement device!

Each pop up stands is grouped and sized by the number of sections (known as “quads” in the trade), which when assembled look like boxes. It is these sections that make up the shell of the pop up stand and determine the overall size and spec of the unit.

The most common height for a pop up stand is 3 “quads” tall and usually come as standard in widths of 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 “quads” wide. It is also worth noting that pop up stands can come as high as 5 “quads” tall and can be connected creating an almost endless length, shapes and sizes.

The most popular pop up display stand size is a 3×3 stand which is (you guessed it!), 3 “quads” high by 3 “quads” wide

The second thing you need to decide is whether you want a curved or straight stand. The most popular choice is the curved unit (which accounts for about 85% of sales) but that doesn’t mean the straight version isn’t right for you.

Probably, the easiest way to decide is to think about where your stand will eventually be placed; if it’s in a corner then the curved is best, if it’s along a wall and you have limited space then the straight is probably better suited.

Lastly, you need to decide whether you want a fabric or printed graphic option. The difference between the two types is not in the stand but the actual panels that are fitted to the face of the stand.

Most people choose the printed graphic option because of the more professional look, which can be achieved by a large personalised graphic. The fabric alternative is usually better suited for applications where the user wants the ability to regularly change their own graphics (usually by using Velcro) – for example in a foyer, school or library.

One very important tip is to be careful when comparing what looks like a like for like product, very often what can seem like the same size unit, aren’t the same height or width! Many suppliers will pass off a mini or midi stand as the full size product. So if for example, you’re comparing 3×3 stands remember that the “quads” can also vary in sizes between different products and brands!

So if in doubt always ask for the overall size of the pop up stand in millimetres (or inches if your prefer!)

Perhaps the most valuable tip I can teach you is that – Not all Pop Up Stands are the same – even if they do all look alike!