How much does an exhibition stand space cost at a trade fair?

As of: May 2026

Many exhibitors underestimate that stand rental and stand construction are two completely separate cost blocks. The exhibition stand space is the bare area you rent from the organiser—the stand itself, such as a modular exhibition stand, is on top of that. This guide explains what the stand space costs, which factors determine the price, and which ancillary costs you should budget for.

How much does the space rental alone cost?

Stand space rental is calculated per square metre and set by the organiser. As a rough guide:

Trade fair type	Price per sqm (approx.)
Regional / smaller trade fair	€100–180
National trade fair	€150–300
International leading trade fair	€250–500

An example: A 20 m² stand at a national trade fair at €200/m² costs around €4,000 in space rental alone—excluding the stand, technology and staff.

What affects the price?

• Stand position: Corner, end and island stands cost more per m² than row stands because they have more open sides.
• Hall location: Proximity to entrances, main aisles or anchor brands is more expensive.
• Trade fair ranking: International leading trade fairs charge significantly more than regional events.
• Early booking: Booking early often secures better locations and occasionally discounts.

These ancillary costs are added

Space rental is only the beginning. Expect additional mandatory and service costs charged by the organiser:

Cost item	What’s behind it
AUMA fee	Mandatory contribution per sqm for the trade fair association
Media flat rate	Electricity, water and, if applicable, internet connection
Electricity (consumption)	based on connected load and consumption
Cleaning	Stand cleaning during the trade fair
Listings & passes	Catalogue listing, badges, parking passes
Marketing package	partly mandatory basic promotion

Separating stand space and stand construction correctly

For an honest budget plan, you should calculate two blocks separately:

• Stand space (organiser): Space rental + ancillary costs as above.
• Stand construction (stand builder): the actual stand—modular, custom or rented.

You can find out how much stand construction costs in the guide How much does an exhibition stand cost? → A complete overview of all cost blocks (space, construction, technology, logistics, personnel, marketing) is provided in the guide How much does a trade fair appearance cost in total? →

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is stand construction included in the stand rental?

No. Stand rental only covers the bare space. The stand itself—walls, flooring, graphics, furniture—must be planned additionally or sourced from a stand builder.

Why does a corner stand cost more per m²?

Because it has more open sides and therefore offers greater visibility. Corner, end and island stands are charged by the organiser with surcharges per m².

What is the AUMA fee?

A mandatory contribution per square metre that the organiser charges on behalf of the Association of the German Trade Fair Industry (AUMA). It is usually small, but fixed and should be budgeted for.

Can I save money on the stand space?

Yes—with a row stand instead of a corner or end stand, a slightly smaller area and early booking. You can also save on stand construction with a modular rental or purchase system.

Conclusion

Depending on the trade fair and position, exhibition stand space usually costs €150–300 per square metre for space rental alone—plus ancillary costs such as the AUMA fee, electricity and cleaning. Stand construction is a separate block. If you clearly separate both items from the outset, you will plan more realistically. The greatest savings on the stand itself are achieved with a modular system.