62 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 266 - August | September 2026 and lower-impact materials. From this point of view producers need to think not only about how the stand looks, but also about its end-of-life options and whether it can be repurposed for future events. When considering materials, Green comments: “Some projects require lightweight rigid boards that are easy to handle and install, while others need materials with greater structural strength or premium surface quality for high-end branding. In many cases, the choice of substrate can determine how vibrant the printed graphics appear, how well the material performs under exhibition lighting, and how easy it is to cut, shape, or fabricate.” “For rigid display panels and stand construction, lightweight fibre boards remain a popular option because they are versatile, easy to fabricate, sustainable, and suitable for a wide range of indoor applications.” Green points to Antalis’ Xanita Board as a high-performance, engineered fibreboard made from recycled paper with a kraft paper liner which is designed as a lightweight, strong, and more sustainable alternative to traditional exhibition substrates. “Its closed-cell core structure gives it an impressive strength-to-weight ratio, making it particularly well suited to exhibition stand construction, display units, point-of-sale (POS), and event graphics,” adds Green. One benefit of using Xanita is its ability to replicate different surfaces, especially as it can be cut, routed, shaped, and fabricated into creative, three-dimensional elements, as well as walls, counters, shelving, furniture, and branded display features. “Kroma board is another excellent choice for exhibition builds because it combines premium presentation with practical performance and sustainability,” adds Green. “Designed as a PVC-free, wood-pulp alternative to rigid plastic, it offers a bright white, extra-smooth surface on both sides for outstanding print quality. Its lightweight yet rigid construction, along with excellent flatness and dimensional stability, means it performs reliably in changing indoor conditions and is easy to handle, install, and transport for trade shows and event displays. Kroma board is also highly versatile, supporting UV inkjet, screen, latex, and offset printing as well as lamination, die cutting, and digital cutting, making it ideal for custom exhibition panels, POS displays, hanging signs, and branded features.” Antalis also highlights other materials suited for large-format print and self-adhesive solutions. This includes the company’s Coala products which have options for self-adhesive vinyls, films, laminates, and display media that can be used for stand graphics, wall coverings, branding panels, and promotional messaging. Concluding his thoughts, Green says that Antalis’ key recommendation is to approach each project holistically. “The most successful exhibition solutions are those that combine strong design with practical application, choosing materials that deliver the right balance of impact, efficiency, and sustainability. “As customer expectations continue to evolve, signage companies that can offer informed guidance on material selection, reuse potential, and lower-impact alternatives will be especially well placed to stand out in this market.” Piecing it All Together We’ve looked at getting the products for an exhibition project, and we’ve also discussed materials. But what about installation? Look no further than Ipl (Leeds), which has been a trusted silent partner for graphic and signage installations for almost a decade, assisting clients throughout that time with exhibition, event, and trade show set-ups and removals. Speaking about modern event work, Rachel Nixon, operations manager at the company, says: “An often overlooked part of the exhibition planning process is lead times, not only when considering production, but also for the additional administrative steps that are often overlooked. The complexity of a business’s exhibition plans often dictates key elements such as risk assessments and method statements, as well as any equipment required for the install. This means that speaking with the venue early is essential to understanding any restrictions, thus allowing businesses to plan accordingly.” Regarding this, Nixon recommends that businesses and customers speak to suppliers as early as possible to discuss the scope of the work. “Depending on the scope of the exhibition plans, a key consideration is crew choice, which is where an installation partner comes into play. “Large, complicated stands could mean access machinery is required to achieve a safe and quality installation. This means a crew with relevant industry standard certifications is needed. An installation partner will also manage the organisation of necessary access equipment to the site through official channels, an essential step which will help mitigate delays on installation day.” Nixon also highlights order of The most successful exhibition solutions are those that combine strong design with practical application, choosing materials that deliver the right balance of impact, efficiency, and sustainability ▲RMC Digital Print is a wide-format trade printer based inHull EXHIBITION STANDS | DAVID OSGAR
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