Exhibition Stand FAQ
FAQ - Your Questions About Exhibition Stands and Trade Shows
All About Merci Gustave
Everything you ever wanted to know about us, at a glance.
Who is Merci Gustave and what exactly do you offer?
Merci Gustave is a Franco-Canadian stand design agency that designs, manufactures, and installs exhibition stands, whether they are custom-made, modular, or portable.
Mais surtout, nous allons plus loin que la simple fabrication : nous vous conseillons sur la meilleure façon de raconter votre histoire, de capter l’attention de vos visiteurs, et d’atteindre vos objectifs — que ce soit en France ou en Amérique du Nord.
From design to logistics, including the message, we support you to ensure your trade shows are a success.
What is the history of Merci Gustave?
It all began in 1996, in a village in northeastern France, with a passion for imagery and materials. At the time, David launched his first business focused on wood lamination, a technique from Quebec.
The arrival of large-format digital printing transformed the landscape: brands can finally communicate powerfully, custom-made, and at a lower cost. But there was still a lack of suitable supports to showcase these visuals.
In 2008, David joined Duo Display in Canada. He discovered a North American market dominated by cheap, often unsustainable solutions. His response: build a network of specialists with an approach based on education, quality, and support.
At Duo, he participated in the development of the modular stand (Panoramic and H-line) and digital textile printing, which would become industry standards.
In 2019, David chose to regain his independence by creating his own structure to support French exhibitors wishing to establish themselves in the North American market. Thanks to his network, he quickly expanded his activity to Europe and all of North America—because, ultimately, one often exhibits far from home.
This journey forged his current standard: to offer only innovative, impactful, and sustainable stands, designed to evolve with the needs of companies and institutions, wherever they exhibit.
Are The Booth Company and The Portable Company part of Merci Gustave?
Yes. We started from a simple observation: at the beginning of a project, exhibitors do not always know if they need a modular stand, a custom-made stand, or a lightweight portable solution.
This is why we decided to group The Booth Company and The Portable Company under a single brand: Merci Gustave.
This reflects our global approach: listening to you first, defining your needs, and then directing you toward the solution best suited to your objectives.
Avez-vous une politique environnementale ?
Oui. L’éco-responsabilité est au cœur de notre approche, et cela se traduit par 4 engagements concrets à chaque étape du cycle de vie de nos produits :
- Privilégier les stands réutilisables (stands modulaires) pour éviter le jetable
🎯 Objectif : 100 % réutilisation, 0 déchet - Réduire l’impact logistique en travaillant avec des partenaires locaux, choisis pour leurs bonnes pratiques
- Favoriser les matériaux recyclés, éco-conçus, et veiller à leur recyclabilité, pour les visuels comme pour les éléments sur mesure
- Sensibiliser nos équipes, partenaires et clients aux choix les plus durables, sans jamais sacrifier la qualité et l’impact
En résumé : des stands pensés pour durer, évoluer, et limiter leur empreinte à chaque salon.
How to prepare for your trade show: our step-by-step method
Comment obtenir un devis de stand d’exposition ?
It’s simple: just fill out our form, call us, or book a slot with one of our experts.
During an initial 30-minute meeting, we take the time to talk to fully understand your needs, objectives, and constraints.
We will then get back to you within one week with:
– a 3D sketch of your stand,
– a detailed quote,
– and tailored advice for your project.
Cette première phase est 100 % gratuite et sans engagement.
What information do I need to provide to receive a proposal?
To provide you with a precise and tailored proposal, we will need the following elements:
– Location and date of the trade show
– Stand surface area and number of open sides
– Your specific needs (screens, storage, reception, animation, etc.)
– Your visual identity (logo, graphic charter, any photos)
– If you wish to reuse the stand for other events
– Your indicative budget
– And also: your objectives for this trade show (launch, visibility, appointment setting, etc.)
The more precise you are, the more precise our proposal will be!
What is the lead time between the brief and the trade show?
The lead time depends on the type of stand. On average:
Modular & tubular: 6 to 8 weeks, including 3 to 4 weeks for manufacturing, shipping the stand to the show, and its installation.
– Portable: 2 weeks.
A detailed schedule will be provided upon project validation.
What are the steps involved in creating a stand?
Our approach is that of an architect: structured, precise, and built from your objectives.
Step 1 – Discovery
We start by listening to you: your challenges, your objectives, your constraints. Together, we define the success criteria for your trade show.
Step 2 – Neutral 3D Concept
We imagine a preliminary stand shape (without graphic dressing) to work on circulation, ergonomics, and structure. This initial approach comes with a budget envelope.
Step 3 – Realistic 3D & Detailed Budget
Once the shape is validated, we refine the concept with your visual elements. You receive a realistic rendering and a complete quote.
Step 4 – Planning & Production
We establish a clear reverse schedule. Visuals are finalized, the stand is produced, logistics are launched.
Step 5 – Assembly & Turnkey Delivery
On D-Day, you arrive at a stand ready to welcome your visitors. Zero stress, 100% operational.
Step 6 – Post-Show Debrief
One month later, we connect to review and anticipate your next events.
Our Exhibition Solutions
Quelle est la différence entre un stand modulaire, tubulaire et nomade ?
Modular Stand
A stand composed of prefabricated modules, with the same design possibilities as a custom-made stand. It adapts to different surface areas, is easily reusable, and can be configured infinitely.
Available for purchase or rental, it’s the ideal solution for regular exhibitors.
Learn more about modular stands.
Stand tubulaire
Une structure légère et élégante, en tubes recouverts de visuels textiles tendus.
Facile à transporter, rapide à monter sans outils, c’est le choix parfait pour les exposants autonomes.
Learn more about tubular stands.
Portable Stand
Pop-up displays, banner stands, roll-ups… everything that fits in a car trunk or can travel by train.
Express setup, minimal footprint: perfect for small trade shows, roadshows, or sales teams.
Do you offer custom-made stands or custom elements within your modular stands?
Yes, absolutely!
We collaborate with local partners to design and produce custom elements perfectly integrated into your modular stand.
It’s even one of our little secrets: mixing the reusable modular structure with personalized modules that make you even more unique or meet specific needs (furniture, display cases, podiums, animations, etc.).
Result: a stand that reflects your image, is reusable, scalable… and truly different.
What is sublimation printing on fabric?
What types of accessories do you offer?
We offer everything you need to make your stand welcoming, functional, and impactful:
– LED lighting
– Screens and multimedia supports
– Reception counters
– Tablet holders
– Designer furniture (chairs, tables, stools…)
– Brochure displays
– And even… plants 🌿
Need a specific accessory? We adapt to your project.
Our Services
Is it possible to rent a stand rather than buy it?
Yes, absolutely. Rental is ideal for a one-off trade show, or when an event is outside your usual geographical area.
We recommend rental if you exhibit less than 3 times a year on the same continent.
Beyond that, purchasing often becomes more cost-effective.
Hybrid solutions are also possible:
– Buy a stand base and rent complementary elements for large events
– Buy a stand for Europe and rent it in North America
We guide you based on your exhibition program, to offer you the most flexible and economical option.
Do you offer a warranty on your stands?
Yes. All our stands come with a 1 to 5-year warranty, depending on the model and type of structure.
And if a problem arises just before a trade show, don’t panic: we always find a solution so you can exhibit in the best conditions.
Who handles transport and storage after the trade show?
It’s up to you, but we can handle everything:
– dismantling,
– stand return,
– secure storage until your next event.
Result: you save time, gain peace of mind… and stay focused on what really matters: your clients.
What happens with after-sales service if I have a problem during the trade show?
We provide you with an emergency number.
Thanks to our network of local partners (in France and North America), we can intervene quickly, even remotely, to help you out or guide you.
Our priority: ensuring your stand is ready to welcome your visitors, no matter what.
Can I see mock-ups or 3D renderings before validating my project?
Yes, always.
We create realistic 3D renderings so you can visualize your stand before any production.
Each step is subject to clear validation, so you maintain control over the project from start to finish. Nothing is launched without your approval.
Do you offer graphic design services for my stand?
Yes, absolutely.
Our modular stands are designed to accommodate large textile visuals printed by sublimation, which allows for the creation of true brand universes.
But to be effective, these visuals must convey a simple, legible, and impactful message — in less than 5 seconds.
Our graphic studio can:
– design your custom visuals,
– or collaborate with your graphic designer,
always with technical validation before printing.
Zero surprises, and optimal results.
How to create an impactful visual for a modular stand with printed graphics?
An impactful visual relies on three key principles, especially when it comes to large textile printed visuals widely used for modular stands:
- Immersive design
Use trompe-l’œil effects, textures, or very large-format visuals. Also, consider utilizing all available space — including the floor — to immerse visitors in your world. - A unique and clear message
You have a few seconds to capture attention. A clean visual and a strong slogan are better than an accumulation of text. Impact comes from simplicity. - Graphic consistency despite modularity
Your stand can evolve from one trade show to another. By designing your visual as an adaptable whole (even if divided into panels), you ensure strong visual continuity.
How to succeed with your stand in North America
Quelles sont les différences entre un salon aux USA et en Europe ?
Exposer en Amérique du Nord, ce n’est pas simplement changer de fuseau horaire ! Les règles, les formats et les pratiques sont souvent très différents :
- Standard dimensions in feet: 10×10, 10×20, 20×20 (≈ 3×3 m, 3×6 m, etc.)
- Maximum height often limited to 8 feet (≈ 2.44 m), compared to 2.50 m or more in Europe
- Strict safety standards, particularly fire certifications (NFPA 701) mandatory for textile visuals
Nous intégrons tous ces paramètres dès la conception de votre stand pour vous éviter les mauvaises surprises.
Who sets up stands in the USA and Canada?
At most North American trade shows, only unionized installers (“Unions”) are authorized to set up stands.
This system is very strict and can represent a significant cost.
That’s why we:
- Select our installation companies trained in our products and reliable
- Pre-assemble your stand at the workshop,
- Provide clear instructions,
- And ensure on-site coordination with the union teams.
This level of preparation often allows for a considerable reduction in installation costs, and avoids unpleasant surprises.
What is drayage and why is it important?
Drayage is the cost charged by the organizer to transport your stand from the loading dock to your location on the trade show floor.
It is calculated by weight or volume, and can increase the bill if not properly anticipated.
We optimize packaging, volumes, and logistics to limit this cost to the strict necessary.
Visit our glossary page to speak the language of trade shows in the USA and Canada.
Do you handle all on-site logistics?
Yes. Thanks to our North American network, we handle:
- Local transport,
- Coordination with unions,
- Assembly/disassembly,
- And on-site after-sales service, if needed.
You arrive at the trade show, the stand is ready. You leave, we take care of the rest.
What are the cultural differences between trade shows in North America and Europe?
Beyond technical standards, expectations and behaviors at a trade show are not the same whether you exhibit in Paris, Chicago, or Montreal. Here are some keys to adapting and performing:
🇺🇸 In North America:
- Little time to convince: visitors rarely spend more than 3 to 5 minutes at a stand. You need to get straight to the point.
- Be ready to deliver: you are expected to be able to present your offer clearly, send a quote, a brochure, or a demo immediately.
- Post-show follow-up is crucial: without fast and professional follow-up, your contact is lost. The trade show is often seen as the beginning of a business relationship, not an end in itself.
- The approach is very results & business oriented, with little room for unnecessary small talk.
🇪🇺 In Europe:
- Interactions are often longer, sometimes over several meetings. Relationships play a larger role.
- The commercial approach can be less direct, and more technical or institutional depending on the country.
- Stands are often designed as reception areas, where people take their time.
Our advice?
Adapt both your discourse, your materials, and your trade show objectives to the local culture.
And of course, we are here to help you with that.