Panel size plays a crucial role in how your brand is perceived at exhibitions, events, or in public spaces. Whether it’s shell scheme panels, exhibition displays, or retail signage, the right dimensions ensure your message is clear, visible, and impactful. Even a small size misjudgement can affect how effectively your display connects with your audience. In this blog, we’ll guide you through choosing the perfect panel sizes to suit your space, objectives, and layout. Get ready to discover how smart sizing can make your next display truly stand out.

Why Panel Size Matters

When people walk past a display, whether it’s at an exhibition, in a shop window, or along a hoarding, the first thing they notice is how it feels visually. A well-sized panel can feel balanced, bold, and eye-catching. A poorly sized one, on the other hand, can look cramped, empty, or out of place.

Panel size impacts readability, visibility, and overall professionalism. If your signage is too small, people won’t read it. If it’s too large for the space, it may overwhelm your content—or worse, not fit properly.

That’s why finding the right dimensions isn’t just about filling space; it’s about designing with purpose.

Understanding Your Display Environment

Before you settle on a panel size, think about where it’s going. Different environments call for different sizing strategies. Let’s look at a few common scenarios:

Indoor Exhibitions

If you’re exhibiting at a trade show or expo, your space may include a shell scheme. These come with pre-defined panel dimensions, often around 950mm x 2340mm, which is a standard size for shell scheme panels. You’ll need to plan your graphics to fit within this structure while still standing out.

Retail Displays

In retail settings, space is usually limited, and customers are close to the signage. Smaller panels placed at eye level can be more effective here. The key is to use the space smartly without overwhelming the viewer.

Outdoor Settings

Outdoor panels, such as hoardings or roadside signs, need to be seen from a distance. Larger dimensions and bold, simple designs work best here. You’ll also need to consider weatherproofing and durability.

Panel Sizing Tips for Common Use Cases

Exhibition Panels & Shell Scheme Panels

At exhibitions, you often only have a few seconds to catch someone’s attention. Your panel size plays a big role in this.

• Stick to standard sizes if you’re using shell schemes. Most commonly, this means 950mm width by 2340mm height.
• Leave a 3mm bleed around the edges if you’re printing full coverage graphics.
• Use one large image across multiple panels for maximum effect, rather than separate designs on each one.

Retail & Point-of-Sale Displays

Retail space is all about being efficient with limited room.

• Choose smaller panels at eye level to draw focus.
• Use modular sizing so displays can be easily updated or swapped.
• Ensure text is large enough to read at close range.

Outdoor Signage and Hoardings

These panels need to compete with a lot of noise—traffic, weather, and large surroundings.

• Go big: Larger panels are more effective from a distance.
• Choose durable materials like Foamex or Dibond for long-lasting quality.
• Think about how many panels are needed to cover a space and avoid awkward gaps or overlaps.

Creative Tricks to Maximise Visual Impact

Choosing the right size is only half the story. How you use that space is what will make your panel stand out.

Combine Panels

Using several panels together to create a single image or message can make a bold impression. This technique works well in both exhibition panels and outdoor environments.

Use Negative Space

Leaving some areas of the panel “empty” can help highlight your key message or logo. This is especially important if your surroundings are visually busy.

Guide the Viewer’s Eye

Position text and visuals so that the eye naturally moves from one point to the next. This helps with readability and keeps the audience engaged.

Think in Layers

Add depth to your design by layering graphics, shadows, or cut-outs—particularly useful in 3D exhibitions or retail spaces.

Custom Sizing vs. Standard Sizing

There are plenty of reasons to go for standard panel sizes—they’re cost-effective, easy to replace, and usually fit common fixtures like shell schemes or mounting systems.

However, custom sizing can give you a unique edge, especially if you’re working with an unconventional space or looking to create something bespoke.

Here are some considerations:

• Standard sizing is more budget-friendly and often quicker to produce.
• Custom sizing allows for more flexibility but can be pricier and may take longer to print.

When choosing between the two, think about your goals and budget. If you’re launching a new product or brand, it might be worth investing in something special.

Choosing the Right Material for the Size

Your panel size should work hand-in-hand with the right material.

• Foamex boards are lightweight and ideal for most indoor uses, including exhibitions and POS displays.
• Correx boards are budget-friendly and perfect for short-term outdoor signs.
• Dibond panels are durable and rigid, suitable for long-term or large outdoor displays.

Bigger panels need stronger, more stable materials to avoid bending or warping. You’ll also want to consider ease of transport and installation. If your panel is too heavy, it might be difficult to set up on-site.

Conclusion

Choosing the right panel size isn’t just a technical step in the design process—it’s a creative decision that shapes how people experience your brand. From exhibition panels and shell scheme panels to retail and outdoor signage, your dimensions can either elevate or undermine your message.

Keep your environment, audience, and goals in mind when deciding on panel size. Think beyond just “fitting the space”—aim to command it.

For professionally printed panels that are sized to impress, Board Printing Company offers tailored solutions to suit your display needs, whether you’re preparing for a trade show or launching a new retail promotion.