Exhibiting at Pharma Asia: shell scheme or bare space?
Two ways to take part, what each includes and which suits which company — from a first stand to a machinery display.
In this article
Companies taking part in Pharma Asia choose between two formats. Which one fits depends on what you want to show and how much of the stand you want to build yourself.
Shell scheme
A ready-built stand from 9 square metres, increasing in 9 square metre steps. It comes with floor carpet, two chairs, three spotlights, an information counter, a fascia board with your company name and a power socket, plus a 200-word profile in the exhibition catalogue. It suits first-time exhibitors, distributors and suppliers who want a finished space and only need to bring products and graphics.
Bare space
Floor space only, from 18 square metres and increasing in 9 square metre steps, for companies building their own stand. It is the usual choice for machinery displays, process lines and larger brand pavilions, and it also includes the 200-word catalogue profile.
| Option | Starts at | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Shell scheme | 9 sqm | A finished stand, minimal effort |
| Bare space | 18 sqm | Custom stands and machinery |
How to choose
| Question | If yes, consider |
|---|---|
| Is this your first time exhibiting? | Shell scheme |
| Will you show heavy or running machinery? | Bare space |
| Do you need meeting rooms or storage on the stand? | Bare space |
| Is your team small and your display mainly brochures and samples? | Shell scheme |
| Is brand presence a major goal? | Bare space or a sponsorship package |
Planning a bare-space stand
A custom stand needs more lead time. Most exhibitors work with a stand contractor who designs, builds and removes the stand. Allow time for design approval, power and lighting requirements, and the delivery and positioning of heavy equipment. For machinery, check floor loading, access routes and any special power needs early, and agree who is responsible for installation and removal.
Getting results from either format
- Set goals. Decide in advance how many meetings, leads or orders would make the show a success.
- Invite customers. Tell existing and target customers your hall and stand number and book meetings before the show.
- Show, don’t just tell. Samples, running equipment, short videos and case studies attract more visitors than posters alone.
- Staff the stand well. Bring people who can answer technical questions, not only sales staff, and plan shifts across the three days.
- Capture leads. Record each visitor’s needs, not just their card, so follow-up is specific.
- Follow up quickly. Send quotations and information within a week, while the meeting is still remembered.
Who you will meet
The 2025 edition drew more than 25,000 trade visitors, with managing directors, senior and executive vice presidents, CEOs, COOs, presidents and chairmen among the top job titles. Exhibitors reported more than 1,050 confirmed meetings with corporate buyers — see Pharma Asia 2025 in numbers.
Budgeting the full cost
The space charge is only part of the cost of exhibiting. A realistic budget also includes stand design and construction for bare space, graphics and printed material, shipping and installation of exhibits, travel and accommodation for staff from outside Karachi, hospitality on the stand and pre-show promotion. Planning these early, and agreeing them with your team, avoids last-minute costs and makes it easier to measure the return afterwards.
Sponsorship
Companies that want more visibility can take a partnership package, which includes prime exhibition space in the fee along with branding at the Expo Centre, in the catalogue and online.
Next step
Participation charges exclude government taxes. To check availability and receive a proposal, send a stand enquiry. You can also compare the audience in the visitor profile.
