Rent vs Buy: Quick comparison chart

Factor Exhibit Booth Rentals Owned Exhibit Properties
Accounting Treatment Operating Expense (OpEx) Capital Expense (CapEx) with depreciation
Flexibility High Moderate
Experience Consistency Variable High
Long-Term Efficiency Lower for Frequent Exhibitors Higher for Multi-Show Programs
Asset Control Limited Full Control
Availability Not Guaranteed Guaranteed
Speed to Market Potentially Faster Requires Planning & Fabrication Time
Storage & Maintenance Not Required Required (Downing Displays Offers)