How modular booth systems work: Octanorm, Maxima, Mero — detailed guide

The short answer: the leading modular booth systems (Octanorm, Maxima, Mero) work with standardised aluminium profiles, connectors, and interchangeable panels. Octanorm is the most widespread globally (60% market share). Maxima is premium positioning. Mero has structural depth. All allow 50+ reuses and layouts that reconfigure in hours. Below is the complete technical guide.

What a modular booth system is

A modular booth system = a standardised set of components that connect in predefined ways. Like LEGO for adults — reassemblable, predictable, scalable.

Core components:

Profiles (frames): Aluminium extrusions in standard sizes (30×30 mm, 40×40 mm, 80×80 mm). The “skeleton”.

Connectors (joints): 3-way, 4-way, or 5-way connectors that join profiles at corners or intersections.

Panels (skins): Wall surfaces that insert into frame slots. Usually MDF, fabric, plexiglass.

Accessories: Shelves, hooks, signage holders, LED tracks that attach to the frame.

Bases (feet): Stabilising feet that sit on the floor.

Octanorm — the standard

Founded 1971 (Germany), Octanorm is the most widespread modular system. Estimated 60% global market share.

Specifications:

• Profile: 38×38 mm primary
• Standard panel sizes: 1000×2500 mm (most common)
• Wall thickness: 100 mm (with finishes)
• System names: “Maxima” series, “S-Octa”, “Maximodul”

Pros:

• Universally compatible across builders
• Easy spare parts globally
• Vast accessory ecosystem
• Reliable, time-tested
• Lower cost (mass production scale)

Cons:

• “Recognisable” look (visitors notice joints)
• Strong industry standard means less differentiation
• Heavy panels need 2-person handling

Best for: standard B2B booths, multi-show exhibitors, modular-only contractors.

Maxima — premium modular

Maxima from Beemat Group (UK) is premium-positioning modular.

Specifications:

• Slimmer profile design
• Hidden joints (less “modular” looking)
• Custom panel sizes available
• Stronger structural ratings

Pros:

• Less recognisable as modular
• Premium aesthetic
• Better for premium brands

Cons:

• 30-50% more expensive
• Fewer global suppliers (limited regional availability)
• Smaller accessory ecosystem

Best for: premium brands wanting modular efficiency without the “modular look”.

Mero — engineering-grade

Mero (Germany) is engineering-grade structural modular.

Specifications:

• Heavier-duty profiles for structural elements
• Used for mezzanine booths, large hanging signs
• Higher load ratings

Pros:

• Suitable for double-deck and complex structures
• Top-tier structural engineering
• Long-lasting (15-20 year lifespan)

Cons:

• Most expensive
• Overkill for simple booths
• Requires specialised installers

Best for: large premium booths, double-deck, custom architectural elements.

Other notable systems

Bematrix: Belgian system, modern aesthetic, “frameworks” approach.

T3 System: Italian, premium positioning, design-focused.

Vector Frame: US-based, tension-fabric specialist.

Aluvision: Belgian, modern, high-end finish quality.

Burkhardt+Weber: German, niche for specific applications.

How a modular booth is built

Step-by-step assembly:

Step 1: Floor preparation Lay carpet/vinyl flooring first. All booth structure goes on top.

Step 2: Base placement Position stabilising feet at corners and key load points.

Step 3: Vertical profiles Erect vertical aluminium profiles connected to bases.

Step 4: Horizontal profiles Connect verticals with horizontal profiles at top (forming the frame).

Step 5: Connector placement Snap connectors at joints. System-specific locking mechanisms.

Step 6: Panel insertion Slide MDF/fabric panels into frame slots.

Step 7: Accessory mounting Attach shelves, LED tracks, signage holders.

Step 8: Electrical integration LED strips, screen mounts, outlets.

Step 9: Graphics application Apply vinyl/fabric prints over panels.

Step 10: Final inspection Level checks, alignment, safety review.

For a 20 m² booth, total time: 6-10 hours with a 2-person team.

Cost economics

Why modular has lower long-term cost:

Initial cost (vs custom 20 m² booth):

• Modular: €3,000-5,000 (just system + initial graphics)
• Custom: €6,000-10,000

Subsequent show (4 shows later):

• Modular: €500-1,000 (just new graphics + transport + setup)
• Custom: €4,000-6,000 (modify + new graphics + transport)

5-show total:

• Modular: €5,000-9,000 total
• Custom: €22,000-34,000 total

Modular saves 65-75% over multi-show usage.

Hybrid: modular + custom

Many exhibitors combine for the best of both worlds:

Modular skeleton: aluminium frame system for structural reliability and reusability.

Custom skin: custom-designed panels, graphics, finishes attached to the modular frame.

Result: looks custom, costs modular. ~30% cheaper than full custom, 90% of the custom appeal.

Cost for 20 m² hybrid: €4,500-8,000.

Choosing the right system

Decision factors:

For 90% of B2B exhibitors: Octanorm. Universal, reliable, cost-effective.

For premium brands: Maxima or Aluvision. Less “modular look”.

For double-deck/structural needs: Mero. Engineering-grade.

For tension fabric focus: Vector Frame. Specialised.

For specific regional availability: Local equivalent if Octanorm is hard to source.

Common mistakes with modular

Mistake 1: Treating modular as “cheap” — quality modular with good graphics looks premium. Don’t undermine it with cheap graphics.

Mistake 2: Not planning for reuse — modular only saves money if you reuse. Single-show modular is just lower-quality custom.

Mistake 3: Mixing systems — Octanorm and Maxima parts don’t interchange. Stick with one system.

Mistake 4: Cheap accessories — premium modular with cheap shelves looks cheap.

Mistake 5: Ignoring colour/finish customisation — modular doesn’t mean “no choices”. Custom paint, custom graphics make a huge difference.

Frequently asked questions

Are all modular systems compatible with each other? No. Octanorm parts don’t fit Maxima frames. Each system is proprietary.

How long do modular profiles last? 50+ years if properly cared for. Aluminium doesn’t rust or degrade.

Are second-hand modular systems reliable? Yes — strong used market. Save 40-60% on cost. Inspect for joint wear.

Should I rent vs own modular? Rental makes sense for 1-3 shows/year. Ownership pays back at 4+ shows.

How many different layouts can I reconfigure from the same modular set? Limitless with standard panel sizes. A 30 m² booth’s parts can reconfigure into 18, 24, 36 m² layouts.

Is professional installation necessary? Yes for first install. Subsequent installs your team can learn (training 1-2 days).

How much does weight affect transport? Aluminium modular = light. A 20 m² booth fits in a mid-size van (3.5 ton). The custom equivalent needs a full truck.

Does the type of connector matter? Yes. Octanorm uses cam-locks (rotate to lock). Premium systems use bolt-down. Cam-locks faster, bolts more secure.

Are modular systems environmentally sustainable? Highly sustainable. Aluminium 100% recyclable. Long lifespan (20+ years). Minimal waste per reuse.

Are all Greek booth contractors familiar with Octanorm? Yes — global standard. Any decent contractor has Octanorm inventory.

---

Designing a modular booth and need system selection guidance? Send us the details and we’ll suggest a system for your brand and show schedule. Also read custom vs modular vs portable and the materials guide.