How to choose between a stretch tent, a marquee and an aluminium structure?

Features. The stretch tent uses an elastic stretched fabric (usually polyester or Lycra) mounted on aluminium or wooden poles. Its silhouette is organic and taut, with soft curves and striking high points. Standard capacity: 30 to 200 people for a single tent, up to 500 with multiple configurations.

Strengths. The contemporary visual signature is the number 1 asset: the stretch tent is immediately recognisable and adds character to your event. It adapts very well to uneven ground and to spaces with obstacles (trees, façades). It is quicker to set up than a classic marquee (4-6h for 150 m²). It can be open, semi-open or closed depending on the weather conditions and the desired look.

Weaknesses. Limited capacity compared with the marquee (200 people max for a single tent). Lower wind resistance (80 km/h max in a standard configuration, vs 100 km/h for a marquee). Reduced height under the poles compared with a marquee (often 2,40-2,80 m). Greater sensitivity to usage conditions (smoke, sparks, heat) that can damage the fabric.

Ideal use cases: prestige corporate drinks receptions, premium weddings, brand events focused on creativity, garden or estate parties, high-end product launches with a polished look.

Budget. More expensive per m² than a classic marquee (18-25 €/m² versus 12-18 €/m²). For 150 m²: 3 500-5 500 € excl. VAT (vs 2 500-3 500 € for an equivalent marquee).

Features. The classic marquee uses a standard aluminium framework (uprights, trusses, cross-beams) and a stretched white PVC fabric. Its silhouette is rectangular or with central poles depending on the model. Standard capacity: 50 to 1 500 people depending on width (8x10m marquee = 80 m² for 50-80 people; 30x50m marquee = 1 500 m² for 1 000+ people).

Strengths. Absolute modularity is the main asset: width from 6 to 30 metres, length adjustable in bays of 3 or 5 metres. You get exactly the surface area you need. High capacity (up to 1 500 people in a single structure). Strong wind resistance (100 km/h standard, 130 km/h in a reinforced configuration). Greater clear height (2,30-3 m at the wall, 5-7 m at the ridge). Hard-wearing fabric (700-900 g/m²), M2 or B1 fire rating.

Weaknesses. A more conventional look (white fabric, exposed framework). Less of a "signature" than a stretch tent or an orangery. Longer setup (1-2 days for 400 m²+). A larger ground footprint (the interior poles can limit certain layouts).

Ideal use cases: corporate conventions, plenary sessions, major seminars, large corporate events, trade shows, festivals, weddings with a large capacity, public events.

Budget. The best value for money. 12-18 €/m² for the basic structure. For 400 m²: 6 000-9 000 € excl. VAT.

Features. The large-span aluminium structure uses a reinforced aluminium framework with lattice beams, able to cover very large surfaces with no interior poles. Width up to 30 metres, unlimited length in bays. High-density PVC fabric (800-1 000 g/m²).

Strengths. Exceptional capacity (up to 5 000 m² in a single structure, that is 3 000+ people). No interior poles (full visibility, perfect for trade shows and exhibitions). High roof loadings (40 kg/m² permissible load, ideal for heavy stage rigging). Strong durability (usable in long-term operation, up to 6 months without takedown). Reinforced wind resistance (130 km/h standard).

Weaknesses. A higher investment cost (10-18 €/m² for very large surfaces, but the ratio improves with size). Long setup (3-7 days for 1 000 m²+). Significant heavy-goods logistics (the structure weighs 3 to 4 times more than an equivalent marquee). Not suited to small surfaces (< 500 m²).

Ideal use cases: trade shows, commercial fairs, XXL conventions (> 1 000 people), exhibitions, large public events, long-term hire (storage extensions, pop-up stores).

Budget. For 1 000 m²: 12 000-18 000 € excl. VAT (vs 15 000-20 000 € for an equivalent classic marquee — cheaper per m² for very large surfaces).

Here are 5 questions to ask yourself to identify the right format.

Question 1: what capacity? If fewer than 200 people, a stretch tent or a small marquee will do. Between 200 and 1 500 people, the classic marquee is the dominant format. Beyond 1 500 people, the large-span aluminium structure becomes relevant.

Question 2: what is your aesthetic requirement? If you are looking for a signature, contemporary result, the stretch tent or the orangery are the best choices. If the look is secondary, the classic marquee offers the best value for money. If you are running an industrial event, the aluminium structure makes sense.

Question 3: what is your site? On natural, uneven ground, the stretch tent adapts better. On a flat, extensive site, the marquee and the aluminium structure work very well. In a city centre with access constraints, favour structures that are set up in small parts (modular marquee).

Question 4: what is the operating duration? 1-3 days: all formats are suitable. 1-2 weeks: a marquee or aluminium structure rather than a stretch tent. 1 month and over: an aluminium structure specifically designed for long-term use.

Question 5: what is your budget? Tight budget: classic marquee. Medium budget: premium marquee or stretch tent. High budget for a large capacity: aluminium structure.