Sustained approach
Smart Display is outlining a clear policy on sustainable exhibition stand design in line with its recent relocation to new premises. The new site – which is more than double the size of the previous HQ – has substantially more storage space, allowing the exhibition specialist to store and re-use more elements than ever before for clients wishing to take a greener approach to sustainable exhibition stand design.
As an ESSA member, Smart Display is already aligned with industry best practice when it comes to sustainable exhibition stand design . But as the new season gets underway, the company is firmly committed to going above and beyond industry guidelines to work towards a greener, more sustainable industry.
The events industry is somewhat of a double-edged sword when it comes to the environment. While the energy consumption, associated travel and high use of materials all contributes to CO2 emissions, the flip side is a series of events that unite a substantial number of delegates, reducing the need for individual trips to conduct business.
And the good news is, sustainable exhibition stand design can slash CO2 emissions drastically with even just two uses of the same stand. According to research carried out by Better Stands, just five uses of the same stand reduces CO2 emissions by 80 per cent;

For clients too, the benefits are tangible. Re-use of key elements reinforces brand impact, maximises efficiency and, perhaps most importantly, can reduce costs over time from one exhibition to the next.
“Creating a sustainable stand reflects our wider commitment to innovation,” says Metador’s head of marketing Alwyn Evershed, a Smart Display client who has so far re-used the same stand elements three times. “For us, it’s not just about reducing waste at exhibitions — it’s about leading by example and proving that quality, impact, and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”
The Metador stand is just one of Smart Display’s creations which has been classified as Gold standard in line with the Better Stands certification scheme. In line with Smart Display’s policy to reduce and re-use, the following elements will be re-used wherever possible in a bid to make every stand build as sustainable as possible;
- Stand structure and walls
- Platform or raised flooring
- Furniture and equipment
- Lighting
- Fascias and overhead signage
- Rigged structure
- Ceiling
- Display facilities
- Floor coverings
- Graphics and decorative items
If you are working towards a more sustainable way of working, get in touch today to see how we can bring your exhibition presence in line with your sustainability policy #wemakeevents
