Trade fairs and business events, which have traditionally generated large amounts of waste, including wood, plastic and fabric, can also become sustainable. Informa Markets, the organiser of the plastics trade fair Plástico Brasil, which took place in São Paulo from 24 to 28 March 2025, has launched the “Better Stands” initiative committing to the goal of eliminating exhibitor stand waste by 2030. This year’s trade fair already achieved more than 95 per cent sustainability, for example by reusing stand construction materials. Arburg, whose modular stand concept was awarded the “Better Stands Gold Seal” for its international multiple use capability, contributed significantly to this achievement.
Arburg has long been committed to developing and manufacturing modular exhibition stands in Germany. These stands are adapted to different s for reuse at various trade fairs around the world. “Furniture, panels, flooring and carpets come from Germany and will be reused at countless other trade fairs after the event”, says Alfredo Fuentes, Managing Director of Arburg’s Brazilian subsidiary, explaining the concept of the sustainable stand. In this way, the company ensures that the same stand components can be (re)used at around 50 international trade fairs per year. Many of the materials and pieces of equipment have already been in use for several years without generating waste. This approach aligns with Arburg’s sustainable philosophy and supports the circular economy and resource conservation goals of the ArburgGreenWorld programme.
Assembly and disassembly are equally important
“For operational purposes, disassembly is almost more interesting than assembly”, says Kai Armbruster, Manager of Fairs & Events at the Arburg headquarters in Lossburg, “because it demonstrates the care that we take with every piece. That’s why our fitters come all the way from Germany to set up and dismantle our exhibition stands. Everything is pre-organised for smooth logistical handling, using custom wooden transport boxes and specialised tools. It is a very well-choreographed process.”
The sustainable stand model is also financially viable in the long term. While the initial investment is higher, since all furniture and equipment are purchased rather than rented, this strategy pays off over time.
Receiving the “Better Stands Gold Seal” is an important recognition for Arburg and was a great surprise at the trade fair. Alfredo Fuentes concludes: "This award confirms Arburg’s sustainability endeavours. It is gratifying to see that this is also becoming increasingly valued in the market."
