Sustain & Save vs. Build & Burn

 

While we are all busy with virtual events right now, the time will come when physical exhibits will return.

 

Now would be a good time for a ‘Pause for Purpose’ and reassess our long term physical exhibit strategies and ensure they are sustainable.

At some point, we’ve all opted for the cheaper purchase only to find ourselves making a similar purchase again sooner than we thought. Why? Because as the saying goes, “you get what you pay for.”

In the exhibit world, there’s a similar practice of what we call “build and burn” exhibit booths that are constructed to showcase for one week (if that!). Sure, the practice is less expensive on an individual basis, but most companies don’t showcase just once. All the effort for one build and burn exhibit ends up in a landfill and leaves you with nothing for your next show. In the end, you’re spending MORE creating a new exhibit for each show—and you’re adding unacceptable levels of waste to the environment.

Total cost based on 1 show per year, over 5 years:

(Figures shown in USD, $) - While a custom-built, sustainable kit has a higher price tag initially, it’s not a one-and-done purchase. Instead, think of these custom builds - which have a lot of scalability and flexibility - as an investment that results in a multi-use exhibit. They last for three to five years, giving you sustainability and savings all in one. Plus, when that cost is spread out over the lifespan of your exhibits, you will make significant savings - and it’s kinder to the environment, too.

At Ignition, we have two approaches to our sustainable exhibit kits—both with many benefits. Depending on your needs and the evolving nature of your brand and product offering, you can choose either a custom modular design or a made-for-metamorphosis one.

Made-for-Metamorphosis Exhibit Kit

  • Concept and construction can be re-used for completely different purposes: exhibit, smaller display setting, backdrop for virtual events, etc.

  • Able to add different sustainable material for new, fresh look

  • Multi-functional suite of display units and furniture allow a brand to MORPH from exhibit space to pop-up shop, etc.

Custom Modular Exhibit Kit

  • Scalable to suit any exhibit size

  • Flexible for any layout

  • Sustainable, durable materials

  • Designed to be unique to your brand

  • Lifespan of 5-10 years

  • Mid-range pricing - not the cheapest solution, nor the most expensive

Think Smart, Plan for the Future

If you’re in it for the long term, Ignition can help you plan for the future in a fiscally and environmentally responsible way. This is our sweet spot. In 2019, we delivered nearly 350 worldwide projects in 20 countries, across four continents - and all with a 100% success rate and zero waste to landfill.

By Tom Owens, Business Development Manager, Ignition

 
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Example: Custom Modular Exhibit Kit

 
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Find out more by watching our webinar on sustainable exhibition strategies.

This webinar shares ideas and examples to inspire a new sustainable mindset for companies who take part in multiple exhibits and discusses innovative ways to help drive a new agenda for your future exhibitions programme.

 

Thank you for reading.

No two projects are the same, and we’re full of ideas to bring your objectives to life. If you would like to find out more, please do get in touch.

Opinion, 3 min readTom Owenssustainability, events, virtual, exhibitionsComment