When someone mentions sustainable exhibition stands, most people picture something plain, expensive, or difficult to pull off. Maybe you’ve even heard, “It’s not worth the hassle,” or “They don’t make the same impact.”
But that’s the problem with myths — they stick around long after the facts have changed.
The truth is, sustainable stands have come a long way. They’re not only cost-effective and creative, but often more flexible and eye-catching than traditional setups. And with more events across the UK shifting towards greener practices, it’s becoming the smarter choice for brands that want to stand out for the right reasons.
We’re setting the record straight. Let’s unpack 9 of the biggest misconceptions about sustainable exhibition stands — and show how going green might be the smartest move your business can make.
MYTH 1: “SUSTAINABLE STANDS LOOK DULL AND BORING”
Not true, and here’s why.
At one of last year’s big exhibitions in Birmingham, the most talked-about stand was made with reclaimed timber, eco-fabric banners, and real potted plants. It had soft LED lighting and zero plastic and still managed to feel fresh, modern, and packed with personality.
People didn’t walk past; it pulled them in.
Sustainable exhibition stands aren’t limited to browns and greens or rough wooden boards. With the right design, they can look just as professional (if not better) than traditional displays. Think fabric graphics, recycled metal frames, modular walls, and clean lines that are completely customisable.
At EMS Events, we’ve helped clients create show-stopping green stands across London and beyond. It’s all about using the right materials in the right way.
MYTH 2: “THEY COST TOO MUCH TO BUILD”
We hear this one a lot, especially from businesses exhibiting for the first time.
Many people think eco-friendly options cost more. But in reality, sustainable exhibition stands can actually save money in the long run.
Going sustainable can actually save you money.
Sure, the initial materials might seem pricier, like recycled panels or custom eco-fabric banners.
But reusable frames, modular designs, and rented elements mean you don’t have to start from scratch for every event.
Using the same materials again and again reduces costs over time. But unlike throwaway builds, these are made to last. Just update your graphics or swap a few parts, and boom…
A fresh look without the full rebuild cost.
When you hire EMS Events, we’ll guide you through what can be reused, repurposed, or recycled, keeping your budget low and your impact high.
MYTH 3: “IT’S TOO MUCH WORK TO PLAN A SUSTAINABLE STAND”
This one’s old news. Planning a green stand used to mean juggling suppliers and hoping for the best. But not anymore.
At EMS Events, we make the whole process easy.
From concept to construction, we handle:
- Bespoke stand design.
- Eco-friendly material sourcing.
- Lighting and AV setup.
- On-site support.
Want carpets made from recycled fibre? Done. Need signage printed on eco-board? Sorted. Fancy LED lights that save power but still shine bright? We’ve got over 30,000 AV pieces in our Central London hub, ready to go.
You just show up and enjoy your event. We’ll sort the green stuff behind the scenes.
MYTH 4: “GREEN STANDS AREN’T STRONG OR DURABLE”
Materials are stronger and smarter than ever.
Modern sustainable stands are built with top-quality materials: FSC-certified timber, aluminium frames, eco-fabric graphics, recycled plastics, you name it.
These aren’t just eco-friendly; they’re durable, lightweight, and beautiful. And they stand up to the demands of the busiest exhibition floors.
Sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing structure or quality. It means choosing better materials.
At one corporate event in London, our team built a full-size conference booth using only recycled and reusable parts. It held a stage, speakers, LED walls, and demo zones, and was used again at another show two months later. Eco doesn’t mean flimsy. It means smart.
MYTH 5: “SUSTAINABILITY IS JUST A TREND”
Let’s set this one straight: sustainability is here to stay.
Customers, clients, and even venues are demanding more responsibility from businesses. More people want to work with brands that care about the environment.
In fact, a recent UK study showed:
Some event attendees said they’re more likely to visit a stand that promotes eco-friendly practices.
Going green helps you stand out for all the right reasons. And if you’re exhibiting in places like London Olympia, ExCeL, or Manchester Central, sustainable setups are becoming the new norm.
Staying ahead of this shift puts your brand in a better position long term.
MYTH 6: “YOU CAN’T BE CREATIVE WITH SUSTAINABLE DESIGNS”
Sustainable = limited design options. “A big no.”
The design possibilities are endless. Think modular = boring? Think again.
Modular systems are like giant LEGO sets for grown-ups. You can create corners, open layouts, private meeting pods, feature walls, and more.
In fact, having constraints sometimes pushes creativity even further. When working with sustainable materials, our team often comes up with some of the most original designs. You don’t lose creativity; you gain it.
At EMS Events, we help clients create:
- Modular stands that reconfigure for different venues.
- Interactive displays powered by energy-saving gear.
- Fabric walls with changeable covers.
- LED lighting features with smart energy use.
- Biophilic design with real plants for visual and environmental impact.
Green design is not about limiting options. It’s about building clever, flexible, and thoughtful spaces that people remember.
MYTH 7: “MY SMALL STAND WON’T MAKE A DIFFERENCE”
This is one of the biggest myths out there.
You don’t need to be a big global brand to make an impact. Every small choice, choosing reusable displays, cutting down on plastic, and using LED lighting, adds up.
Think of it like recycling at home. One bottle might not seem like a lot… but when thousands of people join in, it makes a massive difference.
And when attendees see your stand making an effort, it sparks conversation, builds trust, and shows your values in action.
MYTH 8: “THEY’RE HARDER TO TRANSPORT.”
They’re usually easier.
Sustainable stands are often modular, meaning they pack down neatly and travel efficiently. This reduces transportation costs, loading time, and your carbon footprint.
No more needing massive trucks and multiple journeys. One small van, and you’re good to go. Less shipping means less risk of damage, loss, or delays.
MYTH 9: RENTING ISN’T AS PROFESSIONAL AS BUYING
Some exhibitors worry that rented or reused stands look less professional. But hiring elements like lighting, screens, or furniture is very common and smart.
Rental items are often newer, better maintained, and higher quality than what you’d buy once and keep forever. Renting also gives you more freedom to change the look and feel of your stand for different events.
TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR STAND MORE SUSTAINABLE
Want to go green but not sure where to start? Here’s a quick checklist to keep things simple:
- Use LED lighting to save energy.
- Print on recycled fabric or eco-boards.
- Ditch Plastic Freebies offer digital downloads or QR codes.
- Go modular so parts can be reused.
- Partner with EMS Events, and we do the green planning for you.
WHY EMS EVENTS IS YOUR GO-TO FOR SUSTAINABLE EXHIBITION STANDS
We’ve been supporting UK events for over 25 years. We know what it takes to create a show-stopping exhibition stand that ticks every box, style, strength, sustainability, and success.
Here’s why clients choose EMS Events:
- Central London-based, with fast access to venues across the UK.
- Over 30,000 AV equipment pieces are ready for hire.
- Custom stage set design and build options.
- Large stock of Absen LED video wall panels.
- Full display board hire and shell scheme hire services.
- Support for power, graphics, flooring, furniture, and more.
Whether you’re hosting a product showcase or attending a major trade show, our team delivers end-to-end support with a focus on going green where it counts.
WHAT MAKES A STAND TRULY SUSTAINABLE?
Let’s break it down. A sustainable exhibition stand usually includes:
- Recycled or recyclable materials (like aluminium, wood, or eco fabrics).
- Modular systems that can be reused and rearranged.
- Hired items (furniture, lighting, tech).
- Digital alternatives to printed materials.
- Local sourcing to reduce transport emissions.
You don’t have to tick every box. Even choosing one or two of these options is a step in the right direction.
SUSTAINABLE EXHIBITION TRENDS IN THE UK
The UK events industry is changing fast. More businesses now aim to lower their Scope 3 emissions (the indirect ones). Sustainability isn’t just a trend. It’s becoming the norm.
Here are some growing trends:
- Modular stand systems.
- Zero-waste event strategies.
- LED lighting and low-energy AV.
- Eco-friendly floor coverings.
- Renting over buying.
If you’re showing at exhibitions regularly, it makes sense to think long-term. What you invest now can benefit your brand for years to come.
LET’S BUST THESE MYTHS FOR GOOD
So, what did you learn?
- Sustainable exhibition stands aren’t boring; they can be brilliant.
- They don’t have to cost a fortune.
- They’re strong, stylish, and easy to manage with the right team.
- And best of all, they show your brand cares.
Don’t let old myths hold your business back. Go green. Be bold. And create an event space that’s memorable and meaningful.
And if you’re looking for expert support in London or across the UK, EMS Events is here to help. We’ve been delivering full AV hire and event production services for over 25 years, and now we’re leading the way in sustainable solutions too.
Based in Central London, we work with UK businesses of all sizes to design, build, and manage eco-friendly exhibition stands that leave a lasting impression.
From shell scheme hire to display boards and LED video walls, we offer everything you need to make your event eco-conscious without losing impact.
