ExpoGuys announces creative approach to sustainable exhibition design and business practice

For this project, De Klerk created an immersive experience using different coloured sands, coal, gravel and notably, recycled items like plastic bottles. This approach not only provided a unique aesthetic but also emphasised environmental responsibility.

De Klerk reinvented the 'Beautiful Things' concept, using plastic bottles and other recycled items, demonstrating how sustainable materials can be effectively utilised in high-profile international events.

Here, De Klerk employed raw cardboard tubes and untreated chipboard, minimising the environmental impact by reducing the need for finishes like paint and varnish.

Sustainability is ingrained in its operations, influenced by De Klerk's vision. The company strives to reduce its carbon footprint and maximise material reuse.

"We make a massive effort to reduce our carbon footprint and reuse as much material as we can," says De Klerk.

This commitment is evident in the company's preference for system stands over custom stands. 

"Although we build everything from shell schemes to custom stands, the majority are system stands with custom elements," De Klerk adds.

These stands are sustainable due to their reusability, reducing reliance on single-use materials like wood.

De Klerk says, "The system itself is incredibly sustainable as you use it over and over again," highlighting the contrast with 100% custom stands that may end up as waste.

ExpoGuys extends its sustainability commitment beyond reusable stands. We adopt a full lifecycle approach to materials, an initiative led by De Klerk. Unusable wood is donated and repurposed into furniture, and furniture no longer suitable for hire is donated for reuse. This approach extends the life of materials and supports various causes.

Additionally, ExpoGuys promotes the use of fabric banner graphics, printed in-house, for repeated use on its stands. In a significant step to minimise its transportation-related carbon footprint, ExpoGuys extrudes its own aluminium in its factory, ensuring quality control and reducing emissions.

De Klerk's role in the industry extends beyond design. He educates and inspires others toward sustainable practices through talks and presentations.

His lecture series, "Junk Talks to Me," addresses sustainability in design. De Klerk's talk for the Greening Council and his keynote address at the IFAS conference in Turkey are prime examples of his influence. His recognition in the OOFY's recycling competition further highlights his sustainable material use, leading to invitations for talks at various conferences.

De Klerk's engagements have been crucial in promoting sustainability in the exhibition industry. His talks emphasise the creative and responsible use of everyday items in exhibition stands, inspiring the industry toward sustainable practices.

In addition to its commitment to sustainable exhibition design, ExpoGuys has recently taken a bold step to further solidify its dedication to eco-friendly practices by implementing a state-of-the-art solar system at its Johannesburg offices.

The three-phase industrial system with high voltage, features 90 solar panels on the roof and 50 KWh batteries — all expandable to meet the company's energy needs.

With solar power as its primary energy source, the company can harness up to 50 KVa of clean energy, significantly reducing its environmental impact. Excess energy is stored for use during cloudy days or at night, and Eskom's electricity supply and a backup generator serve as a last resort only.

This sustainable energy approach aligns seamlessly with ExpoGuys' broader mission of responsible and innovative exhibition stand design, ensuring uninterrupted operations while reducing its carbon footprint.

We are at the forefront of combining creativity with sustainability in exhibition design. The company's innovative use of recycled and repurposed materials sets a benchmark in the industry.

ExpoGuys holistic approach to sustainability, from design philosophy to energy solutions, sets a powerful example for the industry, proving that a commitment to environmental responsibility can be at the core of successful and innovative business practices.

For more information, visit www.expoguys.co.za. You can also follow ExpoGuys on Facebook, X or on Instagram.