Moving towards reusable 
stands together

The Better Stands Programme is an industry-wide initiative supported by leading international exhibition organisers and part of the Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE) framework. The programme brings together exhibitors and contractors, encouraging them to transition from single-use stands to reusable structures. 

The programme operates across three certification levels (Bronze, Silver and Gold) based on the Better Stands 10-point framework. Each level represents the number of stand elements that are reused after the event. The more elements reused, the higher the certification level achieved. Stands that do not meet minimum Bronze requirements will be classified as single-use. 

A single-use stand is a space-only build that can only be used once at a single event. They are typically constructed onsite from poor-quality raw materials, which are then demolished post show and sent to either landfill or burnt for energy. 

Easily reusable:

• Wooden stock panels 
• Interlocking wooden systems 
• Aluminium framing 
• Glass frames 
• System flooring 
• Plastic pipe rigged structures 
• Rented furniture and lighting 
• Can be reusable with careful handling: 
• Cardboard/honeycomb stands 
• MDF/MFC walls and fascia 
• Curved features 
• Painted and filled wood 
• Fabric infills 
• Difficult to reuse: 
• Chipboard walls and fascia 
• Foamcore boards 
• PVC banners 
• Cheap, thin carpet

Easily reusable:

• Wooden stock panels 
• Interlocking wooden systems 
• Aluminium framing 
• Glass frames 
• System flooring 
• Plastic pipe rigged structures 
• Rented furniture and lighting 
• Can be reusable with careful handling: 
• Cardboard/honeycomb stands 
• MDF/MFC walls and fascia 
• Curved features 
• Painted and filled wood 
• Fabric infills

Difficult to reuse:

• Chipboard walls and fascia 
• Foamcore boards 
• PVC banners 
• Cheap, thin carpet

An independent third-party assessor, Abraxys, conducts on-site inspections during the build-up and dismantle phases, evaluating each stand element against the Better Stands 10-point framework. With photographic documentation taken throughout the process, they will verify whether elements are reused or disposed of. 

Following the event, during the week of 30th November, participants will receive a detailed report outlining their stand's classification and a certificate confirming the level achieved. 

If your stand is classified as disposable, it means it does not meet the minimum criteria outlined in the Better Stands 10-point framework. Exhibitors will be notified and provided with a report explaining why the stand was classified as disposable. While no certificate will be issued, the communication email will include recommendations for improving your stand design to meet Bronze, Silver, or Gold level at future events.

If your stand does not meet the minimum Bronze criteria outlined in the Better Stands 10-point framework, it will be classified as single-use. You will receive a notification and detailed report explaining the assessment, alongside a certificate.  

Shell Stands are constructed using materials that will be reused across multiple events, supporting CPHI’s commitment to sustainability. Whilst Shell Stands do not receive Better Stands certification, the structural components (walls, flooring and framework) are retained and repurposed for future exhibitions. 

Modular Stand Design (MSD) packages automatically achieve Gold-level certification in the Better Stands Programme, with zero additional effort required from exhibitors. 

This ready-made solution, delivered by our partner A-Booth, makes exhibition participation simple and sustainable. All structural elements, furniture, lighting and rigged components are fully reusable, whilst graphics and floor coverings are recycled. 

Yes, all space-only/raw space stands are assessed against the Better Stands 10-point framework. This ensures a consistent approach to assessing and encouraging responsible stand build processes across the event. 

To ensure your stand meets at least the Bronze level, you should focus on incorporating reusable elements into your stand design in line with the Better Stands 10-point framework. Here are some key steps: 

1. Introduce the program: share the Better Stands Programme and its 10-point framework with your contractor early on to ensure they understand the requirements and goals of the initiative. 

2. Plan early: start discussions with your contractor as soon as possible to ensure your stand design aligns with the framework. 

3. Use reusable structures: ensure that the stand and walls have been designed to be reconstructed. 

4. Select appropriate flooring: use modular platforms, or avoid raised flooring altogether if not required. 

5. Choose reusable furniture: opt for furniture and equipment that are either rented or designed for reuse. 

6. Install LED lighting: use energy-efficient LED lighting throughout your stand. 

7. Document reuse plans: confirm with your contractor that each element can and will be reused after the event, as this information is essential for helping you pass your Better Stands assessment. 

For exhibitors:

• Review the information in the Exhibitor Manual 
• Verify your contractor has completed the CPHI Contractor's course

For contractors:

• Consult the Contractor's Guide available in the manual

We are doing everything we can to make CPHI a more sustainable brand, and that work starts with us. 

However, we also actively encourage our exhibitors to consider sustainability to help us and the planet. You can find out more about what we’re doing at our events here, or keep up with industry sustainability updates through CPHI Online. 

Your Better Stands report and certificate will be sent via email during the week commencing 30 November 2026. 

You will have two months from the date of receipt to download your certificate. 

I have a question that hasn’t been answered here 

Please contact CPHIcustomerservice@informa.com or get in touch directly with your account manager to discuss exhibiting more sustainably.