From Linear to Circular: Circular Economy Practices in the Trade Fair and Exhibition Industry and a Pathway for Future Research

Abstract

This study explores the implementation of circular economy (CE) practices in the resource-intensive trade fair and exhibition industry. Through 22 semistructured interviews with senior managers from stand-building companies, the research evaluates the current state of CE application and identifies key challenges and strategic responses. The findings indicate that high initial costs, limited awareness of CE principles among industry stakeholders, and resource constraints significantly hinder adoption. Current CE efforts are largely confined to waste management (reduction, reuse, recycling), with minimal adoption of broader circular practices. Despite attempts at modular design and material reuse, widespread implementation of CE within exhibition management is hindered by regulatory, economic, and infrastructural challenges. The study proposes a research agenda focusing on stakeholder education (e.g., organizers, exhibitors), policy incentives (e.g., subsidies, regulation) to reduce barriers, and technological innovations (e.g., modular systems, digital tracking tools). Overall, it emphasizes CE’s potential to transform the industry towards more sustainable practices.