Design News South Africa

Draftfcb Cape Town, Marketing Merchants win gold for best stand

Marketing communications group Draftfcb, in conjunction with stand design and construction company Marketing Merchants announced on 13 July 2009 that they were awarded Best Stand Design for financial services client, Momentum, at the FPI (Financial Planning Institute) Congress & Expo held in Johannesburg during June.

The stand's concept was designed to be simple and clear, to illustrate Sustainable Success, based on the client's ability to provide successful products. This big idea translated into a custom-designed solar panel display that powered the entire stand, including the energy-conscious overhead lighting and a water screen projection system.

Can a font save the world?

For the physical stand and its design, the agency and Marketing Merchants erected a stand that was totally reusable. An innovative and environmentally friendly “Eco” font, which uses up to 20% less ink than normal fonts, was used for bold product messaging. To ensure that sustainable yet functional seating was available, several pieces made out of Xanita (a high-density and recyclable fibre weave) were commissioned.

In addition, other eco-friendly initiatives took place during the expo and conference. Among these was an energy-saving demonstration where an energy efficient (CFL) light bulb was compared to a regular bulb, powered by using a gyro bike. As an extended commitment to sustainability, seedlings were placed on a living wall display where visitors could attach their details to donate a seedling to a selected charity.

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