World Expo, Osaka

True Staging worked with ES Global from October 2023 as design consultants, through to construction delivery in Japan for the Osaka World Expo 2025.

For over 18 months, we collaborated with partners including WOO architects and Immersive International, providing scenic expertise, structural consultation, and set construction for key elements of the UK and USA Pavilions.

We also worked alongside local suppliers in Osaka, to promote sustainable practices in the region.

Collaborating with:

Client: ES Global

Woo Architects

Immersive International

Photo Credits: © Allan Abani / @immersive.international / @es_global / Hufton + Crow

The UK Pavilion at World Expo 2025 was constructed using the pioneering Global Modular System (GMS) – a lightweight foundation system designed with sustainability at its core. This innovative approach not only reduced environmental impact but also ensured that materials could be repurposed locally in Japan, reducing waste and reinforcing the UK’s commitment to sustainable practices.

True supported the delivery of major exterior features – such as the undercroft, terrace, balustrade, communal staircase, and façade – ensuring quality and cohesion across the project.

As part of the pavilion, True Staging design-engineered and built six unique exhibition spaces, each crafted to deliver an engaging and memorable visitor experience.

A standout feature of the pavilion was the 30-tonne pedestrian ramp, engineered and constructed by our team at True. This structure guided more than 1 million visitors through the “Come Build the Future” exhibition, positioning the UK as a leader in creativity, innovation, and global collaboration.

This project exemplifies how innovative engineering, sustainable design, and immersive storytelling can come together to showcase a nation on the world stage.

The USA Pavilion invited visitors on an immersive journey through American history and iconic landmarks, celebrating the nation’s leadership in technology, space exploration, education, culture, and entrepreneurship.

Designed as a demountable structure, comprising two triangular steel frames connected by a central steel cube. Its floors were constructed from steel joists supporting plywood decking and walkways, creating a robust yet flexible foundation for the experience.

Working alongside ES Global and an exceptional team of partners, we helped deliver the pavilion’s striking exterior façade. The structure was clad in tensile fabric, Douglas Fir timber and featured integrated video screens layered across the many elevations.

• 4,000 sqm of Douglas Fir timber fabricated at True HQ with precision craftsmanship
• Materials shipped in custom stillages to Japan for safe and efficient transport
• On-site project management by True, overseeing a local workforce to ensure flawless installation

This project demonstrates our expertise in supporting and delivering complex international builds, seamlessly managing design, fabrication, logistics, and installation.