Hugh Jones elected UFI President for 2024-25

The UFI Board of Directors has elected Hugh Jones as UFI President for the 2024-25 period. As Incoming President, Jones joins President Geoff Dickinson and Outgoing President Michael Duck to form the UFI Presidential Trio for the 2023-24 term. UFI also announced its four new Chapter Chairs: Panittha Buri (Asia-Pacific), David Boon (Europe), Raul Strauss Justiniano (Americas) and Said Salim Al Shanfari (Middle East & Africa).

Koelnmesse back on the road to success

Despite the challenges facing the industry in recent years, Koelnmesse experienced a resurgence in the trade fair business in 2023 which has significantly boosted revenue for the financial year. According to Gerald Böse, President and Chief Executive Officer of Koelnmesse, “We have faced up to the global challenges and achieved revenue of 240 million euro, which is a significant increase on the previous year.”

Hyve acquired by Providence and Searchlight

Global events company Hyve has been acquired by funds advised by Providence Equity Partners L.L.C. (Providence) and Searchlight Capital Partners (Searchlight). Following the acquisition, Hyve Group plc was delisted from the London Stock Exchange on 22nd May 2023.

Leading shows return to Hong Kong next year

Hong Kong’s trade show comeback continues with the return of Vinexpo Asia, which was held in Singapore last month, and the Asia Pacific Leather Fair, which previously held events in Bangkok and Dubai. Both events will be held in Hong Kong next year, along with four new trade shows – indicating returning confidence in the market.