Quick takes

New Zealand adds NZ$3m funding for business events

The New Zealand government announced to add an additional NZ$3 million (US$1.7 million) in funding to attract international conferences and incentive business. The funding will be available to organisations to bid for hosting international conferences in New Zealand and will also support efforts to attract high-value incentive business.

Connect Marketplace to be held in Hong Kong

The new Connect Marketplace Hong Kong, aims to accelerate business within the Asian business events industry, is scheduled to run from 19th to 21st March 2025, at AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE). The programme will include targeted networking events, informative conferences, and strategic incentives designed to foster tangible business outcomes.

Easyfairs buys Digital Accountancy Show

Easyfairs announced the acquisition of Digital Accountancy Show, a leading technology conference for accountants, bookkeepers and finance professionals. Launched in 2020, Digital Accountancy Show aims to drive change and support the evolution of the accounting profession. No financial details were disclosed. The next edition of Digital Accountancy Show will be held from 1st to 2nd April 2025, at London Evolution in Battersea, expecting over 150 exhibitors and more than 5,000 visitors.

Freeman buys Tag Digital

Freeman acquired Tag Digital, a full-service digital marketing agency specializing in innovative solutions for event organisers in EMEA, APAC and North America. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. After the acquisition, Tag will combine with mdg, a Freeman company. mdg’s digital marketing capabilities will be better serve show organisers and associations, and also positioning it for growth in new markets.