UFI’s 5 trends to watch in 2025

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Paris, 3rd December: In 2024, the global exhibition industry recovered from the pandemic. After seeking views from its members and industry leaders worldwide, UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has released its “5 trends to watch in 2025”, presenting view on trends that will shape the next 12 to 18 months.

The five trends are as follows:

1.     Better – but good enough?

Customer focus has been driven by additional data insights into exhibitors’ and visitors’ needs and wants, therefore the industry will have to improve following the needs.

2.     The changing climate’s impact on operations

Business operations will be impacted by severe weather events, which will also impact running costs, attendee travel, and infrastructure availability.

3.     Accelerating AI

GenAI has become widely used in the last year, and it continues to advance fast. It strengthens the role of authentic face-to-face events, but it also changes sourcing processes.

4.     The Battle for Identity and Awareness

Governments understand the industry’s strategic value will change the industry’s perception and positioning, especially in fast-growing countries.

5.     Stay ready for disruption

Organisations and stakeholders in the industry will need to review and expand their capabilities to monitor and quickly respond to fast-changing situations.

Diversified Communications rebrand as Diversified

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Portland, U.S., 3rd December: Founded in 1949, Diversified Communications has announced to unveil its brand to Diversified.

According to the company, the new brand reflects the same value, and adding a contemporary look that represents the evolution as a global organisation. The company’s divisions in the U.K., Australia and Canada will continue to support business communities across the world. In 2024, the company have already organised more than 120 events in nine countries.

Liz Plizga, President, Diversified USA, said, “This brand refresh is a signal to our customers, partners, and employees that we’re evolving along with the many different business communities we serve. The new Diversified brand honors our legacy while positioning us for the future.”

MCET delivers impact in Melbourne, Geelong and beyond

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Melbourne, 29th November: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust (MCET), operators of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, released its latest Annual Report and Impact Report, highlighting the important role in driving economic, social and environmental impact.

In the financial year 2023-2024, MCET generated A$777 million (US$506 million) in economic impact for the State of Victoria, and it also achieved important climate change, water, procurement, equality and recognition targets.

During the year, MCEC hosted a total of 720 events, attracting 3.2 million people visited the venue, an increase of 23% from last year. In Geelong, Nyaal Banyul project partners have established a gold standard for social procurement during the construction of the venue, providing training for trainees or apprentices who will have experienced barriers to employment. In addition, MCET also collaborated with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to develop the award-winning brand identity for the future venue.

Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM was quoted, “As leaders in the events industry, we play an important role in contributing to a better future through our commitments to people, planet and economic prosperity. We’re proud of the innovative sustainability programs we’ve implemented at MCEC over the year, as well as the progress we’ve made in Geelong, in collaboration with our project partners and Wadawurrung Traditional Owners. We look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the communities we serve.”

Pico Thailand’s revenues up 26% in FY2023-2024

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Bangkok, 4th December: Earlier this week, Pico Thailand, the Thai-listed subsidiary of Pico Far East Holdings, announced its full-year financial results for the year ended 31st October 2024. Revenues in the financial year were US$39 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 26%.

The company’s net profit grew 34% over the previous year, reaching US$906,000. Earnings per share of the financial year were Baht 0.14 (US$0.0040).

The company attributed the increase revenues to the increase in income from various business segments: Revenues from the Events markets and Exhibition business increased was due to Sci – Power event with Ministry of Higher Education Science Research and Innovation (MHESI FAIR); the increase in revenues from the Learning center & Museum business was due to significant progress made on the government project.

Quick takes

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Registration open for 2025 UFI Asia-Pacific Conference

UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, will organise its 2025 UFI Asia-Pacific Conference in Melbourne, Australia, running from 13th to 14th February 2025. The event will be hosted by the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC), gathering for the region’s leaders and stakeholders. The registration has been opened at www.ufiasia.org

Informa Tech’s Digital Businesses combines with TechTarget

Informa plc announced the completion of its agreement to combine Informa Tech’s Digital Businesses with U.S.-listed TechTarget. After the combination, Informa TechTarget will combines more than 220 specialist technology media brands, authoritative industry insights, a permissioned first party audience of over 50 million and a portfolio of buyer intent and lead generation solutions for B2B technology companies.

Clarion Events North America appoints new CEO

Clarion Events North America announced the promotion of Liz Irving to CEO. She will continue to report to Greg Topalian, Chairman of Clarion North America, overseeing all divisions, except for the newly formed Clarion Connect division.

Messe Düsseldorf establishes Global Corporate Development and Strategy

Messe Düsseldorf established a new corporation division, “Global Corporate Development and Strategy”, and will be led by Claire Steinbrück. Steinbrück will be responsible for expanding Messe Düsseldorf’s global network, ensuring that structures and organisation effectively support the company’s ongoing global business development.