Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai forms DACF Exhibitions Shanghai

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Hannover/Shanghai, 8th January: International exhibition organiser Deutsche Messe announced its joint venture between Fiera Milano in China, Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai, to join forces with Globus Events (formerly known as VNU Exhibitions Asia) to form a new company, DACF Exhibitions Shanghai Ltd., to expand business opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region’s flooring industry and beyond.

The new company will be responsible for organising and managing DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR, a leading flooring exhibition in the region and has been held in Shanghai for 26 years. According to Deutsche Messe, the show attracted over 83,000 trade visitors from 117 countries in the latest edition.

Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Global Director at Deutsche Messe, said, “This joint venture marks a significant milestone in our longstanding collaboration with Globus Events. By combining our resources and expertise, we can elevate DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR to new heights and create unparalleled value for exhibitors and visitors. The flooring industry is at the forefront of sustainable development and technological advancement, and we are proud to be part of its ongoing evolution.”

The upcoming DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR will be its 27th edition, running from 26th to 28th May 2025, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC – Hongqiao). It is expected to feature 1,600 exhibitors, presenting their latest products and innovations. The show will occupy seven halls, covering 200,000 m2 of exhibition space.

MITEC hosts 650+ events in 2024

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Malaysia, 2nd January: In 2024, the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) hosted over 650 events, welcoming more than 4 million visitors, and contributing over RM 1 billion (US$223 million) to Malaysia’s business tourism sector.

According to MITEC, the venue introduced several new features during 2024, including Oval Garden, a landscaped outdoor space crafted for intimate conferences and banquets; Garden Terrace, an indoor area for cocktail receptions; and Upgraded Business Centre, featuring additional private rooms.

CEO, Mala Dorasamy, was quoted, “As we enter 2025, the business events industry stands at a pivotal juncture. At MITEC, we are committed to resilience, innovation, and inclusivity, driving purpose-driven events that set new standards of excellence. This year, our focus is on fostering meaningful connections, empowering communities, and championing sustainable growth. By leveraging strategic partnerships and embracing collaboration, we aim to create lasting impact and inspire progress across the industry. Together, let’s make 2025 a year of transformative change and bold achievements.”

MITEC aims to be innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration, and leading the Malaysia’s business tourism sector to drive economic growth and international influence. In 2025, the venue will host several key events: APAC Predator League 2025, Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) 2025, MATTA Fair 2025, and MIHAS 2025, etc.

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre celebrates 20th anniversary

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Kuala Lumpur, 9th January: The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025.

Over the past 20 years, the venue has hosted a total of 21,825 events, with 29,668,466 delegates, contributing RM 12.3 billion (US$2.7 million) in economic impact. In 2025, the venue has confirmed 60 international, regional, and domestic conventions and exhibitions. Expecting to attract more than 180,000 delegates. Key events confirmed for the year including International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC), International Vulvovaginal Disease Update (ISSVD), International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) General Assembly & World Chemistry Congress, and General Assembly of the International Social Security Association – ISSA and World Social Security Forum (WSSF) 2025.

John Burke, General Manager of the Centre, commented, “We are honoured to play a pivotal role in positioning Malaysia as a leading global events destination. The strong partnerships we have built, including with the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), are central to our success and we are confident that these will advance our efforts further enhancing Kuala Lumpur’s prominence on the international stage.”

VNU Asia Pacific appoints new CEO

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Bangkok, 6th January: VNU Asia Pacific (VNU AP) announced to appoint Mr. Justin Pau as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective January 2025.

Mr. Pau has over 20 years of leadership experience in the exhibition industry across Asia and China.

According to VNU AP, the appointment will strengthen the company’s align leadership with evolving strategies and goals. The company also targets to commit growth and expansion, to be a driving force in exhibition industry.

Mr. Jeroen Van Hooff, CEO of Royal Jaarbeurs and Board of Director of VNU AP, said, “Mr. Pau has the expertise and vision to guide our colleagues in VNU AP through this transition and beyond, ensuring our continued success. The change in this position underscore VNU AP’s proactive approach to ensuring that leadership aligns with our strategic goals. While these transitions are reflective of VNU AP’s new direction to diversify the portfolios especially technology, innovation and to embrace green initiatives in the exhibitions industry. VNU AP remains steadfast in delivering exceptional service and value to our stakeholders.”

Quick takes

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Indonesia’s exhibition industry expands

According to industry leaders, the Indonesia’s exhibition industry will grow demand and the ability to stay agile and evolve. In 2024, some 170 exhibitions were held in the country, up 21% from the figure of 2023. It is expected the industry to generate US$1.7 billion in revenue by 2025, up 8% over 2024’s figure. The Indonesia’s exhibition industry will continue to increase presence construction, manufacturing, and finance sectors. In addition, consumer shows are also expected to grow with rising consumer spending.

Clarion Connect names new CEO

Clarion Events announced to promote Kelly Comboni to CEO of Clarion Connect, Clarion’s division launched in November 2024, dedicating to advancing the power of connections through innovative one-to-one event formats, digital platforms, and community-building experiences. Comboni joined Clarion Events in 2017, when Clarion acquired LeftField Media. Under the new role, she will oversee key brands within Clarion Connect, and share will report directly to Greg Topalian, Chairman of Clarion Events North America, and Lisa Hannant, Global CEO of Clarion Events.

PICC welcomes new General Manager

The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) has appointed Atty. Nicolette Ann P. Cruz as its new General Manager, replacing Renato Padilla who retired. She is a lawyer and will bring her expertise in government contracts, public procurement, infrastructure projects, public-private partnerships, project management, and organisational development and leadership to managing the venue.

Koelnmesse expands DMEXCO to Asia

International exhibition organiser, Koelnmesse’s DMEXCO, established 15 years ago in Cologne, will launch DMEXCO ASIA and partner with eCommerce Expo at Tech Week Singapore. The co-branded eCommerce Expo x DMEXCO ASIA will be held in Singapore, running from 8th to 9th October 2025. The new show aims to bring together industry leaders, decision-makers, and innovators, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth in the Southeast Asian market.