UFI’s 5 trends to watch in 2025

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

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

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

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

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.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2024)

Baidu’s profit up 14% in Q3

Beijing, 21st November: Last week, Baidu, the leading Chinese language Internet search provider, released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2024. Revenues in the quarter were US$4.8 billion, a decrease of 3% year-on-year. However, the company’s net profit posted an increase of 14% in the third quarter, reaching US$1.1 billion.

Revenues from Baidu’s core business were US$3.8 billion in the quarter, flat with the figure recorded in the previous year. The majority of those revenues (US$2.7 billion) were generated from its online marketing business, which also dropped by 4% year-on-year. However, Baidu’s non-online marketing businesses grew 12% in the same period, amounting at US$1.1 billion. According to the company, the growth was mainly driven by AI Cloud business.

Robin Li, Co-founder and CEO of Baidu, said, “Baidu Core’s flattish third quarter top line reflected the ongoing weakness in our online marketing business, offset by the growth of our AI Cloud business. Our strong AI capabilities are gaining broader market recognition, as evidenced by increasing adoption of ERNIE. In intelligent driving, Apollo Go continues to lead the global autonomous ride-hailing market, hitting another milestone with our sixth-generation autonomous vehicle now operating on public roads across multiple cities in China. Despite the near-term pressures, we remain steadfast in our AI-focused strategy and are confident in our long-term trajectory. As we further scale AI, we are emboldened to find how it can drive innovations and create value for consumers, enterprises and society at large.”

ABEA announces new leadership

Australia, 20th November: The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) has its latest board appointments: Matt Pearce (CEO and co-founder of Talk2Media), Gareth Martin (CEO of Business Events Perth), Dan Londero (CEO and Founder of Turnkey Event Solutions) and Rocky Bruzzano (Managing Director of Exponet).

Matt Pearce will serve as Deputy Chair and represent organisers. Gareth Martin will be the bureau sector representative and representative for Western Australia. Dan Londero will represent small business interests and will represent suppliers. Rocky Bruzzano will lead the Finance Subcommittee.

In addition, ABEA also appointed Amy Saleh (Operations Director at Hannover Fairs Australia and current Chair of the Emerging Leaders Council) as ABEA’s first Emerging Leader Board Observer, providing new perspectives while cultivating future board leaders. She will also help establish selection criteria for this position in the future.

Peter King, Chair, ABEA, was quoted, “We had an exceptional amount of candidates who all put their hands up to be part of the ABEA Board. The members came out in force to vote, and their voices have been heard. We wish to thank everyone who took part. The members have chosen highly skilled and dedicated professionals to help lead the organisation into its next phase.”

91st UFI Global Congress welcomes 600 delegates

Paris/Cologne, 26th November: UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, held its 91st Global Congress in Cologne, Germany, running from 20th to 23rd November. It was hosted by Koelnmesse, about 600 delegates from over 55 countries and regions attended the congress.

The theme of this year’s congress was “Changes to Chances”, with programme defined and described the global changes underway and forthcoming, as well as tackled the question of which opportunities they will provide for the sector.

During the congress, the first “UFI Medals of Honour” awarded to three recipients: Sandy Angus (UFI President 2001-2003), Mary Larkin (UFI President 2020-2021) and Kai Hattendorf (UFI CEO since 2015). It also welcomed the 2024-25 UFI President: Hugh Jones, CEO of RX.

Kai Hattendorf, CEO of UFI, stated, “This year’s Congress in Cologne will find a place among the biggest and best ones that this organisation has ever produced. Participants’ numbers match Shanghai 2016, which had been the best attended Congress to date. Beyond the numbers, and in great collaboration, we have been able to deliver value to each and every participant, empowering them to turn changes into chances in reflection of this year’s theme.”

Quick takes

HKTDC to open DesignInspire

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will organise its DesignInspire at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), from 5th to 7th December. Under the theme of “Design for a Better Tomorrow”, this year’s event will bring together local and international design luminaries to create a unique experiential journey for both industry professionals and the public.

3+ million visitor arrivals for October 2024 in Macau

Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) has released its latest information for visitor arrivals in October 2024. The number of visitor arrivals increase by 14% year-on-year, reaching 3,135,358, which represents a recovery to more than 97% of the level in October 2019. In addition, same-day visitors grew 23%, while overnight visitors was up by 3.1%. The average length of stay of visitors shortened by 0.1 days, down to 1.1 days.

IEG releases interim management report

Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) has recently released its interim management report as of 30th September 2024. Revenues were €179.4 million, an increase of 20% year-on-year. Profit was more than double of the previous year’s figure, reaching €21 million.

OSH India 2024 opens in Mumbai

Informa Markets’ OSH India 2024, a leading occupational safety and health expo and conference in India, opened its door from 21st to 23rd November, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. International safety experts, industry leaders were able to exchange insights, foster innovation, and tackle pressing issues in the industry. Over 250 brands showcased more than 1,000 products of the latest innovations in workplace safety and health.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2024)

Informa posts 11% growth in revenues for first 10 months

London, 19th November: Earlier this week, Informa PLC, the London-listed B2B media group, released its latest trading update with an 11% growth of underlying revenue in the first 10 months of 2024.

Informa’s B2B Markets business also recorded an 11% increase year-on-year. In terms of business, Informa Markets’ revenues rose 13.5%, Informa Connect was up 4.9% and Informa Tech 11%.

Management also updated its 2024 full year forecast to revenues of over £3.5 billion (US$4.5 billion), and adjusted operating profit of over £975 million (US$1.26 billion).

According to the company, it will focus on maximising its platform by aligning its businesses more closely in Operations, Brands, Technology, Marketing and Data Analysis. Therefore, the three Live B2B Events businesses (Informa Markets, Informa Connect, Informa Festivals) will be operated as one, alongside Informa TechTarget and the Academic Markets division.

Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Executive, said, “Informa continues to deliver a strong performance in 2024, with forward bookings providing momentum into 2025. This year sees us complete our four-year GAP2 programme, where our performance has demonstrated the structural growth in our chosen markets, our geographic strength in the US and IMEA in particular, and the power of our market-leading specialist B2B Brands and proprietary first party data.”

Alibaba’s profit jumps 63%

Hangzhou, 15th November: Last week, the Alibaba Group, one of China’s leading e-commerce companies, released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2024. The company recorded total revenues of US$34 billion, up 5% year-on-year. Alibaba posted an increase of 63% in its net profit, reaching US$6.2 billion.

Revenues from Alibaba’s B2B business in China under its Taobao and Tmall Group, primarily generated through 1688.com, were US$853 million, representing an increase of 18% year-on-year. Revenues from its international B2B business under its Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, primarily operating through Alibaba.com, increased by 9%, amounting to US$863 million.

The group also released its financial results for the six months ended 30th September, generating revenues of US$68 billion, an increase of 5% year-on-year. Net profit in the six-month period grew by 13%, amounting at US$9.6 billion. Diluted earnings per share in the first half of the financial year were RMB 28 (US$3.99).

In terms of B2B business, revenues from Alibaba’s China B2B business rose 17% year-on-year, reaching US$1.70 billion. While revenues from its international B2B business were US$1.66 billion, up 11% from the same period in the previous year.

Eddie Wu, Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Group, was quoted, “This quarter we continued to invest in the user experience and strengthen product offerings to serve our consumers. We entered into long-term collaborations with industry peers to broaden payment and logistics services on Taobao and Tmall platforms, which we expect will accelerate our overall growth. Growth in our Cloud business accelerated from prior quarters, with revenues from public cloud products growing in double digits and AI-related product revenue delivering triple-digit growth. We are more confident in our core businesses than ever and will continue to invest in supporting long-term growth. Our other businesses continued to improve their operating efficiency, with most of them continuing to increase their profitability or reduce losses.”

Separately, Alibaba has established Alibaba E-commerce Business Group, integrating of Taobao and Tmall Group, Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, the 1688 Marketplace, Idle Fish and others, covering domestics and international supply chains. The company has also appointed Mr. Fan Jiang as Chief Executive Officer of the new business group.

300 MICE events held in Macau in Q3

Macau, 15th November: Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) has recently announced its MICE statistics for the quarter ended 30th September 2023. Macau held a total of 300 events in the quarter which is 43 events more than the third quarter in 2023. However, the total number of participants dropped slightly by 4.8% year-on-year, with a total of 520,900 participants and attendees.

Of the total 300 events, 276 were meetings and conferences, 44 events more than the same quarter of last year. Total number of participants at meetings and conferences increased by 20%, reaching 59,300 participants. A total of 14 exhibitions were held in the quarter, which was six exhibitions less than the previous year. The number of attendees decreased by 7.5%, amounting to 455,800 attendees. The total gross area occupied by these exhibitions was 96,200 m2.

DSEC also released its MICE statistics for the first nine months of 2024.  A total of 1,011 MICE events were held in Macau during the nine-month period. That is 232 events more than the same period in 2023. However, the total number of participants and attendees was down by 18% year-on-year, with just more than 1 million participants and attendees.

Quick takes

Messe Düsseldorf China launches Organic Festa Asia in 2025

Messe Düsseldorf China will launch the inaugural Organic Festa Asia, running from 3rd to 5th September 2025, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC). The new event will cover the entire organic value chain, aiming to reflect the scale of the organic industry in Asia and China. It will also deliver high-quality organic products to better meet consumer needs.

CIIE deals rise to US$80 billion

The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) concluded on 10th November in Shanghai, attracting more than 430,000 professional visitors. A total of 3,496 companies from 129 countries and regions showcased their latest products, technologies and visions for the future. According to media release, tentative deals increased by 2% over the previous edition, reaching US$80 billion.

Diversified acquires Midwest Solar Expo

Diversified Communications announced the acquisition of Midwest Solar Expo (MWSE), to expand its Clean Energy portfolio. After the acquisition, MWSE will join Diversified Communications’ Intersolar & Energy Storage North America (IESNA), a U.S.-based conferences and trade shows focused on solar, energy storage, EV charging infrastructure and manufacturing. No financial details of the transaction have been disclosed.

UFI names first “UFI Medal of Honour” recipients

UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, launched a new scheme, “UFI Medal of Honour”, awarding individuals for their unique services to the global exhibition industry at large and UFI community in particular. The first “UFI Medals of Honour”, UFI leadership selected: Sandy Angus (UFI President 2001 – 2003), Mary Larkin (UFI President 2020 – 2021), and Kai Hattendorf(UFI CEO since 2015).

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2024)

BICC refurbishes facilities

Bali, 5th November: The Bali International Convention Centre (BICC), managed by The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, has announced the completion of extensive renovations, offering state-of-the-art technology and cultural heritage.

The newly refurbished Mangupura Hall will have modern wall panels, cutting-edge LDE installations on both sides of the existing stage, and a sleek, upgraded stage design. A grand new carpet is also changed, bringing a fresh, sophisticated atmosphere ideal for the clients, including high-profile conferences, exhibitions, and social events. Nusantara Hall and Jakarta Hall have also upgraded by replacing a new carpet and lighting system installation. Others parts of the venue have also undergone various upgrades.

General Manager of The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali and Bali International Convention Centre Sander Looijen, said, “Our Bali International Convention Centre (BICC), with over 33 years of experience, continues to lead the industry with pride. Our strength lies in the expertise of our associates, many of whom have been with us for years, ensuring the highest level of service and professionalism. We are committed to preserving Bali’s rich culture, enhancing the guest experience through stories like the famous Ramayana, which adds a unique cultural touch to our events.”

TCEB promotes Thailand at Exhibition Industry Summit 2024

Thailand, 12th November: The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has invited key exhibition industry leaders from Europe and Asia to attend the Exhibition Industry Summit 2024, showing them the country’s potential for hosting trade fairs.

During the summit, the Thai government shared its policy to promote the exhibition industry and its open business culture. Under the theme of “See Tomorrow Now”, the summit focused on future business opportunities in Thailand.

Mr Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, TCEB president, stated, “This is really important to their future decisions on venue selection for big events. We also received valuable recommendations on areas of development to propel the exhibition industry forwards while effectively addressing the changing needs in the global market.”

It is expected to draw some 60 new international exhibitions to Thailand throughout the next three years (2025-2027), generating about 7.4 billion baht (US$218 million) and featuring 426,000 visitors from international and local.

BOL posts decrease in revenues and profit in Q3

Bangkok, 12th November: Business Online (BOL), a leading online information service provider in Thailand, has reported its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2024. Revenues in the quarter were US$6.01 million, representing a year-on-year decrease of 15%.

The company’s net profit also dropped 15% from the same quarter of 2023, down to US$2.6 million. The company attributed the decrease in revenues to the information services in the form of customized report, recognition from projects.

For the nine months ended 30th September, BOL reported revenues in the period decreased by 10% year-on-year, amounting at US$17.6 million. Its net profit in the nine-month period was US$7.1 million, representing a decrease of 8.5% from the same period last year. Diluted earnings per share in the first nine months of 2024 were Baht 0.28 (US$0.0086).

Constellar launches process technology event

Singapore, 12th November: Singapore-based Constellar will launch the first dedicated process technology event in the Southeast Asia, Process Innovation Asia Pacific – Power by ACHEMA (PIA) will be organised with international partner DECHEMA Ausstellungs-GmbH (DECHEMA Exhibitions).

The new event will be held from 19th to 21st November 2024, at Singapore EXPO. It will be a pivotal role in driving transformation, catalysing innovation and promoting sustainable growth for a greener future across the region’s (petro-)chemical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and food processing industries.

The theme of the new show is “Inspiring Sustainable Growth”, focusing on three key content pillars: Industrial growth & sustainability development in Asia; Digital advancement & innovations; and Sustainable & green practices.

The conference programme will have over 50 sessions, presented by over 40 industry experts and practitioners.