Quick takes

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Business Aviation Asia Forum and Expo to be held in Singapore

Organised by Experia Events, the Business Aviation Asia Forum and Expo (BAAFEx) will be held for the first time in Singapore, at Changi Exhibition Centre, running from 4th to 6th March 2025. The event will include an exhibition, aircraft displays, networking opportunities, and a conference with expert panels and keynote speakers.

Macau welcomed 34m+ visitor arrivals in 2024

Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) released its latest visitor arrivals for the year 2024. Macau welcomed a total of 34,928,650 visitor arrivals in 2024, an increase of 24% year-on-year. Same-day visitors grew 35%, while overnight visitors were up by 13%. The average length of stay of visitors shortened by 0.1 day, at 1.2 days.

NürnbergMesse posts new sales record in 2024

In year 2024, NürnbergMesse posted a new sales record of €360 million (US$373 million), compared with €257 million (US$266 million) in 2022 cyclically. In 2024, the company organised some 140 events worldwide, featuring 33,900 exhibitors and welcoming 1.56 million visitors, with a net exhibition space of 1.18 million m2.

Messe Düsseldorf hosts 76 trade fairs in 2024

Messe Düsseldorf GmbH generated €363 million (US$376 million) in sales in 2024, with profits after taxes of €60 million (US$62 million). During the year, the company hosted a total of 76 trade shows in Düsseldorf and worldwide, with several new events. The company also announced the expansion in the Middle East, with a new management company in Dubai and expanding its portfolio in the region.

IAEE announces 2025 China Council

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China, 8th January: Last week, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announced its 2025 China Council. IAEE established a representative office in Shanghai as a People’s Republic of China (PRC) approved Foreign Nongovernment Organization (NGO).

The China Council will assist IAEE establishing working partnerships with key exhibition organisations in China, aiming to sharing vital information, promotion the global exhibition industry and enhancing effective communications.

IAEE has appointed Jessica Jia as Director of Operations for the IAEE China Office. She has been at IAEE for nine years and a background in international business. Other members of the 2025 IAEE China Council are: Chairperson Daben Mao (Executive Deputy General Manager, Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center), Immediate Past Co-Chairperson Athena Gong (Managing Director, Informa Markets China), Chairperson Elect Xueli (Shirly) Song (Chairwoman, General Manage. Chongqing Yuelai Investment Group Co., ‎Ltd/Chongqing International Expo Center Co., ‎Ltd.‎), Vice Chairperson Louis Zheng (Partner, Expotec), Council Member Vincent U (President, Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao SAR), Council member Allen Bai (GM of International Business Development, Hangzhou International Convention & Exhibition Group Co, Ltd), Council Member Doris Liu (Vice President, Hangzhou International Expo Center), Council Member Yan Zhou, Ph.D., CEM (Associate Professor, Beijing Union University), and Ex-Officio Council Member Chuck Grouzard (2025 IAEE Chairperson, Executive Vice President, Business Development, GES).

IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM., said, “IAEE is honored to contribute to the ongoing growth and global recognition of China’s exhibitions and events industry. Jessica’s profound knowledge of international business practices and her keen insight into the unique dynamics of the Chinese exhibition market position her as a key resource in fostering meaningful connections and advancing industry excellence.”

Hyve up 17% organically

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London, 8th January: London-based Hyve Group Limited posted an organic growth of 17% and total proforma revenue of US$316 million in 2024.

During the year, the company completed two acquisitions in the sectors of healthcare and marketing. More than 190,000 of one-on-one meetings were secured with 96% completion, which is 27% more than the meetings of last year.

In 2025, the company will enter the second year of its three-year growth and optimisation plan. The company targets to grow both organically and via targeted M&A programme.

Mark Shashoua, CEO, was quoted, “It has now been eighteen months since Hyve became a private business and in that time, we have accelerated our growth plans. With a proven strategy in place, we have continued to deliver game-changing impact for our customers. Our strong financial performance has been driven by our team’s relentless focus on innovation – adding a Fall edition into our Shoptalk portfolio, scaling existing events through our expanded meeting programmes and securing two major acquisitions, taking us into new and exciting growth sectors.”

Easyfairs announces solid growth for FY2023-2024

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Brussels, 14th January: Earlier this week, international exhibition organiser, Easyfairs, released its results for the financial year 2023-2024.

Revenues for the financial year were €229 million (US$237 million), presents a year-on-year increase of 21%. While EBITDA for the year grew 47%, reaching €52 million (US$54 million).

According to press release, the company’s growth will be greater than ever in 2025 with the new investment from Cobepa and Inflexion. Growth will be driven by new events and product launches as well as acquisitions.

Easyfairs’ Group CEO Anne Lafère, commented, “The more the world goes digital, the more value people place on the ability to meet face to face. At the same time, people expect a personalised experience in all they do and visiting an event is no exception. That’s why, for example, we’re applying artificial intelligence such as matchmaking algorithms to facilitate purposeful connections and to personalise visitors’ agendas according to their preferences and objectives.”

80,000+ buyers at HKTDC’s first three trade fairs in 2025

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Hong Kong, 9th January: The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) concluded its first three trade fairs in 2025, attracting over 80,000 buyers from 119 countries and regions.

The 51st Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, and 16th Hong Kong Baby Products Fair were organised by the HKTDC, while 23rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair was jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. Running from 6th to 9th January 2025, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), the trade fairs featured more than 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions.

Sophia Chong, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, stated, “This year’s trio of fairs were very international, bringing together more than 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions to showcase innovative ideas from all around the globe, and kickstarting HKTDC’s 2025 calendar of events. We have actively promoted the events through more than 50 HKTDC offices around the world, and online and offline channels to attract international buyers and exhibitors to participate in the fairs and stay overnight in Hong Kong, to promote MICE tourism and Hong Kong’s economic development.”

Quick takes

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Xi’an to host Routes Asia 2026

Routes Asia, an air service development event dedicated to advancing air service development across Asia Pacific, will be hosted in Xi’an, China in 2026. The 2026 edition will be hosted by China West Airport Group.

Hyve launches Shoptalk Luxe in Abu Dhabi

Hyve announced partnership with Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to launch Shoptalk Luxe in Abu Dhabi. Shoptalk Luxe, a luxury-focussed retail event in the Shoptalk series, will be held in January 2026, at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. It is aimed to be the world’s most senior gathering of decision-makers shaping the luxury and premium retail sectors.

820 institutions at HKTDC’s Education & Careers Expo

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will organise its 34th Education & Careers Expo at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), running from 16th to 19th January 2025. Divided into “Education” and “Careers” sectors, the expo will feature over 820 institutions from 22 countries and regions and offer more than 4,000 job opportunities.

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.

BESydney secures 76 events until 2030

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Sydney, 20th December: Business Events Sydney (BESydney) secured over 30 events in the second half of 2024, with an estimated direct expenditure of A$100 million (US$63.5 million) for Sydney.

According to BESyndey, a total of 76 events have been secured until 2030, expecting to attract 111,000 delegates, and generating A$451 million (US$286 million) in direct expenditure. Of the 76 secured events, 31 events will be held in 2025.

BESydney CEO, Lyn Lewis-Smith, said, “Sydney is a city on the threshold of major change as the government plans come to fruition. The Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport, Bradfield City and the surrounding Aerotropolis are a hub of city-changing development and the new infrastructure and investment accompanying them will have significant influence on our industry sectors… And the transformation continues around the city’s famous Harbour, with the new Sydney Fish Markets a masterpiece in design, and the re-development around Darling Harbour and the International Convention Centre Sydney will be a game-changer for delegates to Sydney. We are seeing vibrant neighbourhoods come to life throughout the city through the work of the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner. We cannot wait to showcase Sydney shining ever more brightly on the global stage.”

KLCC hosts 1,600 events in 2024

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Kuala Lumpur, 17th December: The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) hosted over 1,600 events in 2024, welcoming 1.1 million delegates, and generated an estimated RM 1 billion (US$224 million) in economic impact for Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia.

In 2024, KLCC highlights for the year include: Event diversity; Refurbished spaces and facilities; and Sustainability achievements and community engagements.

John Burke, the Centre’s General Manager, commented, “2024 has been a positive year for us, marked by a busy event calendar and remarkable achievements. This is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our incredible team and the steadfast support of our partners, clients and stakeholders. These milestones reflect the resilience, dynamism and boundless potential of Malaysia’s business events industry.”

2025 will be KLCC’s 20th anniversary, the venue will have various events to celebrate. In the coming year, the venue will prioritise: Environmental stewardship; Corporate social responsibility (CSR); and Gearing up existing ESG efforts and standards.

Alibaba Group announces two transactions

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Hangzhou, 17th December: Recently, Alibaba Group announced two transactions: The company and another minority shareholder agreed to sell 100% of the equity interest in Intime; and the company announced the disposal of the Alibaba Sale Shares in Sun Art.

Intime is one of the leading department store operators in PRC. Alibaba currently holds about 99% of the equity interest in Intime. It is expected Alibaba will get RMB 7.4 billion (US$1.0 billion), and the company will loss RMB 9.3 billion (US$1.3 billion).

Separately, Alibaba Group held Sun Art Shares through wholly-owned subsidiaries, A-RT Retail and Taobao China. According to press release, the Purchaser and Sun Art in relation to: (1) the entering of the SPA; (2) the possible mandatory unconditional cash offers to be made by the Purchaser for the entire issues share capital of Sun Art; and (3) the possible compulsory acquisition and withdrawal of listing of Sun Art.

UFI and SISO extend partnership to 2027

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Paris, 18th December: UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has extended partnership with SISO, The Society of Independent Show Organizers, from 2024 to 2027.

The two organisations have partnered since 2009. In the past 15 years, they worked jointly on industry issues under numerous leaderships.

One of the elements focus on the renewed partnership will be a collaboration on content development for the UFI European Events Week 2025 and the SISO Leadership Conference 2025. The associations’ face-to-face meetings provide a platform for their communities meet to discover and discuss topics relevant to the exhibitions industry. It will also bring North American colleagues and industry insights to Europe and, vice versa, international insights to the U.S.

Kai Hattendorf, UFI CEO, was quoted, “UFI’s European Events Week will serve as the central ‘one-stop shop’ in Europe for senior exhibition industry professionals in 2025 to connect and network. The new, much wider content framework makes the event much more accessible to leading subject matter experts through one-of-a-kind content offers like the one SISO will bring.”

Quick takes

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Ayana Resort Bali new facilities for meetings and events

Ayana Resort Bali has opened several new facilities for corporate gatherings: the Saka Museum, After Rock, and Tevanna Garden. Saka Museum offers two indoor function areas. A bridge connects the museum to After Rock, a night lounge. Tevanna Garden, a Japanese-inspired garden for teambuilding activities, is adjacent to Saka Museum.

GCCEC appoints new General Manager

Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) appointed Nick Jeffery as its new General Manager. He has been with GCCEC for seven years, and as Acting General Manager for five months. In the past five months, he has been instrumental in ensuring continued smooth operations of the business, exceptional service delivery and ongoing client satisfaction.

Thailand surpasses 2024 arrivals targets

Thailand has already surpassed its arrivals targets for 2024, with 35 million visitors. International tourist arrivals generated 1.8 trillion Baht (US$53 billion). For 2025, the tourism authorities have set targets of between 36 and 39 million in international arrivals, generating 1.98 to 2.23 trillion Baht (US$58-66 billion) in tourism revenue.