Messe Düsseldorf China posts rapid growth in 2024

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China, 27th January: International exhibition organiser, Messe Düsseldorf, posted a rapid growth momentum in China in 2024.

During the year, Messe Düsseldorf China organised 11 leading exhibitions in China, drawing 9,800 exhibitors and over 500,000 professional visitors, occupying an exhibition area of 710,000 m2.

Ms. Evian Gu, General Manager of Messe Düsseldorf (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., was quoted, “The past year was a period marked by both challenges and opportunities. Building on our established business strengths, we proactively ventured into new markets and business sectors. As we look forward to the new year, we are dedicated to further fortifying and solidifying our market leadership. I am confident that we possess the requisite capabilities to consistently sustain and propel this positive trajectory of growth.”

In 2025, the company will host nine shows in China, including the biennial ProWine Hong Kong. In addition, the inaugural Organic Festa Asia will take place from 3rd to 5th September 2025, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC), featuring the entire organic value chain.

TCEB unveils MICE plans in 2025

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Thailand, 3rd February: The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has recently unveiled plans to drive Thai MICE industry in 2025, to reach 34 million pax domestic and overseas MICE travellers, generating 200 billion baht (US$6.0 billion) in revenue for the year.

TCEB highlighted five strategies focusing on digital and future industries:

1)    Promoting MICE through high-value industries and flagship events, attracting mega events and focusing on new potential markets.

2)    Developing venues, organising marketing activities.

3)    Using innovation-driven development, raising capacities with Thailand MICE One Stop Service, resulting in reduced unnecessary procedures, and expanding MICE Lane Service to new areas.

4)    Developing system and workflow with digital transformation and Streamline Office Operations.

5)    Elevating MICE knowledge and sustainable operation in accordance with the principle of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and designing environment-friendly MICE venues.

In addition, TCEB also introduced 3s schemes: “Stay Longer”, “Spend More” and “See You Again”. It targeted on BRICS as a promising new market as well.

Mr. Pasu Loharjun, Chairman of the Board, TCEB, stated, “The MICE industry has received high priority from the government, as it is not just part of tourism but a key asset to drive the national economy, a platform for international cooperation and foreign investment and a tool to strengthen the branding of Thailand on an international scale. MICE industry is a long-term asset that creates value for the Thai economy.”

According to TCEB, in 2024, Thailand attracted a total of 25,350,288 local and overseas MICE travellers, generating 148 billion baht (US$4.4 billion) of income and contributing over 309 billion baht (US$9.2 billion), or 1.67% gross domestic product (GDP).

GL events posts 15% growth in revenues in 2024

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Lyon, 23rd January: GL events released its preliminary results for the year ended 31st December 2024, with revenue growth of 15%, amounting at €1.64 billion (US$1.7 billion).

In terms of business sectors, more than 62% of revenues were generated from GL events Live, at €1.02 billion (US$1.1 billion), up 24% year-on-year. The company attributed the increase to the volume and the quality of the services provided for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The second largest sector was GL events Venues, generating revenues of €443 million (US$461 million), representing year-on-year growth of 13%, driven by strong contributions from France and Brazil.

The remaining revenues, €168 million (US$175 million), were generated by GL events Exhibitions, decreasing 20% from the previous year due to a less favourable biennial effect and economic difficulties in the fashion and construction sectors.

Olivier Ginon, Chairman-CEO of GL events Group, commented, “GL events’ positive momentum remained on track throughout 2024, as we once again exceeded all expectations with a new record of €1.635 billion in annual revenue and strong growth of 15%. By leveraging the combined strengths of our Live, Venues and Exhibitions divisions, our strong local roots and our international reach, we successfully met the year's major challenges while at the same time preparing for the future. We can take pride in this remarkable performance which reflects the strength of our market positions and the relevance of our strategy.”

Pico Far East up 57% in profit in FY2024

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Hong Kong, 24th January: Hong Kong-listed Pico Far East Holdings reported its annual results for the year ended 31st October 2024. The company posted revenues of US$814 million, up 19% year-on-year. Pico’s net profit jumped 57% during the financial year, reaching US$46 million. Diluted earnings per share for the year were HK$0.2874 (US$0.037).

About 86% of Pico’s revenues (US$700 million) were generated from its exhibition, event & brand activation business, representing year-on-year growth of 23%. Other revenue streams were generated from museum & themed environments business (US$54 million), visual branding activation business (US$38 million), and meeting architecture activation business (US$22 million). The meeting architecture activation segment grew 28% over the previous year, while the museum & themed environments segment increased by 6.3%, however the visual branding activation segment dropped 23.5% year-on-year.

In terms of geographical region, the Greater China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) generated about 40% of total revenues, amounting at US$329 million. The second largest market is the Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines and Vietnam), generated revenues of US$171 million, or 21% of total revenues.

Quick takes

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GED 2025 theme announced

UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, announced the tenth edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED) will be held on Wednesday, 4th June 2025. The theme of GED 2025 was “Exhibitions unleash potential”, with four key messages being introduced.

Messe München brings IFAT to Saudi Arabia

Messe München will expand in the Middle East by hosting its leading trade fair for environmental technologies, IFAT, in Saudi Arabia for the first time in 2026. The company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Center for Waste Management (MWAN) in Saudi Arabia to jointly organise the trade fair.

UFI welcomes new Research Coordinator

UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has appointed Benjamin Duclos as its new Research Coordinator. He will work alongside Research Manager, Christian Druart to support UFI’s market research initiatives, and contribute to data-driven research projects.

Nineteen Group appoints new President in Americas

Nineteen Group, exhibitions and media business in the U.K., announced Mary Larkin to join the group as President of Nineteen Group Americas. She has over 25 years of experience in the event and media business. She has been the US lead for Diversified Exhibitions and worked across various sectors and geographies.

Messe Frankfurt India and Austrian Fibers Institute announce collaboration

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Mumbai, 15th January: Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India, the Indian subsidiary of international exhibition organiser, Messe Frankfurt, announced the collaboration for Techtextil India, a leading platform for the technical textiles industry in India, with Austrian Fibers Institute.

Under the strategic alliance, the two technical textiles platforms will bring the Asia edition of Dornbirn GFC at a part of Techtextil India Symposium in 2025, targeting to offer opportunities for the entire value chain of the technical textiles industry to explore global advancements in fibre technology, sustainable materials and cutting-edge applications, aligning with the growing focus on innovations in the domain.

The next edition of Techtextil India is scheduled from 19th to 21st November 2025, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. In its 10th edition, the event will also open its doors for the Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress Asia on 18th November 2025, under Techtextil India Symposium.

According to Messe Frankfurt, Dornbirn GFC Asia in India 2025 will be titles as “Shaping the future: Sustainable Grow in Fiber Solutions and Innovations”. The conference will be led by globally acclaimed subject matter experts, researchers, manufacturers and thought leaders.

Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director and Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, was quoted, “The technical textiles industry is at a transformative juncture in India. At this point of time, the partnership of Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India with Austrian Fibers Institute to organise Dornbirn GFC along with Techtextil India 2025 will amplify the benefits of networking and knowledge sharing for the industry professionals. A collaboration of this stature for technical textiles will set a new benchmark for the industry segment.”

Nineteen Group acquires Pro Integration Future Asia

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Singapore, 20th January: Nineteen Group, international exhibition organiser and media company, announced the acquisition of Pro Integration Future Asia (PIFA) Singapore from Montgomery.

Following its opening of the APAC HQ in Singapore and the launch of Safety & Security Asia, Nineteen Group further expands into the APAC market.

PIFA is a leading international event for the Professional Audiovisual, Lighting & Live Entertainment Technologies in the Southeast Asia. Nineteen Group will host the next edition of PIFA in November 2025.

Peter Jones, CEO of Nineteen Group, said, “We’re thrilled to welcome PIFA to our APAC portfolio. This acquisition strengthens our global presence and enhances value for exhibitors and visitors. We look forward to building on Montgomery’s strong foundation and driving PIFA’s future growth.”

Messe München strengthens IMEA regions

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Munich, 16th January: International exhibition organiser, Messe München announced to strengthen its strategic focus on the Indian, Middle Eastern and Africa regions by combing responsibility for this area in “IMEA” (India, Middle East, Africa).

At the same time, the company appointed Bhupinder Singh as President IMEA, effective 1st January 2025. Previously the CEO of Messe München India, he has led the subsidiary to become the second largest international subsidiary of the Messe München Group. In addition to his responsibility in India, he will also oversee Messe München’s events in Africa and drive the company’s market entry in the Middle East in the new position.

The two CEO’s Stefan Rummel and Reinhard Pfeiffer, commented, “Bhupinder Singh is characterized by his strategic vision, his in-depth understanding of the dynamics of the trade fair industry and his exceptional leadership. He has already led our Indian subsidiary to extraordinary success and will now also establish our trade fairs in the Middle East.”

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.”