SPECIAL FEATURE - EXHIBITIONS
Unpacking the recent IFES research
The recent International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES) research examined the impact of the pandemic on the global exhibition and live events industries. Justin Hawes, incoming president of IFES and managing director of Scan Display offered some insights into the research. Background The Brussels-based International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES) represents suppliers to the exhibition and events industry throughout the world. In September 2020, the association conducted research amongst its members to understand the impact the pandemic is having on members in different countries.
Sample Eighty-six members responded from 31 different countries, spread across all six continents. Some countries only had a few respondents, so the research mainly provides qualitative insights, as some of the sub samples are too small. The
South African companies benefited from tax reductions and wage subsidies
majority of responses were from members in Europe, North America and Asia – where the majority of IFES members are based. The responses from Africa were from four South African member companies.
Government support The survey reviewed types of government support received in different countries, including loans, subsidies, tax reductions, rent subsidies, short time work subsidies and wage subsidies. • The respondents in Africa (represented by four South African companies) said they benefited from tax reductions and wage subsidies (probably reflecting TERS). They did not receive any short time work subsidies and rent subsidies • Government loans were highest in Australia – and lowest in Africa (South Africa) and Asia • Short time work subsidies were highest in Australia and Europe
8 Business Events Africa November 2020
Upcoming shows The research indicated there was some activity in the global industry with a few smaller national shows taking place. • Most activity was taking place in South America (represented by an Argentinian member) and Asia (represented by members in China, Russia, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong and Taiwan)
Travel restrictions played a big role in cancellation of shows • Travel restrictions played a big role in the cancellation of shows • Respondents from Europe said that there were quite a few shows set to take place before the end of 2020. However, given the recent second wave of infections on the continent, these shows have more than likely subsequently been cancelled or postponed www.businesseventsafrica.com
