VOL 2 ISSUE 4
Nov 2020
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EDITORS NOTE WELCOME T
o another informative issue of THE ASSOCIATION NEWS, India's first-ever dedicated magazine covering news around Trade Associations, Federations and Chamber of Commerce business. With the festive season on doors, the good news is also flowing in from various parts of the globe. Exhibitions and Conferences in most countries are on with aligned SOP’s , so is the case with Travel, Events, and Hospitality businesses. No other option but to start learning and earning with the New Normal is the only mantra. For some businesses, it may be a compulsory diversification. And people are moving ahead in the same direction. Trade Associations are doing a great job to their level best in form of creating a voice for the welfare, raising the issues, running various campaigns.Innovative Techniques and ideas are on rise, given the situation. This is also a forced upgrade for many associations going digital. We could see lots of business entities, trade bodies who were hardly working on digital platforms, are now super active on social media platforms. Conventional ways of doing business is passe now. Technology is the New Normal. Earlier Associations adopt that, shall make the business process more easy and comfortable.
Sachin Manocha 2
CONTENTS 1. Exhibitions crucial to find right sourcing partners for business – Study 2. Reopening of the Exhibition Industry Exhibitions & events reopening by market, following the COVID-19 pandemic 3. MR. SANJAY AGGARWAL, MR. PRADEEP MULTANI & MR. SAKET DALMIA HAVE RESPECTIVELY TAKEN OVER AS PRESIDENT, SR. VICE PRESIDENT & VICE PRESIDENT OF THE PHD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY 4. Steady Recovery Expected in Second Half of Fiscal 5. Inaugural PCMA Convening Asia Pacific announces speakers and program 6. India amongst the top three choices for future investments: CII - EY FDI Survey of MNCs 7. IAEE Updates Essential Considerations for Safely Reopening Exhibitions and Events White Paper 8. A fully immersive, state-of-the-art hybrid event facility developed in partnership with Anna Valley opened this week in a self-contained space at the London venue. 9. Standard Operating Procedure(SOP) / Preventive measures to betaken while holding of Business to Business (B2B) Trade Exhibitions to contain spread of Covid-19 10. CEIR Teams with Swapcard to Research Event Matchmaking Before and During Pandemic
11. The IICC (India International Convention & Expo Centre) is smart city project being driven by Government of India. With a total area of 300,000m2, IICC is India’s largest convention and exhibition complex. 12. Message from IEIA President 13. Global Recovery Insights 2020 report published 14. Co-located Paperworld India, Corporate Gifts Show and Interior Lifestyle India presented by Ambiente India slated in March 2021
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Exhibitions crucial to find right sourcing partners for business – Study Study: Over 90% respondents affirmed that trade fairs enable them to touch-and-feel the product as well as to build a relationship with the seller which are key factors for making an effective purchase decision Assessing the impact of the pandemic on industries, the biggest challenge businesses will face is business continuity as several industries are reeling under the effects of a disrupted sourcing and supply chain. According to a study conducted by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd, those who held off purchases do so no longer due to cash flow issues - a prime consequence of the pandemic in the earlier months, but rather because they can't find the right suppliers. A market survey of more than 1,000 professionals from across the country was conducted in June 2020 & September 2020 to examine the shifting business climate and the state of mind of the most senior buyers at Messe Frankfurt India trade fairs during this period. The key objective of the ‘Senior Management Survey’ was to gauge the business and purchase behavior amidst the pandemic that has affected businesses of MFI stakeholders and the cross-collaboration that Messe Frankfurt India can enable through its virtual tools through an emphasis on sourcing alternatives or the need and intention to visit exhibitions for trading. The study covered a wide range of industry sectors from the 4
automotive, textiles, building technologies, and consumer goods, showing that 88 percent of respondents relied on exhibitions to help them with their purchase decisions. Over 90% of respondents affirmed that trade fairs allow them to touch and feel the product as well as to build a relationship with the seller which are key factors for making an effective purchasing decision. While there has been a strong shift with regards to the purchasing behavior from June (53%) to September (63%) with a rise of 10 percent in purchasing activity, most buyers cannot find the right suppliers while others cannot find stocks (12.97%), cannot import (13.81%), as per company policies (20.08%), or would like to wait for exhibitions (24.27%). Even as other sourcing alternatives such as online events, webinars, and WhatsApp are picking up, 59% of buyers are finding it difficult to make purchasing decisions during Covid-19. As purchasing activity has increased across the board, willingness to attend exhibitions also saw an increase with respondents looking at visiting the next exhibition " as soon as possible" registering the highest increase of 10 percentage points. In this regard, the role of the Exhibition industry will also become much more significant in terms of rebuilding customer connections, supporting the exchange of knowledge and technology as well as restoring business continuity and growth in the economy. Given the current environment and the increased 4
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intent of visiting trade fairs, Messe Frankfurt has been strongly focusing on developing standard protocols and a framework for enhanced measures for hygiene and safety at their Exhibitions and Conferences in India. It was also interesting to note that - while only 16 percent of respondents attended online exhibitions in June 2020, this trend has quickly shifted to 29 percent in September 2020 showcasing that hybrid exhibition will play a vital role in the future. Mr. Raj Manek, Managing Director, Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd shared: “Technology will play a significant role in enhancing the experience of physical exhibitions in future, so as organizers we are using this as an opportunity to build our digital tools more rapidly and open up new avenues for a business that can intelligently complement our existing trade shows.
Known for its trade fair history of 780 years, Messe Frankfurt is the world’s largest trade fair, congress, and event organizer with its own exhibition grounds. The Indian subsidiary, with a portfolio of 20 trade fair brands and over 30 conferences, hosts some of the country’s leading trade fairs such as LED Expo (Mumbai & Delhi), Light India, Media Expo (Mumbai & Delhi), Techtextil India, ACMA Automechanika New Delhi, Rail India conference, NGV India Summit among others, covering the automotive, automation, lighting, technology, textiles, consumer goods, entertainment, media and creative industries.
Globally, Messe Frankfurt has ‘restarted’ exhibitions with the opening of Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics and Yarn Expo in July 2020 in China and the Summer Nordstil in September 2020 in Germany. “The survey results also go on to show the crucial role exhibitions can play in enabling Indian As a group that has been into the trade businesses to find right sourcing partners fair business for centuries, we strongly amidst the current environment and more believe that business relations and so in the post-covid era.” concludes Manek. personal encounters at exhibitions will be irreplaceable but offering a hybrid The government of India has issued new platform will become a standard feature at guidelines under Unlock 5.0, allowing our physical events so that we continue to Business to Business (B2B) exhibitions to enable our customers to expand the reach resume with effect from 15th October 2020, and transform virtual connections into face- with new SOPs as issued by the Department of Commerce. -to-face interactions.”
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Message from IEIA President
IEIA is extremely grateful to Government of India for allowing the restart of B2B exhibitions with advisory on SOPs. Exhibition industry needs to strictly adhere to the guidelines set by GOI to organize shows in a safe and secured environment. It’s the collective responsibility of all the stakeholders of the industry to extend their support in maintaining the highest standards so that the industry make a quick comeback and gets its past glory. Working in coherence is the need of the hour and a collective approach can help us to combat the pandemic in the right way and create a safe atmosphere for organizing shows successfully. The confidence laid by the Govt. on exhibition industry, as an organized activity, itself is a great positive step for all of us which must be reciprocated with utmost commitment. Wishing all great and safe exhibitions ahead!
Balasubramanian President - IEIA
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Everyone in this industry
should ask ‘Am I OK?’ on Saturday World Mental Health Day 10 October’ says Juliet Price, HBAA
“Overwhelmed, fearful, uncertain and anxious are just some of the words to describe how many of us are feeling following six months of lockdown and restricted living. Concerns over job security and the viability of businesses, financial worries and the overarching welfare of family and loved ones have all had a significant detrimental impact on the mental health of thousands of people in our industry. “We must ensure that our individual mental health and wellbeing is not ignored and recognise when we need to seek support” says Juliet Price, Consultant Executive Director of HBAA.
“Many people in this industry were already suffering from mental health issues due to the pressure of work and lifestyle before Covid 19 arrived to cast a black cloud on our lives. It is an issue that HBAA is committed to addressing and part of that has been through pioneering Mental Health First Aider training sessions, and most members of our executive committee and board have become certificated Mental Health First Aiders.
“In addition to working with EventWell and Balancing Edges, HBAA recently became the first association partner of HUGS UK which provides services to those who need support, particularly with their working lives. These “This Saturday, World Mental Health Day, organisations provide vital help to those who everyone in the industry should take 5 admit to themselves that they are not OK. minutes to reflect on how they feel and ask themselves ‘Am I OK?, remembering at the “It’s time for action and the first step is for everyone to take time on Saturday and ask same time ‘It’s OK Not to be OK. themselves – Am I OK?” Theassociation.News
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Reopening of the Exhibition Industry Exhibitions & events reopening by market, following the COVID-19 pandemic Open
- Opened unconditionally - Opened with some restrictions (sanitary measures, distancing and other measures)
Partially open / expected to open
- Some regions/ states are opened meanwhile others not (e.g. US, Germany) - Major restrictions to hosting large events (e.g. only events <1000 people are permitted) - Expected opening date but not officialy confirmed
Closed / lockdown Status unclear
REOPENING OF THE EXHIBITION INDUSTRY ASIA MARKET • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
AUSTRALIA CAMBODIA CHINA HONG KONG INDIA INDONESIA JAPAN MACAU MALAYSIA MYANMAR NEW ZEALAND PAKISTAN PHILIPPINES SINGAPORE SOUTH KOREA TAIWAN THAILAND VIETNAM 9
REOPENING OF THE EXHIBITION INDUSTRY EUROPE MARKET • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
AUSTRIA BELGIUM BULGARIA CROATIA FINLAND FRANCE GERMANY GREECE ITALY LATVIA LUXEMBOURG NETHERLANDS POLAND PORTUGAL RUSSIA SPAIN SWITZERLAND TURKEY UKRAINE UK
REOPENING OF THE EXHIBITION INDUSTRY MEA MARKET • • • • • • • • • • • •
ALGERIA BAHRAIN EGYPT JORDAN KUWAIT LEBANON MOROCCO OMAN QATAR SAUDI ARABIA SOUTH AFRICA UAE
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REOPENING OF THE EXHIBITION INDUSTRY AMERICAS MARKET • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
ARGENTINA BOLIVIA BRAZIL CANADA COSTA RICA CUBA CHILE COLOMBIA ECUADOR EL SALVADOR GUATEMALA HONDURAS MEXICO NICARAGUA PANAMA PERU USA
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MR. SANJAY AGGARWAL, MR. PRADEEP MULTANI & MR. SAKET DALMIA HAVE RESPECTIVELY TAKEN OVER AS PRESIDENT, SR. VICE PRESIDENT & VICE PRESIDENT OF THE PHD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY Mr. Sanjay Aggarwal, Mr. Pradeep Multani & Mr. Saket Dalmia have respectively taken over as President, Sr. Vice President & Vice President of the PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mr. Sanjay Aggarwal, Chairman & CEO of Paramount Cables Group; Mr. Pradeep Multani, Chairman, Multani Pharmaceuticals Limited, , and Mr. Saket Dalmia, Managing Director, PG Industry Limited, have taken over as President, Senior Vice President and Vice President, respectively of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry following the conclusion of its 115th Annual Session. Prior to becoming the President of the Chamber, Mr. Aggarwal, a graduate from Shri Ram College of Commerce, has received numerous prestigious awards over the past 34 years including the National Small Industry Award 1984 awarded by the President of India; Entrepreneur of
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the Year Award 1994 by All India Manufacturers Organization; Niryat Shree Award 2008-09 by FIEO; numerous Star Exporter Awards by EEPC over the years; Major Donor Award 2017 by Rotary Foundation of Rotary International; Award for Innovation in Cabling Solutions in 2019 by Rail Analysis India Summit and Certificate of Appreciation for Commitment & Dedicated Service Award 2020 by Rotary Club of Delhi Central. Mr. Pradeep Multani, Senior Vice President - PHD Chamber, an Economics & Law Graduate from Delhi University and has more than 40 years of experience in the field of Ayurvedic & Unani Medicines sector and has been Chairman of Eighty One year’s young, multi-crore Ayurveda & Unani Company for more than 30 years. Mr. Multani, a stalwart of the AYUSH industry is trying his best to promote Traditional systems of medicines across the world by addressing different seminars and sensitizing various embassies
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and other international delegates, and doing advocacy on different issues on behalf of the Industry. Mr. Saket Dalmia, Vice President – PHD Chamber, obtained his degree in business and finance from McDonough School of Business, Georgetown University, USA, and started his entrepreneurial journey after this return from the USA. Marble City is headquartered in Delhi; the company has several joint ventures with cutting-edge global façade products and felicitated as one of the 100 fastest growing export houses from India. PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry is honored to have such dynamic leadership for the year 2020-2021. PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry along with its leadership and members will always stand in full solidarity with all the offices of the government and will make every effort to make India Aatma Nirbhar.
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Steady Recovery Expected in Second Half of Fiscal A steady recovery of the Indian economy is on the anvil as corporate India restarts business and economic activity with lockdowns being increasingly relaxed in many parts of the country. For the first time since the advent of the pandemic in the country in early 2020, India Inc is now estimating a capacity utilisation of more than 50% in the second half of this financial year. It is important to allow a complete opening up of the economy for demand to pick up which in turn will propel capacity utilisation. CII has been working closely with states and city corporations to bring down uncertainty over the opening protocol. The uptick in demand is expected to gain momentum in the coming weeks with the festive season round the corner. CEOs of top 115 companies who met at CIIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Council (its apex board),
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indicated revival of positive business sentiment and gradual rise in expected corporate performance. The CEOs who deliberated on a virtual platform had joined from across the country earlier this week. CEOs of the top companies who took the poll included representatives across sectors from metals and mining to manufacturing, auto, pharma, health, energy, infrastructure, construction and leading services sector including ITES, health hospitality tourism and e commerce. The apex body also had large representation of the medium and small sector apart from start-ups. The unlocking of almost all economic activities along with the reform and revival measures announced by the Government and RBI have contributed to the gradual improvement in business sentiments in the second half of the current financial year. While in most cases, the performance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; revenue
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or capacity utilisation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is estimated to be lower than the comparative figures in 2019-20, a large percentage of the CEOs polled have shown confidence in the days ahead indicating that the worst may be behind. On consumer demand, while 32% of the CEOs are hoping for better prospects and another 27% of them expecting no change when compared to the second of last year. However, only 31% of the CEOs expected their revenue growth to be in the positive territory in the second half of current financial year compared to last year as far as revenue growth is concerned. On exports, 40% of the CEOs expected better prospects on exports and 24% of then expect no change in prospects during second half of current year when compared to same period last year. Apart from the Agri-sector that has been in the positive territory there 13
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are now clear indications of a smart recovery in some sectors like automobiles, FMCG, consumer durables and construction equipment. The FMCG sector has been sequentially improving with each month looking better than the previous month and demand in semi-urban and small towns is estimated to be back at pre-COVID levels except in urban areas like Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, etc. where it is still picking up. A similar story is playing out in the consumer durables sector where demand is expected to grow by 20% by Q3. Consumer Durables sector is witnessing a strong demand, with double digits growth in August. Washing machines, refrigerators, TVs especially large TVs, kitchen appliances, lighting, etc. are all doing well However, supply side constraints may create challenges in meeting this demand if there are restrictions imposed on movement of goods and services.
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Paper board and Packaging sector, which mirrors the aggregate demand in the economy is back to about 90 % of pre-COVID levels. The retail is showing some interesting trends because even though footfalls have been low, the ticket size of purchases have gone up with the economy opening. The Automotive sector too is seeing a demand pick up. The Two/Three/Four Wheelers are doing relatively better in August with the Four-wheeler segment witnessing a 15% growth in August. Tractor sales in the month of August have been extremely good the industry, which is a large contributor to the GDP, has been able make up for lack of sales in April and May. Most high-frequency data points have shown a continued normalisation in activity levels in September 2020. The most promising sign is the turn-around in outbound shipments for the first time in seven months with merchandise exports expanding by 5.3% in September as per the
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provisional official trade data. In addition, weekly vehicle registrations continue to increase on a year-on-year basis in September, while weekly CMIE unemployment rate has continued to decline and is now below the pre-lockdown levels. Google mobility indicators have also improved with a rise in workplace-related and grocery/pharmacy trips. The news of the first advance estimates of kharif crop topping a record 144.5 million tonnes has also brought much cheer. According to CII the Governments both at the centre and State would need to focus on livelihoods in addition to lives and hence efforts need to be made to stall the practice of sudden and adhoc lockdowns announced by States as well as districts. These not only further disrupt the revival of economic activities but also do not yield the desired results on lives either.
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September exports grow by 5.27 to USD 27.40 billion for the first time during the fiscal
showing signs of revival as gradual lifting of lockdown further improves business sentiments: Sharad Kumar Saraf, President, FIEO Reacting to September 2020 export figures, FIEO President, Mr Sharad Kumar Saraf said that the monthly exports have grown by 5.27 to USD 27.40 billion first time during the financial year 2020-21 showing signs of revival as gradual lifting of lockdown have further improved the business sentiments. Anti-China sentiments across the globe has also been one of the reasons for the improved performance in exports. Besides, the exporters must be complimented for their excellent performance in spite of these challenging times. Mr Saraf reiterated that the arrest in decline of exports started during July with a lower negative double digit decline of 10.21 percent from a very high negative double digit decline of 60.28 percent during April, 2020 caused mainly due to lockdown measures followed across the globe because of Covid-19 pandemic. As business activities and economic sentiments are inching towards normalcy globally, Mr Sharad Kumar Saraf added that exporters have started receiving a lot of enquiries and orders from across the globe helping many sectors to further show improved export performance, which is likely to get better and better in next few months. FIEO Chief, further added that integration in the global supply chain has also started showing signs of resilience further helping to give a boost to the Indian economy. FIEO President said that the exports of agri products, plantation & other cereals along with iron ore, carpet, ceramic products & glassware, drugs & pharmaceuticals, handicrafts excluding handmade carpet, meat, dairy & poultry products, jute mfg. including floor covering, cotton yarn/fabs/madeups, handloom products etc., RMG of all textiles, plastic & linoleum, petroleum products, engineering goods,
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organic & inorganic chemicals and electronic goods showed either a very high or impressive growth or were in positive territory showing signs of further revival. However, reduction in imports during September 2020 by 19.60 percent to USD 30.31 billion compared to the same period during the previous fiscal led to a trade deficit of just USD 2.91 billion with a substantial decline of 75.06 percent during the month. Reduction in import of precious metals including Gold and Silver along with leather & leather products used as raw material for gems & jewellery and leather & leather product exports has also seen a negative growth during the month which does not augur well for these major labour-intensive sectors of exports. With the WTO trade estimates for the second quarter putting the contraction only at 13 percent and the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exports showing signs of revival, Mr Sharad Kumar Saraf is of the view that going with this trend, Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exports is likely to be in the range of USD 290300 billion during the current fiscal. Which itself would be an impressive performance from the overall exporting community and for the sector as a whole who are facing such tough global conditions. FIEO Chief reiterated that the urgent and immediate need of the hour is to address some of the key issues including the release of the MEIS benefits, resolving risky exporters issues, early introduction of RoDTEP across all sectors, capping of Rs 2 crore MEIS per IEC, introduction of NIRVIK Scheme and expediting introduction of the E-Wallet Scheme, which will further help in reviving the exports during these difficult and torrid times.
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Inaugural PCMA Convening Asia Pacific announces speakers and program Program to deliver the skills, business models and marketing strategies needed in a post-COVID-19 era Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) will host renowned speakers from Google, George P. Johnson, Jack Morton and more, at its inaugural Convening Asia Pacific: The Global Recovery Forum in a hybrid format on Tuesday 10 November 2020. The program which will be a mix of panels, seminars and workshops, will feature highly experienced event professionals, including: • Nicki Kenyon, Board Member, Australian Grand Prix Corporation, ex Facebook, Visa, Visit Victoria and experienced marketing and growth strategist • Rebecca Hallett, APAC Head of Events & Experiences, Google • Anna Patterson, Vice President and Managing Director, George P. Johnson Experience Marketing, Singapore • Jack Delosa, Founder, Chairman and Executive Director, The Entourage • Lucille Marie Essey, SVP, Executive Creative Director & Show Director, Greater China, Jack Morton Worldwide • Lisa Ronson, CMO, Coles Group, ex Tourism Australia • James Bennett, Director of Creative Technologies APAC, Project Worldwide Hong Kong
Nicki Kenyon, Board Member, Australian Grand Prix Corporation, ex Facebook, Visa, Visit Victoria and experienced marketing and growth strategist
Globally experienced strategic marketing leader and growth strategist Nicki Kenyon, who will moderate a panel session at Convening Asia Pacific with other successful CMO’s, said the marketer’s role in driving growth and engagement for a company or event is more important now than ever. “Building successful marketing campaigns is reliant on clear business goals, a detailed, well thought out strategy and a customer-centric approach. Events are built on a foundation of entertainment, and even though not many events are running face-to-face at the moment, we need to remember what the essence of events are – engaging with our audiences. “COVID-19 may have changed the events industry and how we appeal to audiences, attract sponsors and sell tickets, but with it there has also been opportunities to adapt, test new channels to use and consider new ways to engage with audiences outside of our regions. “At Convening Asia Pacific, the panel of marketers and I will share our experiences in building successful marketing strategies, adapting tactics in a data and technology enabled
world, and discuss how to appeal to a B2B landscape virtually,” said Ms Kenyon. Karen Bolinger, PCMA Managing Director of APAC, said the program and speakers embody exactly what is needed for event professionals right now. “Through the APAC survey we’ve conducted we’ve heard loud and clear that reskilling and upskilling into the new world is top of everyone’s’ list. The content and speakers are experts in their fields of marketing, event experience and commercialisation. “Some key sessions will provide valuable insights into digital marketing from the technical, creative, data insights and distribution channel perspectives. This will appeal to audiences who want to boost attendance and engagement, setting the event up for success and answering the ‘how’ of events today. “We’ll be hearing from agencies who are on the cutting edge of technology about what event formats translate virtually, technology of the future and our speakers will share best practice tips and tricks to engage audiences. “Convening Asia Pacific speakers draw on diverse professional backgrounds, and they are all supportive and optimistic for the future. They will share their practical insights and experiences on how to transition events, be visible and develop new mindsets for the individual, the business and the industry,” said Ms Bolinger. 16
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FIEO welcomes the decision of RBI to discontinue the automatic caution-listing while simultaneously monitor the exports realisation through banks The Federation of Indian Export Organisation (FIEO) has welcomed the RBI's decision of discontinuation of automatic caution-listing of exporters. Mr Sharad Kumar Saraf, President, FIEO thanked Shri Shaktikanta Das, the Governor, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), for meeting the long pending demand of FIEO, for discontinuing the automatic caution-listing for exporters saying it was a threat, more so, since the outbreak of coronavirus as exporters were not in a position to approach banks physically to get exports realisation entries updated in the EDPMS Module.
mechanism strikes a nice balance between the responsibilities of exporters and bankers while simultaneously ensuring that realisation of exports proceeds is constantly monitored.
FIEO President also said that the changes made in the EDPMS making it more user-friendly and equitable basing it on the case-specific recommendations of the AD banks will further bring ease in the working of the exporting community. The Reserve Bank of India introduced the Export Data Processing and Monitoring System (EDPMS) in 2014 for all banks to bring their transactions with the FIEO Chief added that accepting the request exporters online. to do away with automatic caution-listing will provide relief to exporters particularly since in Hailing RBIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Monetary Policy Statement 2020a large number of cases the entries remain non- 21, the FIEO Chief said that the exporters -updated at the end of Authorised Dealer (AD) appreciated the bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intent to enhance Banks due to numerous factors. The onus will liquidity support for financial markets so as be on AD Banks to update exports remittance to revive activity in targeted sectors of the and if payment is not realised, to report the economy, besides providing a boost to exports same to RBI for appropriate action. The new sector. Theassociation.News
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India amongst the top three choices for future investments:
CII - EY FDI Survey of MNCs
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ndia has emerged as one of the top three choices for overseas investments in the next 2-3 years, according to the FDI survey released by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in association with EY. The CII-EY FDI survey on the theme, ‘How can India step up its game?” has been brought out to gauge the market sentiment amongst the Indian as well as non-Indian MNCs.
Recent reforms in the country such as corporate tax cuts, Ease of Doing Business measures, simplification of labour laws, FDI reforms, and focus on human capital have emerged as the top drivers for fresh investments. Non-Indian HQ MNCs have also opined that major investment in infrastructure and 100 Smart cities as well as financial sector reforms will also help in establishing India as a favorable destination for FDI.
According to the survey, more than two-thirds of the MNC respondents, India is the number one choice for future investments. 25% of the respondents, who represent non-Indian HQ MNCs, view India as the first choice for future investments. The survey shows that more than 80% of all the respondents and 71% of the non-Indian headquartered respondents plan to make investments globally in the next 2-3 years. About 30% of companies are planning to invest more than USD 500 million.
For 40% of the non-Indian HQ companies, effective implementation of labour laws and FDI reforms are very significant, while 52% of the Indian HQ companies believe corporate tax rate reduction would be the prime mover of future investments.
About 50% of respondents see India amongst the top three economies or leading manufacturing destinations of the world by 2025. The respondents have pinned down market potential, skilled workforce, and political stability as the top three reasons to make India their favored destination. Other key factors which contribute to the attractiveness of India as an investment destination include cheap labor availability, policy reforms, and availability of raw materials.
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The CII-EY survey results strongly indicate that India will be the next global investment hotspot with a high proportion of MNCs placing it at the top of their investment agenda. The recent major structural reforms, proactive Government processes and the quick pickup in economic activity following Unlock measures are contributing to global investor interest,” said Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII.
The survey has also brought out some key recommendations sought by the respondents. Infrastructure development, faster clearances, and proper implementation of the improved labour laws and labour availability as the top three issues that the companies want the government to focus on, followed by R&D and innovation, and tax reforms. In terms of Trade Policy reforms, investors would like to see a faster turnaround time for exports and imports, improved cargo handling, and trade facilitation measures to be in place. The survey assesses India’s competitiveness in terms of key parameters and analyses whether India is likely to be the “+1” jurisdiction for those seeking to relocate investments or making fresh investments. 19
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IAEE Updates Essential
Considerations for Safely Reopening Exhibitions and Events White Paper
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he International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) has updated its white paper, Essential Considerations for Safely Reopening Exhibitions and Events, which was originally released this past June to provide general information for consideration by exhibition organizers when planning for and producing an exhibition during a pandemic.
taken place since the first edition • Additional updates from EDPA, ESCA and GBAC Supporting organizations to Essential Considerations for Safely Reopening Exhibitions and Events include the Experiential Designers and Producers Association (EDPA); Exhibition Services & Contractors Association (ESCA); Exhibitor Appointed Contractors Association (EACA); Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA); International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM); Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO); and United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America.
“I AEE’s Health and Safety Task Force has been diligent in its commitment to help show organizers and event professionals create a safe environment as we return to face-to-face exhibitions and events,” said IAEE President & CEO David DuBois, CMP, CAE, FASAE, CTA. “The updates made to the Essential Considerations for Safely Reopening Exhibitions and Events white paper reflect new developments that Essential Considerations for Safely Reopening benefit our industry’s recovery.” Exhibitions and Events, 2nd Edition focuses on Essential Considerations for Safely Reopening the following topics: Exhibitions and Events, 2nd Edition includes • General Principles for Health and Safety enhancements in the following areas: Operations • Communication, Education and Awareness • Insurance considerations • Exhibition and Event Operations • Travel considerations • Convention Centre/Venue Cleaning • New FAQs throughout the paper Prevention Measures • Updated content on force majeure in legal • Legal and Insurance Considerations section • Travel Considerations • Enhanced risk assessment sections • Addition of images from shows that have
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A fully immersive, state-of-the-art hybrid event facility developed in partnership with
Anna Valley opened this week in a self-contained space at the London venue.
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versatile, visually engaging studio that delivers broadcast-quality content from a digital platform has been launched at ExCeL London. ExCeL has partnered with market-leading audio visual supplier Anna Valley to establish a unique environment for organisers to deliver highly dynamic hybrid events The facility offers customers the opportunity to diversify and broaden their reach by supplementing traditional content with online engagement. The studio’s flexible set features an impressive, adaptable digital backdrop and stage floor, multi-camera and full sound system and lighting rig, as well as space for up to 30 delegates socially distanced in line with Government guidelines. Remote presenters with broadcast quality feeds can be included in studio activity and content can be streamed to platforms such as Zoom, YouTube and Facebook. The studio is located in a central, self-contained area, above the venue’s main event halls – making it an excellent addition to a larger, live conference or hybrid event at ExCeL. Separate, but within close proximity are office spaces, green rooms, and production areas, as well as space to increase the studio footprint. Theassociation.News
Jeremy Rees, CEO, ExCeL London: "During this challenging time, we remain committed to providing our customers and guests with the best possible experience. This new state-of-the-art hybrid event studio supports us and them in our shared ambition of delivering world leading events. While nothing beats meeting face-to-face or being amid the buzz of an auditorium, this studio will enable organisers to deliver exceptional audience experiences whether the event is attended in person or remotely. And once larger, face-to-face conferences, exhibitions and events can return, this studio will act as a great addition for organisers seeking to reach a much larger audience." Peter Jones, Managing Director, Anna Valley, said: "We are delighted to be working with ExCeL London to offer a superb virtual events studio within the venue. With our heritage in broadcast and reputation for providing live event and entertainment technology, we’re ideally suited to helping event professionals reinvent their physical shows as digital experiences and we’re really looking forward to working with ExCeL’s clients in this respect." 22
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Standard Operating Procedure(SOP) / Preventive measures to be taken while holding of Business to Business (B2B) Trade Exhibitions to contain spread of Covid-19 1. Background : The exhibition industry enables business opportunities across all industries by directly connecting the buyers with the sellers, and these B2B market places also serve as a major stimulus for industrial and commercial development in the regions where these are held. The Ministry of Home Affairs has permitted Business to Business (B2B) exhibitions outside the Containment zones only, from 15th October 2020. To prevent spread of COVID19 infection, it is important that necessary preventive measures are followed during such events, and the SOP aims to minimize all possible physical contacts between Exhibition organizers, service providers, Buyers/Sellers/ Exhibitors/ business visitors and maintain social distancing and other preventive and safety measures against COVID-19.
2. Scope: The document outlines various generic and precautionary measures to be adopted, in addition to the specific measures, for holding Business to Business (B2B) Exhibitions. The measures to be put in place are divided under the following categories viz: • Measures to be adopted by Venue Provider(s) • Measures to be adhered to by Fair/Exhibition Organizers • Measures to be adhered to by Service Providers • Measures to be followed by Exhibitors • Measures to be followed by Business Visitors / Delegates The competent Authority may implement additional measures within their jurisdiction as per their local assessment and in line with activities permitted by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) as per MHA orders issued under Theassociation.News
Disaster Management Act 2005 from time to time.
Generic Preventive Measures: The generic preventive measures that include public health measures are to be followed to reduce the risk of COVID-19. These measures need to be observed by all: the venue providers, exhibition organizers, service providers, exhibitors, business visitors/delegates and are as follows:• Persons above 65 years of age, persons with co-morbidities, pregnant womenand children below the age of 10 years are advised to stay at home, except foressential and health purposes. Fair/Trade Exhibition Organizers to adviseaccordingly. • The other generic measures include simple public health measures that are to befollowed during the trade exhibition at all times. These include:Physical distancing of at least 6 feet to be followed as far as feasible. • Use of face covers/masks to be made mandatory. • Practice frequent hand washing with soap (for at least 40-60 seconds) evenwhen hands are not visibly dirty. Use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers (forat least 20 seconds) can be made wherever feasible. • Respiratory etiquettes to be strictly followed. This involves strict practice of covering one’s mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing with atissue/ handkerchief/flexed elbow and disposing off used tissues properly. • Self-monitoring of health by all and 23
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reporting any illness at the earliest to state and district helpline.
4. intake of fresh air should be as much as possible and 5. cross ventilation should be adequate. The air • Spitting shall be strictly prohibited. handling unit is required to be cleaned and maintained regularly to maintain adequate in-hall • Installation and use of ‘Aarogya Setu’ app shall temperature / air movement as recommended be mandatory for all with by health authorities. smart-phones. 4. All the stakeholders, the venue providers, • Adequate number of CCTV should be installed in the venue/ campus, including inside the exhibition organizers, service providers, halls and the F&B locations, to closely monitor exhibitors, business visitors/delegates, shall also visitor movement to ensure social distancing ensure the following: and control overcrowding at any point. There should be adequate AV unit for announcement to manage the crowd movement. A. Measures to be adopted by Venue
Provider(s)
• The self-assessment through Aarogya Setu Mobile App is recommended for all the entrants and is mandatory for ones with a smart-phone. All the entrants should be instructed not to have a close contact with anyone if they are experiencing any of the symptoms in respect of the virus.
• A dedicated lane for vehicles movement with single entry and single exit of the vehicles needs to be created. The round robin arrangements should also follow this dedicated lane. The drop-off points and parking points should be identified. The spaces for parking of vehicles should be clearly defined so as to maintain social distancing in the parking areas. The parking space provided should have adequate distancing norms between vehicles.
• Venue Provider should setup health/first-aid kiosks manned by optimal staff with adequate • The F&B service providers to be advised that proper hygiene be maintained and the equipment like thermal guns and hand sanitizers infrastructure be disinfected regularly. They at all entry/ exit gates of the venue for mandatory may be advised to offer prepacked food to the thermal scanning and hand sanitization of all the extent possible and to avoid a buffet-style set-up entrants. All Security and cleaning staff should to avoid queue-ups. Digital payments must be use Face Mask, Face Shield and Gloves. encouraged. The F&B outlets / counters shall mandatorily install glass partitions as a physical • Preferably multiple and separate entry and exits distancing measure. The serving personnel for visitors shall be ensured. The structure/ should wear masks and gloves. The F&B space/venue for the event must also ensure services providers will be required to follow the adequate natural crossventilation. guidelines issued by the relevant government agencies. The business visitors/delegates to be • The Exhibition halls shall be disinfected before encouraged to bring their own water bottles. giving possession. There should be a provision of tissue papers near water dispensers, Tea/Coffee makers etc. • A well-planned garbage disposal policy should to avoid direct contact with hand. All equipment be implemented. should be as far as possible made contactless. • For air-conditioning /ventilation, the guidelines of CPWD shall be followed which emphasize • To maintain social distancing the number of individuals that can be permitted in any given that the hall, stall/ booth and toilet/ washroom at any particular time at any particular time may be 1. temperature setting of all air conditioning moderated such that the latest MHA/ MoHFW devices should be in range of 24-30 degree guidelines on social distancing are complied-with, which currently translates into a 3.25 2. relative humidity should be in the range of 40sq. m per person in the halls. (10,000 sq. m 70%, hall should have a maximum of 3076 persons; a 5,000 sq. m hall should have a maximum of 3. re-circulation of air to be avoided to the extent 1538 persons.) possible,
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Theassociation.News the govt. guidelines, the entrants screened-out based on travel history/symptoms/ information based on the medical interview sheet may be refused entry. Availability of information of any overseas COVID-19 cases that were detected during or after the event should be passed on to their respective embassies.
â&#x20AC;˘ Isolation centre should be created by the venue owner on a permanent basis.
B. Measures to be adhered to by Trade Exhibition Organizers 1. The Trade Fair/Exhibition Organizer should assess the risk involved by doing a thorough pre-event review of the event prior to the planned dates. The Organizer should also analyze the health and safety situation of the zones of the expected attendees, both national and International. 2. Based on health and safety analysis of visitor origin cities, the Organizer should avoid promoting their events to visitors from affected areas whose visit to the event may possibly impact the health and safety of other visitors at the show. 3. A plan should be prepared well in advance about conduct of each activity separately (exhibitions, meetings, shows, food/catering arrangements etc.) 4. B2B arrangements shall be permitted outside the containment zones only. Fair /Trade Exhibition Organizers, venue providers, service providers, exhibitors and business visitors from containment zones shall not be permitted. 5. Keeping in view the physical distancing norms, event sites should have adequate floor area at all locations which are likely to be visited by public. The Organizer should ensure that the number of business/trade delegates into the Venue, in respect of their event, is regulated as per txxhe Govt. guidelines during that particular time. Physical distance of a minimum of 6 feet, when queuing up for entry and inside the venue as far as feasible. Specific marking for the purpose may be done at various places like, queues at entry and exit of halls, in front of registration desks, in front of booths/stalls in the passageways etc. 6. Fair/Exhibition Organizers should stagger the operational hours of exhibition so that there is organised gathering. The Organizer may also be requested to plan for staggered exit of exhibitors and business visitors / delegates at the closing time of the show on each day. 7. The Organizer should maintain record of all the entrants & participants who will enter the venue in respect of their event. They should be able to provide traceability support of suspects to local health authorities, if required. In line with Theassociation.News
8. The Organizer must ensure that they, along-with the exhibitors, visitors, staff/labour belonging to all the agencies for Construction and Decoration (C&D), Food and Beverages (F&B), Security, Housekeeping etc. hired by the organizer and any other staff deployed by them, in connection with the exhibition/conference, are aware of and are following all the precautionary measures advised by the Govt. Authorities, in respect of Covid-19 virus, from time to time. 9. Appropriate arrangements for personal protection gears like face covers/masks, and other logistic like hand sanitizers, soap, sodium hypochlorite solution etc. shall be made available by Fair/ Trade Exhibition Organizers/exhibitors for their staff as per requirements 10. The Organizer should regularly play recorded messages/announcements on the precautionary measures, good practices and relevant information in respect of the virus during the full tenancy period. Regular Health and safety announcements may be made in English and local languages. They should promote â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Namasteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; greetings as a replacement to handshakes. It should highlight availability of onsite doctors and ambulance. Signage/ boards are to be installed at all prominent places, about preventive measures to be followed by entrants and also that spitting inside the premises will be prohibited. A short advisory on social distancing in all signage, digital messages, boards etc may be included to reinforce the standard signage. 11. Business visitors should be given prior information on what they should carry, which includes face mask, water bottle, hand sanitizer. xii. The Organizer should advise all the entrants to practice hand washing etiquettes (even if the hands are visibly clean) with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub/sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol content. 12. The Organizers should encourage pre-registration of business visitors / delegates to minimize queues at the registration area and seek health declarations from all attendees in a pre-exhibition entry safe zone. All attendees should be registered in order to ensure traceability, if needed at a later date. Contact-less entry should 25
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Theassociation.News be encouraged. 13. Adequate number of ticket counters/registration counters shall be planned duly ensuring physical distancing norms. The Organizer should consider minimal social contact while setting up their Registration area. Queue masters could be used to manage movement flow. Registration counters set up by the organizer could have transparent glass partitions to act as a barrier to physical contact 14. The Organizer shall also encourage online registration with the option of printing of entry badges at home. Further, QR Code may be generated during the registration and the entry can be allowed inside the hall by scanning the QR code by the Organizer. 15. The Organizers should encourage use of technology to minimize human interface. The organizer should ask its exhibitors to encourage the use of e-brochures to minimize contact and paper wastage. 16. The Organizers should be advised to monitor the number of business visitors / delegates in a particular hall by technology-enabled/ other means by tracking the inflow as well as outflow of visitors in real-time. As soon as the hall reaches saturation as per the hall-wise occupancy load notified by Government agencies, inflow may be restricted. Number of people in the elevators shall be restricted, duly maintaining social distancing norms 17. The furniture and other surfaces (frequently touched or otherwise) present in each of the halls and going to be used in respect of their event need to be wiped with disinfectant regularly by the Organizer. 18. During the event, the Organizer should ensure that there are sufficient hand sanitizers/soap/ tissues in all the washrooms. Their housekeeping agency should be strictly instructed to regularly monitor the hygiene of all the halls including the washrooms. All the tissues should be in closed bins. Visitors and staff should be advised to dispose of used face covers/masks in covered bins available at premises. The housekeeping agency should ensure that the used tissues are thrown into closed bins immediately after use. The CPCB guidelines available at https://cpcb. nic.in/uploads/Projects/Bio-Medical-waste/ BMW-GUIDELINESCOVID_1.pdf may be referred to for bio-medical waste management (mask, tissues, etc.) 19. If Organizers are providing transport shuttles, Theassociation.News
they should be cleaned regularly. Avoid transportation to/fro from any Containment Zones, if identified by the Government. 20. The Organizer should encourage use of pre-fabricated material while constructing stands to ensure minimum time spent by the stand fabricators, fitters etc. The organizer should also instruct the C&D agent to disinfect the booth construction material etc. Stand Contractors should use mechanized trolleys / pallets etc. to minimize human labour while bringing / taking out material out of the halls. 21. The Organizer should encourage use of pre-fabricated material while constructing stands to ensure minimum time spent by the stand fabricators, fitters etc. The organizer should also instruct the C&D agent to disinfect the booth construction material etc. Stand Contractors should use mechanized trolleys / pallets etc. to minimize human labour while bringing / taking out material out of the halls. 22. The Organizers will construct minimum of one Isolation Room of minimum 3m x 3m (four sides & ceiling covered, with lockable door), which would be manned by the Fair Organiser staff adept in handling a COVID-19 patient and would have adequate facilities like PPE kit, face masks and sanitizers. The Fair /Exhibition Organizer would also ensure to identify and safely transfer the identified suspected COVID-19 patient to the isolation room till arrival of medical team or transferring to a COVID Hospital. Disinfection of premises shall be taken up if the person is found positive. 23. The Fair/Exhibition Organizer should ensure that the paramedic ambulances that are inside the venue for their event are manned by full-time doctor/healthcare staff/nurses with personal protective equipment like mask, visors, gloves etc. 24. The Fair/Exhibition Organizer shall set up and chair Core COVID-19 response team with involvement of senior officials of all service partners and venue. The organiser should Identify and convey emergency contact numbers to all the stakeholders on repeat basis till the exhibition dates.
C. Measures to be adhered to by Service Providers 1. Duly filled in Self health Declaration forms shall be collected from all Stand Fabricators 26
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Theassociation.News 2. Service providers shall park their vehicles at designated places till they get clearance from Venue Owner to enter.
11. Duly filled in Self health Declaration forms shall be collected from all Logistic Providers .
3. Vehicles shall be parked by maintaining social distancing.
12. Sanitise the logistics and warehouse facilities along with all equipment before use by the workers.
4. All service providers shall undergo thermal scanning at entrance of the exhibition venue by maintaining social distancing.
13. During Pickup and Transportation: • Exhibitor goods shall be sanitized before packaging. • Pick up and ensure contactless transportation of the exhibitor goods to the exhibition venue.
5. Cleaning and regular disinfection (using 1% sodium hypochlorite) of frequently touched surfaces (doorknobs, elevator buttons, hand rails, queue barricades, seats, benches, washroom fixtures, etc.) to be made mandatory in all public utility common areas.
14. During Re-transportation: • Sanitise the exhibitor goods before pick up from the venue. • Re-transport to the port of origin.
6. The bio-medical waste (mask, face covers, visors, PPEs etc.) generated may be disposed off in accordance with the hazardous waste disposal guidelines.
D. Measures to be followed by Exhibitors 1. Aarogya Setu Mobile App is recommended for all the persons manning the stall and is mandatory for the ones with a smart-phone.
7. While setting-up the Exhibition: • Arrange maximum pre-fabrication of the confirmed stand design at own premises.
2. All the stalls should have hand sanitizers. They should ensure that a sufficient gap (of two yards) is maintained at all time between the people manning the stall. All the personnel at the stall should use Face Mask, till COVID-19 is prevalent.
• Ensure necessary social distancing among workers, supervisory staff etc.
8. While Transporting the prefabricated materials to exhibition venue:
3. Every stall should have a covered dustbin. 4. To maintain social distancing the number of individuals that can be permitted in any given stall / booth at any particular time may be moderated such that the latest MHA / MoHFW guidelines on social distancing are complied-with.
• Sanitize the delivery vehicle and all materials before loading. • Driver and other personnel involved in transportation of material must ensure social distancing and wear all necessary PPE.
5. Exhibitors should encourage Digital Payment Options at Food & Beverage (F&B) outlet
E. Measures to be followed by Business Visitors / Delegates
• Ensure contact-less transportation of materials to the exhibition venue.
9. Complete stand build up maintaining social distancing at the site.
1. i. Aarogya Setu Mobile App is recommended for all business visitors/delegates and mandatory for the ones with a smart-phone.
10. While Dismantling:
2. Visitors should pre-register themselves.
• Sanitise the stall along with furniture, fixtures etc. before dismantling the stall.
3. The business visitors/delegates should not enter the venue ground if their temperature is not normal.
• Dismantle and deliver all material back to the warehouse using sanitised vehicle and mandatory use of masks and other required PPE by the driver and other personnel.
4. Visitors to be allowed entry only if using face cover/masks. The face cover/mask has to be worn by all, at all times, while in public places.
• Avoid any unnecessary stopover during transit. Theassociation.News
5. Frisking of persons entering the venue, if planned, shall be
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Theassociation.News undertaken after thermal screening. Personnel involved in frisking shall wear triple layer medical mask (in addition to gloves). Proper hand hygiene shall be maintained by such personnel every time they change their gloves. 6. The business visitors/delegates must ensure that they maintain a sufficient distance (of about two yards) from other persons at all the time. Proper physical distancing shall be maintained while exiting the premises too. 7. The number of visitors inside the event venue shall be restricted in accordance with the order issued by Ministry of Home Affairs from time to time.
1. Identify closed door conference areas for any conference sessions planned during the exhibition with seating and avoid any standing attendees. Preferably the conference sessions can be held in an Open air Conference Hall. 2. Speaker / panelist chairs to be placed ensuring safe distancing. 3. Ensure social distancing for attendees and sanitization of conference area after regular intervals. 4.
8. Seating arrangement in the exhibition halls, food courts, meetings, etc. to be made in such a way that adequate physical distancing of 6 feet is maintained 9. In case a person falls sick, he must report to the COVID help desk. 10. Visitors should adhere to all the guidelines prescribed by the Trade Exhibition Organizer
F. Additional SOPs for holding Conferences during Exhibitions
For holding B2B meetings during the event, a suitable facility ensuring sufficient space must be created to hold the meetings. The Meeting table must be separated by a distance of at least 6 feet. Not more than two people are allowed to sit at the table at a time for the B2B meeting. Face shield along with mask and hand gloves must be made mandatory for the B2B participants.
5. The National Directives for COVID-19 Management and the relevant guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, relevant State Governments etc. shall be strictly complied with during all activities.
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Message from Mr.Balvinder Singh Sawhney Asst Sec General, FICCI
Reopening of exhibition after a hiatus of 6 months is a welcome step taken by the government. Economy is witnessing green shoots and further opening up of B2b exhibitions will catalyse both commerce and investments in India and strengthen Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan,”. Positivity is at galore as the global community look forward to the resurgence of Indian Exhibition Industry. The morale of the stakeholders is boosted and we at FICCI thank the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of commerce for this fitting decision. Exhibition’s is the key to the revival of economy. Besides, playing an integral role in promoting trade, investments & networking, it has been at the forefront of various initiatives. Indian exhibition industry has been very conscious of its perception and has set a benchmark in all times. And while we have enough evidence that
the immediate future of trade shows is not in doubt, we also understand there will be changes that will occur as organizers, venues, general contra tors, and others plan towards implementing the SOP’s set by the Govt. The road to resurgence and re-building the trust of patrons will not be a cakewalk. We need to be astute and exude extreme caution in paving way for Trade Fairs 2.0, scope of laxity is minimal. Phygital or hybrid events can be an interim solution to garner international participation until the travel embargos are lifted. I am confident that the Indian Exhibition Industry is committed to deliver the highest quality of exhibitions with utmost professionalism, strict adherence to the SOP’s and safety of all, being the highest priority. With these humble and careful beginnings, Indian Exhibition industry is geared up to lead by example!
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CEIR Teams with Swapcard to Research Event Matchmaking Before and During Pandemic The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) has joined with Swapcard, a leading AI-powered engagement and matchmaking platform for premium events, to publish Matchmaking Before & During COVID-19: How North American B2B Exhibition Organizers Use Technology to Connect People and Products, which examines how exhibition organizers can effectively approach attendee matchmaking in the virtual and hybrid event formats that have become predominant in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendee matchmaking is more important than ever today. It was important prior to the pandemic to help assure attendees and exhibitors maximize their face-to-face (F2F) engagement at physical trade shows. Today, where most in-person events are paused and instead are happening virtually, meaningful F2F engagement is a major challenge. This study provides an understanding of attendee matchmaking pre-COVID, as well as what organizers were looking for at the outset of the COVID-19 outbreak. “This study offers very useful insights to use attendee matchmaking in a way that maximizes the outcomes for their participants, both exhibitors and attendees,” said CEIR Vice President of Research Nancy Drapeau, PRC. “Inevitably, this will only strengthen the value of exhibiting and thus enhance retention.” CEIR is a longstanding provider of objective research aiming to support the needs of stakeholders in the B2B exhibition industry. COVID-19 is forcing stakeholders to evolve and innovate at a rapid pace in the quest to survive this health crisis. This joint initiative with Swapcard aims to provide insights that help organizers evolve their events and provide offerings to keep pace with the fast-changing business environment. “CEIR’s foremost interest is helping stakeholders through this historic crisis,” said CEIR CEO Cathy Breden, CMP, CAE, CEM. “We are privileged that CEIR was chosen to do this research, in recognition of its reputation for providing reliable, objective insights that are representative of the industry.”
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IICC - New Landmark in Making - Indian Exhibition and Convention Space The IICC (India International Convention & Expo Centre) is smart city project being driven by Government of India. With a total area of 300,000m2, IICC is Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest convention and exhibition complex. IICC has five large exhibition halls, a multi-purpose convention centre, the largest auditorium in India capable of holding 10,000 people at one time, as well as multi-arena facilities for 6,000 people. With a total of 3,500 guest rooms within 1 km, as well as shopping, entertainment and office facilities, IICC is an ideal venue for exhibitors, exhibitors and buyers to enjoy the convenience and fun of visiting IICC, Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest complex of its kind.
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Global Recovery Insights 2020 report published - Latest data from global study shows no evidence of a major customer shift away from live events - A majority of exhibiting companies expects a fast return to pre-COVID levels of investment into the marketing channel
UFI and Explori are today publishing the first edition of the Global Recovery Insights 2020 report, which presents the findings of a global study conducted by live event research specialists, Explori, in partnership with UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, and supported by SISO, the Society for Independent Show Organizers. The study findings, based on more than 9,000 responses from across 30 countries, show that exhibition visitors and exhibitors overwhelmingly prefer live events, and that there is no evidence of a major shift away from face-to-face meetings. Although the intended frequency of participation has dropped for both groups, this is only marginally the case for exhibitors, indicating a clear desire amongst exhibiting companies to return to on-site show floors. The social aspect of events remains a critical draw for both groups, who rely on live events to create connections within their communities. Study participants, globally, believe that this aspect of events cannot be served effectively by digital events. There is a clear message from visitors that the quality of exhibitors is paramount, while exhibitors are now also valuing visitor quality, over quantity. There are signs that budgets will also be restored quickly, with 53% of exhibitors expecting their show investments to return to pre-COVID-19 levels within 12 months, while 28% report that their investments will return as soon as trade shows start running again. Whilst funds allocated to live events have been put on hold, overall marketing budgets
were yet to see severe cuts as of late summer. Both visitors and exhibitors will look at their previous experiences when deciding to return to a show. They will turn to show brands they trust to deliver both robust safety measures, and, perhaps more importantly, a high-quality audience. “This study delivers important insights and reassurance to organisers and the wider industry, as they plan ahead in these uncertain times. It underlines the clear preference and importance of being able to meet in-person to do business, and the desire for both visitors and exhibitors to again meet face-toface. It also underlines the negative impact all industries are experiencing as a result of industry events not going ahead,” said Kai Hattendorf, CEO and Managing Director at UFI. Sophie Holt, Managing Director at Explori, added: “On behalf of Explori, UFI and SISO, I would like to thank all of the organisers and partners who participated in the study, making it the largest and, possibly, most-timely we have ever undertaken. I hope it is of value in shaping thinking over the coming months and in supporting those who advocate for the industry. The results are extremely encouraging, and I look forward to sharing more insights over the coming months as the research progresses.”
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Co-located Paperworld India, Corporate Gifts Show and Interior Lifestyle India presented by Ambiente India slated in March 2021 Set to be held after a hiatus of one year due to the course taken by the pandemic that caused business and travel disruptions globally, the co-located fairs are now set to bring the industry back for business on the most awaited platform to connect with suppliers of the consumer goods segment. While 2020 has undoubtedly been a challenging year bringing economic activity to a near standstill, there is a clear indication of optimis amongst India Inc. with signs of economic revival despite near-term challenges. Therefore, re-starting the business year under the new normal, the 2021 edition of co-located fairs will undoubtedly be marked in trade calendars as three days of face-to-face business networking – to meet buyers and suppliers in-person, sign deals and source solutions for the ‘new normal’ demand. Moreover, bringing school, office, home décor, houseware and corporate gifting suppliers together, the synergic advantage of the co-located fairs Paperworld India, Corporate Gifts Show and Interior Lifestyle India presented by Ambiente India will present a single-sourcing business platform to re-start trade discussions and return confidence in the market. Initially slated in January 2021 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai, the co-located fairs are now set to take place from 11 – 13 March 2021 at the same venue. Scheduled in the first quarter of the year, the new dates bring in ease of planning, preparation and participation for all stakeholders. Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Pvt Ltd: “The decision of the strategic re-organisation of the consumer goods shows in India was to create synergy and mutual collaboration – the need for which is being felt now more than ever. The industry is geared up to take on 2021 and this will be the convergence point for the sector.” “The Indian consumer goods industry has been reeling under the negative impact since the onset of the pandemic, and for us it was even more important to bring the industry together on a much-awaited Paperworld India, Corporate Gifts Show and Interior Lifestyle India Bombay Exhibition Center 11 – 13 March 2021 ordering platform. We are looking forward to welcoming the entire industry for a safe, successful and highly productive show in 2021.” added Mr Minesh Modi, Director, Netlink Solutions (India) Ltd. Theassociation.News
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