Dec 2021

Media Partner From India

Dec 2021 Vol 10 Issue 05 Voice of Asia’s Exhibition & Convention Industry

IEIA Open Seminar Special Edition

Dear Readers, When Bill Gates was starting Microsoft, he had a vision that personal computers would one day play a signicant role in people's lives. But I don't think that even he would have foreseen a future where they would be our only connection to the world (like it was for some time in 2021). Like many people, there were entire days this year when the only human interaction we had was through a screen.

&

PSU BUZZ

In 2021, the pandemic has dominated our lives since day one. We've all had to adapt to a “new normal”. Most of us have lost someone known due to this pandemic. At the same time, this year was a reminder that our world is more connected than ever. 2021 was full of monumental events with global repercussions, including extreme weather events, the ongoing effects of the pandemic, and America's withdrawal from Afghanistan among others. Every time you looked at the news, you were reminded of just how signicantly something happening on the other side of the world could affect you at home. You can understand this by looking at how one container ship stuck in the Suez Canal for a week caused shipping delays around the world. It's never been clearer that tackling big problems requires people working together across borders and sectors. It is here that our industry plays such an important role because it brings people together & helps to nd solutions for issues across spectrums. On the other hand, the year 2021 also helped us learn that there is no substitute of physical events. Virtual is just an enabler, a friend to the world of physical events.

While the discovery of Omicron variant is a threat & it's troubling every time a new variant of concern emerges, but I'm still hopeful that, at some point in 2022, COVID-19 will become an endemic disease in most places.

I now head to the IEIA Open Seminar in Bengaluru to meet industry friends and colleagues. As IEIA Media Partner, we will keep you updated about the proceedings shaping up on-site. Our December issue is punctuated with stories of physical exhibitions happening around the world, along with exclusive interviews, insights and current trends in the industry.

Throughout 2021, Exhibition Showcase has been on the forefront at projecting the industry to a wider audience through our various outreach platforms like print, web, newsletters, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp and YouTube. I hope that you will appreciate our continued efforts and do share your feedback with me at raghav@exhibitionshowcase.com I wish you all a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2022.

Happy reading!

In this issue: 21-23

28-29

35-37

24-25

In Conversation With Nicole Walker, Managing Director At Arinex Pty Ltd

26

LATEST UPDATES ABOUT KINTEX

Pg. 27

Message From IEIA President

38-51

This Year That Month

Pg. 28-29 IEIA Programme Agenda

Pg. 30-34 Message From Industry

Pg. 35-37 Featured Pg. 12-13

World Map

Pg. 38-51 This Year That Month Pg. 14-15

Industry In Pictures From The World Of Social Media

Pg. 52-53 Insights Pg. 16

Quick Bytes

16

ICC Wales Hosts Largest Exhibition To Date

Pg. 17-19

News Buzz

17

Asia Coat + Ink Show 2022 To Be Held In Mumbai In November 2022

18

Sanjiv Mehta Is President-Elect, FICCI (2021-22)

19

Celebrating 50 Years of New Delhi World Book Fair!

Pg. 21-26 Interviews 21-23

In conversation With Michael Firman, General Manager Exhibitions, Melbourne at Harry the Hirer

16

UFI’s 5 Trends To Watch In 2022

Pg. 54

Sustainability

Pg. 55

Partnership

Pg. 56

People

Pg. 59-67 Global News 59

ICC Sydney Celebrates 5 Years Of Operation

61

UNWTO Calls Against Blanket Travel Restrictions

U.S.A

Spain

Africa

The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) reports that the U.S. business-to-business (B2B) exhibitions industry improved signicantly in the third quarter of 2021 from the previous ve quarters. Cancellation rates of the physical events dropped to 19.0% from 90.4% in the rst quarter and 66.5% in the second quarter of 2021. About 98% of exhibitions were cancelled during the second half of 2020. “With more vaccine mandates and safety measures implemented at large gatherings, and with a majority of the population vaccinated, the recovery of B2B exhibitions should continue in 2022, unless the omicron variant causes a severe fth wave of COVID-19 infections,” added CEIR CEO Cathy Breden, CMP, CAE, CEM.

This year’s Piscina & Wellness Barcelona constituted an inperson reunion for the Spanish sector despite the pandemic and c o n t r i b u t e d t o ge n e ra t i n g purchase orders and raising a wa r e n e s s o f t h e l a t e s t developments throughout the pool and spa product value chain, with the participation of 208 exhibitors from 23 countries and more than 350 brands on display.

One of the event’s focal points was the Wellness Experience, the recreation of a wellness centre with a heated swimming pool, saunas, showers, a tness area and treatment booths.

Demonstrations of aquatic therapies and other treatments related to health, relaxation and well-being were held there.

On the sidelines of the IATF2021 Trade and Investment Conference, the Kwazulu-Natal Government and the African Export -Import Bank (Afreximbank) co-hosted a conference of African SubSovereign Governments on 18 November 2021 under the theme: “A f r i c a n S u b - S o v e r e i g n Governments Network as a Vehicle for Promoting Intra-African Trade and Investment” in Durban, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa. The Conference noted that promoting intra-African trade would enable Africa to reduce over-reliance on export of primary commodities and the risks of reliance on global value chains. It would also help increase economic integration and build the resilience of African economies against the vagaries of a global economy subject to uctuations.

12 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Malaysia The Engineering and Air-conditioning, Refrigeration and Ventilation (ACMV & R) industries in Malaysia will come together for four days from March 16 – 19, 2022, in a showcase of the latest in the industry’s solutions, products and technology. Malaysia Engineering Exhibition and Conference 2022 (ENGINEER) and its concurrent exhibition, the rst AirConditioning, Refrigeration and Ventilation Expo 2022 (MARVEX), are expected to draw industry trade visitors with the opportunity to participate in four days of exhibitions, ve symposiums, forums, trade and product talks and business matching sessions.

Korea

Australia

The Korea International Design Exhibition (KOSIGN) celebrated its 29th anniversary this year. Organized by Coex and Korea Outdoor Advertising Association, KOSIGN has been the leading outdoor advertising exhibition in Korea showcasing the industry’s latest trends and equipment. The exhibition features digital printers, media & ink, postprocessing equipment and LED, textile machinery, 3D printing machines, and more. The exhibition took place from November 4 to 6 at the same time as the Sourcing Fair, which was also the rst week that Korea started its 1st phase of the new ‘Living with COVID-19’ strategy.

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has supported OzHarvest’s food relief efforts to get thousands of nourishing meals to Victorians in need.

MCEC's award winning chefs have prepared nutritious cooked meals for OzHarvest to help address the need for food relief. MCEC is also providing a home for OzHarvest Melbourne to host their agship corporate engagement program, Cooking for a Cause. In this program, OzHarvest’s chefs teach teams zero-waste cooking skills, while transforming rescued ingredients into gourmet meals which go out to support vulnerable families.

13 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Industry In Pictures From

Korea MICE Xperience Hybrid Roadshow in New Delhi for our travel industry partners. The day was full of experiences including presenta on, a LIVE virtual tour, virtual B2B mee ngs, Hanbok wearing experience, MICE quiz and a special Dalgona Challenge inspired by the famous South Korean Ne lix TV series Squid Game. #KoreaMICExperience #KoreaMICEfromIndia #VisitKorea #KtoIndia

A re plays a huge role in any visual presenta on.

This year, at the AFECA Asia MICE Youth Challenge, all the teams wore various ou its that best suited the theme of their presenta on. But one team stood out amongst the rest. The award for Best Theme A re went to Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST), Macau for their concept 'Asia Healthcare Coopera on Forum 2022'.

The U ar Pradesh state floor was inaugurated at the #indiapavilion of #expo2020dubai amongst much fanfare. Mr Maneesh Chauhan, Director Industries; Mr Muthukumarasamy, Special Secretary, Industries, Govt of UP; and Mr K Kalimuthu, Consul (Economic, Trade & Commerce) graced the Pavilion with their presence.

Glimpses from ‘Pitch with Panache: The warm-up session for start-ups,’ by Mr. Ramesh Mahalingam, MD, Ideal Management Consultants, Dubai.

PackPlus Exhibi on was inaugurated at Praga Maidan, New Delhi, along with industry dignitaries.

It’s is one of the India’s biggest events for packaging, conver ng and supply chain.

Very proud of this partnerships for Heya Arabian Fashion Show 18th edi on. @Ahmed Alobaidli Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibi on provides a collabora ve environment where up-and-coming local and interna onal designers, female entrepreneurs, and fashion enthusiasts can come together to showcase, inspire and mo vate everyone in the industry and beyond.

FIEO Par cipated in Super Sourcing 2021 Dubai from 12-14 December, 2021 with 30 Indian Companies. The Indian companies represented mul ple sectors like Tex les, Apparels, FMCG and allied sectors. Over 425 B2B mee ngs with 135 buyers were concluded during the expo.

Hand Tools & Fastner Expo together with its colocated exhibi ons for Metalworking, Metal Forming, Manufacturing & Fabrica on Industries started on 16 December at BEC, Nesco. The business carnival has 200+ leading brands from five Countries and expected presence of 10,000 + high quality Trade Visitors.

Held a mee ng with the stakeholders of Northern India Tex le Mills Associa on and Wool & Woollens Export Promo on Council. Govt. is commi ed to boos ng domes c tex les manufacturing & exports by providing all possible support to our tex les industry.

14 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

The World Of Social Media

It was a pleasure having MIC host their 75th General Assembly at MITEC with the Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob presen ng a special address to an audience of over 1,500 MIC members. #MITEC

With the presence of 300 par cipants and over 10000 preregistered visitors from the Electronics Manufacturing‘, Smart technologies, LASER and op cal technologies fraternity, electronica India along with its co located shows opened on 16 December at BIEC. Shri Saurabh Gaur, Hon’ble Joint Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Informa on Technology (MeitY), Govt. of India graced the occasion as its Chief Guest.

The 16th Singapore Interna onal Jewelry Expo (SIJE) 2021, the third and final series of hybrid events organised by our company in quick succession, was launched at the Marina Bay Sands Expo Centre by the Minister of State for Trade and Industry, Ms Low Yen Ling to great fanfare. @Edward Liu, PBM

We are glad to announce that Mr. P.J. Mohanram, Senior Advisor, IMTMA, was awarded the pres gious Life me Achievement Award in 2021

by AIMTDR (All India Manufacturing Technology, Design and Research) for his contribu on to industry-academia collabora on. @IMTMA

We serve our world to nurture rela onships and develop opportuni es. It was so wonderful to win the pres gious Organiser of the Century award at the AEO Associa on of Event Organisers Centenary Party at The NEC, Birmingham Vox Conference Venue. A huge thank you to all that make up the Montgomery Group, past and present. Here's to the next 100 years!

The #IndiaPavilion was honoured to receive Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Union MoS for Electronics and Informa on Technology, and Skill Development, Govt of India.

Congratula ons to Interna onal Conven on Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), who commemorate five years of opera on in December, having contributed to AUD$2.53bn of visitor expenditure and a host of community benefits by consistently delivering successful events.

Had the privilege of addressing the travel trade community at Srinagar on des na on marke ng and building brand premium on the occassion of world mountain day -11 Dec.

Qatar Tourism hosted Mega Fam trip in Doha in L'agenziadi Viaggi

15 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Quick Bytes

December 2021 ICC Wales Hosts Largest Exhibition To Date

IAEE MENA Forum Brings Industry Professionals Together In UAE The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announces it will hold the IAEE MENA Forum on 13-16 March 2022 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The IAEE MENA Forum will offer exhibition and event professionals education sessions including women's leadership and young professional programming, and Arabic Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) Learning Program classes. The forum will feature two days of networking via diverse activities and workshops highlighting important industry topics. Industry professionals will explore the latest trends in exhibitions and events through education sessions focusing on leadership, strategy, design, marketing, management and technology. “This is an important region for the industry and we look forward to hosting the IAEE MENA Forum next year, which will bring buyers and sellers together for a very meaningful event,” noted IAEE MENA Chapter Chairperson Bilal Al-Barmawi, CEM, CEO and Managing Director of 1st Arabia.

The International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales) has hosted its largest exhibition to date, as part of the UK's ISBA 2021 Annual Conference (Independent Schools’ Bursars Association). The ISBA Annual Conference took place 23-24 November and brought over 1,000 attendees to the convention centre, with more than 170 exhibition stands and 400 delegates. ISBA’s services are designed to assist school finance managers in the successful administrative, financial and operational management of their schools. The association's annual conference and exhibition aims to provide them with an opportunity meet suppliers and service providers, as well as share ideas and attend thought leadership sessions. David Woodgate, chief executive, Independent Schools’ Bursars Association, said: “As a new venue, ICC Wales has clearly been very well planned in terms of the flow of the rooms.

AmEx Global Business Travel To Go Public Via $5.3 bln Apollo SPAC Deal American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) is to merge with a blank-check firm backed by Apollo Global Management Inc (APO.N) to go public in a deal valued at around $5.3 billion. The merger with Apollo Strategic Growth Capital (APSG.N) will deliver gross proceeds of up to $1.2 billion, including a $335 million private investment in public equity, or PIPE. Investors in the PIPE included investment manager Ares Management Corp, travel technology company Sabre Corp (SABR.O) and Zoom Video Communications Inc (ZM.O).

The deal comes at a time when business travel is recovering from a pandemicinduced slump, in a boost for companies like AmEx GBT that help plan corporate trips. AmEx GBT has over the past year strengthened its business by acquiring several companies, including Ovation Travel Group, Expedia Group’s corporate travel arm Egencia and 30SecondsToFly, a travel tech startup that uses artificial intelligence.

75 Top Destinations In India To Be Developed On International Standards Union Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North Eastern Region of India, G. Kishan Reddy has stated that the major portion of the Ministry’s expenditure goes into the development of quality infrastructure relating to tourism at various tourist destinations and circuits spread around the States/UTs. He also mentioned that to commemorate 75 years of India’s Independence, top 75 destinations in the country are to be developed on international standards. “All departments have given their comments on the same. The work will begin in full swing to develop the 75 destinations on international standards, once the Cabinet approves it”. Reddy insisted that getting completely vaccinated with two doses of vaccines is very crucial for the steady growth of tourism sector. “Those who are getting vaccination should get completely vaccinated with two doses of Covid19 vaccine. This will help to revive the tourism sector at a much greater speed. States/UTs are requested to ensure maximum Vaccination of beneficiaries in cities as well as villages,” he stated. The Minister assured that there will not be any issue in vaccination as the Centre is well prepared to supply adequate vaccines to the State Governments as per their requirements. The Minister stated that the Central Government is working together with the State Governments to ensure implementation of COVID-19 protocols.

16 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

News Buzz

December 2021

Asia Coat + Ink Show 2022 To Be Held In Mumbai In November 2022 ll India Printing Ink Manufacturers’ Association (AIPIMA) will host their Asia Coat + Ink Show 2022 on November 18-20, 2022 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. According to the organizers, about 70% of the stalls have already been booked for the Asia Coat + Ink Show 2022, the Asia’s biggest Coatings and Ink Show, by its past Exhibitors soon after the launch of the Event on 24th September 2021.

Association (AIPIMA), the Apex Body of the Printing Ink Manufacturers in India, was established in 1953 by the then market leaders of the Printing Ink Manufacturing Industry.

A

In its communiqué, AIPIMA has said that the Association will assist in securing the financial assistance from the Govt. under the marketing

17 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

assistance scheme if any MSME, enterprise looking for such assistance.

The organizers have approached the NESCO for allotment of additional space required, considering the overwhelming response from the coatings, machinery manufacturers, raw material suppliers, electricals, fire and safety equipment suppliers, filtration machinery suppliers and start up entrepreneurs from different segments.

All India Printing Ink Manufacturers

The association has been holding on biannual basis international conferences on various contemporary and relevant themes as well as Exhibitions showcasing the product offerings from National and International vendors of related Raw material and other materials. Apart from these events AIPIMA regularly conduct seminars in different regions on relevant subjects related to Printing Inks.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

News Buzz

December 2021

Sanjiv Mehta Is President-Elect, FICCI (2021-22) Board of Indian School of Business, member of the Breach Candy Hospital Trust and the South Asia Advisory Board of Harvard Business School. He chairs Xynteo’s ‘Vikaasa’, a coalition of top Indian and MNC companies.

r Sanjiv Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) will be appointed as the President of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) at the conclusion of FICCI’s 94th Annual General Meeting on 18th December 2021.

M

Mr Mehta, currently, the Senior Vice President of FICCI, will be succeeding Mr Uday Shankar, the current President of FICCI. Mr Mehta is also the President of Unilever South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & Nepal), and is a member of the ‘Unilever Leadership Executive’ which is Unilever’s Global Executive Board.

During his eight years at the helm, HUL’s market capitalisation has increased by over $55 billion making it one of the most valuable companies in the country. In this period, HUL has won several awards and recognitions

including the prestigious Economic Times ‘Company of the Year’ & ‘Corporate Citizen of the Year’ awards, Business Standard’s ‘Company of the year’ award and the ‘Best Governed Company’ award by the Asian Centre for Corporate Governance and Sustainability.

Forbes rated HUL as the most innovative company in India and the 8th most innovative company in the world.

Aon Hewitt in a global study rated HUL as the 3rd best company globally for building leaders. Mr Mehta, alongside leading HUL, is also a Director on the

Mr Mehta was conferred honorary ‘Doctorate degree in Business Management’ by Xavier University, Bhubaneswar. He has also been recognised as the ‘Business Leader’ of the year by the All India Management Association, the ‘Best CEO Multinational’ by Forbes India Leadership Awards, the ‘Management Man of the Year’ by Bombay Management Association, the ‘CA Business Leader’ by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, the ‘Best Transformational Leader’ by the Asian Centre for Corporate Governance & Sustainability and ‘Business Leader of the Year’ by Economic Times.

VI

S1

23

For organizers who think every experience of visitors is important at their exhibition.

Glove care for your visitors at the registration desk.

Unit No. 107, Niraj Industrial Estate, Off Mahakali Caves Rd, Behind Paper Box, Opp Sun Pharma, Andheri East, Mumbai - 400 093, Maharashtra, India. mrunal.s@interfacedataanddesign.com | muksrao@gmail.com | interfacedataanddesign.com +91 9987461294 | +91 9820914240 | +91 9322368928 | +91 9321168928

18 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

News Buzz

December 2021

Celebrating 50 Years of New Delhi World Book Fair! for Child Authors, who will be provided a platform to discuss their books, their inspiration to write, etc. Activities promoting children’s literature and reading habit such as skits, dramas, street plays, musical presentations, storytelling sessions, workshops, panel discussions etc. will be organized in a specially designed Children’s Pavilion.

he annual New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF) is opening its doors for its 50th Anniversary edition, scheduled to be held from 8 to 16 January 2022 in the new International Exhibition Centre at Pragati Maidan, in the heart of New Delhi. A major calendar event in the publishing world and eagerly awaited by book lovers, NDWBF 2022 will be back in its in-person format spread across 26000 sq. mt. as the NDWBF 2021 was a virtual event with 2.8 million hits with visitors from across the world.

T

is being designed by National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad – the Design Partner of NDWBF. France is the Guest of Honor country at NDWBF 2022 (as a follow-up of the PM-President Joint Statement signed in March 2018) and book lovers will get a unique opportunity to enjoy French literature and culture at the Foreign Pavilion along with a variety of literary activities at the International Events Corner.’

NDWBF is also a focal point of business opportunities for publishers.

Conferences are organized at the Fair for the benefit of both the exhibitors and general readers. International Events Corner, CEOSpeak (a forum for publishing) and New Delhi Rights Table are some of the B2B events that will be organized to share and exchange ideas about Indian and International book trade.

There will be photo exhibitions, cultural evenings and other interactive features as well.

The crowd favorite Authors’ Corners will be returning this year with dialogues, panel discussions, book launches for the domestic publishers, authors and book lovers along with Lekhak Manch and Sahitya Manch.

Debuting this year is the Yuva Corner The annual Fair, organized by National Book Trust, India (under the Ministry of Education, Government of India) attracts participation from all major publishing houses across the globe and opens up a gateway to the publishing and intellectual world.

The theme of NDWBF 2022 is Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, commemorating the 75 years of Indian Independence and the glorious history of its people, culture and achievements. Patrons of NDWBF will be able to participate in a host of literary and cultural activities around the theme during the fair days.

The aesthetically built Theme Pavilion

19 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

December 2021

In 1990s The Corporate Event Market Started Booming And Harry The Hirer Became The One-stop-shop For All Major Events In conversation with Michael Firman, General Manager Exhibitions, Melbourne at Harry the Hirer Clients are vital for business to succeed and client relationships help strengthen and sustain a business. But ultimately, success is shared, organisers and suppliers rely on each other to grow. I’d like to think that our clients’ success can be linked directly to the service our company provides because without our expertise in delivering events, then an event would only remain an idea.

ES. We would like to hear about the incredible journey and many of the key factors that have contributed to building the Harry the Hirer reputation in the industry.

Michael Firman. The Harry the hirer story began in the 1970s when the company’s owner and founder, Rick Jamieson, bought some camping tents which became the first backyard party marquees. They were made of canvas and army green in colour. During the 1980s, the party market helped the business evolve from a start-up to a small business in a decade of extravagant private parties and home entertaining. By the 1990s the corporate event market started booming and Harry the hirer became the one-stop-shop for all major events.

Today, Harry the hirer is the largest supplier for public & business events and a leading supplier in exhibitions, rigging, audio-visual and creative services. Our business prides itself on World Best product, customer service and client relationships. The mantra at Harry the hirer is Our People, Our Relationships & Our Product. Harry the hirer is also very unique – It is the only supplier that provides a complete in house solution, this gives our customers a genuine turnkey solution in event supply.

ES. Tell us more about your company and how it provides a one-stop solution for clients of all sizes?

Michael Firman. As a full service event supplier, we have invested in all elements of event supply and delivery to minimise the need for clients to deal with multiple suppliers.

21 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Clients benefit from this unique business model as it provides them with a single point of contact. As a complete in house solution, this gives our customers the confidence of dealing with one company who assumes responsibility for managing all the logistical requirements associated with event delivery.

Working across all these facets of project delivery means our

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

December 2021

clients have greater control, more flexibility and save both time and money because we provide a genuine turnkey solution. Our products and services include marquees, wall panel systems, furniture, flooring, signage, rigging, staging, custom build, linen, kitchen & catering equipment, fencing, audio visual, LED walls, video production, power & lighting, broadcast studios, creative services, event styling & design and storage.

ES. What is your greatest career accomplishment? Could you provide the readers about your early life and career? Please tell us about your role at MEA. Michael Firman. It’s hard to pinpoint my greatest career accomplishment. When you have a career in events, there are so many highs because all the hard work, the planning and preparation leads to a crescendo in the execution of an event and there have been so many memorable moments to savour.

Being in events, any event could be your last, and you’re only as good as your last event, so it’s important to always recognise these moments.

My career began working in holiday resorts as a sound engineer doing theatre shows. At the time it was more of a lifestyle, I had no idea where it would lead me but on reflection it helped develop many skills suited to a life in events. Being able to contribute to the creative ideas for an event, to develop those ideas with a team of diverse personalities and backgrounds, fine-tuning the details to final execution, then seeing the joy and wonder of the audience as they watch and experience all that hard work come together,

22 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

it’s an addiction to deliver the next great event. My role at MEA I see as giving back to the industry. I’ve been involved with MEA since 2010, working as a volunteer on local committees to help organise events for the Association that bring the MEA community together. I’ve been on the Board for 3 years as Treasurer before being elevated to Chair. I see it as an opportunity to teach others the things that I have learned over my career, to tell stories that may inspire the next generation of event planners.

ES. Our observation shows that although growth is correlated with value creation, success can only come from clients’ success. How do you view this?

Michael Firman. Clients are vital for business to succeed and client relationships help strengthen and sustain a business.

But ultimately, success is shared, organisers and suppliers rely on each other to grow. I’d like to think that our clients’ success can be linked directly to the service our company provides because without our expertise in delivering events, then an event would only remain an idea.

ES. New tools have also played an increasingly important role during the COVID-19 pandemic. What technological changes has your organization made?

Michael Firman. Very early in the pandemic, our business developed an innovative range of products & services to help organisations get through these difficult times. This included temperature scanning points, social distancing technology, the creation of broadcast studios in Melbourne & Sydney, pop-up

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

December 2021

temporary structures for medical facilities, triage and ambulance bays through to drive-through testing stations. We saw technology as the obvious solution to working towards crowds again and initially created a social distancing technology called Smart Badge as an event focused product.

It quickly transitioned to be suitable, adaptable and used by a wide variety of industries, and now has evolved to a holistic health & safety solution that will be around well past the Coronavirus.

Harry the hirer’s internal IT and innovation team developed the wearable device that uses Bluetooth technology along with the beacon software to manage the data and functionality. The technology provides automated and instant contact tracing, social distancing alerts for wearers and real-time capacity management to ensure businesses and event organisers stay within set regulations. With the ability to be tailored to a variety of different industries and existing infrastructure, this simple and cost-effective solution has helped major business stay safe and operating during the pandemic.

ES. How do you think about balancing the needs of different stakeholders? So how do you handle your clients while balancing profitability, investment, and growth?

behaviors as their companies transition from one S-curve to another?

Michael Firman. The greatest issue facing our industry that will restrict its ability to rebound quickly is the shortfall of skills and expertise. The events industry has effectively been closed over the past 2 years as a result of the pandemic, and many skilled workers have left the events industry and are using their transferrable skills in other industries. Being able to shift the s-curve and have that translate to success in a post pandemic world will be reliant on attracting top talent or attracting the right people who can be developed quickly into our future leaders. There are many aspects of a business that allows it to attract the best people – culture, diversity, leadership, flexible conditions and salary to name a few. Finding the balance to attract the right workforce where there is competition for talent is top of mind for companies that wish to rebound rapidly post pandemic.

ES. We want to switch topics a little bit and talk about your hobbies. What do you love to do when you are away from work?

Michael Firman. The key to a healthy life is being able to switch off at home. I enjoy time with my family; I enjoy making improvements around the home to make it an enjoyable environment. I enjoy playing golf, it teaches me that remaining calm and patient leads to achieving balance and focus. I also enjoy the beach in summer; swimming, fishing, sailing, or just lazing around.

Michael Firman. Firstly I believe you must stand by your disciplines. We are all in business to generate profit – profit with no debt gives an organisation the ability to invest, invest in its people, its products and services, and in technology. Having open and transparent conversations with all stakeholders is imperative to achieving this ES. We are getting ready to say goodbye to goal. It’s equally important to only take on 2021, as we realize we are not just saying what you can deliver. Profit cannot be MEA Awards goodbye to another year, we are saying achieved at the expense of delivery and goodbye to every day that was impacted by service and you can’t achieve investment the Covid-19 effect, what are we learning from this and growth without generating a profit. There’s the balance. experience?

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that there are many pathways to a single destination, different ways of achieving Michael Firman. Perhaps we have learned to prepare for the the same outcome. Only with open conversations with all next world defining moment. We certainly learned that we stakeholders can we find a balance to achieve the best cannot live without human connection. We learned to reflect outcomes. on the past and enjoy the moments that define us. And maybe, we learned to slow down and not take anything for ES. Can you share your insight into leaders' mindsets and granted.

23 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

December 2021

“The pandemic was the catalyst in the surge of Event Technology.

Arinex was well prepared for these changes having strong development of event technology products for over 10 years, however they became increasingly valuable in the last two years and provided Arinex the immediate ability to run virtual and hybrid events for our clients.”

In Conversation With Nicole Walker, Managing Director At Arinex Pty Ltd ES. Can you tell us a bit more about Arinex? What are some of the key services offered by Arinex that sets it apart from others?

Nicole Walker. Arinex is an events management company based in Australia and New Zealand, with a strong history of nearly 50 years. With a focus on careful event planning and astute financial management, we offer a full range of services including virtual event management with an in house DCO (Digital Conference Organising) Team, in-person conference management, social programs, corporate events, incentive and destination management, registration, accommodation, marketing and sponsorship & exhibitions. We have a particular focus on sustainability and are working towards becoming Australia’s first carbon-neutral certified Professional Conference Organisation (PCO).

ES. Give a brief overview of your background and your role in the company. What were the past experiences, achievement or lessons that shaped your journey as a successful leader in this industry?

Nicole Walker. I am the Managing Director of Arinex and took over ownership of the Company from industry stalwart Roslyn McLeod OAM in mid-2021. I was also recently made President of the industry group Exhibition & Event Association of Australasia (EEAA). I started my events career at a Sydney venue before joining Arinex in 2014 – this gave me an appreciation from two very different perspectives early on in my career. I then progressed through Arinex’

24 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Conference Organising team, working on some interesting and major events such as the Institute of Internal Auditors Global Conference 2017 for 2,000 attendees and The International Conference on Liquid Natural Gas LNG 18 in 2016 for 8,000 participants. These experiences helped build my organisational skills and grew my understanding of the intricacies of event management and the need for attention to detail in all facets of event delivery. I have also found that active participation with organisations such as IAPCO, INCON and EEAA is very important, both to connect with global events professionals and to share knowledge.

ES. Has the role of technology become more prominent in the post-pandemic world? If yes, why do you think so?

Nicole Walker. Yes it certainly has. The pandemic was the catalyst in the surge of Event Technology. Arinex was well prepared for these changes having strong development of event technology products for over 10 years, however they became increasingly valuable in the last two years and provided Arinex the immediate ability to run virtual and hybrid events for our clients. The biggest change was the adoption by industry, associations and the world in this technology and the understanding that this will be a complimentary element of business events moving forward.

ES. How do you personally perceive the cancellation of trade shows? How has your company adapted to the new normal?

Nicole Walker. It has been disappointing to see the cancellation of trade shows, but completely

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

December 2021 advice, guidance and 24/7 support to clients who may be hesitant or lack the knowledge about moving online.

ES. What should organisers look for when appointing a PCO? What are the biggest challenges for organising a quality conference that a good PCO can assist with?

understandable given the evolving circumstances in the postpandemic world. However I feel we have now reached a point where we can plan with confidence and everyone is more equipped to accept new processes, procedures and safety measures in order to limit further cancellations. Bringing people together is in our DNA and we need to focus on ways to facilitate this in a safe way to ensure business can return.

ES. How do you see the industry developing over the next five years when it comes to hybrid events?

Nicole Walker. I believe hybrid events will only become more prevalent – they allow event hosts to plan for an inperson event with the security of a virtual element, should circumstances change. Additionally, hybrid events extend the audience reach for an event and have been known to increase attendance numbers, the quality of keynote speakers and the critical element of inclusivity and diversity.

ES. The event industry and its many sectors are still in a difficult situation. Can you give our readers your perspective on the event sector in the global market?

Nicole Walker. There is still some way to go before we completely recover from the pandemic and the business world becomes not only free to travel globally, but do so with the assurance and support by the company, association or employer. A sense of confidence is filtering throughout the sector and we will see things really pick up in the back end of 2022 and beyond. There is a long lead time with international events, so it may be 2-3 years before we return to our prepandemic levels but I am confident we will get there.

Nicole Walker. Experience, reputation, risk and safety management expertise and an alignment of values are incredibly important when selecting a PCO. A PCO must work to build a relationship with the client and listen to their objectives instead of immediately turning to the event project plan. Having a PCO partner with similar values is also a huge advantage, as that is carried throughout your event – often in ways that are not obvious!

ES. What edge does your company hold over other players in the industry?

Nicole Walker. We are close to becoming Australia’s first carbon-neutral certified PCO. We see the genuine need for sustainable event management and we have the will and the ideas to make this a reality for our clients. Our long history as an award winning company is another important differentiator, providing us the expertise to design event solutions that accelerate events for our clients into the future.

ES. Any message that you would like to share with us.

Nicole Walker. The past two years have brought the global industry closer together and the collaboration across borders has been a wonder to watch. I hope to see these collaborations continue for the betterment of our industry.

ES. If you could bring any change into force what would it be and why?

Nicole Walker. Global accreditation of PCOs is an important focus and we are proud to be accredited through IAPCO. Knowing you are in a safe pair of hands when partnering to deliver events is so important and will ensure our industry reputation is protected from new emerging entities who don’t have the decades of experience behind them.

ES. How have you adapted to the new reality of the meetings industry, which is much more digital and hybrid? How has your company played the role in fulfilling the requirements of the industry?

Nicole Walker. We were fortunate to be able to adapt quickly to virtual event management given our existing in-house technology expertise and partnership with eTechSuite. We established a Digital Conference Organising (DCO) team as a direct response who manage all virtual events and provide

25 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

December 2021

Interview

Ted Kim (Head, Operation / KINEXIN Convention Management Private Limited)

LATEST UPDATES ABOUT KINTEX ES. Do you have any latest news about KINTEX(mother company of KINEXIN) for Indian organizers?

Ted Kim. Recently, there has been a great progress on the 3rd Phase Development. The preliminary design of ‘KINTEX the Grand’ has been officially confirmed.

KINTEX, which is already the largest exhibition center in Korea, will be expanded to 180,000㎡ after the completion of the 3rd phase development, thanks to $500 million budget from the governments. Thus, KINTEX will be not only limited to Korea, but one of the world’s most valuable exhibition & convention center.

In recent years in East-Asia, several mega-size exhibition centers opened in China, which assured many global PEOs to enter Chinese market. However, due to recent US-China trade disputes and China’s conservative overseas investment strategies, the number of business firms exiting China is growing, which naturally leads to increasing global interests in other Asian MICE markets including India and Korea.

Although the names cannot be revealed because of NDA, a few global PEOs, not only the ones already existing in Korean market, are approaching KINTEX for various types of business cooperation.

In light of such atmosphere, KINTEX and KINEXIN as the operators of representative exhibition centers in Korea and India respectively, will be able to lead mutual cooperation and business exchanges of event organizers between two countries. In fact, the president of KEOA(Korea Exhibition Organizers Association) has already expressed his intent to actively cooperate with organizers from India. Looking ahead of 3rd Phase Development of KINTEX, I sincerely hope that the organizers in both Korea and India actively advance into each other’s market and gain substantial fruits through such mutual exchanges.

Jay Yoon (Head, Marketing / KINEXIN Convention Management Private Limited) 26 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

ES. Can you tell us a bit more about IICC and the main key facilities offered to guests? What makes it unique Multipurpose Convention & Exhibition Center?

Jay Yoon. What I can state with much confidence is that IICC is one and only convention and exhibition facility where authentic international MICE standards have been reflected in all works ranging from construction to operation. For a simple instance, IICC will possess nation’s largest convention facilities such as auditorium and grand ballroom each of which exceeds 5,000 square meter and 3,000 square meter in dimension respectively. In addition, Auditorium is equipped with brand new Gala System that has never been introduced to any other convention & exhibition facilities in whole India.

This multipurpose space can be metamorphosed into various types that suit user’s requirements instantly. Users can make this space completely flat with a small No. of seating or can transform this into a concert hall accommodating 6,000 audience at a time. Convention Center boasts about its imposing stature and super-large media screen above its roof.

Any convention organizers can take advantage of this magnificent structure that could maximize the publicity of their convention / events. Conference rooms are coming up in various sizes and some of them are dividable to suit organizer’s needs. Each room is fully audio-visual enabled and provides a classy ambience with carpet floor finishing.

Finest standards of global MICE industry have been also reflected in Exhibition Halls. Concept of Utility Trench in which all utilities such as electricity, water supply and internet lines are buried has been adopted for all exhibition floors.

This means Exhibition organizers do not have to run for electricity supply / DG points and worry about where they are located. Simply lifting up utility trench covers will dissipate all concerns of organizers. With these many advantages and benefits, we are awaiting international exhibition and convention organizers who will be brightening Indian MICE industry with us here at IICC.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Message

December 2021

Message From IEIA

President growth and development. They have been an active platform for discussions, new mergers, exchange of ideas and most importantly have served as a window for new international companies wanting to explore the Indian market. The fraternity needs to rally at this point to further develop our offerings, improve standards of operations and enhance the visibility of our events.

Sonia Prashar MD, NürnbergMesse India ES. What learnings can we draw from 2021?

Sonia Prashar. 2021 was a challenging year, however, I think there's a lesson to be learned from every experience. I think the most important thing we can all learn is to be hopeful and resilient in the face of adversity, we must learn to pivot and adapt and we must always show appreciation and gratitude.

While we weather the crises, remember to prioritise health and mental well-being.

ES. What would be the top 3 trends in 2022?

Sonia Prashar. Everything will be digital – show entry, catalogues, processes, which will really enhance the scope of events Organisers will introduce many new facets and features, new ideas to differentiate between pre and post covid events. Ÿ Content will rule as marketing activities become more prominent on social media. To engage with the audience on a regular basis, marketers have to generate relevant and useful content. Ÿ

ES. What would be your message to the Industry?

Sonia Prashar. Exhibitions in India have been a catalyst for

27 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

The untimely demise of S. Balasubramanian, the then President of the Indian Exhibition Industry Association in May 2021 left his post unoccupied and Sonia Prashar was named the New President of IEIA. In her first interview since this announcement, Sonia had voiced her key priorities. She had that said at IEIA, we will continue to progress with our vision, together with the industry, establishing vital goals, which will be woven in the narrative of the Indian Exhibition Industry. Three immediate key vision points would be: SKILLING & UPSKILLING: Training for the on-ground workforce to meet the Industry standards we are aiming and aspiring for, this is where we can make a difference and an impact through skilling.

The development of Exhibition Professionals through trainings and workshops has to be continued as another important part of our agenda on upskilling.

INDIA NARRATIVE AS AN EXHIBITION DESTINATION: Promote India as an attractive “exhibition destination” while showcasing world class exhibition venues available today with impressive expansion plans, highlighting new infrastructure projects in pipeline and the multiple growth sectors in India, thereby enhancing the scope of our offerings through new ideas plus innovations.

ADVOCACY: Continue our ongoing efforts of presenting the cause and relevance of the Exhibition Industry to relevant government authorities and stakeholders by articulating strongly our position and highlighting the immense contribution of exhibitions industry towards the economy and job creation.

This becomes even more pertinent in the economic revival post-covid era to come.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Programme Agenda

December 2021

Programme Agenda

December 2021

New year brings new hopes and aspirations. Let’s see some key messages from the industry

The very essence of leadership is that you have to have a vision. It's got to be a vision you articulate clearly and forcefully on every occasion. You can't blow an uncertain trumpet.

Reverend Theodore Hesburgh

Message From Industry

December 2021

Stay Positive And Share Positivity!

Ravinder Sethi, Chairman & Managing Director, RE Rogers India ES. If you have to summarise the year 2021, how would it be and what learnings can we draw?

Ravinder Sethi. I have learned something very simple and clear in the last two years and I would encourage everyone to agree that you should not take life for granted, whether in your personal life, social life, or academic life.

In every realm of our ecosystem, we take life for granted. But I am convinced we will turn to what we have learned for a

better future.

ES. What message would you like to the industry at this moment?

Ravinder Sethi. Stay positive and share positivity!

ES. Top 3 trends to look upto in the year 2022 for our industry.

Ravinder Sethi. Generally, we will see smaller shows, less international participation, but we will still see very good footfalls. If we think about it more deeply, the trends would be enhanced use of technology, better skill development, enhanced awareness of sustainability and health/ safety.

“The work Exhibition Showcase did during the pandemic to encourage optimism among industry professionals and serve the industry passionately is something to be commended for.”

The Indian Exhibition Industry Has Shown Remarkable Resilience Sooraj Dhawan, Founder & Director, Falcon Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd ES. If you have to summarize the year 2021, then how would it be? What learnings can we draw from it to move ahead in the present times?

Sooraj Dhawan. 2021 has been the year of cautious optimism. It was the year of back to business.

The Indian exhibition industry has shown remarkable resilience and re-launched shows keeping in view the health and security protocols. Covid-19 will not vanish on a predecided date. We should treat Covid-19 as an endemic rather than a pandemic and plan ahead, 2022 will see more physical shows with a higher domestic participation for the first quarter. Overseas participation should start from Sep 2022 exhibitions season.

ES. How do you feel about the role of technology in our industry in coming times? How can it be used effectively?

Sooraj Dhawan. Technology will be the top driver for successful innovations in exhibitions. We should focus on

31 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

what technological interventions can help us produce better physical shows. Ÿ Can technology help us run shows better - yes! Ÿ Can technology provide a better participation experience to our exhibitors and visitors- yes! Ÿ Can technology help us reduce wastage of paper, flex, plastics, aircon? - yes. Ÿ Will we do exhibitions the way we did exhibitions in 2019? No, no way!

ES. If you have to put top 3 trends to look up-to in 2022 for our industry, then what would they be?

Sooraj Dhawan. Think domestic exhibitors / domestic buyers - Use of AI for visitor promotion - Greater focus on buyers (quality) rather than visitors (numbers)

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Message From Industry

December 2021

Face-to-face Exhibitions Are Back In BIEC Ubaid Ahmad, Senior Director, IMTMA & Marketing Head, BIEC ES. Can you summarize the year 2021 for BIEC. What are the upcoming shows?

Ubaid Ahmad. Face-to-face exhibitions were back in BIEC after a gap of around 20 months following the outbreak of Covid in March 2020. We hosted the India International Jewellery Show Premiere 2021. We were delighted with the outcome of the show as we hosted one of the top five jewellery trade fairs in the world in an exhibition space of around 77,000 square metres with 1,300 exhibitors and about 50,000 visitors for a 5 day show in September 2021. This also effectively put BIEC back in business with the AgriTech & GrainTech in October, Auto Technika Expo in November 2021 providing an opportunity for stakeholders to explore new markets and avenues. We now have the Electronica & Productronica and Laser World of Photonics exhibition from 16 to 18 December followed by our flagship IMTEX in January 2022 which will feature over 600 exhibitors in 5 halls showcasing manufacturing solutions for metal cutting and metal forming industries. We will also be hosting ACREX, IndiaWOOD, Mattress Expo and many more exhibitions till March 2022.

ES. What learnings can we draw from 2021 to move ahead in the coming year?

Ubaid Ahmad. It is always nice to be back after a prolonged

closure brought about by circumstances. Today while holding exhibitions and events, we can’t relax the health and safety SOPs laid down by the government. We need to ensure that participants to a show are either double-vaccinated or have one jab plus a PCR test. It is still very early to relax rules but if we strictly adhere to the guidelines then we can organize safe exhibitions and events.

ES. Please share your experiences from the physical shows organized at BIEC so far since reopening. What have been the major highlights and takeaways from the recently held physical shows at your venue?

Ubaid Ahmad. Although foreign participation was restricted due to quarantine rules, we do have a large domestic market and many multi-nationals have significant presence in India and can participate in exhibitions and events through their local offices. Of course, the smaller number of participation from foreign shores mean that we have smaller events for some time at least. We made extensive use of digital tools to stay in touch with stakeholders and allow exhibitors and visitors to stay in touch with each other. Going forward we will see a higher level of technology being deployed at trade fairs in future.

ES. If you have to put top trend to look upto in 2022 for our industry then what would it be?

Ubaid Ahmad. Larger deployment of digital technologies to stay connected with internal and external stakeholders in times of crisis like pandemics.

This Is Just A Phase That We Will Pass Through Dharampal Singh Malhotra, ED, Namdhari Events ES. Your Learnings

B2B, with lesser international participation.

Dharampal Singh Malhotra. The year overall was tough with a good hope of restart witnessed in the first quarter followed by second wave, which surely gave a hard stop during the second quarter.

ES. Your message Dharampal Singh Malhotra. This is just a phase that we will pass through. The emphasis will be on education, skill development, better hygiene standards, and the use of newer technologies.

Post June there was no looking back with smaller shows to big ones of B2C followed by

32 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Message From Industry

December 2021

We All Should Gear Up For Greater Times Ahead Vipul Agarwal, Managing Partner At Expro Events & Exhibits ES. If you have to summarize the year 2021, then how would it be.. what learnings can we draw from it to move ahead in the present times?

Vipul Agarwal.

Vipul Agarwal. Year 2021, for sure an extremely challenging year, both on the personal front with the scare of pandemic taking lives of near n dear ones as well as professional front, with the event industry getting savaged like never before.

With most of events in our hand getting cancelled, survival n paying salaries to the team was the key, which we did.

I personally feel we have passed the worst of time & we all should gear up for greater times ahead.

Year 2022, Q4 onwards, it might even be crazy.

ES. Your Learnings

ES. Top 3 trends

Vipul Agarwal. Yes when the time was good, with non stop events in hand, everything looked great. This pandemic made us understand and make plan b for bad times.

Vipul Agarwal.

Though event organizers can look to a future that allows for more inperson events, it’s likely that hybrid events are here to stay for an year at least.

ES. Your message to the industry?

The Exhibition Fraternity Must Be Lauded For Great Resilience Y Mukund Rao, Founder - Interface Data ES. If you have to summarize the year 2021, then how would it be? What learnings can we draw from it to move ahead in the present times?

Mukund Rao. 2021 would be a year all of the industry would like to forget and move ahead. Two words "Difficult Times" I would say summaries the long story. The exhibition fraternity must be lauded for great resilience and how the entire industry has survived.

ES. How do you feel about the role of technology in our industry in coming times.. How all can it be used effectively Mukund Rao. While technology has always been the way ahead how we adapt and implement is the key. As far as

33 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

registration is concerned we see sudden acceptance of ebadges which has been in existence since a while. While I am solid supporter of technology, I beleive that the physical badge is part of the exhibition Identity. The personalised badge is a great ice-breaker helping attendees identify each other's name and identity. Lanyards and badges is also a great source of sponsorship income. Physical badge also ensured that within the exhibition show floor one could easily verify that the visitor has registered. There are other technologies which can help improve visitor and exhibitor ROI which can be easily implemented.

ES. If you have to put top 3 trends to look upto in 2022 for our industry, then what would they be?

Mukund Rao. 1) Better hygiene, safety, cleanliness and air quality within exhibition venues.

2) Tech to improve visitor and exhibitor ROI 3) Collaboration by different organisers to produce larger shows with assistance from able vendors showcasing the might of our industry.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Message From Industry

December 2021

We, As Freight Forwarders And On-site Agents Are Happy That Shows Are Opening Their Gates Again he situation has now started to improve for the Exhibition Industry worldwide. Shows are opening their gates again, exhibitors are etching to showcase their products, visitors are attending in huge numbers, and we, as Freight Forwarders and Onsite Agents, are happy to be amongst Forklifts, empty boxes and industry colleagues!

However, when things took a wrong turn, in spite of taking a back seat, we pulled up our socks and started to prepare customized solutions to tackle this unprecedented situation.

T

The closest substitute for exhibition, which would cater to all the needs and requirements of our partner exhibitors, was a small-scale private demo. The idea was to send samples directly to the premises of a prospective customer, and dipalying them to a selected sample of representatives. We utilized the benefits of ATA Carnet to make these projects a

34 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

success. Since the inception of our company, we have also been the officially appointed Freight Forwarder for all logistics requirements & Defense Exhibitions for some of India's prime Defense Manufacturers. As Defense Exhibitions have been taking place since mid 2020, we have been fortunate enough to be on-site for these exhibitions in all parts of the world (from as early as August 2020). As freight services were hugely disrupted during the pandemic, we had to coordinate directly with the Indian Cosulates to arrange timely delivery of exhibits for some of the exhibitions. Pharmaceutical industry has been one sector which has been growing continuously since the last couple of years.

To serve our nation in the need of the hour, we provided for the deliveries of life saving drugs and equipment from our partners and valued Pharmaceutical Manufacturers to their customers in the

Indian subcontinent, and Africa.

In addition to the above, we had the opportunity to be a part of a very exciting project, which involved the study, and subsequent launch of a luxury SUV in the Indian Market.

The automobile was designed in Europe, and was imported into various cities of India to conduct research on its design and aerodynamics on Indian roads. The project was highly confidential as it was very important for our customer to keep the design and features of the car a secret until its ultimate launch. The team of BIG Logistics India has been working tirelessly, amongst all the challenges since April 2020. The pandemic helped us to develop and deepen our knowledge in some untouched fields of work, and to invest more time on skill development and quality trainings.

Uttam Gupta CEO, BIG Logistics India

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Featured

December 2021

IEML Becomes Cynosure For Series Of Physical Events responsibility to stand firmly with both, our industry and our nation, during these tough times! I would like to assure everyone that me and my team will fully cooperate, and we will do our best to make a mutually agreeable situation for all our valued organisers & partners.I would also like to assure that IEML will take utmost care to ensure best-in-class hygiene and sanitization at the venue.

We are ready to go more than an extra mile for you. Needless to say that all SOP’s are being followed at the venue”. he global pandemic of Covid19 caused serious disruption in the industry, bring it to a complete halt. With time, organisers penetrated into the virtual space but it was soon to be realized that there is no alternate to physical events. You just can’t substitute human to human connections made at a trade show floor.

With digital fatigue setting in, people took the re-opening very positively and we have been witnessing good turnouts at almost every physical exhibition held since the re-opening. And the same can be said for shows being held at India Expo Mart, Gr. Noida.Since the time Government of India allowed reopening of Exhibitions, India Expo Mart has been buzzing with the cherished sounds of trade show activities. IEML has hosted a number of on-site and hybrid events since the reopening and the facility team just keeps getting busier.

T

But things have not been smooth for the industry and the fraternity at large has been reeling under tremendous stress.

The heat was definitely felt even more by event venues who have investments in hundreds of crores on their infrastructure and maintenance. Despite this, IEML was among the first venues

35 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

in India to offer special waivers and incentives to the organizers.

In an announcement to the industry in Exhibition Showcase in April 2020, Sudeep Sarcar, CEO, India Expo Mart had said, “ The exhibition industry all around the world is going through the most challenging times. The event P&L and ROIs have gone haywire. That as an event venue, our P&L sheets have taken a serious blow too. However, we all at India Expo Mart are deeply concerned about the well-being of our industry. Being India’s leading purposebuilt MICE venue and having received such overwhelming admiration & respect all these years, it is our

On another occasion while speaking about IEML, Sudeep had said, “Our consistency in delivering services to the organizers in the standard and format experienced abroad through proven policy; wins us many hearts. I am sure, this has changed the thought process of organizers, exhibitors and visitors that the facility here has not compromised and meets the international standards, which at the same time is affordable, sustainable and reliable (safe & secure).

India Expo Mart is a purpose-built MICE Venue that is at-par with the globally best. The quality of our venue can be assessed by the fact that the number of renowned events being hosted here is increasing consistently and also the shows being held here are constantly increasing in size, year on year" The future looks bright The development of Jewar Airport has been ringing a lot of bells in many ears.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Featured

December 2021

While the airport construction will surely add brownie points to the Noida & Greater Noida Real estate market, it will also increase the connectivity for the business visitors to the India Expo Mart.

The Jewar Airport opens up hopes for multinationals, corporations & builders to mark their presence in the neighbourhood. The airport, the second international aerodrome in DelhiNational Capital Region, is expected to be operational by September 2024 with an initial capacity to handle 1.2 crore passengers per annum. The airport at Jewar will help decongest the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport in the national capital. It is strategically located and will serve the people of cities including Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Aligarh, Agra, Faridabad and neighbouring areas. The airport will also be the country's "first net zero emissions airport".

Adding to the significant announcements about the Toy Park, Film City, Medical Device Park and Leather Park, the Uttar Pradesh government is now gearing up to develop an 'Electronic Park' for electronic devices and accessories along the Yamuna Expressway near Noida.

The park is expected to attract an investment of Rs 50,000 crore and will provide employment to thousands of locals and this certainly is going to be a positive development for the exhibition industry in the region.

Some shows held at IEML since re-opening REI Expo

36 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Informa Markets in India concluded the three-day Renewable Energy India Expo in its 14th edition at the India Expo Center on 17 September 2021. The expo was the 1st Renewable Energy Show in the world to go live with 100% physical attendees in the new normal.

The Expo was marked by the presence of ministers, ambassadors, CXO’s and media, all under one roof. It had over 12,987 buyers from various locations, along with fully occupied buyer seller meets, house full conference welcoming more than 70+ speakers and + 500 plus delegates. The event saw more than 170 brands being represented including a UK, German, and European Union pavilion.

visited the fair, conducting the business of around Rs 1,850 crores," said RK Verma executive director of Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) that organised the B2B fair.

BIOFACH India

IHE Expo

India International Hospitality Expo (IHE) hosted its fourth edition from 2427 Sept 2021.IHE expanded its reach with 170+ exhibitors, showcasing the best from the global hospitality industry.

IHE organised several programs like the ICF Young Chefs Culinary Challenge and master classes to engage the hospitality stakeholders.

Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair On October 28, the 52nd edition of the Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair (IHGF-Delhi) was held in its physical form after a gap of 18 months at India Exposition Mart with business inquiries worth Rs 1,850 crore.The biggest exporter of Indian handicrafts was the USA which remained the traditional buyer at 38% high. “Approximately 1,250 overseas buyers from 90 countries and over 1,100 buying consultants

The 13th edition of BIOFACH Indiatook place from 28-30 October, 2021 at the India Expo Mart. Organised

by NurnbergMesse India in collaboration with APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority), the event witnessed congregation of leading Organic companies and Stakeholders together.Sonia Prashar, Managing Director, NurnbergMesse India, said " BIOFACH INDIA has established itself as a strong brand. It is a must-attend event for the organic sector and is a testament of our commitment towards the industry, to create a networking platform which fosters dialogue and business. Our collaboration with APEDA - together with the active support of other leading associations ensured that we had a great edition.”

IndiaCorr Expo The IndiaCorr Expo and India Folding Carton concludedsuccessfully at India Expo Centre in Greater Noida

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Featured

December 2021

on 25th October 2021. The show was organised by RX India (Reed Exhibitions). IndiaCorr Expo and India Folding Carton catered to the Indian market as one of the leading B2B events for corrugated case manufacturing, converting, package printing, box making and folding carton segments, connecting buyers-and-sellers to build business relationships and learn from industry experts.

The showcase of live machinery continued to take the centre stage with key players including Bobst, BHS Corrugated, EMBA Machinery, Astron Paper, Westrock, Fuma Machinery, Fosber, Natraj Industries, Erhardt + Leimer, Re Equipment (India), Nitta Corporation India, JS Corrugating Machinery, Robus India and others participating at the event.

CPHI India

14th edition of the show concluded on 26th November 2021 at India Expo Centre. With the impressive response received from the industry, over 534 exhibitors from 16 countries participated and over 20,000 visitors gathered over the 3 days. CPhI& P-MEC continued to provide an all-inclusive platform to scores of domestic and international buyers and professionals from across the Pharmaceuticals and Manufacturing space.

HGH India

HGH is India's most leading annual trade show for home textiles, home decor, houseware and gifts. The 10th edition of the four-day trade show for home products, which is held every year in Mumbai, was hosted in Greater Noida for the first time from 30 Nov – 3 December. The event received visitors from over 460 cities and towns across India.

Fire India India’s leading fire & safety show came back with its 15th edition at IEML from 02 December to 04 December 2021. In its 25 years journey, Fire India has become “a must-attend” event for fire & safety industry players to exchange ideas and develop their business.

37 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Media Expo 2021

Messe Frankfurt kicked off the 47th edition of Media Expo at India Exposition Mart Ltd in Greater Noida, held from 18th to 20th November 2021.

Commenting on the restarting of in person exhibitions, Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director and Board Member of Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd stated, ‘Extremely delighted to be a part of a physical exhibition after such a long time. The return of face-to-face exhibitions is quite a major event as it not only signifies the revival of the exhibition industry, but also plays a huge role in supply chain development of local businesses and contributes to the overall economic growth of India.

Through Media Expo New Delhi 2021, Messe Frankfurt aims to deliver strong value to advertising segment by providing a perfect avenue for product sourcing, networking and knowledge sharing.’

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

Bidding Adieu To 2021

This was another tough year for our industry but we stood resilient more than ever. Exhibition Showcase did numerous stories and interviews to keep the industry informed and engaged.

In this section, we bring to you excerpts from some of the interviews that were featured in 2021.

This Year That Month

December 2021

The Key Facets For Me Are To Continue To Grow The Company ES. If you have to pick and choose your favorite 3 tradeshows globally (informa or non informa portfolio), who would they be and why?

Michael Duck, EVP, Commercial Development Informa Markets January 2021

Michael Duck.

Cosmoprof Asia Hong Kong. I was involved with the launch of this show 26 years ago and today at 60.000 mt sq net is one of the most beautiful shows in the

around the world just amazing what is on exhibited!

ES. As one of industry's global thought leaders, do you perceive a significant role of physical exhibitions in the new normal or a diminishing one in context of how this industry is seen by the participants?

Michael Duck. I am in no doubt that physical exhibitions will continue to play and important part of any company’s marketing, having experienced recently shows in Hong Kong where in 2 hours of opening, it felt like that both exhibitors and buyers were back to ‘normal’.

ES. Congratulations on your new role as Executive Vice President – Commercial Development at Informa Markets.

Please share with us your thoughts on this occasion and what will be the facets of your new role?

world.

Furniture China – Shanghai - again a show that is part of our business showcases the best in design and interiors around the world. Ÿ ANUGA – Cologne A show I started to attend 35 years ago! The food and drink on offer covers the best from Ÿ

Michael Duck. In particular the key facets for me are to continue to grow the company and link across our group assets potential opportunities. Also link our companies throughout with Governments and associations that may enhance our shows.

Most Troublesome Time Is Behind Us ES. Going forward, what kind of synergies do you feel will exist between virtual and physical?

Bhupinder Singh. Virtual events might not be the best substitute for face-to-face networking, but it is necessary to keep them in place while also conducting the regular on-site events. I feel virtual events would work best as value additions to the main on-site events. Online has to find its way just like the Cola with burgers, people bought Cola not because of a smart combo package alone, but because customers liked the taste of it. Covid has brought in some disruptions which we will have to live with in future. Thus, it is reasonable to assume that hybrid events are here to stay with us as it offers a certain value to participants and exhibitors in this new “normal”.

ES. 2020 was an unprecedented year for our industry. Can you share some major learnings that transpired during this difficult period?

Bhupinder Singh. Perhaps the most troublesome time is behind us as the COVID-19 vaccination drive is gaining momentum in the country. This makes us hopeful of a

40 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

sound and speedy recovery. I am also optimistic that in no time the exhibition industry will also be back on its feet while keeping one eye on sustenance and another on progress.

ES. What are your plans for 2021 and what action can we see from the MMI team?

Bhupinder Singh CEO, MMI February 2021

Bhupinder Singh. We are hopeful that major shows should start taking place starting 3rd quarter of this calendar year.

The aim is to ensure that our exhibitions are safe to attend, adequate health precautions are in place and the standard operating process prescribed by the government for holding business to business trade exhibitions is stringently followed.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

Embracing New Tech. Capabilities To Deliver Digital Solutions ES. How has the virus outbreak affected IMPACT? And, how have you dealt with the jolt and bounced back from it?

Loy Joon How. The pandemic has indeed posed serious Loy Joon How, GM, disruptions to our business and IMPACT Exhibition Thailand’s MICE March 2021 industry has greatly been impacted by COVID-19. In fact, in 2020 the Asian region saw a sharp drop (over 75%) in venue space rental as compared to 2019.

Unlike SARS in 2003, the impact and effects this time is far more reaching, damaging and long lasting. Based on

previous lessons learned from the outbreaks of both SARS in 2003 and MERS CoV in 2016, IMPACT is able to respond promptly by deploying and putting into immediate effect, our business contingency and continuity plans.

This involves organizational restructurings, cost cuttings and new revenue stream generations. Examples of new revenue stream generations are our digital event and marketing services, off-site F&B catering and food delivery services, etc My outlook is that in over the course of the next 12 to 24 months and beyond, it would be a difficult but gradual recovery that is driven by domestic events with some road bumps ahead.

In such situation, we are positioning ourselves to be at the forefront of the market to proactively provide and offer new solutions as the market adjust, and accept the reality of the new norm. At the same time, we are embracing new technology capabilities in order to deliver digital solutions that can offer better values for our customers.

Be Clinical In The Evaluation Of Your Performance ES. What would your number one piece of advice you'd pass on to the industry people for year 2021?

and spirit trade faire was strong.

Rodolphe. For 2021, be patient!!!! And courageous enough to look through each show you have in your portfolio and see what element of value has changed. Is digital the must have?

It size of the show the most important, have the ROI changed? Be clinical in your evaluation of your performance, your show performance and be close than never with your industry!!!

The vision was to be a leader not in having one mega big fair somewhere but to respond to the following expectation: be a pioneer, deliver Rodolphe Lameyse, strong business CEO, Vinexposium capabilities everywhere, be the source of March 2021 inspiration for Wine and Spirit stakeholders, deliver high value business content and inspirational business atmosphere wherever the brand is.

ES. Vinexposium merged Vinexpo (the international brand of wine and spirits events) and the wine portfolio of Comexposium (the world’s 3rd largest events organiser) in 2020, thereby becoming the world’s leading wine and spirits events organiser. Please share more details on the story of this merger and the vision ahead.

Rodolphe. The discussion to operate this JV happened in 2019. It took a bit of time to make it concrete and solid but the willingness to give birth to a world contender in the wine

41 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

I think that this is what motivate the team here and why we have solid and loyal clients. We are a follow the sun business catalyst in the wine and spirit.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

M & A Market Will Be Back ES. Do you think COVID-19 could lead to boom time for M&As in the event industry?

Steve Monnington, MD, Mayeld Merger Strategies March 2021

Steve Monnington.

We've had an M&A boom time for the last few years with record numbers of transactions and many new buyers (such as Private Equity firms) coming into the market.

The last year – from March 2020- has seen a sharp decline in the number of transactions and most of those that have taken place have been COVID related. I don't expect a sudden rush of deals happening immediately – buyers need to see more visibility of future earnings and sellers don't want to sell at the bottom of the market. But the M&A market will be back.

ES. What would be the emerging trends in M&A activities, in 2021?

Steve Monnington. We will continue to see Association owned shows – primarily in the USA where there is a high proportion of these - either being sold to, or partnering with, traditional exhibition organisers. Ÿ

There will be several non-core disposals from the larger organisers. Disruption tends to focus attention on marginal parts of the portfolio especially when redundancy programmes have depleted resources.

Ÿ

The revelation that organisers can earn substantial high margin revenues from digital activities will start to attract data companies into the sector via acquisition.

Ÿ

“Normal” M&A transactions will slowly re-start but deals will have a different flavour with more emphasis on longer earn-out periods for acquisitions to allow the businesses to grow back to 2019 levels.

Shift From Physical To Virtual Is An Emerging Challenge ES. What according to you are the challenges and the opportunities surrounding the Indian Exhibition Industry in the current age?

Nanu Binu. The challenges and opportunities come from technology. The shift from physical to virtual is an emerging challenge. The setback the virtual is facing is temporary. It will become better and better as time goes along and become a challenge to wood and aluminium.

The opportunity also lies in the same sphere. We have a wonderful opportunity to migrate to a better and eventually profitable phase. Right now an Indian exhibition is visited by a million at the max. In the virtual world, the number will be ten times. We will almost become B2C where exhibition will reach every home just as Netflix and Amazon Prime reaches every home. Maybe, industry will have its most prosperous phase when that happens and if we are prepared to change with times.

42 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

ES. What learnings can we handpick from this disruption? Is there any silver lining in this dense dark cloud?

Nanu Binu. As I said before, a cyclical wave is the norm for life and business and change is a must and is inevitable. We are a resilient society.

Nanu Binu, Founder Director, Meroform India April 2021

Our history has many disruptions. But, we always came out of it and always rebuilt ourselves. I agree that we have never come across a situation like what COVID has created. But let us believe that this will pass and good times will return. Every dark cloud has a silver lining. The silver lining is human spirit and endeavour.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

Quality Over Quantity For Recruiting & Attracting Visitors ES. What are the areas which will see drastic changes in exhibitions post the Covid19 period?

Phil Chung. I guess the biggest difference from the past will be our sense of importance on Phil Chung, CEO of IICC the number of visitors at the exhibition site as Operating Company well as the public sense (KINEXIN) of physical distance April 2021 between people. Most of the organizers as well as visitors may think now that the quality factors are much more important and meaningful than the quantity factors for exhibitions. Quality over Quantity for recruiting and attracting visitors and buyers. It is deemed that large number of crowd on site is no longer the proud criteria for the organizer because even visitors will feel the need to secure their individual 'space' more than any other times. Visitors

are inclined to attend a less crowded exhibitions these days due to Covid19 than ever to enjoy their 'showtime' focusing on their individual buying and studying needs according to our observations on recent large exhibitions staged in our Korea venue.

I think India organizers, for the time being till we see the reassuringly lowered Covid19 curve of India, can develop more ‘invitation-only’ style. of exhibitions as they can predict the right number and quality of the visitors for their effective show crowd-control, and manage them relatively easily according to pre-made plans. About the shortage of the number of visitors, they may be able to attract more important people online regardless of their office locations.

However, most of tradeshows will be again organized in large scales post-Covid19 period, and what’s needed will be more ‘spacious’ exhibiting spaces as you will need more space between booths, between people, etc. Organizers do not need to downsize their shows in order to make the audience feel more comfortable once they could secure some more additional space for such arrangements like on-site registrations, booth set-ups, queues and more.

It Is Not In The DNA Of Any Event Organiser To Cancel Their Show ES. As one of our industry's leaders, what in your experience has helped prepare you to manage through this very difficult time? What would be the key learnings from this pandemic?

Carina Bauer. There are two learnings I can share from the cancellation of our live shows. First, transparent and honest communication is essential in a crisis. Second, you need to be very agile in a fast-moving situation and change your response quickly based on new information.

That speed requires total focus and a great team to whom you can delegate different elements of the crisis management process. I'm very proud of my team who have responded to a challenging year with creativity, positivity and honesty. It is not in the DNA of any tradeshow or event organiser to cancel their show – particularly when the entire team and industry are so invested in the success of the event. Our team has responded by creating some amazing virtual experiences to bring our community together until we can meet again at a live show.

43 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

ES. What is your message to the industry?

Carina Bauer. The business events industry is certainly resilient and has weathered many storms and crises over the Carina Bauer, CEO, years. Whilst they may IMEX not have been as great as the pandemic, we May 2021 have all learnt from past events and this is certainly helpful today.

We very much believe that business events will make a strong comeback once the health and safety situation is improved, because business events are a critical business accelerator and that has not changed.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

A Venue's Design & Operational Sustainability Credentials Are Essential ES. Can you explain how you made the decision to retire from the industry? In retrospect, what have been some of your most cherished memories over the years?

Leighton Wood, COO, MCEC

Leighton Wood. 10 years is a long time in a senior leadership role at May 2021 one organisation. As MCEC resets following COVID it will benefit from new ideas and new leadership, it is a new phase in its history. Also, I had a serious illness in 2020 and just felt I needed to be a little selfish with my time.

My great memories of MCEC are the people and culture.

We genuinely care for each other and our performance.

That gives me great pride for it wasn’t always that way. From

an event perspective the 2014 World AIDS Congress was the pinnacle. 14,500 people attended, including President Bill Clinton and Bob Geldorf, from all over the world. The Malaysian flight shot down over the Ukraine had six passengers bound for the Congress, including a past President of the World AIDS Foundation. We put 500 of our employees through an AIDS education program prior to the event and we were able to speak with AIDS sufferers. It was an emotional but ultimately extremely fulfilling week.

ES. What according to you will be the key trends that will shape the future of our industry?

Leighton Wood. I believe that venues will need to have design and operational sustainability credentials to be successful. I always say that not all of our customers are interested in sustainability, but the most sophisticated and the biggest are. Again, the experiential element will come to the fore, customers will not be attracted to standalone centres with little to offer other than a meeting or exhibition space.

Investment in technology will become even more important as hybrid meetings become a standard offering.

Experiential Element Will Come To The Fore ES. How has the virus outbreak affected KLCC? And, how have you dealt with the situation and geared up for resurgence?

Alan Pryor. Extremely badly, as any business events player would say, 2020 was our worst year yet, but we are still keeping optimistic for the year ahead and those upcoming.

Looking on the bright side, it has given us more time to inject creativity in an otherwise overly familiar business model, which had in fact begun pre-pandemic.

Our industry environment was already becoming highly competitive – unique venues mushrooming in every nook and corner, adoption of technologies of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, developing immersive and experiential event content that engages participants, to name a few. The pandemic just put the pedal to the metal, accelerating the industry’s transformation to remain future-proof and sustainable.

In the past year, to help us cope with the new challenges, weEnhanced our engagement techniques by revamping our website with user-friendliness and interactive features. Our

44 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

digital concierge, Skye, a Chatbot tasked to welcome and help users navigate within the website and respond to queries, combined with an interactive floorplan offer a pioneering engagement experience for organisers and visitors alike.

Alan Pryor, GM, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre May 2021

Most recently, we launched the Virtual Tour of our venue offering an overview of the entire facility with the options to selfexplore or take a quick guided-tour and a deep-dive into each function space via a 360-view, offering a more interactive and visual immersion. We also utilised the website to provide the latest and important information related to Covid-19, relevant to the industry, to our stakeholders and our international community

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

I Took The Challenge Head On, Learning A Lot Along The Way ES. Tell us about your journey into the world of exhibitions?

Korbi Carrison. Like many people in the exhibition business, I ended up here unintentionally. I was working in the gaming Korbi Carrison, Director, business, in marketing for a slot machine Global Gaming Expo manufacturer. My first June 2021 day at a new job the trade show manager left the company. My boss looked at me and asked, “can you do this?” I took the challenge head on, learning a lot along the way. Turns out I was good at it and I loved it too. Fast forward – I’ve had the opportunity to introduce the behindthescenes work of the exhibition industry to many colleagues.

Some love it, but it isn’t for everyone. It’s exciting for me to work with other people who are as enthusiastic about this

business as I am.

ES. What innovations are we witnessing in the gaming and betting industry?

Korbi Carrison. Gaming operators are perpetually innovating to provide customers with engaging, dynamic products. 2020 revenue numbers make clear there is consumer demand for online gaming options, whether sports betting or iGaming. Ÿ

There’s little question that over the past year, iGaming has been an important to help the gaming industry weather the pandemic and has also been important for states garnering tax revenue from it.

Ÿ

The evolution of gaming devices such as slot machines and electronic table games has really raised the bar on the entertainment factor for patrons whether they play in a casino or on some other device. One of the technology advances that influences most of all is the evolution of electronic payments. Patrons expect to be able to engage in play in a safe and convenient manner, potentially without cash. New options are becoming available to satisfy this need.

Our Vison Is To Have The Healthiest & Most Robust Economy In The Nation ES. What are the aspects which will see drastic changes in event industry? What are your top 3 goals for 2021?

Mark Tester. First, we want to partner with our customers and help and our industry recover – all with the goal of the Center maximizing and growing our market share. We have collaborated with industry partners like Go LIVE Together!, to show how the convention, trade show and live events industry can host shows with health and safety policies in place. Second, we are developing strategies to maximize the Tourist Development Tax (TDT) during the recovery, with careful control of OCCC expenditures. TDT is a tax paid by the guest for hotels and sleeping accommodations in Orange County, which are rented for a period of six months or less.Last, we are revising the Center's long-range plan to develop the next steps for both staffing and our facility as we recover from the pandemic and come out on the other side.

“We want to partner with our clients to help our industry and the Orlando region recover. We know this is a team effort and we are doing all that we can with the sports industry to recover from the pandemic and come out on the other side. We are operated by Orange County Government

45 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

and our mission is economic development. Our vison is for Orange County to have the healthiest and most robust economy in the nation. From January through December 2021, we have 103 projected events slated Mark Tester, ED, Orange with 952,808 in County Convention Centre estimated attendance June 2021 with a projected $1.85 billion in economic impact. Here's an example of the economic impact of a recent event that took place, Feb. 9-11, 2021. During the first weekend of March, we hosted a trio of sporting events in addition to the consumer Orlando Boat Show with 5,000 ordered attendees. The impact of these events in our community is tremendous. Sunshine Volleyball was hosted over two back-to-back weekends.”

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

I See A Number Of Trends In The Exhibition Industry visitors walk up and down the aisle and stop if they see a stand which might be interesting. That can be done just as easily virtually. In order to attract visitors, in-person exhibitions need to offer engaging and exciting elements.

ES. Which key trends do you currently observe in the Exhibition industry?

Michael Bramsnas. In no particular order, I see a number of trends in the exhibition industry.

Michael Bramsnas, CEO And Owner At TCC June 2021

Virtual platforms.

Presenting a product or a service is actually possible virtually, and consequently I think virtual platforms will be more successful within the exhibition industry than within the meeting industry.

Creating relations with the (potential) customer will be a challenge for the exhibitor. That needs to be worked on after the show. Ÿ

Ÿ

Augmented Reality. AR has been around for a number of years now, and I believe that the technology is now in the process of moving from laboratories and high tech companies to “ordinary” companies. AR can show products and service in an exciting and visually comprehensible way.

Ÿ

Incorporation of SoMe and other media. Most companies typically put the sales people on the exhibition stands while the marketing is caried out by the marketing department. Often with (almost) no collaboration between the two departments.

Companies need to tear down the silos and departmental incentive schemes. Everyone in the company should be focused on common targets around customers, creation and maintaining of customer relations, data collection and insights, etc with the end goal of generating sales.

Ÿ

Visitor engagement. Exhibition floors and stands need to be more engaging and exciting. At most exhibitions

Turned A “boring” Expo Hall Into A Fantastic Location ES. How has SNIEC been instrumental in the promotion of domestic and international economic exchanges by virtue of its unique location advantages, and an ideal venue for holding various social and corporate events?

Michael Kruppe. Our location paired with our top service and strong focus on safety and convenience is surely our ace card to play. As we were already well established on b2b I set new goals back in 2015 to reach out for corporate and events and festivals. In the beginning it was not easy as most companies were used to hotels or concert halls. However, we proved that we could turn a “boring” expo hall into a fantastic location also for weddings, product launches, concerts, TV -life shows, Tennis tournaments and other kind of festivals.

We just finished our new airport style VIP lounge which will create even more opportunities for meetings or smaller events up to 500 people. In terms of events I would say the sky is literally the limit as probably the only kind of show we can not do is an Airshow like they have in Paris or Dubai.

46 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

ES. China has been the first country to face the impact of Covid-19?

How has the virus outbreak affected SNIEC, and how have you dealt with the situation and gears up for resurgence?

Michael Kruppe.

Michael Kruppe, GM Basically from day one SNIEC–Shanghai, China when corona occurred August 2021 we assembled all stakeholders and agreed to work on a safety protocol which would enable us to hopefully sooner then later restart the business. In 2020 it took us about 4 months until June 2020. Then we were allowed and able to restart expos. Even 2020 vs our record year 2019 was of course much worse, we still managed to recover ard. 45pct of our revenues.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

Business Events Is A Vital Part Of The Wider Tourism Ecosystem

Steen Jakobsen, AVP, Dubai Business Events

ES. As part of the Tourism Vision 2025 initiative, Dubai aims to significantly increase its visitor numbers and tourism revenue, what role does Dubai Business Events have in achieving this goal?

How far has goal been achieved?

Steen Jakobsen.

Business events is a vital part of the wider tourism ecosystem and in terms of visitor numbers contributes a significant percentage. But even more than this, the multiplier effect means that the economic impact is particularly important, not only directly into the tourism and business events sectors, but also into the wider knowledge economy. Part of our mandate is to attract business events that align with Dubai and the UAE’s focus on

August 2021

innovation and the sectors of the future, as well as the continued diversification of the economy.

ES. Dubai has been shortlisted to host the 27th International Council of Museums (ICOM) General Conference 2025, the largest international conference in the field of museums? As the city aims to become the "meeting place of the world" in the post-pandemic era, how Dubai is preparing to host this event?

Steen Jakobsen. Dubai’s bid for ICOM 2025 is a typical example of the collaborative approach we take when looking to bring major business events to Dubai. Firstly, it was identified as an important conference to bring to Dubai as it ties in with the increasing focus on culture both within the tourism landscape and embedded within the city as a whole. Multiple entities – including Dubai Business Events, Dubai Municipality and Dubai Culture – have then worked together to create a compelling bid and engage with decisionmakers, including by hosting site inspections in Dubai.

World Has Started Adopting The New-normal Environment ES. How have you witnessed this industry change post-covid?

Naveen Seth. It is imperative to say that the world as started adopting the new-normal environment. Yes, changes have been vast when it comes to the standard event practices in the Pre-Covid Era. To state a few: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

The pandemic has accelerated changes in consumer behavior in terms of using a digital service.

Almost everything moved virtual and will remain hybrid Now hygiene Standards are Second to none The catering business has led to Intelligent and safe Catering Event Organisers attention shifted to smaller regional events.

Technology replaced traditional face-to-face elements The Content became king and has acted as the need of the hour The traditional networking transformed to Curated Networking Restriction in number of delegates for safe execution There is no second to absolute delivery, but the only one

ES. Adaptability is now a mandatory business competency.

47 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

In this Covid-era, while every crisis has its learning’s, what are yours?

Naveen Seth. The global spread of COVID-19 brought trade shows and exhibitions to a screeching halt in early Naveen Seth, ASG, 2020, with large PHD Chamber cancelations of major August 2021 exhibitions and conference around the world. This was indeed disheartening for event professionals.

This situation gave birth to number of companies out there that can help organizations take their shows to the virtual level. This has also given an alternate option for event organisers to explore and take the advantage of the virtual platform where international participants can join with ease with the hassle of spending heavy on travel and stay.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

As Industry Faces Difficult Times, The ITPO Stands With It ES. Many congratulations on your extension as the CMD of ITPO. What would be your key priorities in the coming one year?

LC Goyal. First priority is to complete this entire project within the stipulated time. Certain LC Goyal, Chairman segments of the project And MD, ITPO like 4 exhibition halls September 2021 and entire traffic component of the project are ready for a formal launch within 3-4 months.

However, the entire IECC project is now scheduled to be completed by August 2022. Another priority is to make sure that our industry comes out of these stressful conditions and reboots itself in terms of physical events, exhibitions and conventions.

The organisers and service providers have been adversely affected. How does ITPO plan to support the industry in these tough times?

LC Goyal. ITPO has announced several relief measures for cancellation/re-schedulement of events due to the COVID19 pandemic. I have done away with all the penalties.

Organisers may reschedule events without any penalty being levied provided the request is conveyed to ITPO at least 15 days prior to the start of the tenancy. ITPO has always stood with industry in these difficult times and has issued a list of concessions/ relaxations to the event organisers during the financial year 2021-22. Last month also we have come up with more extensive concessions. We have given 20% discount till December end. We are there for the industry.

Industry should come and tell me what they want. If industry is not capable to use this resource, then it is of no use. We have to work together and ensure that exhibition and convention industry comes out of this difficult time.

Industry has the resilience and strength to bounce back. The idea is to make sure that events are held and more importantly, industry should come back to pre-Covid levels.

ES. This pandemic has brought a lot of strife to the industry.

The 2021 Edition Was Organized Specifically To Target The Post-pandemic Market ES. Gift world Expo is one of the successful trade exhibitions held post-pandemic. What were the key highlights of the Gift World Expo 2021?

Gaurav Juneja. Gifts World Expo aims to get the latest trends in the gifting industry to suit all budget ranges. Held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from 9-11 September, the 2021 Edition was organized specifically to target the postpandemic market and get back to business!

Ten different segments were key highlights of the show: Corporate Gifts & Premiums, Health & Hygiene Products, Custom Branding Machinery, Electronic Appliances & Gadgets, Awards & Rewards, Home Decor & Handicrafts, Houseware & Home Furnishings, Office Supplies & Stationery, Gourmet Hampers, and Gold & Silver Gifts.

Thereby, catering to Celebration Gifts, Festive Gifts, Corporate Gifts, and Promotions.

projected to grow significantly, from an estimated $ 119 million in 2019 to $ 159 million by 2025. What is your forecast in terms of the trends that will shape the gift industry in India?

Gaurav Juneja. The post-pandemic market has seen a shift in the kind of products that are in demand.

Gaurav Juneja Director, MEX Exhibitions September 2021

There has been a new category on health & hygiene products that has been added. That has also become an integral part of the gifting now.

ES. According to the reports, the Indian gifting market is

48 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

Growth Has Largely Been A Product Of 3 Main Thought Pillars ES. Leaders sit at the helm, confront high stakes, and are charged with advancing. What were early projects you are particularly proud of?

Joel Pascual. As President of PEPT Joel Pascual, President, arsus Corporation, (PACEOS) our growth and industry leadership October 2021 has largely been a product of 3 main thought pillars within our company : Ÿ

Value for Money: the age-old adage of “under promise, over deliver” has never gone out of style and that, to this day, has been a mantra for the company.

Exceeding expectations is what creates a loyal customer base Ÿ

Innovation: at the end of every show, we already ask ourselves what new things we can introduce the next year. We are never satisfied unless we are able to answer the questions “what's new?” This is the only way we know how to remain fresh and relevant for both our exhibitors and our visitors.

Ÿ

It's The People: every effort is exerted to equip our people to be professionals and, at the same time, have a healthy relationship with our client base. Our expertise should always evoke confidence while our relationships create that all important team spirit between organizers and exhibitors.

Ÿ

We also created World Food Magazine, a quarterly trade publication that further extended our capability to disseminate relevant information at the same time serve as a marketing medium for our clientele.

Technology By Definition Serves The Purpose Of Making Things Easier ES. Technological change is creating historic shifts in industry footprints. Do you think, this process will accelerate?

top trends you’ve witnessed in the Indian exhibition ecosystem?

Atul Todi. Technology by definition serves the purpose of making things easier, more effective and solve problems in general. Till the time there is room for improvement, technology will continue to push us to move in that direction. With Gen-z entering the workforce, globalization becoming irreversible, the internet becoming omnipresent and smartphones becoming accessible, there is way too much room for innovation in our industry.

Atul Todi. There are a few things that have changed, but I think its still work in progress and Indian Exhibition Ecosystem has a longlong way to go.

So I believe that pandemic just accelerated what was inevitable and this trend will continue. And, as more event companies leverage new tech solutions and show clear benefits, the rest with eventually follow. However, as part of the process, tech solutions which deliver result with continue to evolve, while the rest with perish.

Atul K. Todi, Co Founder at FLOOR October 2021

Since the pandemic, there is higher willingness to adopt technology, greater value for digital platforms, willingness to experiment with new ideas and overall appreciation for data.

These are all good signs for the Indian ecosystem and we hope to see this grow and become part of daily discussion of event planners in coming days.

ES. According to your expertise & knowledge, what are the

49 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

The Pandemic Has Catalysed Technological Innovations ES. What would be your comments on digitalization and the prospects of utilising technology in propelling ahead the momentum in the industry?

Dr. Edward Koh, ED, Conventions, Meetings And Incentive Travel, STB October 2021

Dr. Edward Koh. The pandemic has catalysed technological innovations and concepts in our events industry.

Experimentation with event formats is an up-and-coming trend, with organisers trialling events in virtual or hybrid models. The integration of technology into the visitor experience, such as digital guides and contactless

registration, will also become mainstream. In terms of innovation, this is the most fertile period in our industry’s history, and we have seized this by piloting and scaling many new solutions. For instance, one initiative we have been working on is our Augmented Reality (AR) Strategy, which aims to help tourism businesses develop interactive and engaging AR content for our visitors. We will be creating a repository of high-quality AR content that our industry stakeholders can leverage to enrich their digital platforms and will guide them on how to deploy this technology effectively.

Recognising that digitalisation is key, STB has launched TCube (Tourism Technology Transformation Cube), which provides a holistic suite of tools to guide tourism businesses in Singapore to build capabilities to succeed in the digital age. These tools help tourism businesses learn more about themselves, test their concepts or ideas, and build solutions that last and meet customers’ needs.

Reinvent The Operational Model To Adapt To The Changing Scenario ES. What are your upcoming plans? What major events are in the pipeline?

Rupa Naik. WTC Mumbai is committed to promote bilateral trade and investment through our new age digital platform wetrade.org. In the coming months, we are planning to connect Indian MSMEs to buyers in Peru, South Africa and Eswatini by organizing dedicated online exhibitions with these countries.

In addition, we are excited to bounce back in an in-person format and have Travel & Tourism, Textiles, Art Fair, Handicrafts and Food & Wine exhibitions, to name a few, lined up in the coming months. All physical exhibitions will be supported by safety guidelines as per the government norms for its organizers, exhibitors, visitors who will be coming to the venue.

As a Venue provider, to conduct B2B and B2C exhibitions amidst the new normal, we have a detailed set of enhanced measures. WTC provides organizers and attendees the reassurance and confidence that they are participating in a

50 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

safe and controlled environment and are based on the broader principles of Physical Distancing & Hygiene.

ES. What would be your message to the industry?

Rupa Naik, ED, World Rupa Naik. In one Trade Center Mumbai year, the COVID pandemic has November 2021 accelerated the digital transformation process, which would have otherwise taken several years.

As the world is constantly evolving technologically and economically, we need to reinvent our operational model to adapt to the changing scenario and also to become costeffective.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

This Year That Month

December 2021

I Would Wish For More Seamless User Experiences & Smarter Analytics

Michael Dehn, MD, Messe Frankfurt, South Africa

ES. Much like the rest of the world, the exhibitions and events industry has undergone a lot of change in a short period of time. What have been the major changes that you have seen during your time in the industry?

Michael Dehn. I would say that some aspects of our business have changed fast and some aspects are not changing fast enough. I don’t miss the times of paper exhibitor manuals and countless forms by fax. I would certainly wish for more seamless user experiences and smarter analytics.

There is still a lot more potential when 100% of your

November 2021

audience carry a smart device with many sensors around.

On the other hand, when you look at a floor plan of an exhibition in 1921 – 100 years ago – and you see 9sqm booths, 3m isles etc, that’s when you realise that some things have not changed, have not needed to change.

ES. How do you manage your professional and personal life? We would like to know, what keeps you busy when you are away from work?

Michael Dehn. This question comes at the right time: I have never faced a more challenging balancing act between professional and personal life than an international move. We are right in the middle of it, so I can’t tell you yet how I do it. Time will tell. What keeps me busy away from work: we love going out of town with friends for BBQs, hiking, swimming etc. The most relaxing time I spend in my workshop, working on small projects (woodworking, metalworking) or teaching my daughter a new piece on the piano.

Multi-Tasking Becomes A Part Of Our DNA ES. How was the idea of IAVM Foundation conceived and how did it come into action? Please share the details.

Brad Mayne. The Foundation was initially conceived when the Cincinnati Task Force in their 1980 report, following “The Who” concert tragedy (1979), made a heartfelt request to the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) to develop and implement crowd management safety standards so that venues across the nation could learn from this devastating tragedy.

As a result, the IAVM Foundation was propelled from the drawing board to a focused existence in 1982, and since then, has provided over $3.2 million in funding for professional development and education, research, and best practices development to ensure the safety and advancement of the public assembly venue industry.

ES. We would like to know, what keeps you busy when you are away from work?

Brad Mayne. As a long time, venue manager, I have faced

51 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

some pretty big challenges and learned from each challenge. The events industry is a great school in training how to handle major occurrences.

Multi-tasking becomes a part of our DNA and Brad Mayne, President & if we hire quality and CEO, IAVM trustworthy staff November 2021 to assist, they can make or break the ability to be agile and efficient at doing everything well. When I am not working, I am spending time with my wife and our nine grandchildren.

I attend and am active in my church and in service to our community. I also love to fish, and my brother and our families take frequent trips to Alaska together for a week of salmon and halibut fishing.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

December 2021

Insights

UFI’s 5 Trends To Watch In 2022 becoming the norm.

Climate change and carbon reductions

fter the catastrophic 2020, our industry saw more reason to be hopeful in 2021. This year, markets began to re-open around the world – but not with the full reopening we had hoped for, as we continue to be challenged by new waves and new variants of COVID.

A

We are still facing an outlook of “stop and go” for show organisers – the most difficult situation possible for our industry. But as we head towards the end of the year, we have passed a remarkable tipping point: Less than a year after the first vaccination campaigns began, more than half the world’s population have received at least one dose, with more than 26 million doses of the vaccine being given daily.

So, it is time to look beyond the pandemic challenge, and towards the trends that will shape our industry in 2022 and beyond. As every year, the UFI team has been speaking to many of our members and industry leaders from all around the world. In five concise themes, here is what we believe will shape the next 12 – 18 months.

52 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Working jointly as an industry, we have formulated an industry wide pledge to deliver “net zero carbon events” by 2050 at the latest. We are working with the United Nations on this action, and we presented this pledge and the work ahead at COP26 in Glasgow. Within weeks, hundreds of businesses from across our sector have signed up.

Customer retention

In this “In between” time, travel remains depressed – with fewer people able to attend exhibitions. At the same time, the urge to return to the show floor is tangible. The experience on site is different – with unfamiliar set ups shaped by health regulations, for example. Last year, we wrote that returning shows would focus mainly on the “trade” in trade show – and that is what we see, with sellers reporting good business with the buyers they meet, and referring to “high quality visitors”.

This demonstrates how high up on everyone’s agenda sustainability has risen. Customers, governments, investors, employees are all increasingly demanding that we rapidly decrease the carbon footprint of our industry. We don’t start this ‘race to zero’ from zero, and we have a strong case to make as an industry that every exhibition that we organize helps to reduce carbon emissions – as we aggregate an industry and its players at one location at the same time, saving a multitude of individual business trips instead.

Data & digital debate

As the pandemic complexities diminish going forward, we will see how fast and to what degree we will welcome pre pandemic customers back, and to what degree we will see fewer, more senior attendees

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Insights The discussion about data stewardship, data ownership, and data monetisation will only grow in relevance as our industry’s business model evolves towards more holistically connecting supply and demand. Yes, “face to face” will remain at the core of the events industry, but tomorrow’s champions of our industry will be those companies who find the best activation between on-site industry events and online communities, content and services.

Platform solutions are here to stay.

Expect to see consolidation taking place as well as more clearly defined business models in that space.

A new staffing narrative

December 2021 take on positions in seemingly more stable industries and sectors. Job security, salaries, and seemingly less stressful positions are the top reasons HR departments hear when dealing with these departures.

Yet our sector has always been able to attract bright, motivated, and uniquely talented people – and this will not change. But we will be well advised to re-think how we position our businesses, and to write a new narrative focused on why a career in business events stands out. For a generation that is driven by the search for purpose, looking for meaning in their work, wanting to be involved – we can offer them what no other sector can: Being there where the future is taking shape, and being a member of the community that makes it happen.

Tipping points

Most companies have been forced to let some employees go during the pandemic. In addition, some colleagues have left our industry to

In “tipping point” theories, we focus on one event or development that will change something forever. And, for the foreseeable future, we will spend a lot of time discussing potential tipping points, from customer behaviour to climate change, from staff retention to

the covid pandemic. However, so far, we have not seen the “Uber” disruption moment in our industry, where a digital newcomer rewrites our business model. Instead, rather the opposite, our industry has embraced digital solutions, alongside more traditional services, enriching our offerings and value. We have not seen a pandemic tipping point either, with buyers and sellers embracing online events over the on site tradeshows experience – again rather the opposite, with buyers and sellers marking digital trade shows with an extremely low Net Promoter Score of -51.

We have once again seen the solidity of the face to face business model.

But we are called upon to find the right answers, perhaps the right mix, to many challenges – from exhibitor and visitor retention to climate change.

These are ‘in between’ times, says UFI CEO Kai Hattendorf, who identies ve trends to watch in 2022

53 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Sustainability

December 2021

The Convention Centre Dublin Secures Accreditation In Event Sustainability Management Systems

he Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD) announced that it has secured accreditation in Event Sustainability Management Systems – ISO 20121.

T

The accreditation was awarded by SGS, the awarding body on behalf of ISO, in November 2021. In addition to ISO20121, The CCD also holds Quality Standard ISO 9001 and Environmental Standard ISO 14001, as well as British Security Standard Bs7499.

The CCD has been focusing on sustainability for some years now, with a vision to become Ireland's most sustainable venue and a leading expert in sustainable event delivery in Europe.

They have identified four ambitions to achieve this vision, together with the support of industry partners, clients and delegates: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

ISO 20121, The CCD was recognised for its achievements including: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

The venue is supplied by 100% certified renewable electricity Single use plastics removed from the venue's cash catering offering The CCD held its first carbon neutral event in 2021 The CCD achieved Gold Healthy Venue accreditation in 2021 Clients are offered the option to offset carbon emissions from their event by planting trees. To date, 300 indigenous trees have been planted.

Speaking about the accreditation, Stephen Meehan, CEO of The CCD said, “We are proud to be accredited with ISO 20121. As the world's first

carbonneutral constructed convention centre, The CCD is one of Europe's most environmenta lly friendly venues and this accreditation demonstrates our commitment to long term sustainability and leading event sustainability in Ireland. We will continue to push ourselves as a business to always improve on our sustainability efforts and the impact we make on the environment”.

Alan Gallagher, Director of Event Operations at The CCD added, “We will continue to ensure that the venue leads and influences suppliers and clients to make the rights choices and come up with innovative sustainable ideas for events held at The CCD”.

The CCD aims to set the standard for green events and is committed to a secure and sustainable future by positively impacting the environment, economy and society. An annual external audit will take place for The CCD to continue to hold the ISO 20121.

Carbon neutral by 2025 ISO20121 by 2021 Sustainable hospitality Eliminate single use plastics by 2023

As part of the external audit process for

54 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Partnership

December 2021

Clarion Events Enters Partnership With Consero larion Events has announced it has partnered with Consero Group, a Maryland-based provider of invitation-only programs, serving senior corporate executives through innovative and intimate inperson and virtual events, and boardroom-style roundtables.

C

Clarion Events in North America has grown dramatically through a series of well-defined and diversified partnerships and acquisitions, with a strong focus on value-led connections programs. As the tradeshow industry at large experiences an accelerating recovery, Clarion has focused on ensuring differentiation in the market by integrating new and evolving models with a targeted focus on connecting buyers and sellers through meaningful meetings. The partnership with Consero follows last year's partnership with Quartz Events, a market-leading digital and in-person, one-to-one meetings business which has,

55 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

as expected, seen exponential growth in 2021.

“While our core business is coming back strong, the last 21 months have taught us that we cannot rest on what we know, we must continue to evolve our business and find new ways to deliver value,” commented Greg Topalian, Clarion Events North American CEO. “The team at Consero has developed an excellent model, their event format is tailored with highly defined participation in a smaller event environment, creating exclusivity and value for participants, which is a sought-after experience we are seeing more and more of today in our business and complements our existing meetings programs.”

The partnership comes at the perfect time as events are returning to live and will extend Clarion's emphasis on product diversification that is focused on delivering customer value. Consero

today is focused in the Legal, Human Resources, Procurement, Customer Experience and Technology markets, which represent new opportunities for Clarion both in North America and Globally. “We are thrilled to be partnering with Clarion,” said Paul Mandell, Consero CEO. “They have developed more than just an excellent brand. Their deep event expertise, strong corporate culture, and commitment to innovation offers immeasurable value to the companies within their umbrella. The partnership will allow our team to continue to drive the business and provide further opportunities for expansion.”

Consero will preserve its current organizational structure with Paul Mandell remaining as CEO, Jessica Druckman as SVP of Program Development, and Will Card as SVP of Strategic Partnerships. The senior leadership team is located in the Washington D.C. and the New York City Metropolitan Areas and will remain remote while working alongside Topalian and his team in North America.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

December 2021

Chris Bray ASM Global—the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences, venue management and event strategy—has named Chris Bray Executive Vice President, European operations, with responsibility of all aspects of ASM’s European business. Bray who will be based in Manchester, England, is a 30-year veteran in commercial, operations, entertainment and strategic development within the high-street retail, leisure and hospitality industries.

Jessica Johnson Visit Seattle has appointed Jessica Johnson as Director of Marketing, effective November 29, 2021. In this role, Johnson will oversee Visit Seattle’s marketing initiatives and work closely with stakeholders to identify market opportunities and execute marketing campaign strategies implemented to drive tourism. She will be responsible for promoting the destination and building brand awareness on behalf of the city, county, and region through creative, multichannel campaigns.

Carrie Ferenac The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announced the results of the elections for its 2022 Board of Directors. Carrie Ferenac, Co-Founder and President of CNTV, will serve as 2022 IAEE Chairperson of the Board. Ferenac also volunteers her time and energy to projects that forward the industry, including Legislative Action Day and the Exhibitions Mean Business campaign.

Nick Ornstien Nick returns to dmg events as Vice President -ADIPEC. He has 25 years of experience in the exhibition and conference sector. Nick started his career with dmg events in 2013 working on ADIPEC and managing the business development activities in the Middle East region for the energy division. Whilst located in the Middle East he launched EGYPS, Middle East Heavy Oil Congress. Nick spent 18 months in the Singapore office managing the Asian energy portfolio which included Gas Indonesia and gas Asia.Moving back to the UK in 2017 he took over the management of the UK based energy events which included Gastech where he was instrumental in annualizing the event. In 2021 Nick returned to the Middle East where he now manages ADIPEC.

56 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Global News

December 2021

ICC Sydney Celebrates 5 Years Of Operation every year, adding vibrancy to our city and acting as a catalyst for economic investment in innovation and through its long supply chain reaching out to the state’s regions,” Premier Perrottet said.

nternational Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) commemorates five years of operation this week, having contributed to $2.53 billion of visitor expenditure and a host of community benefits by consistently delivering successful events.

I

With 250 events already secured for the first half of 2022 and events in the pipeline through to 2031, ICC Sydney expects a return to delivering $1 billion annually to the New South Wales (NSW) community within the next five years. Following a $3.4 billion redevelopment of the convention, exhibition, entertainment centre and its precinct by the NSW Government through a Public Private Partnership, ICC Sydney CEO, Geoff Donaghy said the past five years have seen the team’s agility, innovation and resilience come to the fore. “After launching the venue in December 2016, the team has delivered 2,700 conventions,

exhibitions, banquets, seminars and entertainment events and welcomed 4.5 million attendees through our doors.

“Agility, innovation and a focus on world class service has resulted in success for our customers and our community even under the most challenging of conditions,” Donaghy said. NSW Premier The Hon. Dominic Perrottet congratulated ICC Sydney on maintaining its position as a jewel in the crown of the State’s infrastructure investments and its ongoing commitment to the people of NSW. “ICC Sydney attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors through its doors

Darling Harbour Live Project Coordinator, Peter Robertson said the Public Private Partnership approach to ICC Sydney had been a great success and he congratulated all the participants in the project – the New South Wales Government together with consortium members Lendlease, Hostplus, Aware Super, Capella Capital, ASM Global and Spotless FM. “The ongoing success of ICC Sydney is made possible by many stakeholders and we look forward to many more fruitful years of returns for our major investors HostPlus and Aware Super and the New South Wales community more broadly,” Mr Robertson said.

BPA Worldwide’s iCompli Sustainability Division Joins Maritz Global Events’ Wellbeing Network lobal assurance provider BPA Worldwide’s iCompli Sustainability division announced it has become an official member of the Maritz Global Events Wellbeing Network to provide a custom tool for clients that measures the carbon footprint of an event and then provides guidance to improve it.

G

“Maritz Global Events is committed to sustainability in every aspect of our business, and we work deliberately to lessen the impact the events industry has on our planet and to positively influence humanity,” explained Rachael Riggs, CMP, DES, Wellbeing

59 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Leader at Maritz Global Events. “We understand that events have an impact on the communities in which they are held, and we are committed to supporting our clients and their sustainability plan through industry standards, service offerings and strategic guidance. The BPA iCompli Sustainability team is known around the world as a quality provider of guidance, certification and standards setting in the events industry, and is a great addition to the Wellbeing Network.”

The BPA tool works in three phases.

During the first phase, Discovery and

Assessment, participating organizers learn what kind of data is needed to complete the carbon footprint assessment. In the second phase, Design to Improve the Footprint, the BPA iCompli Sustainability team ensures the organizer inputs complete information and the full footprint calculation is provided. Maritz Global Events will receive the report and make recommendations on how to lessen the amount of carbon dioxide released in the atmosphere as a result of hosting the event. In the third phase, Maritz Global Events will work with the organizers to ensure recommendations are implemented efficiently.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

December 2021 lockdown decisions of governments. In this difficult environment, reputation, certainty and trust are critical when the global competition for visitors has never been higher.”

Australia’s Border Closure Results In Cancellation Of 259 International Conventions And Exhibitions hrough its latest Forward Calendar analysis, the Association of Australian Convention Bureaux (AACB) has recorded 259 international business events that have cancelled since the Federal Government closed Australia’s international border in March 2020.

T

AACB President, Michael Matthews explained, “It has taken convention bureaux years of positive engagement to position Australia ahead of competing countries to secure these international business events. Global rotation of many of these opportunities means we are simply not able to host again in the next year or two, and some may see 5-10 years until regional rotation allows us to contest and bid again.”

With these cancelled business events, Australia has lost the opportunity to host more than 100,000 international delegates and experts in their fields

60 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

across health, science, education, and business, in our capital and regional cities. From a direct visitor perspective, the loss of more than 700,000 delegate days has removed some $420 million in anticipated revenue from tourism and events businesses and has diminished their ability to keep skilled people in work in our local communities. The recent two-week delay in reopening Australia’s international border by the Federal Government in response to the new Omicron variant is a reaction that event organisers around the world are watching – defining our global reputation – and impacting destination selection today for business events in future years.

Speaking to Australian tourism industry leaders Destinations International’s President and CEO, Don Welsh said, “While Australia remains on bucket lists of travellers around the world, they continue to watch the border closures and

Mr Matthews said, “The delay to international re-opening, coupled with state and territory lockdowns and restrictions on the domestic business events market over the past 20 months has prevented the industry from earning revenue and operating with consistency, and warrants the need for fair and targeted Federal financial support.” This need is even more urgent given that a significant proportion of the Government’s $50m Business Events Grant Program has failed to reach the industry’s supply chain as intended, more than 12 months after it was announced.

Mr Matthews added, “As we see states and territories begin re-open, many supply chain businesses will continue to run at a loss well into 2022, as the peak domestic business events season for this year comes to an end. Business survival and the retention of specialist industry skills is a key concern – both of which are critical to deliver on the high demand expected in recovery.” It is also timely for the Government to commit now to investment in the successful Business Events Bid Fund Program for the next three years, in addition to Tourism Australia’s annual appropriation, as identified in the THRIVE 2030 plan, to boost future confidence and attract high-yield business events and their delegates to Australia.

As program commitments are only activated for successful bids, and matched financial contribution is required, the bid fund offers only a winwin opportunity for the Federal Government and Australia.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

December 2021

UNWTO Calls Against Blanket Travel Restrictions he World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) of the United Nations calls out against the introduction of blanket restrictions on travel, as witnessed in recent days. This call echoes the concerns raised by UNWTO Members during the 24th UNWTO General Assembly (30 November–3 December). Countries from all global regionsexpressed their solidarity with Southern African states, calling for the immediate lifting of travel bans imposed on specific countries and for freedom of international travel to be upheld.

T

UNWTO takes note of the recent declarations of the United Nations Secretary-General and the Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the unfairness and ineffectiveness of blanket travel in respect to the countries of Southern Africa.

Restrictions ineffective and discriminatory

61 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

In light of recent developments, UNWTO has once again reminded countries that the imposition of blanket restrictions on travel is discriminatory, ineffective and contrary to WHO recommendations. Blanket restrictions may also stigmatize countries or whole regions.

During the UNWTO General Assembly, Members States and partners, including voices from international organizations and across the private sector, echoed WHO’s advice that travel restrictions should only be imposed as a very last resort in response to changing circumstances.

Furthermore, it was stressed that if restrictions are introduced, they must be proportionate, transparent, and scientifically based.

They must also only be introduced with a full appreciation of what halting international travel would mean for the most vulnerable, including those developing countries and individuals

who depend on tourism for their economies and livelihoods.

Coordination not discrimination Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, UNWTO has called for coordinated and evidence-based approaches to balancing public health concerns with keeping the lifeline of tourism intact. Over recent months, such an approach has been shown to be the most effective way forward.

UNWTO notes that travel and vaccination levels are closely connected, as the emergence of new variants facilitated by low levels of vaccination has shown. As such, UNWTO calls on all countries to act in solidarity to ensure equitable access to vaccines for all, to recognize all WHO approved vaccines for the purpose of international travel and to facilitate access to patents for local production of vaccines.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

December 2021

Fastener Fair Stuttgart Rebranded To Fastener Fair Global ack-Brooks Exhibitions, organiser of the show, announced the new name, logo and style for the Fastener Fair Stuttgart show, now called Fastener Fair Global.

Fastener Fair Global, the International Exhibition for the Fastener and Fixing Industry taking place from 21 - 23 March 2023, at Messe Stuttgart, Germany, is now also live with a new restyled show website. Mack-Brooks Exhibitions believe that the new brand name reflects more on the international character of the exhibition, with the German show considered the flagship event of the Fastener Fair series.

M

Hand in hand with the name change, the logo has also been updated.

Building on the existing branding, Mack-Brooks Exhibitions has reimagined the iconic double interlocking Fs and the classic yellow and blue colour palette, trading the outdated 3D look for a bolt head in a

62 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

contemporary flat aesthetic. "With the new brand, we wanted to get away from a late 1990's design by refreshing its style with a more modern look.

Over the years, the fastener and fixing industry has consolidated industry 4.0 into manufacturing processes and across different supply chain stages, including automation, advanced robotics, augmented reality and big data. As the leading trade exhibition for the fastening industry, Fastener Fair Stuttgart – now Fastener Fair Global has continuously supported the industry throughout its technological advancements. Now, we thought it was

time to adapt the logo to a new digital era, as the old logo did also not fit the purpose of preserving consistency between traditional and digital advertising. Therefore, we opted for a simpler and more iconic design. In order to guarantee brand recognition, we kept Fastener Fair Global in a distinctive blue and yellow colour palette, but with more saturated colours that have a stronger visual appeal." says Liljana Goszdziewski, Portfolio Director of the European Fastener Fairs on behalf of the organiser Mack-Brooks Exhibitions.

Fastener Fair Global is the global flagship exhibition of the Fastener Fair brand. The show is the world's leading meeting place for the fastener and fixing industry. It is part of a series of targeted trade events for the fastener and fixing industry, including Fastener Fair Italy, Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair Mexico and Fastener Fair USA.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

December 2021

German Trade Fair Industry Appeals To The New Federal Government For Clear Trade Fair Regulations he trade fair industry in Germany is demanding clear trade fair regulations from the new federal government for the start of 2022. From now on until the beginning of spring, some 130 trade fairs are planned in Germany. The majority of these will have a strong international focus. More than a dozen trade fairs for 2022 have already been postponed or even cancelled. The reason: inconsistent policies.

T

Jörn Holtmeier, Managing Director of the Association of the German Trade Fair Industry (AUMA) said: "Aid packages worth billions could be done without if the federal and state governments pursued clear and anticipatory policies – also during this pandemic. A decision in winter has a pull on summer. Omitting decisions in summer has a double effect on the pandemic winter. The situation is dramatic. The economic damage in the trade fair industry will be even higher in 2021 than in 2020.

As of Dec. 10, trade fairs are prohibited again in three German federal states. In some places, trade fairs are hardly economically feasible any more due to all kinds of restrictions. 71 percent of the planned trade fairs were cancelled in 2021, compared to 68 percent in 2020.

The total economic loss since the beginning of the pandemic has now reached 46.2 billion euros. While last year alone the damage amounted to 21.8 billion euros, in 2021 at least another 24.4 billion euros will be lost.

230000 jobs in Germany depend on the trade fair industry. 165000 jobs are endangered by the up and down. The return of the international public is

63 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Ÿ

crucial for the recovery of Germany as a trade fair country and as the venue for two-thirds of all leading trade fairs of the world economy. Economic recovery is only possible if the international travel restrictions are cancelled, if the vaccination dithering ends, and if politics enables trade fairs, Holtmeier explained. "As sorry as we are, we cannot grant a honeymoon of 100 days.

We appeal to Robert Habeck to act immediately!"

Five demands of the trade fair industry accompany the inauguration of the new Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck: Ÿ

The special trade fair fund must be complemented by a security fund for exhibitors and trade fair service providers. The current programme is missing the mark. Investments of

Ÿ

Ÿ

Ÿ

exhibiting companies are not covered.

Small and medium-sized enterprises must be given stronger support with an independent domestic trade fair promotion programme of at least 30 million euros in 2023. The promotion of young, innovative companies has to be expanded.

The Netherlands and Austria are already showing the way. In Germany, too, people have to be considered vaccinated if they have already been vaccinated with vaccines recognised by the World Health Organisation.

A strong effort is needed by the German missions abroad and the German trade fair industry in order to promote Germany as an international trade fair venue. In other countries, there are already specific programmes to direct international trade visitors to the home market.

The way out of this pandemic is and will be vaccination. In order to be able to return to stability and predictability, the trade fair industry strongly supports the introduction of a general compulsory vaccination against Corona in Germany.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

December 2021

VNU Asia Pacific Appoints Igor Palka As Managing Director gor Palka has been appointed as Managing Director for VNU’s regional office in the South East Asian region. Based in Bangkok, Igor Palka will be starting officially on the 15th of January 2022.

Mr. Palka is a seasoned trade show executive with over 18 years of exhibition industry knowledge and leadership in Germany and South Asia.

I

He spent most of his professional life with Messe Muenchen GmbH, a leading global player in the sector, where his career steps included the leadership of Messe Muenchen’s subsidiaries in India as CEO and COO, serving as Director for the Ceramitec Portfolio as well as leading the standardization of Digital Events. Most recently, Igor served as Managing Director of an international exhibition series in Berlin, Germany.

Mr. Palka will be overseeing the entire South East Asian region with responsibility for continuing the rapid business expansion in the postpandemic recovery phase.

Mr. Palka will be in charge of executing the organization’s regional growth strategy with a focus on portfolio expansion, new business development, strategic joint ventures, operational excellence and digital transformation.

Albert Arp, CEO of Royal Jaarbeurs | VNU Group and Chairman of the Board of VNU Asia Pacific: “We are excited to welcome Igor to our team.

With Igor’s international experience, passion and broad knowledge of the exhibition industry, we can guarantee a smooth transition and a successful continuation of the business development and leadership excellence in the region.” “Igor is an experienced

and ambitious executive, that shares our passion and vision for future growth, execution speed and superior customer service.” said Heiko M. Stutzinger, COO of Royal Jaarbeurs | VNU Group and Member of the Board of Directors VNU Asia Pacific.

“As the South East Asian region is reopening for the trade fair industry with huge investments upcoming, Igor can rely on a great team with excellent stakeholder relations – together with the VNU Asia Pacific team, I am sure Igor will bring our regional operations and portfolio to the next level.”

The Industry Re-Unites At IBTM World Barcelona 2021 BTM World Barcelona, the first face-to-face event in the IBTM portfolio in two years, has been hailed a huge success by organisers, closing on December 2021with over 30,000 pre-scheduled one-to-one business meetings having taken place, and more than 7,000 attendees joining for quality one-to-one business meetings, networking and education in Barcelona.

I

Over 1,200 exhibiting companies from 70 countries around the world attended the three-day event. Over 1,400 high quality Hosted Buyers were present from 72 countries, and almost half were completely new to the IBTM portfolio, representing more opportunities for exhibitors to do business with new contacts. This year for the first time the Association Programme was created

64 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

with the support of the four main global organisations for association professionals: European Society of Association Executives (ESAE), American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE), and Asia-Pacific Federation of Association Organizations (APFAO), as well as the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). The programme followed three core themes: inspire, exchange and solve, designed to spark fresh ideas, encourage peer to peer learning and sharing of best practice, and deliver tangible solutions to real issues facing the associations and events sector.

In addition, IBTM's Elite Corporate Programme explored key insights specifically focused on the needs of

corporate Hosted Buyers. Themes included: the future of the meetings experience, re-starting events and evaluating their success, and peer-topeer learning and insights.

Under the theme of 'New Business, New Tech, New World' there was a schedule of inspirational educational sessions around four topical themes: Trends and technology; gamification and engagement; the future of event planning; and career and personal development, delivered by expert speakers.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

December 2021

Detroit's World-Class Convention Center Renamed From TCF To Huntington Place

he Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA) and Huntington National Bank has announced Huntington Place as the new name for Detroit's world-class convention center.

As one of the top 20 convention centers in the country, the new name signifies an important community moment in the transformation of Detroit's gathering place for conventions, meetings, and special events.

“We are proud that following the TCFHuntington merger, the name of our new combined bank now graces the walls of this civic center that means so much to the people of Detroit and all of southeast Michigan. From high school graduations to the North American International Auto Show, from speeches by sitting presidents to the annual NAACP Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner, this venerable facility is part of the fabric of our community and Huntington is fortunate to now be a part of it,” said Gary Torgow, Chairman,

T

65 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

Huntington Bank. Detroit's convention center completed its $279 million transformation in 2015 and has hosted some of the most important meetings and conventions in the country, ranking it the 16th largest convention center in the United States. Built by the city of Detroit, it originally opened in 1960 and continues to contribute to the economic development of Detroit by bringing 1.5 million visitors a year from across the globe. Against the backdrop of an international riverfront, Huntington Place projects continued future growth for world-class meetings, conventions, and event business in 2022.

“Our naming rights agreement, which

was a priority for the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority, began with TCF Bank and continues with Huntington Bank in strengthening the Center's financial future. We are dedicated not only to being a contributor to our region's economic vitality, but also to creating jobs and enhancing the attraction of our destination to visitors,” said Lisa Canada, Chair, DRCFA. “Both of our organizations have a deep commitment to the communities we serve.”

With 723,000 square feet of exhibit space, Huntington Place boasts one of the largest contiguous exhibit floor spaces in North America and has the largest ballroom in Michigan with 40,000 square feet. It has received numerous industry awards for excellence including the 2020 USGBC Leadership Award for Building Performance, making it the only convention center in the history of the award to receive it.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

December 2021

Destinations International, IAEE and PCMA Announce Inaugural Business Events Industry Week A Week Dedicated to Bringing the Global Business Events Industry to the United States Capital estinations International, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) and PCMA has announced Business Events Industry Week, a week dedicated to community, commerce, content, awards and advocacy in order to unite the global business events industry and to reinforce the power of business events to advance economies and social good. This week is intended for destinations and industry service suppliers to optimize their time with clients and engage with exceptional learning experiences.

National Harbor, MD. The following industry events will coincide with Business Events Industry Week:

D

The inaugural Business Events Industry Week, March 23-25, 2022, will convene all who are integral in staging successful

Destinations International’s Convention Sales and Services Summit will be held on March 23, as will a series of PCMA leadership meetings. Ÿ IAEE’s Women’s Leadership Forum will be held on March 24. Ÿ The PCMA Foundation’s Visionary Awards will also be held on March 24. Ÿ Destination Showcase, a joint venture between Destinations International and PCMA since 2019, will be held on March 25. Ÿ

business events outcomes – associations, corporations, destination organization professionals, industry suppliers and business events strategists.

The action-packed week will be curated with client meetings and exciting events to celebrate industry visionaries, all taking place at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in

International Sourcing Expo Australia And Footwear And Leather Show – Dates Announced For 2022 he International Sourcing Expo and Footwear and Leather Show and co-located China Clothing Textiles Accessories Expo is Australasia’s largest sourcing expo in apparel, accessories and textiles.

Thousands of apparel, textile and footwear industry leaders from Australia and the Asia Pacific will converge at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for the events from 15 - 17 November 2022.

T

“We are excited to announce the show dates for 2022 and that from 2023 we will be expanding the show format to include additional dates and product categories. As the seminal producer of global sourcing events in Australia we are committed to innovation and the

66 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

long-term future of the event portfolio in Australia. The premise of the shows is to bring companies together for commerce, connection and education and the appetite for all these elements is stronger than ever before.” said Marie Kinsella, Chief Executive Officer, International Exhibition & Conference Group Pty Ltd. The portfolio of events provides a reliable forum for businesses to connect on an international scale and in a dynamic trade show environment rich

with sourcing opportunities and potential production partners, as well as education and industry insights. The events will help businesses and industries to reinvigorate their global sourcing activities and to build sustainable alliances with production partners.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

December 2021

DUBAI AIRSHOW Heralds A Strong Comeback For Industry

arsus Group's flagship event, the Dubai Airshow, concluded its 2021 edition having seen the industry turn out in force for the first face-to-face event in almost two years.

The event saw exceptional numbers of visitors, delegations, senior industry executives and media – more than 104,000 in total – from across the globe in attendance at the five-day event from Nov. 14-18. Total attendance at the show increased by 24% whilst trade visitor numbers were up by 50% on the 2019 pre-pandemic edition.

T

The industry-leading show is renowned for facilitating thousands of face-to-face meetings, commercial deals and new partnerships – the order book at the event totalled US$78bn by closing day.

The Dubai Airshow is also a major showcase for the aerospace and defence industries, and in spite of organising the event against the backdrop of COVID19 the event team was determined to

67 | www.exhibi onshowcase.com

invest in the show and deliver an event that helped to both support the industry's recovery and also create its flightpath to a more innovative, sustainable future. The show featured several new sectors and feature areas with a particular focus on new technologies, sustainability and industry innovation via a start-up hub and the Aerospace 2050 forum. Working closely with event partners, stakeholders and the UAE government, the show was produced in strict adherence with local guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees. Measures such as mask wearing, thermal screening, deep sanitisation and a revised show floor layout were in place throughout the event.

In total 148 countries were represented at the show, with 20 country pavilions and new to show countries including Israel and the Czech Republic.

Douglas Emslie, CEO of Tarsus Group,

organisers of the Dubai Airshow said: “The event has been a testament to the resilience, robustness and adaptability of the aviation and aerospace industries to come back with such strength whilst also highlighting the critical role of inperson events in supporting business.

The figures speak for themselves, attendance at the show was exceptional and the number of global senior executives from across the industries has never been higher than this year.

The Dubai Airshow is today recognised as a world-class platform that is shaping the future of the aerospace sector and we thank everyone involved, especially the UAE government, for helping to make the 2021 edition a resounding success.” The Dubai Airshow is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and will take place again in 2023 at Dubai World Central (DWC), Al Maktoum airport.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE