Jan 2021

Rs. 125

Jan 2021 Vol 8 Issue 06 Voice of Asia’s Exhibition & Convention Industry

INDIA GIVES GO - AHEAD TO ALL KINDS OF EXHIBITIONS NESCO TO INVEST 325 CR. TO EXPAND EXPO CENTRE SIGNIFICANT RECOVERY EXPECTED FOR EXHIBITIONS BY LATE 2021

SPECIAL REPORT A REVIEW OF AERO INDIA'S LEGACY AND GLIMPSE OF HYBRID EDITION IN 2021

COVER INTERVIEW MICHAEL DUCK EXECUTIVE VP - COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT INFORMA MARKETS

Dear Readers,

M I C E Showcase &

PSU BUZZ

As the world recovers from the crippling COVID- 19 pandemic, with widespread vaccina on programmes and a swi adop on of comprehensive test-and-trace regimes, together with con nual, strong interna onal coordina on from the private and public sectors, the business tourism is poised to make a come back in 2021 . According to a latest study by World Travel & Tourism Council, more than 100 million lobs could return to the global Travel & Tourism sector during 2021 and this does send in a lot of posi vity for the exhibi on & conven on industry as it is a travel based industry. UFI, The Global Associa on of the Exhibi on Industry has released the latest edi on of its flagship Global Barometer research, which tracks the pulse of the industry. The 26th UFI Global Barometer suggests that the impact of COVID-19 in 2020 has been severe, but there are posi ve signs for 2021, wherby Industry revenues are expected to double in 2021 compared to 2020, when revenues represented just 28% of 2019 revenues. It also states that on a global average, around 54% of companies have had to reduce their workforce, with half of these by more than 25%. Further, the report says that 64% of the respondents are confident that COVID-19 has reinforced the value of face-to-face events, and that the sector will recover quickly. You can read the full report inside.

The Government of India has given permission that now all kind of exhibi ons can be held anywhere for which the department of commerce will issue new procedures. Earlier, only B2B exhibi ons were given permission by the government. Read the full story inside.

As the ac ve cases decline steadily in India, it has also become the fastest country to reach 1 million Covid-19 vaccina ons, reaching this landmark figure in just six days. Meanwhile, India has also started expor ng coronavirus vaccines with a shipment to the neighbouring Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, as the so-called “pharmacy of the world” looks to bolster its vaccine diplomacy. Many low and middle-income countries are relying on India, the world's biggest vaccine maker, for supplies to start COVID19 immunisa on programmes and bring an end to their outbreaks.

This edi on carries some insigh ul stories and exclusive interviews. Do keep reading and subscribe to our social media channels on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twi er and YouTube for latest updates and special video interviews.

Happy Reading!

World Map - News From The World Of Exhibitions

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Pg. 10-16 New Covid Guidelines: Exhibitions Allowed To Open Founder Of ITE Group And Industry Trailblazer, Roger Shashoua Passes Away Secutech India To Open Its Doors In September 2021

Insights

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What not to forget in 2021 and beyond: By J Shankar

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#HYBRIDEvents – The New Buzz Word in Experiential Events Industry

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Event Report

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Messe München India launches festival of business on its custom-built online trade fair platform

Special Story

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Runway To A Billion Opportunities

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First Time Since Its Inception - A Hybrid Aero India

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EEA2020 Highlights

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Interviews

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Group Editor : Raghav Khosla Design : Firoz Accounts : Pappu Yadav

Michael Duck Shares His Thoughts In A Candid Interview To Exhibition Showcase

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In Conversation With Sandip Das - Dy. Director General, TPCI

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Global News

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Europe The United Kingdom has le the European Union’s economic and poli cal orbit in an historic departure that has split Britons poli cally and marked the country’s greatest shi on the global stage in modern mes. As the clock struck 11pm in London on Thursday (23:00 GMT), December 31, the Brexit transi on period came to an end and the UK exited the bloc’s single market and customs union.

North America The US-based Center for Exhibi on Industry Research (CEIR) has reported that the US exhibi on industry remained at a grinding halt in the third quarter of 2020, with approximately 97% of originally scheduled events cancelled. As a result, the CEIR Total Index, a measure of exhibi on industry performance, registered a 98.1% decline from a year ago.

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South Africa South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government has secured millions more doses of coronavirus vaccines as he extended a ban on alcohol sales and restricted crossborder travel to curb the spread of the disease. The country will remain on virus alert level 3. Land-border posts will be closed to most travelers un l Feb. 15, public gatherings other than funerals won’t be allowed, and a na onwide curfew will be enforced from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Most of the 20 million vaccine doses the government has secured will arrive in the first half of this year, the president said.

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Germany In a landmark step to help the industry through the pandemic, Brussels has given "green light", whereby Germany can roll out tailored na onal, regional, and local support schemes for the exhibi ons and conferences sector. Germany can roll out damage compensa on schemes for fairs and congresses in the country, reported to include a total of approx. EURO 642 milllion.

Russia Russia announced that 1.5 million people around the world had received its Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine as part of an ini a ve Kremlin cri cs have described as a geopoli cal push. Russia became the first country last August to register a vaccine, months ahead of Western compe tors, and Moscow has boasted of more than one billion orders for the jab abroad.

South Korea

Dubai Riyadh aims to more than double its popula on and become one of the 10 richest ci es in the world under ambi ous plans unveiled by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the Future Investment Ini a ve (FII) gathering in the Saudi capital. The Crown Prince said, "We are therefore aiming to make Riyadh one of the 10 largest city economies in the world.

Today it stands at number 40, the for eth largest city economy worldwide. We aim to increase its residents from 7.5 million today to around 15-20 million in 2030.’’

South Korea would be the biggest par cipa ng country a er the United States at this year’s CES, with more than 300 tech companies set to exhibit their latest products and technologies.

The event’s organizer, Consumer Technology Associa on, said that as many as 340 firms from South Korea would be taking part in 2021 CES, making Korea the second-biggest par cipa ng country a er the host na on which will have 567 companies taking part. China used to be the second-biggest country a er the US in the number of par cipa ng countries, but its presence has decreased there due to the US-China trade dispute.

Australia The Associa on of Australian Conven on Bureaux (AACB) has congratulated the Hon Dan Tehan MP on his appointment as minister for trade, tourism and investment. The AACB said the Government must be congratulated for maintaining business events within the trade and investment por olio. “With business events valued at more than A$35bn to Australia and underpinning more than 229,000 jobs, the industry will help drive interna onal capital to grow our economy.

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January 2021

NEW COViD GUiDELiNES: EXHiBiTiONS ALLOWED TO OPEN Cinema halls to operate with over 50% capacity; swimming pools to be opened for all The new guidelines will be effec ve from February 1 to February 28.

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he Government of India has given permission that now all kind of exhibi ons can be held anywhere for which the department of commerce will issue new procedures.

Earlier, only B2B exhibi ons were given permission by the government. The new guidelines will be effec ve from

February 1 to February 28. The Centre on Wednesday, 27th Jan 2021, issued new Covid-19 guidelines also allowed swimming pools to be opened for all and cinema halls to have greater sea ng capacity than 50 per cent being allowed ll now, for which separate standard opera ng procedure (SOPs) will be issued by the sports and informa on ministries respec vely.

Only sportspersons had access to swimming pools ll now.

The ministry of home affairs (MHA) also asked the civil avia on ministry to further open up interna onal air travel in consulta on with it. Air travel was

being allowed as of now under the Air Bubble agreements with various countries and the Vande Bharat scheme.

The government also removed the capping on the number of people who could be part of a social, cultural, religious, and poli cal or sports gathering, which un l now were limited to a maximum of 50% of the hall capacity, with a ceiling of 200 people in closed spaces; and keeping of the size of the ground/ space in view. The states and union territories have been given freedom to prepare their own SOPs in this regard.

INDiA - RiSiNG AGAiNST ALL ODDS

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ver 28 lakh healthcare workers across India have received shots of Covid-19 vaccine ll January 28, the 13th day of the na onwide immunisa on drive.

The government is planning to inoculate over 30 crore high-risk groups, including healthcare and frontline workers, the elderly and those with comorbidi es by July 2021. Calling for India to play a major role in global vaccina on campaign, United Na ons Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently termed the vaccine produc on capacity of India as the "best asset" that the world has today.

is campaign is made possible." UN chief's statement comes as India has gi ed over 55 lakh doses of coronavirus vaccine to neighbouring countries. Addressing a weekly briefing, External Affairs Ministry (EAM) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said India plans to gi vaccines doses to Oman, CARICOM countries, Nicaragua, Pacific Island states. Srivastava said New Delhi plans to supply 1 crore or 10 million vaccine doses to Africa and 10 lakh to United Na ons health workers under GAVI's (Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisa on) COVAX facility.

Addressing reporters, the UN chief said, "I know that in India there is a very high level of produc on of Indian developed vaccines. We are in contact with Indian ins tu ons for that. We strongly hope that India will have all the instruments that are necessary to play a major role in making sure that a global vaccina on

"There is interest in many countries to access vaccine from India. In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement that India sees interna onal coopera on in the fight against the pandemic. We have played the role of the first responder in the neighbourhood," Srivastava said.

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“From 20th January 2021 onward, we have gi ed over 55 lakh doses of coronavirus vaccines to our neighbouring countries and in the extended neighbourhood--1.5 lakh to Bhutan, 1 lakh to Maldives, Mauri us and Bahrain, 10 lakhs to Nepal, 20 lakhs to Bangladesh, 15 lakhs to Myanmar, 50,000 to Seychelles, 5 lakh to Sri Lanka. In the coming days, We plan to gi further quan ty to Oman that is of 1 lakh doses, 5 lakh doses to CARICOM countries. 2 lakh to Nicaragua, 2 lakh doses to the Pacific island state," he added.

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January 2021

NESCO TO iNVEST 325 CR. TO EXPAND EXPO CENTRE working to get plan approval to start the construc on by 2021.

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esco Ltd., which owns and operates the Bombay Exhibi on Centre (BEC), one of India’s largest private sector exhibi on and conven on centres in suburban Mumbai, has finalised plans to modernise and expand the facility with an investment of ₹325 crore.

In the same land parcel, the company operates an informa on technology (IT) park called Nesco IT Park. Nesco has now planned to build a new infotech park building spread over 40 lakh sq. at a cost of about ₹1,800 crore. and is

“The es mated budget for the project is ₹1,800 crore for 46 lakh sq. . of development. This will include office space, ameni es, F&B area as well a 300-room 4 star business hotel.

It is being designed by a Singapore based architect,” Mr. Patel said, “We have decided to progressively build new exhibi on halls, replacing exis ng halls and conven on halls. The es mated cost is around ₹325 crore,” Sumant Patel, chairman, said in an interview. Mr. Patel said designs for the new Centre have been prepared by a renowned architect from Australia and work would commence in 2021. Nesco was among the first in the private sector to set up an exhibi on centre in 1992 in Mumbai and since then, it had been hos ng several na onal and

interna onal exhibi ons. The company said it had a market share of 18%-20%.

He said all these investments will be made from the company’s internal sources. “The cash flows of about ₹2,000-2,200 crore will be staggered over a period of 5-7 years. As a policy, we will not be going in for any external debt and all our ou lows will be funded by our internal accruals in its en rety,” he said. “Our current cash reserves of about ₹700 crore will be used to fund these projects in addi on to yearly net inflows from our various business,” he added.

He said the exhibi ons industry has been growing every year with increasing demand for more space from Indian and foreign exhibi ons organisers. To cater to this the company is increasing exhibi ons halls space at the venue. Though no exhibi ons were held since the outbreak of COVID-19, he said a turnaround is expected in Q4 of this fiscal.

GLOBAL AYURVEDA FESTiVAL GOiNG ViRTUAL FOR 2021 The event, which showcases Ayurveda as a global treatment programme, will serve as a mee ng place for those working towards this goal around the world, according to Global Ayurveda Fes val chairman and Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, V. Muraleedharan.

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n the New Normal, Global Ayurveda Fes val (GAF) is going digital, as the world’s largest fes val of Ayurveda community.

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The fes val, which was scheduled to be held in Angamaly from May 16 to 20 last year was postponed due to COVID-19. Led by the Centre for Innova on in Science and Social Ac on (CISSA), the Ayurveda Medical

Associa on of India (AMAI), the Ayurveda Hospital Management Associa on, the meet is being organised in collabora on with 14 organisa ons. The Federa on of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industries is the fes val and industry partner.

The fes val will feature 12 seminars per day at five venues. The conference will focus on the relevance of Ayurveda in the post-COVID world and the poten al of Ayurveda in enhancing immunity.

This exhibi on will be held online and will have stalls of ayurvedic companies from all over the world.

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January 2021

FOUNDER OF ITE GROUP AND INDUSTRY TRAILBLAZER, ROGER SHASHOUA PASSES AWAY Roger Shashoua, the founder of U.K. based ITE Group – now called Hyve Group and run by Roger’s son Mark – has passed away Hyve Group released the following statement about Roger’s passing:

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Roger was a tan of our industry.

The pioneering work he did throughout his life me not only helped to shape this business and the wider exhibi on industry, but also marked some of the first steps towards a more connected world as the 70s presented a turning point for globalisa on.”

“As markets began to open, he spo ed an opportunity to create a series of businesses in emerging economies, star ng with the Middle East in the 70s.

In the 80s he was one of the first to expand into China and then, in the early 90s, he founded ITE Group with his brother Roddy, with a focus on Eastern Europe and Russia.”

“What came next was unprecedented for that me. The years that followed saw ITE grow from a team of three, to more than 850 people in over 10 countries. By 1998, ITE was organising more than 85 exhibi ons, all crossing new boundaries and connec ng the West with markets which were previously inaccessible. His innova ons are s ll the cornerstone of the industry; he pioneered geo-cloning on a global scale and placed an enormous focus on

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customer experience – he believed that every event was a ‘show’.”

“When ITE transformed into Hyve in 2019, he could not have been prouder. He welcomed the new brand and was delighted to see the company’s pioneering spirit s ll se ng the standard for the industry.”

Mark Shashoua, Roger’s son and now Hyve’s CEO, shared: “His huge appe te for life built him a reputa on as a charisma c whirlwind of energy. His greatest strength was his humanity and he had an extraordinary ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He lived his life completely commi ed to everything he did and with passion, humility and a good dose of humour. He was one of life’s greatest showmen.

Roger leaves behind a legacy that resonates as much now as it did when he started his career. He was a disruptor by nature and never more inspired than when there was uncertainty around him. He recently commented on how COVID would accelerate all forms of disrup on and, whilst he said this, the glint in his eyes shone at the opportuni es which await the world. His dis nc ve characteris cs of challenging the status quo, ambi on and fearlessness will serve us well as we enter yet another ground-breaking

new era for the company.”

Exhibi on Showcase reached out to Hyve India team: “I got associated with Expomedia Events in the golden era of Roger Shashoua. A er my fresh engagement with HYVE INDIA (Formerly known as Expomedia Events), I can s ll feel his energy and vision driving the company.

My tribute to the divine soul.”

Gagan Sahni, Director – BD, Hyve India “I had the opportunity to work under Roger Shashoua during the founding days Expomedia in India (subsequently acquired

by ITE Group plc now known as Hyve Group plc). Roger was a visionary and his passion for exhibi ons was infec ous which rubbed off on people he interacted with. Roger’s pioneering work in emerging markets was ahead of its me and he was instrumental in se ng new standards for our industry.”

Gaurav Sood, General Manager – India, Hyve India “I first met Roger thirty years ago in London . He had a great love for India and always wanted to do something here. He had such amazing quali es.

One which shines out is that he was way ahead of his mes. The industry will miss him.” Ravinder Sethi, CMD, RE Rogers India

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January 2021

About Hyve Group Hyve Group plc formerly ITE Group, is an interna onal organiser of exhibi ons and conferences. The Group organises over 130 trade exhibi ons and conferences each year in 14 countries and employs over 1,200 staff in 17 offices worldwide. The company’s vision is to provide the world’s leading por olio of content-driven, must-a end events delivering and outstanding experience and return on investment for its customers. It is listed on the London Stock Exchange.

The business was founded by the Shashoua family as “Interna onal Trade Exhibi ons” (ITE) in 1991 and then launched a series of trade events in the new market economies of Russia and the CIS. It was first listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1998. In 2008 it acquired Primexpo NW LLC, a conference organiser based in St Petersburg and has subsequently

acquired further businesses in Moscow (MVK), Krasnodar (Krasnodar LLC), Istanbul (YEMF and Pla orm Exhibi ons), Kyiv (Autoexpo and Beautex), India and Kuala Lumpur (Trade Link).The company rebranded from ITE Group to Hyve Group in September 2019. In December 2019, Hyve acquired two US-based events: Shoptalk and Groceryshop. The company reported a revenue of £220.7 million in 2019.

Hyve Group today operates from 13

countries across the world.

Some Reminiscences Launched the Moscow Interna onal Motor Show (MIMS) in 1992, providing

global automo ve brands with a chance to explore the early opportuni es available in a huge new market. The launch event was a healthy 5,000m2 at the Krasnaya Presnaya Expocentr (now be er known as Expocentre). More recently, ITE joined forces with Messe Frankfurt (organisers of Automechanika) to create the JV company ITEMF which now organises MIMS Automechanika.

In 1993 launched their first interna onal oil and gas exhibi on in Russia (the Moscow Interna onal Oil & Gas Exhibi on, MIOGE) and Kazakhstan (the Kazakhstan Interna onal Oil & Gas Exhibi on, KIOGE).

POSTPONEMENT OF THE INDiAN METAL FAiRS – WiRE INDiA, TUBE INDiA, METEC INDiA AND INDiA ESSEN WELDiNG & CUTTiNG TO SEPTEMBER 2021

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n view of the con nued health concerns due to COVID-19 and its unforeseeable impact worldwide with sustained travel restric ons causing challenges for na onal and interna onal par cipa on, Messe Düsseldorf India, the organiser of the combined events of wire India, Tube India, METEC India and India Essen Welding, has decided to postpone its event originally scheduled for 25 – 27 March 2021 at Bombay Exhibi on Centre in Mumbai to 08 -10 September 2021 at the same venue.

The decision to reschedule the event towards the later part of 2021 was taken together with all partners and key industry stake holders a er careful

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evalua on of the situa on. Thomas Schli , Managing Director, Messe Düsseldorf India, expresses: “In the current situa on regarding COVID 19 in India and worldwide, we are working around undefined parameters which make event planning and logis cs very difficult. But trade fairs are more important than ever for successful business development and the recovery of the economy. In order to enable as many par cipants as possible, also from outside of India, to take part in India’s leading industry event catering to the metal and metallurgy fraternity, the postponement was a necessary step.

We are very grateful to our exhibitors and partners for their con nued

support in these unprecedented mes.

We stay commi ed to take every possible measure to carry over the successful status of the trade fair to the new date”.

Messe Düsseldorf India remains commi ed to crea ng meaningful business opportuni es, with a significant par cipa on from both domes c and global exhibitors, visitors and delegates. The reconfigura on of the forthcoming edi on will ensure maximum par cipa on given the interna onal nature of Metal Fairs, allowing all stakeholders to plan their par cipa on carefully and efficiently, giving due emphasis as well to their health and wellbeing.

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January 2021

MESSE FRANKFURT INDiA JOiNS HAND WiTH ANDHRA PRADESH MEDTECH ZONE (AMTZ) TO LAUNCH MEDTECH INNOVATiON FORUM iN INDiA

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ith an objec ve to draw a en on to the growth opportuni es and latest developments in the Indian Medical device industry, Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India has joined hands with India’s first integrated medical devices manufacturing ecosystem – AMTZ. The joint coopera on aims to provide further impetus to indigenous manufacturing of medical devices and bring forward innova ons and specialised medical tools and technologies that can a ract domes c and global investors.

As the na on takes steps to develop its healthcare infrastructure including an ecosystem for its medical device industry, the launch of MedTech Innova on Forum aims to create a collabora ve pla orm for medical device manufacturers, innovators and technology experts to exchange advancements and innova ons for the development of the Indian medical devices industry.

Slated from 7 – 8 October 2021 in Visakhapatnam, the first edi on of this key business event is expected to bring industry leadership together with government and medical consultants to address integral challenges of import

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dependency, need for technology collabora ons as well as medical technology advancements that can be introduced in the industry. The forum has received strong support from apex industry bodies AIMED (Associa on of Indian Medical Device Industry) and ADMI (Associa on of Diagnos cs Manufacturers of India) ADMI. Mr Raj Manek, Managing Director, Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd said: “India's response and agility in scaling up manufacturing of medical devices together with strong ini a ves by the government on making the sector 'Atmanirbhar' makes it opportune me to introduce a forum that focuses on bringing medical technology innova ons to the forefront. We are proud to combine strengths with AMTZ in this goal and are confident that the cri cal insights on MedTech advancements and challenges will enable the sector to create an environment for improved trade and investment opportuni es.”

The Indian medical devices market, which accounts for more than 13% of the Asia-Pacific (APAC) medical devices market, is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.5% through 2025. Dr Jitendra Sharma, MD & CEO, Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone elaborated: “The industry is poised for

significant growth in the next five years, however, it is s ll largely import-driven with 90% of sophis cated devices being imported from around the world. The dialogue with medical device manufacturers and innovators will open up opportuni es to empower the country's strong healthcare and medical devices industry in the post COVID-19 era.

Dr Sharma further added that AMTZ aims to put the Indian medical device industry on the global map by encouraging sector innova ons and we are happy to join hands with Messe Frankfurt in this endeavour as their exper se and reach across sectors in India will help bring in key stakeholders together.” Messe Frankfurt India has been ac vely involved in tracking industry growth and addressing rising concerns on counterfeit products in the pharmaceu cal industry through its Pharmasafe India conference and webinar series. In August 2020, the Indian subsidiary held the first virtual edi on of the Medical Device Innova on Summit to address growing demand for specialised medical equipment and is now closely working with industry leaders in the sector to launch Medtech Innova on Forum as a large-format Confex in October 2021.

Touted as India's largest medical devices manufacturing park, the Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone (AMTZ) has dynamically contributed to the fight against COVID19 pandemic through large-scale manufacturing of domes c rapid tes ng kits, PPE and ven lators. As a scien fic infrastructure supported by the government, the zone intends to reduce import dependence and lower cost of healthcare by an es mated 40 to 50%.

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January 2021

GUJARAT GOVERNMENT UNVEiLS NEW TOURiSM POLiCY TO PROMOTE MICE The new tourism policy has been framed keeping in mind the mission of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ so as to be ‘Vocal for Local’ thereby boos ng local employment, said Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.

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n a view to develop and augment tourism in a sustainable manner in the state, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on January 12 unveiled the ‘New Tourism Policy 2021-25’. According to a press statement issued by the state government, the New Tourism Policy 2021-25 shall be in effect from 1st January 2021 to 31st March 2025.

While launching the policy, Rupani said, “The New Tourism Policy has been framed keeping in mind the mission of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ so as to be ‘Vocal for Local’ thereby boos ng local employment. The state is gi ed geographically. It has hill resorts, natural a rac ons, beaches, etc. in addi on to a rich legacy of ancient cra s and civilisa ons.” The New Tourism Policy has been envisaged for not only a rac ng new investments in the state but also giving high priority to tourism centres by offering lucra ve incen ves, the statement read.

The new policy promises special incen ves on large-scale tourism projects while aiming to introduce new

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avenues like caravan tourism, MICE (mee ngs, incen ves, conferencing, exhibi ons) tourism and rural-based experience tourism, Rupani said.

Incen ves for se ng up tourism projects in the state will apply to only those projects that come up in the high priority tourism centres iden fied across 25 districts of the state under the policy, he added.

Gujarat has the World’s Tallest Statue at Kevadia, Gir Na onal Park, India’s first World Heritage City, World’s Biggest Stadium, India’s first seaplane services, India’s first Blue-Flag cer fied beach, Seema Darshan, in addi on to Somnath, Dwarka, Ambaji, etc. These places have been a rac ng tourists from various parts of India and the world, the statement said.

It is to be noted here that the state government had recently announced the Heritage Tourism Policy to highlight the ancient palaces and heritage places of kings. Tourists have increased at the rate of 15% CAGR from 2009-2018 which has crossed the na onal average

of 12%. Gujarat also ranks in the top 10 places for receiving one of the highest numbers of local tourists. The New Tourism Policy 2021-25 encapsulates various aspects like medical tourism, wellness tourism, MICE tourism, adventure and wildlife tourism, coastal and cruise tourism, rural-based experience tourism, etc., the statement read. The state has truly imbibed the mantra of ‘A thi Devo Bhava’ and provides a safe and secure environment to tourists from various parts of the globe. A dedicated tourism desk will be established at each of the interna onal airports of Gujarat, the statement said.

The new policy will also promote the lesser-explored products. In this regard, Tourism Corpora on of Gujarat Limited will sign an MoU with Gujarat State Handloom and Handicra Development Corpora on Limited to promote local handicra s to interna onal tourists, the statement informed.

The state government will also provide necessary assistance and co-opera on for marke ng the products through Digital Media and the TCGL website will provide a pla orm for the same, it added. Tourist infrastructure will also be established under this policy which includes hotels, conven on centres, etc.

The state government will also assist hotels, resorts and tour operators in finding local guides and tourist guides to boost local employment. The state government will provide a monthly remunera on of ₹4000 per month per person for 6 months to the hotel/resort for employing a local tour guide, the statement read.

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January 2021

SECUTECH INDiA TO OPEN iTS DOORS iN SEPTEMBER 2021

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significant pla orm that brings together safety and security industry players under one roof, Secutech India 2021 is set to be held in September at the Bombay Exhibi on Center, Mumbai. The edi on will be a hotbed of strong business opportuni es and knowledge-exchange among channel players.

With the combined exper se of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Ltd in organising security and fire safety shows across Asia, Messe Frankfurt India is set to host the ninth edi on of Secutech India from 16 – 18 September 2021 in Mumbai. The collabora on between the two companies will strengthen the influence of the fair and provide solu ons to resolve the safety and security issues in India.

As a brand, Secutech boasts of a legacy that spans close to 30 years, affirming its long-standing reputa on and significance in the global safety and security industry. The new edi on of Secutech India is thus poised to be an unmissable fair as it will bring unforeseen business opportuni es to industry players. The three-day fair will showcase the industry’s most advanced

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technological solu ons in IBMS, Smart Ci es, Home Automa on, Surveillance Solu ons, BFSI Cybersecurity, Advanced Fire Protec on Systems, and IoT applica ons from a fleet of leading companies. Sampling these exhibits will be major players such as chief security officers, chief fire officers, security-fire safety heads, system integrators, installers, as well as dealers and distributors.

Commen ng about the prospects of the show in the wake of new opportuni es, Mr Raj Manek, Execu ve Director and Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, stated: “The global disrup on created by the pandemic has led to a strong demand for intelligent safety and security systems that can assure protec on without any human interven on. Thus propelled by favourable market trends, Secutech India 2021 will prove to be a highly effec ve pla orm for companies providing safety and security products to broaden their market reach and expand their client base significantly.”

Elabora ng further on the value of the exhibi on, Ms Regina Tsai, General

Manager of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd, said: “As the very first edi on of the fair since the pandemic, Secutech India 2021 holds immense value for all its stakeholders.

Businesses a ending the fair will be able to reconnect face-to-face with their exis ng clients and gain an opportunity to meet new ones under a secured environment. Apart from showcasing the latest technology in safety and security, the pla orm will allow both hosts and a endees to exchange ideas and insights that may enable them to gain strong business direc on in the new normal.”

While the need to implement protec on protocols due to the pandemic is channelling new demands for security and surveillance systems, the government’s long-term plan to build smart ci es will con nue to favour the safety and security technology industry even in years to come.

Organised under strict observance of health and safety parameters, the ninth edi on of Secutech India will provide a strong pla orm for the industry to meet poten al clients and strengthen their market base.

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WHAT NOT TO FORGET iN 2021 AND BEYOND: BY J SHANKAR

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ovid has created a massive humanitarian challenge, leaving Millions ill, Loss of life, Loss of Livelihood. Apart from the abrupt disloca ons both in terms and work places and work persey' and how employees behave, how customers behave and what would show up as business results. Also see is the shi in opera ons and opera ng models harnessing employees, peers, some companies have a empted re look at their organiza onal VISION and MISSION from an aspira onal statement to working statement resul ng in the role of CEO's as more of a calibrator to assess the change needed, scanning for signals, do selfcalibra on, with profound implica ons and deliver fine-tuned responses.

“This is a true inflec on point, I think that this pandemic, interms of implica ons, will be as big an event as World War II and what ever we learn through this process it must not go to waste” rightly said by Mr Rajnish Kumar, Chairman, State Bank of India.

As we witness the organiza on the way they are rethinking the way they look at opera ng models, some me “what they thought as Impossible has become the order of the day or a New norm” like televisits at hospitals has seen a

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huge surge perhaps 10X, conversion of product line from cosme c to sani zers and handwash, server racks to Ven lator cases, this has resulted in retraining and realignment of work force at an unseen speed and magnitude and more so leveraging on talent across por olio.

Last but not the least Work From Home (WFH) leading to HR policy transforma on.

Many organisa ons were very happy to know what to focus and be er planning especially for professionally managed companies, however the concept of WFH have been grossly misunderstood by both the management and staff in the ini al phases of lockdown, where in they were trying to fix all problems in one go which has perhaps resulted in fa gue, as the me frame crossed, and the mind set shi ed and started accep ng lockdown as the order of the day or new normal. Infact people are using their travel me to work be er, increase produc vity and enhanced learning, even though there has been less bonding among staff/ Team Members/ Support staff or even water dispenser gossips of coffee hang outs.

On the flip side there has been downslide on Vaca ons, Family ou ngs, leaves, resul ng in fa gue and lesser

consulta ve approach to work and more of digital me.

The 1st few months of lockdown people were challenged due to fitness issues and over the period they found ways to overcome with tampering either work / health mostly importantly family Striking the balancing Chord.

CEO have started agenda less conversa ons and unscheduled casual mee ngs both amongst direct reports and staff in random, Organiza ons have enabled their staff to come out of the comfort zone and encouraged staff to think differently from what they were doing to what they want to do and made them reimagine their poten al.

Resul ng in CEO's thinking at the organiza on from an outsider's perspec ve with out social pressure and risk averse a tude with a permanent lens to see what future holds for.

Having said that CEO are rethinking the way they operate especially the physical space with redesigned office space accommoda ng more of Pool seats and mee ng rooms than cabins and Cubicles and looking at staff aspect as to how to enhance team bonding with synergy of thought process to work on a single point agenda – Business Beyond COVID.

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CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT WiTH TECHNOLOGY TOUCH

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he COVID-19 pandemic is having a massive impact on Business community and as a result industry's future landscape is bound to transform, every crisis has two sides – a challenge and an opportunity.

Companies are rethinking on the way they were conduc ng Businesses, this pandemic has enabled them to iden fy the need to enhance their online web presence, email marke ng, Social Media presence and other web-based applica ons, some of them are leveraging on what's up/ SMS Promo ons.

Few Entrepreneurs are honing process innova ons by partnering with technology players and even looking at crowd sourcing solu ons through cluster approach to improve their overall compe veness as well as resilience. Technology adop on has taken a higher al tude to foster innova on and growth especially staying connected with customers.

Having said that, its me we analyst the

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trends in the exhibi on sector, we do understand B2B shows has moved to the virtual space, even though B2C space s ll remains challenged while the sector has to compete with Online retailers especially large players in the likes of Amazon and Flipkart.

The underlying opportunity is this during this period we see well connected customers and also witness higher degree of engagement which are beyond business, especially during lockdown1 and 2, to give an example that every telephone call lasted more that thrice the amount of regular business calls (60% of the me spent on discussion on wellbeing) hence crea ng an opportunity of a be er understanding. On a lighter side, we were too polite with Telecallers whom we ignored or yelled a year ago.

Time spent and social media (Linked in, Face book, Instagram) has increased mul fold while what's up and telegram s ll remained in the Top order. Gone are days while people looking at Face

book and Linked in views, Face book status has given a ip up.

So how do the leverage on these modes, can each of us try some data analy c tools on a daily basis. Like how many people connected (Phone, E Mail, Social Media) and the vice versa and arrive at a sigma to measure the customer engagement and ways to enhance the same.

As we step on to 2021, Can we forget the year 2020, only the hardships but not learnings.

From the desk of:

Janakiram Shankar Strategic Consultant

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#HYBRIDEVENTS – THE NEW BUZZ WORD iN EXPERiENTiAL EVENTS INDUSTRY

Wri en By

Dr Deepak Swaminathan, CEO, MediaPoint

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n Industry that is pegged at about INR 100 Bn, employing roughly 20% of India’s workforce directly and Indirectly, the Event Management Industry has been a significant but silent contributor to the Indian economy. The trials and tribula ons of the stakeholders are unsung and they silently bare the pains and challenges with a warm smile.

O en ques oned for the shortcomings that are unconnected, doub ng inten ons, and in most cases the recogni on always remains a desire, the Event teams have always taken these in their stride!

The New Normal, has completely dismantled every nut and bolt of this wonderful industry, the industry that made occasions memorable, that made events special, that made weddings grand is today barely surviving, and we boldly call it struggling for life in an “EVen lator”.

But we the event professionals have seen more failures, dejec ons, hardships, and let downs, none of this will kill the spirit of the Industry and none of this will keep us lying down forever. We (Fraternity) have designed

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and delivered all the big SHOWS, we have made the WORLD Laugh, Cry, Connect and Collaborate. We always believe WE CAN and hence WE WILL! The New Avatar of the Event Industry is the HYBRID events, the Indian Event Professionals are a unique beast engineered with high grade capacitors, robust make, smart design and above all filled with a steel of Grit! We are proud Indians; We innovate with frugality, we inspire with subtle elements and we create magic with just about NOTHING! The Hybrid events are here to stay, with Virtual Audiences, SMART Polls, Online Awards, Walkthrough Expos, Gaming based Annual Par es, we have reengineered ourselves into a new version! The Event Pro 2.0. Global corpora ons need to watch out for this new breed of Event Leaders & Professionals from India, we will not disappear with fright into the night, without giving a fi ng fight, we will make the future bright. From Town halls, to Annual Party, From Bou que to Premium Weddings, From Awards Nites to Musical rhapsody Indian Made HYBRID solu ons have truly arrived.

The Hybrid Solu ons are a wonderful blend of small crowds simultaneously engaging with unlimited virtual guests smartly packed with a World of SMART tools made for the Indian Geography, addressing the sensibili es of our Indian Psyche. The New events are devoid of live audiences and are now loaded with Real me & AI simulated engagements.

From planning pre-event engagements, to special experiences on D-Day and a host of digital assets as take away, the HYBRID experiences have brought a whole new meaning to Experien al Events. The Indian Business Houses can now proudly claim that the Event Fraternity of India is not just a typical team of vendors who deliver what they have asked for but now are torch barres of Change who preempt and offer solu ons that are globally compe ve, wholesome, holis c, simple, economical yet powerful.

The days of Change, the moments of triumph, the bells of Success are now a Reality!

Welcome to the New WORLD of HYBRID Events!

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MESSE MÜNCHEN INDiA LAUNCHES FESTiVAL OF BUSiNESS ON iTS CUSTOM-BUiLT ONLiNE TRADE FAiR PLATFORM With over 2100 business solu ons at display, Messe Muenchen India launches fes val of business on its custom-built online trade fair pla orm.

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34 exhibitors took stage to display over 2100 solu ons and created over 27,726 business connec ons over the three days online trade fair. A total of 8915 visitors from 96 countries explored a variety of products and solu ons on display and a ended 26 conferences and 108 technical presenta ons.

As one of the largest gatherings of industry professionals in the country, Messe Muenchen India’s online pla orm made a strong impression on the market by hos ng 6 different industry clusters and wide range of industry segments such as electronics, laser, pharma, research, packaging, renewable energy, environment solu ons, beverage related services under one pla orm. This wholly owned pla orm from Messe Muenchen India provides an opportunity for the buyers and sellers to connect digitally using interac ve and user-friendly interfaces.

Visitors could also a end mul ple conference sessions and technical presenta ons on the pla orm. Buyers

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had an opportunity to explore products and solu ons not from one exhibi on but mul ple exhibi ons taking place at one space.

Falk Senger- Managing Director, Messe München GmbH endorsed the success of this exclusive pla orm: “The online pla orm with its user-friendly interface and interna onal approach allowed for a global engagement of industry buyers and sellers, at the same me it also gave the industry members a chance to connect, interact and transact in these trying mes.”

The reality of buyer-seller interac ons digitally.

“The uncertainty posed by the COVID-19 pandemic has dras cally changed our outlook towards conduc ng business. As L&T’s preroga ve is digitalisa on, AI,

and data analy cs, we are delighted to be a part of the Messe Muenchen India Online Pla orm which resonates with our vision on the role of technology in crea ng the future. It was exci ng to have engaged on an online pla orm and we are surprised by the posi ve response that we have received from our visitors. Thank you, Messe Muenchen India for this excellent opportunity that helped us connect with the right partners in these pressing mes.” expressed Shaji John, Head – Business Development, Domes c and Global Markets, Renewables Business Unit, Power Transmission, and Distribu on IC, L&T Construc on The decision to build instead of ren ng made all the difference.

The product was built keeping in mind the needs of mul ple stakeholders from their business point of view: strong focus on building digital competency to add value to customer requirements within the organisa on led the way for exploring the opportunity to design the

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pla orm internally instead of outsourcing it. Extensive data research, customer interviews and market assessments opened an opportunity to create a framework to address the gap between the demands and needs in the digital space. Messe Muenchen India decided to make it a complete in-house product for the specific demands of the local market and envisioned it as a borderless expedi on for the global market.

On the same note, Ganesh Kumar Murugan, Head-Digital Business briefed, “The pla orm is a scalable and portable

solu on built on latest cloud compu ng frameworks. Our journey started much early by understanding customer feedbacks through customer interviews and transla ng them to product designs. We are glad that our first minimum viable product was a success, and we are fully aware that the future will demand even more agility and speed from us to be successful in similar ini a ves.

With a bright vision for Messe Muenchen India’s digital presence, Mr.

Bhupinder Singh, CEO, Messe Muenchen India said, “This is our first ny footprint in the online world of business which was only possible with the par cipants’ guidance and support. I thank and congratulate everyone for extending their support to our online ini a ve. We hope that the success of our first online event will propel collabora ons among industry professionals in the future. Moreover, we will con nue to leverage our digital presence which will go together with our onsite shows.”

OVER 100 MiLLiON GLOBAL TRAVEL & TOURiSM JOBS COULD BE RECOVERED iN 2021

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ore than 100 million jobs could return to the global Travel & Tourism sector during 2021, as the world recovers from the crippling COVID-19 pandemic, says the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

A strong summer of travel is expected as the sector begins its road to recovery from late March onwards, with many major travel companies repor ng a significant rise in forward bookings. The sector’s revival is backed by WTTC’s latest economic forecast, which gives further hope for the year ahead to businesses and millions of people employed in the sector worldwide.

Last year, during the height of the pandemic, WTTC warned 174 million global Travel & Tourism jobs were at

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risk. However, in its latest analysis, WTTC’s most op mis c scenario predicts as many as 111 million jobs could be revived – but this would s ll be 17% below 2019 figures, accoun ng for 54 million fewer jobs. This best-case scenario, with travel recovery star ng from late March, factors in widespread vaccina on programmes and a swi adop on of comprehensive test-andtrace regimes, together with con nual, strong interna onal coordina on from the private and public sectors. However, the forecast’s more conserva ve outcome would s ll see a return of 84 million jobs, but this would be 25% below 2019 levels, with 82 million fewer jobs recovered.

Under this scenario, the recovery of interna onal travel is pushed to the second half of 2021. Vaccines would be rolled out more gradually, slowing down the removal of worldwide travel barriers and restric ons currently in place, while depressing demand to travel and reducing consumer confidence. Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are looking

forward to a strong summer of travel, thanks to a combina on of mask wearing, the global vaccina on rollout and tes ng on departure unlocking the door to interna onal travel once more.

“Our latest research supports this and shows there is definitely hope on the horizon for the global Travel & Tourism sector in the year ahead, with the possible recovery of up to 111 million jobs. “This projected outcome will come as huge relief and be welcomed as the beginning of the long-awaited recovery, for a sector which has for so long suffered the brunt of hugely damaging travel restric ons.

“WTTC first predicted the return of the sector through its 100 Million Jobs Recovery Plan, presented at last October’s historic G20 Tourism Ministers mee ng, which was a ended, for the first me, by 45 WTTC Member CEOs. “Now we believe the sector’s return will become a reality, thanks in part to WTTC’s commitment and determina on to save and support the sector, through some of the darkest days of pandemic.

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RUNWAY TO A BiLLiON OPPORTUNiTiES

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ith steadily declining ac ve cases coupled with world's largest vaccina on program underway in India, yet another posi ve development shaped up with the Government of India li ing off sanc ons on all kinds of exhibi ons.

And as it has also started expor ng vaccines to many other countries, India surely is a bright ray of hope for the world.

Aero India 2021will mark the beginning of first major B2G exhibi on since COVID in India. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said that the upcoming Aero India show is billed as the 'Runway to a Billion Opportuni es'.

The 13th Aero India, to be held from February 3 to 5 at the Yelahanka Air Force Sta on in Bengaluru will be hosted in a Hybrid format.

This edi on of Aero India will promote Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India ini a ve and here we take the opportunity to catch up with someone who has made it big in the exhibi on industry by staying firmly fixed to his roots and promo ng India strongly in

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his journey. He is also someone who has a rich legacy of working with the Aero India show and we catch up with him amidst his top-notch prepara ons for the 13th edi on of the show.

Exhibi on Showcase talks to Ravinder Sethi, CMD, RE Rogers India, as he waits at the airport for his flight to Bengaluru.

He tells us that R.E. Rogers India are again sole appointed for Aero India in 2021. More importantly, he says “Aero India is the first global exhibi on to reopen in India and R.E. Rogers are a cri cal part of this reopening process.

Aero India 2021 sends a powerful message to the local and global industry - Indian exhibi on industry has reopened. HISTORY IS IN THE MAKING !!” On being asked about his reac on to Government's recent announcements, he says, “Reopening of India's exhibi on industry is the biggest achievement in our 35 years history.

Build-up has started and we're full of emo ons to be back in the midst of boxes, containers, forkli s, and cranes.

On being inquired about the safety protocols, he says, “needless to say, the

organizers and all the stakeholders are abiding by the strictest Covid protocols for the event.” Ravinder shared that their company has been associated with the Aero India show since its very incep on – an impressive feat indeed!

On being asked about his memories of the early days, he shares, “In the early days, the organizers (Ministry of Defence) and the venue (Air Force base) had no clue of the exhibi on industry and this was a huge challenge. Kudos to them for mastering our know how so fast and becoming one of the very best today. Air and defence shows are unique, requiring huge opera onal coordina on where more than the volumes, it's also the very sensi ve nature of the products being handled which needs a en on. I have some really fond memories and life me learnings working with this show.”

Soon a er, as Ravinder hurried to catch his flight to the show site, we were le inspired by the hope of resuming of physical shows once again – a sight that all of the industry professionals are so in love with!

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EXHiBiTiONS ARE BACK TO FOSTER BUSiNESS & TRADE

Restar ng in the new normal

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Ravinder Sethi in younger days

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FiRST TiME SiNCE ITS INCEPTiON - A HYBRiD AERO INDiA

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ith a combina on of both physical and virtual exhibi on, the 13th edi on of Aero India 2021 being held in Bengaluru from February 3 to 5 is being touted as the world’s first hybrid aerospace and defence exhibi on. This edi on of Aero India is being held only as a business event as the five-day event has been cut short to three days and two public days have been given a go-by due to COVID-19 norms. Around 600 exhibitors are par cipa ng from 14 countries including 74 interna onal par cipants. This also includes 203 par cipants taking part in the virtual exhibi on which will run in parallel.

exhibitors from 22 countries all over the world came to grace the show. In the year 2005, more than 380 par cipants came to the Aero India show's 5th edi on. In this show, many military and civil aircra as well as aerospace products were displayed. The 2007 Aero India show was held at Yelahanka Air Force Sta on in Bangalore in Karnataka.

The 7th edi on was held from 11 to 15 February 2009, and included 592 exhibitors from over 25 countries. The eighth edi on started on 9 February 2011. In recent years, the Aero India has emerged as one of the world's most important and largest military avia on exhibi ons. The Mikoyan MiG-35 and F16IN Super Viper were unveiled for the first me at the 6th and 7th edi ons of Aero India respec vely.

1st edi on (1996)

Legacy of Aero India – A brief history The first edi on of the air show was held in 1996. During this Aero India Show, many manufacturers and service providers from the Indian aerospace and avia on industry meet the poten al buyers of their products.

A er 1996, the 4th edi on of the air show took place in 2003. About 176

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The first edi on of Aero India was held in 1996. Since then, the event has gradually earned interna onal

recogni on, and has seen increased par cipa on from exhibitors since then.

2nd edi on (1998)

The second edi on started on 8 December 1998 at the Yelahanka Air Force Base. It was inaugurated by George Fernandes, India's Defence Minister. It included fly pasts by three Jaguars, three MiG-23s, three HAL Tejas, 9 HAL Kiran aircra of the Surya Kiran aircra of the Surya Kiran aeroba c team, Hawk 200, Mirage 200 and the Sukhoi Su-30 MKIs. This was followed by sky diving display by nine sky divers of the Akash ganga team.

The exhibi on stalls included displays

by Boeing, Allied Signal, Bell Textron, Airbus Industries, Aerospa ale, Dassault, Bri sh Aerospace, HAL, DRDO, ADA, BEL and NAL. The French and Russian presence was especially strong, and the highlights were the detailed models of all Boeing commercial aircra star ng from Boeing 717 to Boeing 777.

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3rd edi on (2001)

Bangalore's third air show opened at the Yelahanka AF Base on 7 February 2001.

4th edi on (2003)

176 companies from 22 countries par cipated in the 4th edi on of the event from 5 to 9 February 2003 in Yelahanka at the outskirts of Bangalore.

It was inaugurated by the then Defence Minister of India, George Fernandes.

About 50 delega ons from the United States, Europe, Russia, the Middle East, Asia Pacific, Asia Pacific and Africa visited Bangalore for the event. The French delega on was led by the Prime Minister of France, Jean-Pierre Raffarin.

A pair of HAL Dhruv performed their first display, and a composite forma on was flown which was led by the Dhruv, followed by a pair of Kiran, Mirage 2000 and Sukhoi Su-30s.

5th edi on (2005)

The 5th Aero India 2005, the biennial

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air-show-cum-defence exhibi ons, was held at the Yelahanka Air Force Base in Bangalore from 9–13 February 2005.

The Aero India 2005 a racted record 380 exhibitors from the world's leading industries in the field of civil and military avia on, aerospace and airfield upgrade. The show included both air displays as well as sta c exhibi ons of militaryand civil aircra . A total of 80 aircra including Fighters, Light Combat Aircra , Advanced Light Helicopters, Intermediate Jet Trainers (AJTs), Mari me Surveillance Aircra and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) displayed their flying skills and capability during the Aero India 2005 show. The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy also displayed their various aircra . There were 32 official military delega ons and over 250,000 people enjoyed the Aero India 2005 show, which is considered Asia's premier air show.

The major a rac ons of Aero India 2005 were the leading fighter, advanced jet trainers and unmanned aerial vehicles from Russia, US, France, Britain, Israeli and India who took part in the flying as well as sta c displays at the show. The visitors enjoyed the spectacular flying performances and sta c exhibi ons of the Russian MiG29K, Su-30MKI and Il-78 tanker; the American F-15E, C-130J Super Hercules and P-3C Orion aircra ; the French vintage Mirage 2000 and Falcon 2000; the Bri sh Hawk 100, Jaguar and Sea Harriers, and the Indian Dhruv (Advanced Light Helicopter) and Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) and the Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripen.

6th edi on (2007) This event was held from 7 February 2007 to 11 February 2007, at the Yelahanka Air Force Sta on. The a rac ons of the event were the Lockheed-Mar n F-16, as well as the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, all

contenders for the Indian Air Force's 126 aircra MRCA requirement. Also present were the Surya Kiran and Sarang acroba c teams. The Surya Kiran team consists of nine Indian pilots, and have displayed skills by flying as close as 3–5 m at high speeds and have exhibited various forma ons like the arrow, diamond and concluding with the hearts. The Sarang team displays manoeuvres of Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). During the rehearsals for the show, one of the Sarang helicopters crashed on 2 February 2007.

The co-pilot was killed in the incident.

However, the team performed the displays in the show. During the show, a HAL HJT-36 skidded off the runway when a tyre burst a er the pilot aborted take-off as the aircra 's canopy inadvertently opened up. Fortunately, there was no fatality.

7th edi on (2009)

An Indian Air Force aircra preapres to land on the eve of the Aero India Show-2009.

The 7th edi on of Aero India was held on 11–15 February 2009. 289 Indian firms and 303 foreign companies par cipated in one of the largest interna onal aerospace exhibi ons in Bangalore. Armament majors from several countries, including Australia, Brazil, Britain, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy,

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Ireland, Israel, Malaysia, Norway, Poland, Romania, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, Ukraine and United States. There were also country pavilions from Australia, Belgium, Germany, Israel and Romania. This year also saw China par cipa ng for the first me in Aero India.

to be part of the country's aim of becoming a design hub in aerospace technologies in the foreseeable future," the official added. The central government will spend nearly Rs. 200 million to augment the infrastructure in and around the Air Force Sta on Yelahanka.

8th edi on (2011)

The show was preceded by an interna onal seminar (Aero India Seminar) on aerospace technologies and applica ons (9–11 February), hosted by Defence Research and Development Organisa on (DRDO). Nearly 330 companies from 50 countries abroad and 230 from India set up exhibits.

Some 30 military and civil aircra gave flight demonstra ons. The F-16, F-18, MiG-35D, Eurofighter, IJT, Dhruv, Hawk, C-17, Embraer 135 business jet Legacy 600, C-130J, Cita on XLS, G 550, AN-12 Cargo and A-310 MRTT were on display.

Some 70 more were on sta c display.

Whose event manager will be the Confedera on of Indian Industry (CII).

Defense Minister A. K. Antony chaired the first mee ng of the apex commi ee of the exhibi on here Friday.

"Addressing the top officials from several ministries and organisa ons, Antony said Aero India-2009 should be conducted in such a manner that it provides a benchmark for similar shows being organised in various parts of the world," the official said.

The Indian Air Force brought out some of the vintage aircra from its stable and flew them. The defence ministry also facilitated interac on between the overseas original equipment manufacturers and Indian business houses.

"Similar interac ons will also be encouraged between small and medium enterprises from home and abroad.

Efforts are also being made to give exposure to students of technical and engineering colleges to encourage them

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HAL Tejas, which flew in a forma on in public view for the first me in 2011

The 2011 edi on of Aero India was held from 9 to 13 February in Bangalore. It was reported that the Chinese aircra will not par cipate in this edi on, due to rising trade compe on between India and China. However these claims were false and China had its representa ves present there. The highlight of the morning was the flight display in which several aircra performed intricate manoeuvres. HAL Tejas, which flew in a forma on in public view for the first me, was a key highlight, as it performed a ver cal climb and then did a belly turn right in front of the podium.

9th edi on (2013) Aero India 2013 started on 6 February 2013 at the IAF's Yelahanka Air Force base, Bengaluru and ended on 10 February 2013. 607 companies a ended the air show, with 352 foreign and 78 official na onal delega ons. The major foreign companies were from US (67 companies), France (49), United Kingdom (33), Russia (29) and Germany (22). Major a rac on of this edi on were the Dassault Rafale, Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, HAL Rudra, HAL Tejas, HAL Light Combat Helicopter, and the

Major a rac on of this edi on were the Dassault Rafale, Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, HAL Rudra, HAL Tejas, HAL Light Combat Helicopter, and the Russian Knights aeroba c team

Russian Knights aeroba c team, who had come to India to perform for the first me.[24] Major aircra manufacturing companies like Lockheed Mar n, Saab, and the Bri sh Aerospace did not showcase any aircra this me, however an air force F-16 was part of the sta c display. The Suryakiran aeroba c team did not take part as it was grounded.

10th edi on (2015)

Official es mates from the MoD put the number of people visited the show around 5 lakh, with the last day alone recording a foo all of 1.4 lakh.

The tenth edi on of Aero India was held from 18 to 22 February 2015. The main a rac on of this year was the Make in India campaign by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the show and men oned that its easier for Public, private and foreign investors to manufacture defence equipment in India a er the reform of the defence procurement policies and procedure.

He also men ons the simplifica on of offset procedures and men oned the need to have strategic partnerships rather than buyer seller rela onships.

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The Small and Medium scale industries are also meant to benefit from being part of global supply chain by providing cost effec ve engineering solu ons to global players. He also stressed the need to export equipment and also to ensure that it does not fall into the wrong hands.

There is a requirement of one million skilled workers in the Aerospace industry in India in the next 10 years. The aim is to make the ensure that 70 percent of the defence equipment are made within the country in the next five years from the current 40 percent. This can create large number of jobs. Prime Minister Modi said that "A strong Indian defence industry will not only make India more secure. It will also make India more prosperous".

of the show. The event however was marred by the crash of two Surya Kiran aircra that had occurred on the day before the show, killing a pilot. On the third day of the show, a huge fire burnt over 300 cars parked in the parking lot.

The fire was caused by a burning cigare e. aircra , cover an area of 27,678 sqm and witness par cipa on from 51 different countries. Four aeroba c teams are expected to par cipate in the show including Sarang Team (Indian Air Force), Surya Kiran Team (Indian Air Force), the Scandinavian Air Show Team (Sweden) and the Yakovlevs Aeroba c Team (Russia).

12th edi on (2019)

Tejas on display

A total of 72 aircra were part of the air show. The main a rac on of the event was the fly past and demonstra on by HAL Tejas, HAL Light Combat Helicopter, Sarang display team and air display teams from Sweden, UK, Czech Republic and Open sky jump by US Special forces.

A total of 11 foreign military aircra on display, out of which a majority of them from the United States including two F15C Eagles, two F-16C Figh ng Falcons, one Boeing KC-135 tanker, one C-17 Globemaster III and a P-8A Poseidon mari me surveillance aircra .

11th edi on (2017) The 11th edi on of the Aero India was held from 14 to 18 February 2017. This edi on of the show will see par cipa on from a total of 549 companies (270 Indian and 279 Foreign), 72 par cipa ng

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2021 – Preparing for a unprecedented 13th edi on

The 12th edi on of Aero India was held from 20 to 24 February 2019 in Bengaluru, Karnataka inaugurated by defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.[33] The theme of the event was Runway to a Billion Opportuni es.

The logo of the exhibi on was inspired by the Tejas Light Combat Aircra (LCA).

In this edi on, for the first me, combined the defence and civil avia on segments into a holis c event with the co-involvement of the defence and civil avia on ministries in the event. More than 600 Indian Companies and 200 Foreign Companies par cipated and witnessed the largest Air show of Asia.

The event was a ended by the Yak aeroba c team from Britain, who gave a marvelous display with four Yakovlev Yak7s and Yakolvev Yak-11s. Airbus also a ended with their A330neo and CASA C-295.

Indian badminton champion P.V. Sindhu flew copilot in a Tejas on the third day

Aero India 2021 will be held simultaneously as a physical exhibi on and virtual exhibi on with stalls being provided in both realms. A note from the Press Informa on Bureau said that this will result in greater engagement and exhibitors will experience a greater outreach to cater to those who could not join the event physically.

The a endees joining the event virtually can par cipate in seminars, interact with exhibitors and representa ves, hold B2B mee ngs, and can view product details and suppor ng videos, it added. The Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired the apex commi ee mee ng here to oversee the arrangement of Aero India in which Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Secretary, Department of Defence Produc on Raj Kumar and Karnataka Chief Secretary P. Ravikumar were also present. On his part, Mr. Yeddyurappa assured full coopera on from the State to make the event a success. An MoU was signed by the Union and the State governments for ac ve par cipa on, shared

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Special Story

January 2021

responsibility and synchronised efforts since Aero India is one of the major interna onal aerospace and defence exhibi ons. With emphasis on promo ng defence exports, the India Pavilion at Aero India 2021 next month will showcase a range of indigenously developed helicopters while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to hold a conclave of Defence Ministers from the Indian Ocean Li oral (IOR) states, according to a senior defence official. “We have matured in helicopters and have several in various categories. We are now capable of designing and manufacturing any kind of helicopter,” the official said.

A Light U lity Helicopter (LUH), a weaponised Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and a Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) will be on display inside the pavilion, the official said. A civilian version of the ALH will be on display outside. All these helicopters have been designed and manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronau cs Limited (HAL). In addi on to the Defence Ministers’ conclave, plans are also on to hold an Air Chiefs’ conclave. Also, about six to seven official delega ons are expected to be there at Aero India in addi on to various companies. With less than a month le for the biennial air show, construc on of the halls and facili es is at advanced stages of comple on.

region. As Asia’s largest Airshow, this is the place to be for leading aerospace companies and budding players eager to make their mark in the interna onal aerospace and defence market! The event offers a unique pla orm for industry thought leadership through its high-level conference, forums and colocated events. Leading industry players, government and military chiefs gather here bi-annually to contribute to dialogues, exchange ideas and seek solu ons and strategies to advance the interests of the global aerospace and defence sector.

Interna onal Paris Air Show The Interna onal Paris Air Show is

Some Similar Shows

organised by the SIAE, a subsidiary of GIFAS, French Aerospace Industries Associa on. The 54th edi on of the Show will take place at the Le Bourget Parc des Exposi ons in June 2023, and once again will bring together all the players in this global industry around the latest technological innova ons. The first four days of the Show will be reserved for trade visitors, followed by three days open to the general public.

Singapore Airshow Every two years, high-level government and military delega ons, as well as senior corporate execu ves around the world a end the Singapore Airshow to forge partnerships and seal deals in this

2021 edi on of Paris Air Show cancelled Organisers of the Paris Air Show said that they have cancelled next year's edi on of the event because of the Covid-19 pandemic. The biannual show,

Sta ng that there was a lot of interest in Aero India as other such major air shows have been cancelled, the official said, “More than 98% of the stalls are booked and about 93% of them have paid for it.”

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usually held in June, is the world's key event for the aerospace industry, showcasing civilian and military aircra and equipment. Europe's other major air show, at Farnborough in the UK, was this year held online-only as Covid raged. Organisers called the pandemic "the biggest challenge in history" for the aerospace industry. The dates for the next scheduled Paris Air Show in 2023 would be announced shortly, organisers said.

Hupp Aerospace / Defense HUPP Aerospace / Defense is a leading

provider of Tailored Ki ng Solu ons and Supply Chain Services to industry and government. Customers include major MRO providers, the Department of Defense, Foreign Militaries and Fleet Operators. Since 1997, Hupp Aerospace delivered tailored ki ng solu ons to the avia on and defense industries by means of the hupp kit products and the service behind them.

Abu Dhabi Air Expo Abu Dhabi Air Expo is dedicated to

general and business avia on. The Exhibi on brings together major players in avia on, enabling a demanding clientele to discover the industry's latest developments and innova ons in a remarkable and convenient loca on, Al Bateen Execu ve Airport, Abu Dhabi.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Special Story

January 2021

With 13,743 visitors at the last edi on, Abu Dhabi Air Expo has grown to become one of the most successful exhibi ons within the Middle East. This exhibi on is designed for professionals and private owners, and offers visitors a wide and representa ve range of the ever growing avia on industry. This 6th edi on of Abu Dhabi Air Expo will feature a range of avia on companies as well as a sta c display with more than 60 aircra . Abu Dhabi Air Expo offers a complete aeronau cal range of aircra and services: helicopters, ultralights, manufacturers, equipment, accessories, flight schools, avionics, services, training schools and much more! This exhibi on has become a key event for Avia on in the Middle East, and a can’t miss event for professionals in the industry.

Saudi Interna onal Airshow Saudi Interna onal Airshow connects the Avia on and Aerospace industry to Saudi Arabia. This event provides the perfect pla orm to learn, network and conduct business across all areas of the industry and promote successful worldwide trade.

The outstanding 2019 edi on established Saudi Interna onal Airshow as one of the

industry first hand, right in the heart of Europe.

key events within the avia on & aerospace industry.

Interna onal Avia on Expo Vietnam IAE Vietnam 2020 is our one-stop solu ons for Vietnam’s Avia on & Aerospace community. 2020 marks 65 years of Civil Avia on in Vietnam, one of the fastest growing sectors in the industry, seeing

ILA Berlin Airshow ILA Berlin is the hub for the interna onal aerospace industry. With over 1,000 exhibitors from all over the world, ILA Berlin showcases the industry's very best

in terms of high-tech products as well as research and development projects. More than 65,000 trade visitors and 115,000 members of the public a ended the leading aerospace innova on fair in 2018 in Berlin, to experience this fascina ng

rapid growth especially in the past decade, with a total of 23 airports spread across the na on, of which 11 are capable of interna onal flights. With the tourism industry in Vietnam steadily growing in the past few years, the avia on industry has been booming to cater to the influx of tourists entering our country. Ranked as one of the top fastest growing tourist des na ons, Vietnam has seen a total of 15.5 million visitors in 2018, bringing in an es mated USD 26.75 billion in revenue.

STB INDiA RECAPS WORK DONE iN 2020

S

ingapore Tourism Board has been on the forefront of reviving ini a ves for the MICE industry.

STB India recaps work done in the challenging pandemic year of 2020. Under the theme of “Growing Connec ons, Achieving Together!”, the team reached out extensively to its partner – friends. It had shown solidarity with the travel fraternity through its #UnitedWeStand rallying call. Through agile, bold, crea ve and effec ve marke ng, it engaged the Indian audiences, bringing Singapore to them. The video also includes messages from STB’s CE Keith Tan and its Regional Director, India, Middle East and South Asia GB Srithar. It thanks all partner – friends for their dedica on and support.

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Message from GB Srithar, Regional Director India, Middle East & South Asia, Singapore Tourism Board “2020 was a tough year is an understatement. It made all of us pause and reconsider how we live and work. We had to reinterpret ordinary day to day ma ers with different lenses and adjust our ac ons. My team and I in India adopted a BAU mindset. Not the Business As Usual. But, Business Adapted for the Unusual Year. We had made a #UnitedWeStand rallying call to the Indian travel trade and showed our solidarity with them. On the consumer front, we took an Aggressive Passive Marke ng

(yes, it’s an oxymoron) approach. Since the travellers cannot come to SG (and we cannot engage in tac cal marke ng), we brought des na on SG to them. Growing Connec ons, Achieving Together was our theme for 2020. We did our best to do that despite the challenges thrown up. For 2021, it hasn’t been off to a good start.

But, together with our partner – friends, we will do the work that’s necessary to prepare for a travel restart, that’s likely to be very cau ous and in small, deliberate steps.

Our theme for this year is “Char ng Our Pathways to Tourism Recovery”. Looking forward to collabora ng closely with all our tourism stakeholders in SG & partners in India to do meaningful and crea ve work.”

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

EEA2020 Highlights

January 2021

WHAT INDUSTRY LEADERS SAiD AT EEA2020

Mr. JOCHEN WITT, President & CEO, jwc GmbH About judgement process - We've observed the entire process of judgement of EEA. I assure you that Exhibition Excellence Awards have been fair and transparent in all aspects. This awards initiative have chosen many potential champions from the industry, which is commendable.

About 2020 - The year 2020 has been a year of turbulence but it has taught us several painful lessons.

Nothing in our world is for granted, and it has given us the opportunity to bring more innovation. We should be prepared to deal with it and make the best out of it.

About EEA - Exhibition Excellence Awards contribute in the growth of the industry, and drive innovation in such areas which are needed for the future.

About 2021- It is evident that we will not be able to touch the levels of 2019, but with the news of vaccines ready to be rolled-out, we see some light at the end of the tunnel. I think in the rst half of 2021, will face challenges but the normalcy will return in the second half of 2021. In my opinion, exhibition or a trade show are always physical, where you want to touch, feel ,taste and where you want to shake hands and this is obviously not possible in the digital and virtual world. Let's say to all nominees all the very best for the coming year and congratulation to every winner of the Exhibition Excellence Awards 2020.

Mr. STUART BAILEY, President, Hong Kong Exhibition & Convention Industry Association I welcome all to the 5th edition of the Exhibition Excellence Awards. I'm disappointed that we can't all be together as I was very much looking forward to coming to India in March.

About judgement process - I was a part of the judging process, I remember it being very arduous. There were so many excellent entries, the winners that we nally chosen after much debate are very worthy of being called excellent.

About 2020 - Now, 2020 has obviously been a very difcult year for many of us. So many exhibitions and conferences have been postponed or cancelled and it's difcult to really understand where do we t and how can we move forward. So, it's a lovely opportunity to look back at 2019 at some happier times when some truly excellent events took place and really think about the impact that they had on the economies that we work in.

About 2021 - I'm really looking forward to 2021, when hopefully with vaccinations and better testing capabilities, guests from around the world come back to these wonderful shows. So have faith, we will get there.

Congratulations to all the winners of EEA 2020. May God bless you and keep you healthy and prosperous in 2021.

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Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

EEA2020 Highlights

January 2021

Dr. RAKESH KUMAR, DG, EPCH & Chairman, IEML, Chairman, Advocacy Committee, IEIA Namaskar! I am extremely happy to note that the 5th edition of the Exhibition Excellence Awards, is being held in 2020, a year that has been so turbulent for the exhibition industry and yet, the Exhibition Showcase team has been very active in these times.I congratulate them that they have managed to continue with their legacy of the only annual awardsin our industry despite such hard times.

About EEA - I have been associated with the EEA Awards since their inception. I can proudly say that Exhibition Excellence Awards is India's rst ever recognition initiative for the exhibition industry. Good job Raghav!. I have been informed that the EEA 2020 had received about 350 nominations for 60 awards in different categoriesfor honouring India's best organizers, exhibition venues and service providers and other categories. These awards should encourage the industry to raise its benchmarks and strive for more outstanding excellence in the coming years. I extend my best wishes to all the nominees and heartiest congratulations to the winners.

About judgement process - This year exhibition showcase has tied up with the international renowned advisory rm JWC consulting to have an independent evaluation of the entire judging process. Indeed! It is also praiseworthy to note that the Exhibition Excellence Awards are supported by the government bodies like the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Skill Development, the Ministry of MSME, National SmallIndustry Corporation.

It's really a wonderful work that has been done by the Exhibition Showcase.

About 2020 - 2020 has been a challenging year for all of us. We lost one of the founding members of IEIA who was a great friend. However, our industry has utilized this difcult time of to learn, adopt and evolve effectively. IEIA has played a key role to put us together. And united now, we have to leverage this learning phase and to bring the exhibition industry back to track.

About 2021 - On a positive note, I am sure that this positivity will continue in 2021 and our industry will bounce back. I Would like to congratulate all the participants and convey my best wishes to the industry. Wishing you a very happy and prosperousnew year!

Mr. V ANBU, DG & CEO, IMTMA and BIEC, Incoming President, UFI 2021 & Beyond - Our exhibition industry is going through one of the most difcult times. The covid impacted 2 million jobs in the Exhibition industry. China, Korea and Taiwan are a few countries which are leading in the recovery process.I believe that India's economic recovery could be faster in 2021. I personally believe that revival of the economy in 2021 would be 20 percent. Many reforms by the Government, on almost all areas are taking place. On ease of doing business, we have jumped almost to 67th places from 130th rank. FDI inow into the country has also increased signicantly. Even in times of Covid, India has seen a good performance on the FDI. Having greater connect with community would be the most crucial thing and would increasingly play an important role in our recovery and development process of the industry. It's very important for the government to support the industry in a very strong manner.

About EEA - Exhibition Excellence Awards is a great way to recognize the achievers and the winners. My best wishes are to the Exhibition Excellence Awards winners. I also believe that in future the recognition and Awards will be more innovative and unique

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Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

EEA2020 Highlights

January 2021

Mr. RAJESH AGRAWAL, Executive Director, ITPO, Chairman, India MICE Alliance I would like to congratulate Exhibition Showcase for organizing this Exhibition Excellence Awards. It's a great effortby its group editor Raghav Khosla and his team who have put together these awards in these difcult times.

About EEA - We all know covid pandemic has impacted the world in an unprecedented manner. The exhibition industry is one of the worst affected sectors during these last nine months. All of us are aware and we have lived through it for last one year the impact that Covid had on this system. In spite of these difcult times, putting together an event like this is a great commitment to the cause of Exhibition industry.

And, Exhibition Showcase and its team needs to be congratulated. EEA 2020 will announce a number of winners for the year 2019.. I expect all the winners to carry on their good work and see that in the post-pandemic world, we are able to showcase exhibitions in a much better way, much larger way, as we have done in the past and we are able to bring the exhibition industry back on track in a record time.

2021 and beyond - We should pledge that we should see bigger exhibitions in India in year 2021-2022 than 2019, with such promise, you don't only bring the exhibition industry back on track but give the right signal to the nation builders that we are also committed and well poised to play our role in the building of the nation by promoting the economic growth. My best wishes to all the winners, to the entire exhibition industry and we hope, together we will achieve whatever we set out for ourselves in months and years to come.

Mr. KAI HATTENDORF, MD & CEO, UFI A warm greetings from UFI to everyone joining this celebration and to everyone nominated, and of course to all the winners.

2021 and beyond - Now we are ready to go into 2021. And that year will see the beginning of the recovery of exhibitions and events industry from the hits we took in 2020. We will learn, we will move forward and we will rebuild our industry. We will reconnect industries, we will serve the sectors we work for and we as an industry ourselves will become bigger and better than we were before with pandemic.

About EEA - Let's celebrate the winners of this award, teams that stood out despite all challenges.

Congratulations to all the nominated ones, to all the winners and to all of you in the industry for being the amazing people and the amazing talents that you are.Let's put that all to work next year when we bounce back.

Mr. David Duboiss, President, International Association of Exhibitions and Events I am thrilled to be part of the 5th edition of the Exhibitions Excellence Awards program here in 2020. I would like to congratulatethe nominees and the winners of the EEA 2020.

About 2020 - In mid-December, India witnessed some shows which is great. Some shows have also taken place in UnitedStates and around the world. With the vaccinations roll out and resumption of International travel, the exhibition industry will be in a good shape.

2021 and beyond - I'm very optimistic that as we get through the rst months of 2021, we will be in a better place and we'll start to seea slow but gradual positive growth back to hopefully by the end of 2021 .

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Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

EEA2020 Highlights

January 2021

Mr. VINCENT LIM, President, AFECA 2021 and beyond - I believe as we head towards pandemic recovery period, the MICE industry will recover slowly. I'm glad EEA 2020 Awards ceremony acknowledges the hard work of the players of exhibition industry. Congratulations to the organiser of EEA. Many congratulations to the nominees and the winners. This will spur industry to excel further

Mr. P UDAYAKUMAR, Director, (P & M) National Small Industries Corporation I would like to extend my best wishes to various stakeholders and the organizer for holding this Exhibition Excellence Awards. Although, we are not in a position to be present physically but the virtual platform denitely gives a platform for a more number of people across the globe. I would like to compliment the organizers for organizing this Exhibition Excellence Awards. Finally, I would also like to congratulate and give my best wishes to all the winners of this Exhibition Excellence Award 2020.

Mr. BALASUBRAMANIAN S, President, Indian Exhibition Industry Association Let me extend the best wishes to Exhibition Showcase for putting together the 5th edition of Exhibition Excellence Awards.I believe 2021, will be a different story for Exhibition industry in India. The Exhibition Excellence Awards from Exhibition Showcase has been doing an excellent job in recognizing the achievements the industry has made. I'm sure their work will ignite the spark among stakeholders to continue the journey for excellence. My best wishes to the participants and congratulations to the winners of exhibition excellence about 2020. I wish Raghav and his team all the very best.

Mr. AMARESH TIWARI, Vice Chairman, ICPB 2021 and beyond - I am positive that resilience of the industry supported by all the stakeholders including the Government of India will trigger the momentum for MICE industry to gradually grow and move from virtual and hybrid format to the physical meetings.With the news of vaccine ooding the market and more air routes are getting open across the world, the economy is responding positively as things seem to be moving in the right direction in the year 2021.

Mr. SUNIL MORE, President, IESA I extend my best wishes to exhibition showcase team for organizing its annual Exhibition Excellence Awards2020. The exhibition and event industry is passing through a very critical phase. I only hope that the difcult times are behind us and we look forward to a positive turnaround in the year 2021. I once again extend my best wishes to Mr. Raghav and Exhibition Showcase team.

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Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Cover Story

“Trends will be, to continue to open up the domestic markets and to slowly allow international visitors in with appropriate health certicates .

We will be rebuilding this year to instill condence in the next year.

MICHAEL DUCK

Executive Vice President Commercial Development Informa Markets

“

Cover Story

January 2021

I

nforma Markets has announced the appointment of Michael Duck as Execu ve Vice President – Commercial Development across its global business.

Duck joined Informa Markets in 1994 and has worked in various leadership roles, focused on building up the company’s presence in the Asia region, especially in China and India, and expanding events into the Middle East and Africa.

He founded and chaired the Asia, Middle East and Africa and Sustainability chapters for events industry body UFI, before spending 10 years overseeing the Cruise and Beauty ver cals in the United States. Most recently, Duck has overseen Sinoexpo, and the Informa Markets Leather, Food, Building and Mari me products in Asia.

In this newly created role, Duck will work across the global Informa Markets business, which spans 30+ interna onal markets, ac ng as the main point of contact for building rela onships and a pipeline of growth ac vity in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and beyond, through M&A and the

interna onalisa on of products and brands. He will also support the wider Informa Group divisions, including Pharma Intelligence and Academic Publishing, with commercial ac vity in Asia.

Informa Markets CEO, Charlie McCurdy, said of the appointment: “Michael has been instrumental in building up the company’s presence across the globe and he holds important rela onships with industry partners, government bodies and venue partners. I have every confidence that he is uniquely posi oned to act as our global point of contact for commercial development.”

Duck said: “Informa has evolved into a digital business with strong physical assets – and this is something our customers are excited about exploring. Our products help our customers to grow their businesses. We are ready to forge new rela onships in both our exis ng markets and through expanding into new geographies and ver cals.”

MiCHAEL DUCK SHARES HiS THOUGHTS iN A CANDiD iNTERViEW TO EXHiBiTiON SHOWCASE ES. Congratula ons on your new role as Execu ve 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?

Michael Duck. In par cular the key facets for me are to con nue to grow the company and link across our group assets poten al opportuni es. Also link our companies throughout with Governments and associa ons that may enhance our shows . So I am pleased that I will con nue to visit India and have links across the exhibi on industry and with the Indian Government.

ES. Please share with us your thoughts on how this pandemic has disrupted our industry and what have been the major learnings coming from it that can make our industry wiser?

Michael Duck. I don’t know how it can make me any wiser ?!... but certainly the industry globally has been significantly challenged and all the associated industries that rely on Exhibi ons . I suppose a learning is that we should always be be er prepared , and always understand that life is fragile and so quickly can it be disturbed. Hence the need for all of us to work together to rebuild and restart.

ES. Informa Markets has been among the 1st organisers who started their events post COVID. Can you share with us the insights gained from events organised thus far? How many physical events have you organised since COVID and in how many countries primarily?

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Michael Duck. Well, we have not got to the post Covid me yet. We are all s ll ‘in the thick of it’ . We have though been able to trade shows in par cular in China, and also in Hong Kong , Japan, Taiwan , Thailand , Dubai, Cairo and Florida . In all cases though these were B2B shows with domes c exhibitors and domes c trade visitors.

ES. Informa was also among the 1st organisers to launch virtual shows. Can you share your insights on the dynamics of virtual shows, their success and some insights from having organised some of them?

Michael Duck. Yes, our company started in Virtual trade fair so ware produc on some 10 + years ago in Chicago. I think overall as a company then we put on some 100+ shows...the internet speed though was very slow compared to today. We were too early!.

So, we are fortunate to be able to use hybrid show versions with the new so ware that we operate. Its s ll ‘ work in progress’ but exhibitors and buyers are star ng to get used to the format.

ES. With the star ng of vaccina ons and dip in cases (in some regions like India) and also on the other hand a situa on where new wave is forcing extended lockdowns in some regions (in Europe).. What is your take on this complex situa on and its implica ons in 2021?

Michael Duck. Complex is certainly the right word to use!

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Cover Story

January 2021

Joint Effort. Michael Duck and colleagues shake it up at the Signing Ceremony at the Shenzhen Annual Investment Conference in 2019

......and as I said in earlier mee ngs in India last year that who knew all the industries were so fragile and strong industries like Airlines could fold so quickly ? In medical opinions I read we have to vaccinate more than 50% of each popula on to see a significant reduc on of cases. We need then at least 5/6 weeks of “NO, NEW CASES” !......and to travel or stay in hotels we will need to have a digital health passport.

seen by the par cipants?

Michael Duck. I am in no doubt that physical exhibi ons will con nue to play and important part of any company’s marke ng , 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’ . It was a great thrill to feel that ‘ buzz ‘ on the floor once again.

ES. What according to you will be the trends in 2021 and beyond for our industry and your forecasts for recovery?

Michael Duck. Trends will be, to con nue to open up the domes c markets and to slowly allow interna onal visitors in with appropriate health cer ficates . We will be rebuilding this year to ins ll confidence in the next year.

ES. As a leader in command of so many interna onal markets, how do you see the talent pool in our industry and what will be your sugges on to working professionals in the industry towards career growth & skill development in this industry?

ES. As the Execu ve Vice President – Commercial Development at Informa Markets, what will be your upcoming plans & roadmap ahead?

Michael Duck. Do you really have 1 hour to read my answer ?...I think not. But in short to restart confidence and try to reduce the anxiety that is affec ng all the companies in our business. I look forward to also re engaging with old contacts and making new ones too in trying to expand and improve the links our businesses have around the world.

ES. In one of your recent statements you quoted, "Informa has evolved into a digital business with strong physical assets – and this is something our customers are excited about exploring". Does this reflect your increased impetus of going digital in future?

Michael Duck. Without a doubt Covid has sped up all our digital business pla orms and this newly created link with our physical assets can only but grow.

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

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Back in the day Social distancing was so not a thing six years ago when Michael Duck(right) met with Paul Woodward Managing Director of UFI and SupawanTeerarat Vice President Strategic and Business Development of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau at the UFI 2014 Open Seminaiin Bangkok

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Cover Story

January 2021

Michael Duck. We have great talent across our industry and in India these last 15 years or so I have seen significant professionalism in our industry ‘come alive’...long may it con nue.

For working professionals I’d say ..’ be open to learning what your buyers are wan ng and how to give them confidence in what you have to offer them”.

ES. What according to you will be the role of venues and the prepara ons they will need to thrive in the new normal?

Michael Duck. They will have to provide excellent facili es with incorporated strong signal wifi and full health cleanliness before and during and a er shows take place .........and to be part of the formula to re build the exhibi on business.

ES. If you have to pick and choose your favorite 3 tradeshows globally (informa or non informa por olio), who would they be and why?

Michael Duck. Cosmoprof Asia Hong Kong ...... I was involved with the launch of this show 26 years ago and today at 60.000 m2 net is one of the most beau ful shows in the world. Ÿ

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 a end 35 years ago!......the food and drink on offer covers the best from around the world..............just amazing what is on exhibited !

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A QUiCK RAPiD FiRE: ES. Your favorite quote Michael Duck. A moments insight is worth a life me’s experience “ ..Oliver Wendell Holmes ES. Your last binge watch Michael Duck. David A enborough “” Planet Earth “ - BBC ES. Last book you read Michael Duck. William Darymple – “ City of Djinns “ ES. Your inspira on in life Michael Duck. My children and my new grandson !

ES. Your favorite holiday des na on Michael Duck. New Zealand ES. One thing you would definitely do in 2021 Michael Duck. Go trout fishing ! as I missed out last year due to Covid

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

January 2021

“

I am of a strong believer that Virtual shows can never be a threat to physical shows as they can't sustain for a longer period if le alone where as physical events can. Virtual shows have their own merit and if clubbed with physical Events shall add value to the physical ones resul ng in be er ROI for exhibitors, visitors & organiser.

“

IN CONVERSATiON WiTH

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Over the years the food & beverage arm of Indusfood has turned out to be a spot order show due to the fact that the buyers / trade visitor entry t0 the show is only through invita on, screening and approval basis.

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The last edi on of Indusfood 2020 generated on-spot business deal worth USD 2.1 billion in 3 days.

SANDiP DAS - DY. DiRECTOR GENERAL, TPCI ES. Indus food is a global pla orm to showcase food and drink technology and equipment to the food processing companies in India. Please tell us about the rich legacy of your show and its journey over the years.

Sandip Das. Indusfood is a global pla orm for en re Food & Beverage Industry. It was conceptualized during 2017 with an inten on to provide a professional market place for promo on of Indian Food & Beverage products. Since Food Processing is thrust sector for India gradually the need was felt by the industry to add food & beverage technology in the por olio which will eventually help them sell and source at the same place. Hence during January 2020 edi on we had introduced a food processing Technology arm of Indusfood called Indusfood-Tech. Ÿ

ES. What will be the major highlights of the upcoming edi on of Indus Food?

Sandip Das. Due to the outbreak of COVID 19 pandemic, we had to postpone the dates for Indusfood from January 11-13, 2021 to March 20-21 , 2021. However due to paucity of me in 2021 we won't be organizing Indusfood-Tech and will go ahead with Indusfood – F&B only involving 350 exhibitors and 1000+ buyers from 50 countries in physical format.

Indusfood is closed door B2B trade show where 450 top Food & Beverage and 250 Food Processing Technology & ingredient suppliers exhibit their product in front of global buyers from more than 70 countries.

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Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

January 2021

Current year's edi on will take place strictly following SOP for health & hygiene measures issued by Government of India & WHO due to COVID -19 pandemic.

sponsored air ckets and hotel accommoda on. Major developing markets include CIS, Africa, GCC, ASEAN, East Asia, SAARC & LAC.

ES. Will we see a different format this year? Will it involve some virtual/hybrid element?

Sandip Das. Yes this year's edi on shall have an virtual component as well apart from the physical trade fair. The virtual fair shall allow addi onal buyers who could not a end the physical trade show due to health concerns or exis ng travel related restric ons. Virtual pla orm will enable them to transact business with the exhibitors as well.

ES. What protocols will be in place and technology touchpoints set up at the event to make the event all-secure?

Sandip Das. We shall follow contact less registra on process and we have our inhouse technology in place for ensuring the same. However for F&B services and others, the contact less technology shall be implemented by the respec ve vendors with the help of venue.

ES. As an organiser, what measures you will take to ensure smooth and safe experience for the a endees?

Sandip Das. Indusfood will probably be one of the first exhibi ons in the country in COVID period that involves par cipa on from more than 50 countries including USA, Canada & EU apart from the developing countries. TPCI is commi ed to ensure implementa on of all necessary Health & Hygiene measures to provide a safe & smooth experience to all the par cipants of Indusfood 2021 #SafeForBusiness.

The health related guidelines and protocols for Indusfood 2021 has already been updated in the event website.

ES. About 1300 foreign buyers from 80 countries par cipated in your previous event. How are you going to replicate a interna onal par cipa on this me?

Sandip Das. Certainly. Indusfood has established itself as India's premier export promo on trade fair. Export can't happen without overseas buyers. However due to pandemic and exis ng travel restric ons we have limited the number of foreign buyers to 1000 from 50 countries for Indusfood 2021 edi on.

ES. Please share with us the sta s cs of your upcoming event tenta ve exhibi on area, number of exhibitors and visitors etc.

Sandip Das. Indusfood 2021 edi on will be spread across 4 halls of India Exposi on Mart Ltd, Greater Noida with net exhibi on area of approximately 6000 sqm and gross area of 14000 sqm, 350 exhibitors & 1000 + foreign buyers & 500+ Trade Visitors.

ES. What is your expecta ons from the venue and what role is it expected to play in suppor ng successful execu on of your event?

Sandip Das. We have been organizing Indusfood in IEML since its incep on. Over the years the venue has extended all necessary coopera on to us for successful organiza on of the event. Like previous year we have discussed in detail the expecta ons with IEML including the health, hygiene & safety measures and they have assured us on all our points.

ES. What is your comment on the virtual shows Sandip Das. I am of a strong believer that Virtual shows can never be a threat to physical shows as they can't sustain for a longer period if le alone where as physical events can. Virtual shows have their own merit and if clubbed with physical Events shall add value to the physical ones resul ng in be er ROI for exhibitors, visitors & organiser.

ES. Finally, what is your message to the industry?

Sandip Das. For the Exhibi on & MICE fraternity my message is that we have come out of the most difficult challenges posed by COVID-19 & things are now gradually opening up; soon we can expect to come back to the normal days.

However it is important that all of us shouldn't lose hope and be responsible while organizing ac vi es so that our ac ons do not pose any unwanted problems for the exhibi on & event industry.

ES. We witnessed two concomitant shows Indus Food-Chem and Indus Food-Tech 2020 in last edi on. Are they also going to be held this year?

Sandip Das. As already men oned earlier during 2021 we won't be organizing Indusfood -Tech.

ES. We witnessed a great reverse buyer-seller meet in the last edi on where prospec ve buyers were given return air ckets and accommoda on. Please throw some light on this year's arrangements and major markets?

Sandip Das. Yes we are organizing reverse buyers seller meet this year's also. In this buyers from developing markets get

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Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

January 2021

ES. What is going to be special in this edi on of ACETECH, how different is it going to befrom the ones which we have seen earlier?

Manish Gandhi. This is a signature event, which is smaller in size but bigger in splendour. Spread in 6 000 square meters, we have made smaller booths, i.e. 50 sqm, 100 sqm and 30 sqm. The aesthe c apprecia on of the structure is that they're all prefabricated, so the amount of setup me is very less.

Normally building up the booths takes a lot of energy, me and money. So, I think situa on demands that we use prefabricated methods to avoid the aforesaid situa on. We have also slashed our prices by fi y percent, what we used to sell for Rs. 18000 sqms, now we're offering our clients in just Rs. 10,000.Prefabricated booth also helps the Exhibitor to save money, as we know the en re set up is in ready to use form, one can step in even a day before the event. In my opinion, exhibitors who used to spend 50 lakhs can now cut down his cost to a great extent. Pre-fabricated booths which we have never done so, the standard size, the standard height, freeflowing, contactless, sani zed and with SOPS norms which the government has issued.It is not going to look as grand as what acetech used to be, we are star ng from zero, the en re industry is star ng from zero so, I think it's a good star ng point wherein, we get the customers or visitors confidence back.

ES. You call it a signature edi on, does it signify special meaning in terms of exhibi on in 2021?

Manish. It's a huge meaning, I feel like, I'm restar ng my career again. People who have been in exhibi ons, doing 70 shows a year, and with the outbreak of pandemic covid-19, everything comes to stands ll, it is definitely a signature show, which is like the restart of the en re exhibi on industry. It makes us feel proud that we are the first ones to actually take this ini a ve. I and Sumit Ji together have put a lot efforts in ge ng the staffs back to the work, making them comfortable, talking to them, ge ng them onto the zoom call with the clients were some hec c work schedules. So, technology has played a crucial role in connec ng us together and making things possible. I had a conversa on with a few people from the team of other organisers, they have some shows scheduled to take place in March. A er a discussion, what I found that everybody needs that confidence. I think acetech will be the torchbearer for a fresh start.

Normally building up the booths takes a lot of energy, me and money. So, I think situa on demands that we use prefabricated methods to avoid the aforesaid situa on. We have also slashed our prices by fi y percent, what we used to sell for Rs. 18000 sqms, now we're offering our clients in just Rs. 10,000.

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Manish Gandhi, COO & Execu ve Director – ABEC Exhibi ons & Conferences Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Interview

January 2021 area. Visitors will be monitored, I would be more than happy if that happens safe and sound. Acetech is just a small ini a ve, we will definitely come up with a bigger ini a ve soon.

ES. What has been the general feedback from your clients, how suppor ve have they been?

Manish. Surprisingly, very suppor ve, people want to move on, people want to forget, markets are posi ve, I think things are moving in the very right direc on. We are very thankful to the industry, the support that we are ge ng from various segments. People are travelling from far flung areas to a end the show. Clients from Delhi are now focussing Mumbai market also, real estate business have started to func on, this is really helping architects, interior designers and others in this business. These ac vi es shows a posi ve indicator in the real estate sector. Now people are saying, 'we need something to market, let's start off.'

ES. Do you have some hybrid element involved in this physical show?

Manish. That is absolutely necessary, we have learnt from our fitness show that the power of social media, youtube live streaming always add value to the customer experience.

Virtual exhibi on, virtual mee ngs and other e-meet formats plays a crucial role in reaching out to target audience but virtual cannot replace the physical exhibi on. However, real exhibi ons must u lize the power of virtual so that more and more and more people can be reached. This exhibi on is slightly smaller but definitely a hybrid model will be a part and parcel of the show.

ES. This is going to mark the first exhibi on in Maharashtra since the outbreak of pandemic, Covid-19, what steps are youtaking as an organizer to ensure the smooth and safe experiencefor a endees?

Manish. First and foremost, we should ensure that the SOP which have been issued by the ministry, are being followed.

Sani za on of the en re venue, larger aisle spaces, spacing of the booths, maintaining social distancing, doing temperature checks, and asking the par cipants and vendors for their Covid test done 72 hours prior to the event are some measures that would be put into prac ce. People don't need to be scared, all you need is to be careful, wear your mask and everything is fine. There are no registra on counters, one can access the registra on process through book my show. You can buy trade show pass for Rs. 200- 300. Common areas like the cafes would be under strict protocol. I think registra on and contact list would be the key to ascertain the number of visitors as per the

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ES. How suppor ve has been the Maharashtra government for this ini a ve?

Manish. Very suppor ve, I met CM Uddhav Ji and Aditya Ji who had also inaugurated one of our health and fitness shows. He has confirmed his presence to inaugurate the show.

ES. Bombay Exhibi on Centre has been Covid-19 Centre, what would you like to say about Venue?

Manish. The best thing happened is that the major Covid centres are now transforming into a major vaccina on point. It reflects the posi vity among people. Anybody who wants to geta vaccine shot can visit Nesco. I personally visited the venues, they are segregated with barricades and its completely isolated. The entry is from gate 3 which is almost a kilometer away. I think, it's absolutely safe. The venue has been very careful, suppor ve. I believe, the myth of people will break, they will regain confidence.

ES. What are the numbers expected as an exhibitors and visitors in acetech?

Manish. We have around 80 confirmed par cipants, in terms of visitors over a period of three days with the SOPS, 15 to 20 000 foo all would be our expecta on. The architect community to visit around 10000-15000 in three days. We'll not be allowing, any one below 18 and for elderly above 60.

ES. What would you like to share as a message to the industry and the fraternity at large?

Manish. I think, I'm touched the way you along with the other members, have kept the industry together in this difficult me.

I'm really impressed the way industry people had undertaken the advocacy campaign, there's a good amount of bonding, a good amount of knowledge sharing. Ul mately, we all need to stand together and represent our country.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

January 2021

INFORMA PLC RELEASES 2020 YEAR - END UPDATE Informa (LSE: INF.L), the Informa on Services, Advanced Learning, B2B Exhibi ons and Events Group today issued an update on trading ahead of its 2020 Full Year Results on 22 April 2021, confirming the Group’s performance for 2020 will be in line with the revenue guidance provided at the Half-Year Results in September 2020.

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Stability and Security… Delivery of Stability and Security in 2020, in the face of significant COVID-19 disrup on to physical events, protec ng and preserving long-term value of brands, talent and customer rela onships; Subscrip on strength… Stability and Security underpinned by strong performances in our Subscrip onled businesses, which delivered posi ve aggregate underlying growth across the year, demonstra ng the strength of our specialist brands; Physical Events… Con nued return and recovery of physical events in Mainland China and other parts of Asia, combined with pre-planned Postponement Programme (90% of physical events exChina scheduled from June 2021) and rollout of COVID-19 vaccines, providing

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indirect savings. Combina on of effec ve cost management, efficient financing and robust subscrip ons to deliver posi ve cash flow from Q1 2021;

con nued confidence in progressive return of physical events through 2021 in North America and EMEA;

Key Highlights

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Digital accelera on… Digital services and virtual events grew at pace in 2020, accelera ng the integra on of data and digital technology into and around the physical event brands, deepening customer rela onships through smarter events and intelligent B2B services; COVID-19 Financing Ac on Plan…

Programme of ac vi es to deliver Stability and Security in financing completed, with earliest debt maturi es extended to 2023, financial covenants removed and £1bn+ of liquidity confirmed; COVID-19 Cost Management Plan… £600m+ cost savings delivered to plan by year-end, including £400m+ direct savings to adjusted opera ng profit and £200m+ annualised

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2020 ou urn… Full year 2020 revenue expected to be in line with guidance previously provided at the Half-Year Results in September, in a range of £1.65bn to £1.68bn, with adjusted opera ng profit expected to be in a range of £250m to £270m;

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Chair succession… John Rishton announced as Chair-Elect, with a managed handover from Derek Mapp, comple ng at the Annual General Mee ng in June 2021.

Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Execu ve, Informa PLC, said: “The Informa Group enters 2021 with an inten on to use the

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

January 2021

progressive return from COVID-19 to deepen our use of digital and data services, thereby ensuring our products and brands remain relevant in a post pandemic world. The con nued strength and growth of our subscrip on businesses and our prior decision to extend the physical Events Postponement Programme should serve us well as markets gradually open up and customer confidence recovers in the la er half of 2021. Equally important, will be our con nued commitment to strengthening our digital and data capabili es.”

From the outset of the pandemic, we have been focused on protec ng and preserving the longterm value of our Brands and Businesses, singlemindedly pursuing a strategy of Stability and Security through 2020.

Our Subscrip on-led businesses have performed well throughout. In our Event-led businesses, in the absence of physical events in most regions, our brands and strong customer rela onships enabled us to shi at speed to digital services and virtual events. At the same me, we have significantly reduced our opera ng costs, secured greater financial flexibility, deployed a major physical Event Postponement Programme and, cri cally, provided consistent support to Colleagues and Customers.”

2020 Trading Highlights Demand for specialist data and

knowledge remained strong throughout 2020, despite the widespread disrup on and uncertainty created by

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the COVID-19 pandemic. This was evident in the consistent performance of our Subscrip on-led businesses, in aggregate contribu ng more than £300m of adjusted opera ng profit in the year and providing the Group with strength in the face of significant disrup on to our physical events businesses.

The strength of our Subscrip on-led businesses, combined with the progressive return of physical events in Mainland China and valuable contribu ons from our specialist media, marke ng services and virtual events ac vi es, are expected to deliver 2020 Group revenues in line with the £1.7bnguidance provided at our Half-Year Results in September, despite minimal physical events ac vity returning elsewhere, including within our largest market, North America. The Group revenue ou urn for 2020 is expected to be within the range of £1.65bn to £1.68bn and Group Adjusted Opera ng Profit within the range of £250m to £270m.

Subscrip on-led businesses Our por olio of subscrip on-led, specialist knowledge and informa on businesses con nued to perform well through 2020, delivering aggregate posi ve underlying growth for the year, underpinned by our specialist brands and data, strong customer rela onships and forward-booked subscrip ons.

Taylor & Francis delivered a strong performance despite university campus lockdowns, with underlying revenue growth for 2020 expected to be broadly flat. This reflects con nued strength in subscrip ons and open access within Research Publishing, underpinned by consistent demand for our specialist content and growing range of open research services. In addi on, within our Advanced Learning business, COVID-19-related disrup on to the

physical books supply chain and certain sales channels that had a marked impact on the first half of 2020, steadily improved through the back-end of the year, with stock availability and customer ordering pa erns returning to more normal trends.

Informa Intelligence performed consistently well through 2020, delivering good growth and strong profitability across its por olio of specialist intelligence brands, data products and targeted customer solu ons. Across the different businesses, renewal rates remained consistently over 90%, Annualised Contract Values posi ve and forward sales pipelines strong. This is expected to deliver underlying revenue growth for the year of just under 2%, in line with the first-half run-rate. This would have been higher but for the small por on of revenue generated through physical Awards events and related ac vi es, which were inevitably impacted by COVID-19.

Informa Intelligence is now clearly focused on four main markets: Pharma Intelligence, Retail Financial Intelligence, Mari me Intelligence and Asset Intelligence. All performed well in 2020, with Pharma Intelligence par cularly strong, reflec ng the strength of specialist brands and proprietary content, combined with the benefits of investment made over recent years to enhance data sets and strengthen pla orm capabili es.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

January 2021 entering 2021 with a focused por olio of high quality subscrip on brands, a rac ng high renewal rates, posi ve annualised contract values and robust new business pipelines, which together are expected to deliver improving levels of underlying revenue growth. Across our Event-led businesses, we are using the learning, investment and digital product development of 2020 to further strengthen and enhance our digital and data capabili es in 2021.

Event-led businesses Our three Event-led businesses, Informa Markets, Informa Connect and Informa Tech, all faced significant disrup on to physical events ac vi es in 2020 across most regions of the world, from key territories like the United States (c40% of 2019 Events revenue) to smaller markets for our businesses, like the UK (c5%). Physical events did resume in another of our major markets, Mainland China (c12% of 2019 Events revenue), from late June, progressively building momentum through the second half of the year, albeit with limited interna onal par cipa on.

Rebooking for 2021 events in the region has been encouraging, underlining the pent-up demand for physical trade shows as markets re-open post COVID19.

In the last few months of 2020, we also ran our first physical events in Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Egypt and Japan, as well as our first outdoor event in North America, The Fort Lauderdale Interna onal Boat Show. Whilst the la er was smaller in scale than the 2019 edi on, the quality of exhibitors

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and a endees was strong, highligh ng the ability to run secure outdoor events within the boundaries of COVID-19 restric ons. The pace and rate of the COVID-19 impact on physical events through 2020 created a demand to shi to virtual events at volume. This saw more than 500 virtual events of different shapes and sizes run through the year. This real- me digital experience has significantly accelerated our digital product development and we will further develop and enhance this capability in 2021.

2021 Approach & Outlook Our Subscrip on-led businesses, many of which are currently in mid-renewal season, approach 2021 with strength in both renewal rates and annualised contract values. Within Taylor & Francis, the strength of our brands and depth of specialist content put us in a good posi on, despite ongoing disrup on to University schedules and related budget pressures. This is reflected in robust annual subscrip on renewals through the backend of 2020 and con nued strong demand for our open access products. Informa Intelligence is

Over the medium-term, we see an opportunity to build a stronger business by integra ng data and digital technology more deeply into these businesses, strengthening the quality of revenue and deepening customer rela onships. This will also help to offset some of the revenue from peripheral physical events and ter ary ac vi es that may not return postCOVID-19, as customers focus investment on a ending major brands, smarter events and integrated and intelligent B2B services.

As the vaccine and tes ng programmes progress, markets gradually open up and customer confidence starts to recover in 2021, we are focused on making the most of physical event opportuni es as they arise. It is likely to be a year of return for physical events, rather than full rebound and recovery but the shape and mix of our por olio, focused on major brands in major markets on major trade routes, puts us in a good posi on.

This is further supported by our decision to extend our Postponement Programme for physical events, pushing the launch of the 2021 calendar to late Spring but with 90% of the physical events outside of Mainland China that are planned in the year now scheduled to run from June onwards.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

January 2021

THE AEO CELEBRATES ITS CENTENARY specialist working groups and a full me secretariat.

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he AEO (Associa on of Event Organisers) celebrates its hundredth year, this year.The AEO (Associa on of Event Organisers) celebrates its hundredth year, this year.

Over the years, the mission of AEO has transi oned and developed to align with current issues. A century on and the original collabora ve ambi ons are not too dissimilar from the AEO’s current objec ves, albeit on a much wider and ambi ous scale. It is run by its members for the benefit of its members through an elected council,

Founded in 1921, registered with Companies House in June 1982 and headquartered now in Berkhamsted, Her ordshire, the AEO comprises 87 na onal and interna onal members.

Chris Skeith, chief execu ve officer of AEO says: “Every organisa on is only as good as the people that touch it. Our centenary is a celebra on of all the people that have been part of our journey over the last century. The great work we have achieved together is the icing. Whether you’re a member, sponsor, partner, Awards judge, you name it – thank you to every one of you.” Skeith added: “We’re happy to be celebra ng such an incredible milestone at a me when we all need more posi ve stories and to be

reminded why our industry con nues to be one worth figh ng for in the face of adversity.”

To mark the occasion, there’ll be a series of ac vi es through 2021 which include: Ÿ

100 AEO social posts campaign. This includes looking back on history, highligh ng the great work it does with its members and some throwbacks for a sprinkling of fun.

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Interviews with members. Whether they’re our oldest, newest, biggest or smallest member, they’ll be sharing what AEO means to them.

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An AEO celebra on in the fourth quarter, with the hope of bringing the events community back together, in person!

IMEX FRANKFURT 2021 CANCELLED

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he IMEX Group chairman Ray Bloom and CEO Carina Bauer in a statement released on January 11, announced the cancella on of IMEX Frankfurt 2021.

The statement read: We know the ming of our announcement comes as a blow so early in 2021. More than anything, and like you, we’re eager to deliver some good news and mark a fresh start.

When we were compelled to cancel IMEX in Frankfurt and IMEX America last year we hoped 2021 would see the early recovery of the industry and the IMEX shows. We s ll believe wholeheartedly that a resurgence will come, but sadly we do not believe it will happen in me for us to deliver a strong and successful event in May.

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IMEX in Frankfurt is a hugely global event – our exhibitors and buyers represent 150+ countries – and we are, therefore, reliant on interna onal travel routes being open in the coming weeks to allow our buyers and exhibitors from across the world to confirm their par cipa on.

All that said, we are genuinely posi ve about the future.

Industry prospects The vaccine roll-out and improvements in rapid tes ng programmes give us great confidence for the prospects of our industry and of travel in general.

We are very confident that we’ll be able to deliver a successful IMEX America in Las Vegas from 9-11 November; as well as the 20th anniversary edi on of IMEX in Frankfurt in 2022 (26-28 April). The

IMEX Team is already working hard with our partners in both loca ons to create and deliver successful shows that will drive the future growth and prosperity of our industry.

In the mean me, we remain commi ed to value crea on. We’ll be working with industry partners on digital ac va ons and experiences that deliver on our mission of uni ng and advancing the business events industry – doing everything we can to educate, innovate and help you to make powerful connec ons with the right people.

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

January 2021

IAEE EVP, COO CATHY BREDEN TO SERVE AS EIC 2021 CHAiR ELECT

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he Interna onal Associa on of Exhibi ons and Events® (IAEE) announced the selec on of Execu ve Vice President & Chief Opera ng Officer Cathy Breden, CMP, CAE, CEM as 2021 Chair Elect of the Events Industry Council (EIC). In this role, she will also serve as Treasurer and will move forward as EIC Chair in 2022. Breden has served on the EIC board of directors since 2017 and has also served as chair of the 2016-2017 Research Commi ee and on the 2010 CMP board. The EIC

serves as the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recogni on and standards. Its board is comprised of nominated members that represent more than 30 organiza ons in the global events industry. These leaders are the governing body for the overall council with fiscal responsibility and strategic direc on for all EIC programs.

“I am pleased to contribute to the advancement of the worldwide events industry through my role on the EIC board and moving forward EIC’s Vision 2025 Plan,” said Breden. “The diversity of the board’s members and the organiza ons they hail from allows for broad perspec ve and opportunity to serve the various communi es of our industry honorably. This is par cularly

important in the year ahead, as our industry strives toward a full recovery from the challenges posed by COVID19.”

Breden also serves as the CEO of the Center for Exhibi on Industry Research (CEIR). She is a frequent presenter on the areas of exhibi on industry trends and the power of exhibi ons in face-toface marke ng, in addi on to serving as adjunct faculty at Dallas Community College District-Richland College. She is an ac ve member of the American Society of Associa on Execu ves (ASAE) and the Texas Society of Associa on Execu ves (TSAE). She is also an editor of IAEE’s widely distributed textbook, The Art of the Show, An Introduc on to the Study of Exhibi on Management, 5th Edi on.

MALAYSiA’S PENANG CONVENTiON & EXHiBiTiON BUREAU LAUNCHES ViRTUAL ROADSHOW TO INDiA

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he Penang Conven on & Exhibi on Bureau (PCEB) will be carrying out its 4th annual Penang Roadshow to India. This year’s show will see the B2B sessions carried out fully virtually with a Penang Night special dinner hosted in selected ci es in India. This hybrid format ensures maximum outreach of the roadshow to one of Penang, Malaysia’s largest travel markets.

Beginning the roadshow in Kochi on 18th Jan, the roadshow will con nue on to Chennai on 20 Jan, New Delhi on 22 Jan and Mumbai on 25 Jan to predominantly connect Penang and Malaysian sellers to qualified Indian buyers from different industry segments including business events, leisure travel, weddings, teambuilding events and

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filming. The virtual show has a total of 25 registered sellers from Penang and the larger Malaysia travel and business events industry, and will be welcoming more than 200 buyers in total.

The virtual B2B sessions will be conducted in all 4 ci es, with some informa onal forums in between.

Addressing the Indian travel trade members at the invita on-only Penang Night dinners, the Chief Minister of Penang, the Penang State Minister for Tourism and Crea ve Economy, and the CEO of Penang Conven on & Exhibi on Bureau were present “virtually”.

“I believe we can return the form of India being the top 5 market for Business Events Penang if we con nue

to work together to build the business.

The partners and par cipants for the roadshow who are present shows our commitment in ensuring the sustainability of the India – Penang travel business,” said Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEOr of PCEB. In his message to the Indian travel trade members, Penang State Minister for Tourism and Crea ve Economy, the Hon. Mr Yeoh Soon Hin said, “Penang is ready to welcome you and all Indian travellers back to Penang. We look forward to the day that you could personally indulge yourselves in the best that Penang has to offer; from its amazing food to our world-class hospitality.”

Asia’s Most Comprehensive Media Pla orm For MICE

Global News

January 2021

INDiA SUBCONTRACTiNG EXPO 2021 TO HiGHLiGHT TRADE OPPORTUNiTiES iN INDiA FOR US BUSiNESSES

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he India Subcontrac ng Expo 2021 focusing on the North American region is scheduled to be held February 16-19 virtually. The expo will bring together exhibitors from India and buyers from Canada, Mexico and the US. Ahead of the expo, Indian government officials, diplomats and industry leaders highlighted business opportuni es that the expo will present for both the US and India in areas of trade and investment and help boost economic es during a curtain raiser event organised Monday by the Engineering Export Promo on Council (EEPC) of India.

Joint Secretary (EP-Engg.) in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Srikar K Reddy said at the curtain raiser event that the global economy remained virtually stalled due to economic lockdowns imposed across na ons to combat the pandemic and as na ons begin the process of re-opening their economies, restora on to preCOVID stage is likely to take some more me. He said India has emerged as one

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of the most promising economies for developed regions, especially in terms of trade and investment. He said ini a ves introduced by the Narendra Modi government under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan’ are a rac ng a en on of na ons for trade and investment opportuni es in India.

He added that India offers tremendous business opportuni es in various sectors, especially in manufacturing to North America.

Reddy said a trade show with North America in the “strategically important” segment of subcontrac ng is very mely and will further promote Indian engineering businesses amid the pandemic. “I strongly believe that this expo will surely be mutually beneficial for both India and North America, and will be helpful for Indian engineering, especially the MSMEs to find new and sustainable businesses,” he said, according to a statement. Manoj Mohapatra, Minister (Commerce) at the Embassy of India in Washington DC said trade, investment and economic

coopera on forms an important pillar of the India-US partnership.

He added that New Delhi and Washington are extensively engaging with each other to conclude a trade package, which will create growth opportuni es for Indian and US businesses. Mohapatra said at the virtual curtain raiser that COVID-19 has presented India with a rare and unique opportunity to work with the US to build resilient, reliable, and trustworthy supply chains, which will have the ability to weather future shocks.

He highlighted that US was India’s largest engineering goods export market in 2019 with 6.4 billion dollars of exports. The goods include products such as iron and steel ar cles, auto components and electrical machinery.

Stressing that Indian exports have remained resilient despite the pandemic, he said that Indian exports in electrical machinery and parts thereof as well as automobiles and auto components have par cularly shown strong growth in 2020.

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January 2021

UFI RELEASES FiRST INDUSTRY PARTNERS BENCHMARK SURVEY – Exhibi on organisers and venue operators state that service providers have a rela vely high impact on overall event success – Sa sfac on with service providers within the industry is rela vely high, whilst the length of collabora on between clients and customers has a big impact on overall sa sfac on levels.

– Key areas of investment over the next 12-18 months are perceived to be marke ng and communica ons, and event technology and so ware.

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xhibi on organisers and venue operators state that service providers have a rela vely high impact on overall event success. This is a core finding from the first edi on of the new Industry Partners Benchmark Survey, released by UFI, the Global Associa on of the Exhibi on Industry.

Developed by the UFI Industry Partners Working Group, the survey benchmarks and assesses the rela onships between industry partners/suppliers and exhibi on organisers/venues. It also iden fies areas for improvement with regard to collabora on. More than 200 companies contributed to the project, the majority of whom are from Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

“We believe this is the first survey of its kind in our industry to focus on the value that organisers place on their suppliers.

The survey will be of great interest to suppliers and partners

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worldwide, by providing key insights into the true nature of the rela onships between organisers and the companies that support their events,” says Ravinder Sethi, Chair of UFI’s Industry Partners Working Group.

The survey demonstrates that industry partners are regarded as an essen al and valuable component of the exhibi on industry, with overall sa sfac on levels with regard to service delivery being rela vely high.

The results also indicate that some of the less-u lised services may have a stronger impact on the outcome of an event than those more heavily relied upon, while the dura on of coopera on between industry partners and their customers has a strong posi ve correla on to sa sfac on levels.

Despite the overall posi ve feedback, the survey highlights a demand for more innova on from industry partners, and indicates that an increase in data

sharing between industry partners and their customers could bring addi onal value.

“This survey is a result of UFI’s Industry Partners Working Group, which has been set up for and run by our industry partner members – a diverse group of mo vated industry experts offering a broad range of services. The collabora on between organisers, venues and service partners is more important than ever, now that we are dealing with the fallout from the COVID19 pandemic,” says UFI President Anbu Varathan.

The Industry Partners Benchmark Survey was conducted at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The Industry Partners Working Group is dedicated to running the survey on a regular basis, in order to reflect the ongoing challenges and impact on the exhibi on industry.

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UFI GLOBAL BAROMETER PROViDES 2020 RESULTS AND 2021 PERSPECTiVES FOR THE EXHiBiTiON iNDUSTRY – The impact of COVID-19 in 2020 has been severe, but there are posi ve signs for 2021 – Industry revenues are expected to double in 2021 compared to 2020, when revenues represented just 28% of 2019 revenues – 54% of companies have had to reduce their workforce, with half of these by more than 25% – 64% are confident that COVID-19 has reinforced the value of face-to-face events, and that the sector will recover quickly – The research provides dedicated profiles for 29 markets and regions

When asked what element would most help with the “bounce back” of exhibi ons, the majority of companies, ranked “readiness of exhibi ng companies and visitors to par cipate again” (64%), “li of current travel restric ons” (63%) and “li of current public policies that apply locally to exhibi ons” (52%) as key factors.

Overall: 44% of companies benefi ed from some level of public financial support; for the majority this related to less than 10% of their overall 2019 costs. Ÿ 54% of companies had to reduce their workforce, with half of these by more than 25%. Ÿ 10% of companies will have to consider permanently ceasing opera ons if there are no events for the next six months. Ÿ

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FI, the Global Associa on of the Exhibi on Industry, has released the latest edi on of its flagship Global Barometer research, which takes the pulse of the industry. Results highlight the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the exhibi on industry worldwide, in 2020. There are also posi ve signs regarding a quick recovery in 2021.

Globally, between April and August 2020, more than half of all companies reported no ac vity. This situa on changed from September, where the majority of companies declared some opera ons, at reduced levels for most.

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Looking ahead to 2021, the share of companies expec ng a return to “normal” ac vity is expected to grow from 10% in January to 37% in June.

These results vary depending on region, and are primarily driven by the “re-opening date” of exhibi ons. In all regions, most companies expect both local and na onal exhibi ons to reopen by the end of June 2021, with interna onal exhibi ons resuming in the second half of the year. Company opera ons also include, while face-toface events are not possible, working into the development of digital solu ons.

As expected, the “impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the business” is considered the most important business issue (stated by 29% of companies, a 2% increase on six months ago). The “impact of digitalisa on” (11%) and “compe on with other media” (7%) have also increased (+1% and +2% respec vely), while the “state of the economy in the

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home market” (19%) and “global economic developments” (16%) have decreased, but remain amongst the top three concerns. In terms of future exhibi on formats, global results indicate that 64% (compared to 57% six months ago) are confident that “COVID-19 confirms the value of faceto-face events”, indica ng an expecta on that the sector will bounce back quickly.

“The message from the global industry is clear: quite simply, 2020 was horrible. The pandemic stopped most ac vi es around the world for several months, and, globally, our industry’s revenue dropped by almost three quarters. But, as the Global Barometer shows, 2021 should see a significant bounce back, with global revenues expected to double, pending markets re-opening and clarity on regula ons.

We will ‘build back’ even be er, and while the industry will remain, primarily, a face-to-face marke ng channel, digital offers will evolve with

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new pa erns,” says Kai Ha endorf, UFI Managing Director and CEO. Size and scope This latest edi on of UFI’s bi-annual industry survey was concluded in December 2020, and includes data from 457 companies in 64 countries and regions.

The study also includes outlooks and analysis for 24 countries and regions – Argen na, Australia, Brazil, China, Colombia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, the UAE, the UK and the US – as well as an addi onal five aggregated regional zones.

“We sincerely thank all companies who took part in this study. The results from 29 markets and regions provide strong insights for assessing both the impact of the crisis and future perspec ves.

We also welcome AFEP and UNIMEV, who partnered with us for this edi on,

resul ng in our first ever specific country profiles for Peru and France,” says Chris an Druart, UFI Research Manager.

Opera ons since 2020 – reopening exhibi ons Results show that the periods when most companies reported “no ac vity” in 2020 were limited to March-June for the Asia-Pacific region, April-June for North America, and April-September for Central and South America and the Middle East and Africa. In Europe, there was an ini al period of inac vity in April- August, followed by another period in November-December.

Turnover – opera ng profits Regional results indicate that: The revenue drop for 2020 was the highest for companies in Central and South America and the Middle East and Africa (who respec vely only achieved 23% and 24% of 2019 revenue levels). Companies in the Asia-Pacific region (27% of 2019

Ÿ

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levels), Europe (32% of 2019 levels) and North America (36% of 2019 levels) are at or above global averages. The 2021 perspec ves are rather similar for all regions: who are expec ng to achieve between 32% and 37% of last year’s revenue for H1-2021, and between 55% and 60% for all of 2021. Ÿ In terms of profits, the share of companies who faced a loss for 2020 varies from 47% in the AsiaPacific region and Europe, to 50% in North America, 58% in the Middle East and Africa, and 64% in Central and South America. Ÿ

Public financial support – workforce and perspec ves Regional results indicate that: The number of companies receiving public financial support is higher in Europe (54% of companies) and the Asia-Pacific region (53%), than in Central and South America (35%), North America (31%) and the Middle East and Africa (13%). Ÿ The share of companies forced to reduce their workforce is higher in Ÿ

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the Middle East and Africa (73% of companies), North America (61%) and Central and South America (56%), than in Europe (52%) and the Asia-Pacific region (49%). Ÿ The propor on of companies believing they will need to close if business doesn’t resume within the next six months varies from 5% in North America, to 6% in the AsiaPacific region, 10% in Central and South America, 14% in Europe and 17% in the Middle East and Africa, while the propor on of companies who believe they will cope ranges from 26% in Europe to 40% in the Asia-Pacific region.

Key business issues While the “impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the business” is the key business issue across all regions, “global economic developments” are ranked higher in the Middle East and Africa (23% of companies) than in other regions. The “impact of digi sa on” is ranked higher in North America (15%) and Europe (14%) than other regions.

three main segments – organisers, venues and service providers – highlights a difference in the fourth most important issue, with organisers indica ng “impact of digi sa on”, venues indica ng “internal challenges” and service providers indica ng “regulatory/stakeholders’ issues”.

Future exhibi on formats The report also highlights two significant regional differences in rela on to possible trends driving the future format of exhibi ons: The claim “COVID-19 confirms the value of face-to-face events” was more widely agreed with in the Middle East and Africa (70% of companies), the Asia-Pacific region (69%) and Europe (67%), than in North America (55%) and Central and South America (53%). Ÿ While, there were stronger opposing views for the claim “virtual events replacing physical events”, with 74% of companies in Europe disagreeing, compared to just 57% of companies from North America. Ÿ

Further insight by type of ac vity, for

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