CEIR: modest decline for exhibition industry

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U.S., 9th December: The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) released its latest Q3 2025 Index Report, showing the exhibition industry declining moderately.

According to the report, the CEIR Total Index was 11.1% below Q3 2019, and 10.7% down from Q3 2024.

The Total Index consisted of four components: Exhibitors, Net Square Deet, Attendees, and Real Revenues. Compared with Q3 2019, Exhibitors was down by 5.0%, Net Square Feet decreased by 8.3%, Attendees dropped 12.3%, and Real Revenues declined the most of 18.2%.

CEIR Vice President of Research Nancy Drapeau, IPC, said, “The Q3 2025 results reflect an exhibition industry navigating a complex transition from policy-focused concerns to broader macroeconomic challenges. While we’ve seen a modest pullback in overall performance, the increase in events surpassing pre-pandemic levels demonstrates that many organizers are successfully adapting to current conditions. The shift toward economic and inflationary concerns underscores the need for strategic planning that accounts for both market dynamics and policy influences.”

Pico Thailand posts decrease in revenues and profits in FY2024-2025

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Bangkok, 4th December: Last week, Pico Thailand, the Thai-listed subsidiary of Pico Far East Holdings, announced its full-year financial results for the year ended 31st October 2025. Revenues in the financial year were US$40 million, a moderate decrease of 1.9% year-on-year.

The company posted a drop of 28% of its net profit from the previous year, amounting at US$678,000. Earnings per share of the financial year were Baht 0.091 (US$0.0028).

The company attributed the decrease in revenues to the income decrease from the Exhibition business, Learning center & Museum business and the Knowledge Communication business. However, the company also recorded an increase in income from the Event marketing business to offset part of the decrease in other businesses.

The Selling and administrative expenses posted an increase due to the expected credit loss from trade accounts receivable, in the result of the decrease in profit.

Messe Frankfurt expects sales over €766m in 2025

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Frankfurt, 4th December: In the financial year 2025, Messe Frankfurt expected sales will be over €766 million (US$896 million).

By the end of 2025, the company will host a total of 346 events worldwide, featuring some 95,500 exhibiting companies, with an estimated of 4.9 million visitors. Bookings for Messe Frankfurt’s guest event business recorded more than 200 trade fairs, conferences, congresses and other events being held during the year, with over 150 events have already been contractually confirmed for 2026.

In Asia, Messe Frankfurt has more than 60 events in the region. The company added five new events to its consumer goods portfolio in India.

The company will add 25 new events to its portfolio worldwide by 2027. It opened a subsidiary and launched new formats in Saudi Arabia.

Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt, commented, “Financial year 2025 shows once again that our worldwide events are the economic engine for sectors, giving them a valuable boost. In times of ongoing geopolitical and economic crises, we are aiming to strengthen our resilience and market presence. The high international component at our Frankfurt base increases range and traction – which in turn has measurable effects on the growth of our events outside Germany.”

Messe München to record revenues of €600m in 2025

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München, 5th December: International exhibition organiser, Messe München, expected the company to have record revenues of about €600 million (US$702 million). At the headquarters in Munich, it is expected the company to generate revenues of around €520 million (US$608 million).

According to Messe München, in 2024, the company organised 16 events in Munich, 93 guest events and 47 events abroad. The events in Munich featured 32,000 exhibitors and 1.3 million visitors, while the events abroad attracted 22,500 exhibitors and 1.2 million visitors. Outside Germany, China and India are Messe München’s two most important markets, with China hosting 26 events at six locations, and India hosted 19 events at five locations.

In 2025, a total of 18 events were held by Messe München’s trade fair centre, with some 21,000 exhibitors and 73 guest events with around 13,000 exhibitors, attracting 2.5 million visitors. In terms of international business, the company organised 42 events abroad, attracting 1.8 million visitors and 18,000 exhibitors.

For the coming year, the company expects to make a larger contribution to revenue from abroad, especially from China and India, driven by the major technology trade fairs.

The two CEOs of Messe München, Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer and Stefan Rummel, were quoted, “2025 was a year of superlatives for Messe München. Not only did we demonstrate the strength of our portfolio at the Munich location, but we also showed how important trade fairs are as a platform for innovation and international exchange. This record year is a tailwind for our strategic investments and the further development of Munich as a trade fair location.”

Quick takes

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Nyaal Banyul to open in July 2026

Nyaal Banyul, a new exhibition venue in Australia, will open in July 2026. The venue brought the “One Year to Go” celebration for guests moving through the spaces, tasted dishes shaped by local producers and connecting with the stories of Geelong and The Bellarine. The venue also announced four confirmed events in 2026, with more to announce in the future.

Messe Düsseldorf’s JV appoints new GM

Hannover Messe Ankiros Fuarcılık A.Ş., a joint venture (JV) between Messe Düsseldorf GmbH and Deutsche Messe AG, has appointed Ozan Hünler as its new General Manager, effective 1st December 2025. The company organises international trade fairs for the metallurgical, foundry, and aluminium industries. Established in 2024, the JV opened Messe Düsseldorf’s portfolio to the Eurasian market. It is expected to further drive the JV’s growth through Ozan Hünler’s appointment.

Koelnmesse appoints new President and MD

International exhibition organiser, Koelnmesse, announced the appointment of Darrin Stern as its new President and Managing Director, succeeding Mette Petersen, who will retire on 30th June 2026. Darrin will assume the new role from 1st January 2026, Mette will continue in an advisory capacity through the first half of 2026 to ensure a smooth handover, mentoring team members and supporting key initiatives with Koelnmesse’s headquarters in Cologne, Germany.

43,000+ visitors at 10th swop

Organised by Messe Düsseldorf China (MDC), the Shanghai World of Packaging (swop), concluded on 27th November 2025, welcoming 43,090 trade visitors and buyers from 122 countries and regions. In its tenth-anniversary edition, swop 2025 featured 950 exhibiting companies, showcasing the entire packaging value chain. During the three-day event, the event spanned over 70,000 m2 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC).

92nd UFI Global Congress welcomes 600+ delegates to Hong Kong

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Paris/Hong Kong, 25th November: UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, concluded its annual event, 92nd UFI Global Congress, in Hong Kong, running from 19th to 22nd November 2025.

This year’s congress, themed “Shaping the Future”, was hosted by AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE), welcoming over 600 delegates from 47 countries.

During the congress, the Main Stage delivered future-focused programme highlighting the forces reshaping the global exhibitions industry; The Insight Series sessions gathered UFI Award winners and Working Groups for interactive discussions; delegates could also join lively discussions and exchanged insights at the Bate-Papo Corner, which is a new format side stage.

Chris Skeith OBE, CEO of UFI, said, “This Congress was a milestone in UFI’s history. As we celebrated 100 years of connecting people globally, we were also looking ahead and building the foundations for the next century of our industry… It was a powerful reminder of what this community can achieve when we come together with purpose, passion, and momentum.”

Panittha Buri, Vice Chairperson of BHIRAJ BURI GROUP, will be UFI’s new President for the 2025-26 year. UFI Trio for 2025-26 will include Panittha Buri; outgoing President, High Jones (CEO of RX); and incoming President, Wolfram Diener (CEO of Messe Düsseldorf).

The next edition of the congress, the 93rd UFI Global Congress, will take place from 2nd to 5th November 2025, in Manama, Bahrain, hosted by Exhibition World Bahrain.

Alibaba posts decrease in profit for September Quarter

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Hong Kong, 25th November: Last week, the Alibaba Group, a leading e-commerce company in China, released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025. The company recorded total revenues of US$35 billion, up 5% year-on-year.

However, Alibaba posted a decrease of 35% in its net profit, down to US$2.9 billion. The company attributed the decline to the investment in quick commerce, user experiences, and technology.

In terms of Alibaba’s B2B business, revenues from the “China commerce wholesale” business, under its Alibaba China E-commerce Group, primarily generated through 1688.com, were US$947 million, representing an increase of 13% year-on-year. Revenues from its “International commerce wholesale” business under Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, primarily operating through Alibaba.com, increased by 11%, reaching US$945 million.

In addition, Alibaba also released its financial results for the six months ended 30th September, with revenues of US$70 billion, an increase of 3% year-on-year. Net profit in the six-month period dropped 7%, amounting at US$8.8 billion. Diluted earnings per share in the first half of the financial year were RMB 3.34 (US$0.47).

Revenues from the “China commerce wholesale” business rose 13% year-on-year, reaching US$1.9 billion; while revenues from its “International commerce wholesale” business were US$1.8 billion, up 12%.

Eddie Wu, Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Group, was quoted, “We have entered into an investment phase to build long-term strategic value in AI technologies and infrastructure and a consumption platform integrating daily life services and e-commerce. With our significant strategic investments in these areas, our two core businesses of AI + Cloud and consumption continued to deliver strong growth this quarter. Robust AI demand further accelerated our Cloud Intelligence Group business, with revenue up 34% and AI-related product revenue achieving triple-digit year-over-year growth for the ninth consecutive quarter. In our consumption business, quick commerce continued to scale with significant improvement in unit economics and drove rapid growth in monthly active consumers on the Taobao app.”

VNU AP expands Aquatech portfolio in Thailand

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Bangkok, 26th November: VNU Asia Pacific’s (VNU AP) water technology, Aquatech, will expand its portfolio to Bangkok, by launching Aquatech Asia. The new event will run from 25th to 27th November 2026, focusing on flooding and drought management, climate resilience, and integrated water solutions.

The Aquatech portfolio includes events in Amsterdam, Mexico, and China. The new event is supported by a strategic partnership between RAI Amsterdam and VNU Asia Pacific, combining local market expertise with Aquatech’s global network and knowledge programme.

Justin Pau, CEO, VNU Asia Pacific, commented, “Asia is at the center of the world’s water challenge – and opportunity. With soaring demand driven by urbanization and climate change, the need for smarter, sustainable water solutions is more critical than ever. Aquatech Asia serves as the key platform to connect global innovation with regional needs, driving progress toward water resilience. With over a decade of expertise as Southeast Asia’s leading trade show organizer, VNU Asia Pacific is proud to bring this world-class event to empower industries and communities across the region.”

385 MICE events held in Macau in Q3

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Macau, 26th November: Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) released the latest MICE Statistics for the quarter ended 30th September 2025. A total of 385 MICE events were held in Macau in the quarter, up 10% year-on-year. The number of participants and attendees also grew 8.2%, reaching 567,200.

Among the 385 events, 360 were meetings and conferences, increased by 11% year-on-year. Number of participants was up 9.2%, amounting at 68,500. A total of 18 exhibitions were held during the quarter, up 29%, with the number of attendees rising 9.1%, to 497,300.

The figures for the first nine months of 2025 were also provided. Macau hosted a total of 1,331 MICE events in the period, up 26% year-on-year. However, the number of participants dropped by 1,1%, at 995,200.

Quick takes

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Chiang Mai Marriott opens new events facilities

The Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel announced the launch of the Plaii Ballroom and Plaii Hybrid Meetings & Entertainment Complex. The Plaii Ballroom features 400 m2 of pillarless space, which is purpose-built for international conferences, product launches, and luxury celebrations. The complex also includes 11 meeting rooms, executive breakout suites, and a naturally lit Mingle Space, as well as lifestyle and entertainment facilities.

RX launches MIPIM Middle East in 2026

International exhibition organiser, RX Global, will launch MIPIM Middle East in Riyadh, running from 20th to 21st October 2026, at the Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh. The new event will bring global real-estate investors together with policymakers and project owners from across the region. MIPIM Middle East will be part of the MIPIM portfolio, which includes events in Cannes and Hong Kong.

ABEA appoints two new directors

The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) appointed two new directors to the board: Cindy-Lee Bakos from MCI Australia, and Nick Jeffery from the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC). Angie Becker from Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) was re-elected onto the board. Peter King’s term as Chair will extend for another two years, together with Vice Chair, Matt Pearce from Talk2Media, will continue in their roles.

RX appoints new Executive Vice President

RX Global, a leading exhibition organiser, appointed Amy Morton as its new Executive Vice President of Human Resources for RX and RELX Corporate, effective 1st December 2025. Morton will be responsible for aligning the company’s people strategies with its core business objective, focusing on driving talent development, retention, and acquisition initiatives across RX. Prior joining RX, she has held senior leadership roles at prominent financial and asset management firms. She will report directly to Hugh Jones, she will also join the RX Executive Leadership Team and the Global HR Leadership Team.

Koelnmesse restructures leadership in Asia

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Singapore, 19th November: International exhibition organiser, Koelnmesse, announced to strengthen its presence across the Asia-Pacific region (APAC), with a new leadership structure and expanded strategic oversight.

Mathias Küpper has been appointed as Koelnmesse’s first Region President APAC, effective 1st December 2025. In the new role, he will lead the company’s regional alignment from Singapore, driving the strategic development of existing trade fairs and launching new events in the region. He will also oversee Expolink Global Network Ltd., Koelnmesse’s joint venture, and operational activities in Thailand and Singapore.

At the same time, Michiel Kruse will head Koelnmesse’s Hong Kong office and will also continue managing Koelnmesse’s Chinese offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.

Mathias Küpper was quoted, “Koelnmesse has significantly expanded its portfolio in Asia in recent years, establishing strong positions for leading trade fair brands in dynamic markets. Our goal is to further strengthen regional collaboration and unlock new opportunities for growth alongside our local teams.”

Baidu posts loss in Q3

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Beijing, 18th November: Earlier this week, Baidu, the leading Chinese language Internet search provider, released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025. Revenues in the quarter were US$4.4 billion, a decrease of 7% year-on-year. The company posted a net loss of US$1.6 billion in the quarter, compared with a net profit of US$1.1 billion in the third quarter in 2024.

Revenues from Baidu’s core business were US$3.5 billion in the quarter, dropped 7% year-on-year. The majority of those revenues (US$2.2 billion) were generated from its online marketing business, which decreased by 18% year-on-year. However, Baidu’s non-online marketing businesses grew 21% in the same period, reaching at US$1.3 billion. According to the company, the growth was mainly driven by AI Cloud business.

Robin Li, Co-founder and CEO of Baidu, commented, “In the third quarter, we demonstrated AI’s transformative value across our portfolio. AI Cloud maintained solid growth momentum, driven by broadening enterprise adoption of our AI products and solutions. Apollo Go significantly accelerated the scaling of its fully driverless operations and kept advancing global expansion, including entry into Switzerland, all while maintaining industry-leading safety standards. In our Mobile Ecosystem, AI-native monetization products such as agents and digital humans delivered rapid revenue growth, showing strong long-term potential. We will continue pioneering AI innovations that create substantial value for users, enterprises, and society, cementing our leadership in the AI era.”

GCCEC hosts 29 events in first quarter

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Gold Coast, 12th November: The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) hosted 29 events, welcoming 85,000 delegates in the first quarter of the financial year 2025-2026, generating an estimated A$131 million (US$85.5 million) in economic impact for the city.

According to GCCEC, the venue posted a growth in conferences and exhibitions from knowledge-based sectors during the quarter. In addition, the venue also served the local community by hosting public events.

Nick Jeffrey, general manager of GCCEC, stated, “A strong first quarter sets the tone for the year ahead, and we’re proud to play our part in showcasing the Gold Coast. Every event hosted brings visitors, opportunities, and investment, creating a lasting legacy well beyond the Centre’s walls.”

Quick takes

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150,000 visits at Industrial Fair Network 2025

Industrial Fair Network 2025 (TIFN 2025) concluded at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC), attracting some 150,000 trade visits. Running from 28th to 31st October 2025, the event included nine specialised trade fairs: PTC ASIA, CeMAT ASIA, ComVac ASIA, APEX, E-pack Tech, FBC, Cold Xpo, ISA and Freight Vehicle. Over 3,400 domestic and international enterprises were showcased at the event, occupying an exhibition area of nearly 240,000 m2.

213 exhibitors at ProWine Mumbai 2025

ProWine Mumbai 2025, and India’s wine, spirits and hospitality event, was held at the Jio World Convention Centre, brining a total of 213 exhibitor from 21 countries. Nearly 5,500 trade visitors attended the event, including importers, distributors, retailers, hoteliers, restaurateurs, sommeliers and media.

IEG up 6.3% in revenues

Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) has recently released its interim management statement as of 30th September 2025. Revenues were €191 million (US$224 million), an increase of 6.3% year-on-year. However, profit dropped 23% during the six-month period, down to €16 million (US$19 million). The company attributed the revenue growth to the development of its flagship events and the conference division.

Informa TechTarget releases Q3 performance

Last week, Informa TechTarget released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025, reporting revenues of US$122 million, up 1% year-on-year, which reflected continued robust performance in Intelligence & Advisory and improving momentum in Brand to Demand. In terms net income, the company posted a net loss of US$77 million, compared with a loss of US$20 million in the same quarter in 2024, due to the impact by technical non-cash impairment reflecting difference between market capitalization and book value at the end of Q3.

Songdo Convensia waits government approval for expansion

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Korea, 5th November: Songdo Convensia, a convention centre near Incheon International Airport, plans to expand and build new exhibition halls.

The venue is waiting for the approval from the South Korean government. The new halls will be built next to the existing four, utilising the current open-air space and adjacent parking lot, and the parking lot will be moved underground.

The venue currently has a total exhibition space of 17,021 m2, two ballrooms and 35 meeting rooms.

Sae-rae Jo, assistant manager, exhibition team, Songdo Convensia, stated, “The proposal is done, and we are hopeful that it will be approved because we’re focused on MICE. MICE is the direction the government is moving in, and we aim for the expansion to be ready by 2030.”

Informa’s revenues up 8.7% in first 10 months

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London, 11th November: Earlier this week, Informa PLC, the London-listed B2B media group, released its latest trading update, reporting a 6.6% of underlying revenue growth in the first 10 months of 2025.

Informa’s B2B Live Events (Informa Markets, Informa Connect, Informa Festivals) posted an underlying revenue growth of 8.7%. The company attributed the growth reflecting structural market strengths, continuing marketing leading outperformance in IMEA (India, Middle East and Africa), and successful Brand geo-adaptation. Another business, Informa TechTarget, reported to return momentum in underlying revenues, with a positive performance since the half year.

The company also updated its full year guidance: underlying revenue growth of 6%, group revenues of £4 billion (US$5.3 billion), and adjusted earning per share growth of 10%.

Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Executive, Informa, said, “Informa continues its strong operating performance, delivering further revenue, profit and earnings growth this year and with continuing momentum into next year. Our growth platform is built around the power and rising value of Live Events, and is underpinned by unique specialist B2B Brands, leading positions in growth geographies and categories, proprietary First Party Data and world class talent.”

RX appoints President, Asia Pacific

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London, 6th November: International exhibition organiser, RX Global (formerly Reed Exhibitions), has appointed Brian Thomas as its new President, Asia Pacific, succeeding Chien Ee Yeh, who is retiring after servicing RX for 14 years.

Thomas has over 30 years of experience at RX by holding leadership roles across multiple regions. He has overseen RX’s businesses in Australia, Singapore, Korea and Indonesia.

After taking over the new role, Thomas will join RX’s Executive Leadership Team and report directly to CEO, Hugh Jones.

Hugh Jones was quoted, “Brian is a proven leader with deep regional expertise and a strong track record of delivering results. His passion for our business, his collaborative approach, and his commitment to our customers and people make him the ideal person to lead our Asia Pacific operations into the future.  I would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Chien Ee for his outstanding contributions and dedication to RX, we wish him happiness and all the very best in his next chapter.”