ICC Sydney hosts 546 events in FY2025

Sydney, 20th October: International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) released its Annual Performance Review for FY 2025, which reported as a year of growth, innovation and impact.

During the financial year 2024-2025, ICC Sydney secured a total of 546 events, attracting some 1.5 million visitors, generating visitor expenditure of A$746 million (US$484 million). The figure in the previous year was 1.2 million visitors and an economic contribution of A$718 million (US$479 million).

The 546 events included 17 international events, 88 national events, 61 exhibitions, 136 entertainment events, and 244 single day local events.

ICC Sydney Chief Executive Officer, Adam Mather-Brown, said, “ICC Sydney has ignited the local economy, elevated city vibrancy and advanced social justice through inclusive and impactful experiences. In this way, we are proud to be more than a venue. We’re a catalyst for innovation, talent development and community engagement. Our team at ICC Sydney will continue to welcome international events across priority sectors including health and medical sciences, technology, education, finance, banking and sustainability, reflecting the state’s strategic focus and ICC Sydney’s commitment to delivering meaningful outcomes for the community.”

Messe Frankfurt partners with VNU Exhibitions AP

Bangkok, 22nd October: Messe Frankfurt Hong Kong (HK) Ltd announced the partnership with VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific to launch a new regional platform for the entertainment and pro AV sectors, Prolight + Sound Bangkok.

The new fair will be held at Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), running from 30th September to 2nd October 2026. It is targeted to become the region’s leading and most innovative pro AV and entertainment showcase, fostering greater sourcing and partnership opportunities. Product categories will include Professional audio equipment & technology, Conferencing & AV equipment, Professional lighting equipment & technology, Stage equipment & technology, LED & display technology, and Music & related equipment.

Under the partnership, Messe Frankfurt will pair global innovation and international brands with ASEAN demand, and VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific will set the stage for smooth local partnerships and results with its market knowledge.

Mr Richard Li, Executive Director of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, was quoted, “By utilising the worldwide innovation pipeline and global brand resources of Prolight + Sound Guangzhou, an event industry showcase, the new Bangkok fair will help upgrade Southeast Asia’s industry, and give respected industry names, international exhibitors, and forward-thinking SMEs a cost‑effective, high‑impact path into the region – including brand exposure, channel building, and order landing. We’re enabling the world’s leading pro AV and entertainment players to enter ASEAN efficiently and scale with confidence, while paving the way for local industry growth.”

New smart space show concludes in Hangzhou

Hangzhou, 13th October: The inaugural edition of International Smart Space Exhibition (ISSE) concluded at the Hangzhou Grand Convention and Exhibition Center, welcoming over 257,000 visits with its concurrent show, Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE).

Co-organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and Hangzhou Expo Group, ISSE took place from 25th to 29th September 2025, with the theme of “Shaping the future of smart space”. Some 160 brands presented their products and solutions in the following areas: Intelligent Buildings and Smart Parks, Urban Public Spaces, Smart Commercial Spaces, and Smart Living.

The next edition of ISSE will return to Hangzhou Grand Convention and Exhibition Center, running from 23rd to 27th September 2026.

Quick takes

Macau welcomes 29m+ visitor arrivals for the first 9 months of 2025

Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) reported its latest number of visitor arrivals, with 29,671,070 visitor arrivals, for the first nine months in 2025, a year-on-year increase of 14.5%. Same day visitors (17,278,529) grew 24.9%, while overnight visitors (12,392,541) were up 2.5%. However, the average length of stay dropped 0.1 days year-on-year, down to 1.1 days; while the figure of overnight visitors remained unchanged at 2.3 days.

Foundry appoints Global Chief Revenue Officer

Foundry, a world leading tech media, data, and marketing services company, appointed Gregory Anderson as its Global Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). Anderson has two decades of experience in sales across technology and media sectors, and he will focus on enhancing the buyer journey and accelerating strategic growth globally. Prior joining Foundry, Anderson served as Chief Sales Officer at Omdia at Inform TechTarget.

HKTDC’s twin electronics fairs attract some 60,000 buyers

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) concluded its 45th Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and 28th electronicAsia, with some 60,000 industry buyers from 142 countries and regions. Taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), the two concurrent fairs featured more than 3,200 exhibitors from 20 countries and regions, focusing on three major areas: AI and Robotics Technology, Digital Entertainment, and the Silver Economy.

2,000+ exhibitors at Global Sources Hong Kong Shows Phase II

Hong Kong-based Global Sources opened its second phase of the Hong Kong Shows at AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE), which included Mobile Electronics; Smart Home, Security & Home Appliances; Lifestyle; and Home & Kitchen. Running from 18th to 21st October 2025. This year, the show launched a new pavilion: AI Pavilion. Over 2,000 exhibitors presented more than 150,000 innovative products, expecting to attract over 60,000 international professional B2B buyers.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

IMPACT unveils new vision

Bangkok, 14th October: IMPACT, the largest exhibition venue in Thailand, announced a new corporate vision: “To be a leading MICE destination in Asia and a globally recognized hub for business, meetings, and entertainment-enhancing Thailand’s role as a true regional MICE center”.

Applying the new vision, IMPACT aims at positioning the venue as a world-class destination for meetings, business, and entertainment. In addition to its traditional role as a venue provider to become a hub of inspiration, ideas, and human connection, IMPACT will also serve as a platform where people, industries, and innovation converge through exhibitions, international conferences, incentive events, and world-class concerts.

Mr. Paul Kanjanapas, Chief Executive Officer of IMPACT Exhibition Management, stated, “IMPACT is not just a physical venue. It’s a place where people meet, where industries evolve, and where new ideas are born. This new vision reflects our commitment to elevate Thailand’s MICE industry and strengthen our position as a global player.”

ICC Sydney appoints new head of National Associations

Sydney, 13th October: International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) announced the promotion of Rachael Tsicalas to the role of Senior Manager, Business Development National Associations.

Rachael joined ICC Sydney in March 2023 and made contribution to the National Associations team. She has two decades of experience across Australia’s leading hospitality venues and has a wealth of industry knowledge, strategic insight and a passion for the association sector.

In the new role, Rachael will lead ICC Sydney’s dedicated National Associations team, targeting continue to position the venue as a trusted partner for Australia’s most influential associations.

ICC Sydney Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Commercial Officer, Beverley Parker, was quoted, “I’m delighted to announce Rachael Tsicalas’ appointment to lead our National Associations team. Rachael brings extensive industry experience and a deep passion for the association sector, recognising the vital role these organisations play in our communities. With Rachael and her team working collaboratively alongside our valued national association professionals, ICC Sydney is well-positioned to drive meaningful outcomes and lasting impact.”

Messe Düsseldorf expands portfolio in India

India, 14th October: International exhibition organiser, Messe Düsseldorf, will partner to organise Inter Foundry 2026, a metal and foundry trade show in India.

Under the collaboration, the international trade show for the ferrous and non-ferrous foundry industry in Coimbatore, India, will be organised jointly with its Inter DieCast under the tagline “powered by The Bright World of Metals and Messe Düsseldorf”. Inter Foundry 2026 will run from 10th to 12th September 2026, at the Codissia Trade Fair Complex in Coimbatore. It is expected to feature more than 250 exhibitors and over 10,000 professional attendees, occupying an exhibition space of 18,000 m2.

Under the metal and foundry portfolio, Messe Düsseldorf hosts The Bright World of Metals series, comprising four trade shows in Düsseldorf, and 11 regionals shows worldwide.

Wolfram N. Diener, President and CEO of Messe Düsseldorf, stated, “With its booming economy, a growing middle class and a young population that’s enthusiastic about new technologies, India stands out as one of the world’s most dynamic growth markets – both for our customers and for us as a trade show company. By adding Inter Foundry 2026, we’re further expanding our international market leadership in metallurgy and foundry trade shows while creating a powerful platform to support our partners as they enter India’s high-potential emerging market.”

Koelnmesse concludes new interzum jakarta

Indonesia, 1st October: Koelnmesse concluded its inaugural interzum jakarta and International Hardware Fair Indonesia, with IFMAC & WOODMAC, at Jakarta International Expo (JIExpo Kemayoran), welcoming 13,689 attendees.

Running from 24th to 27th September 2025, the three events showcased the full supply chain of furniture production, interior design, hardware, woodworking machinery, and components, featuring a total of 482 exhibitors from 49 countries, and occupying 17,832 m2 of exhibition space.

Mathias Kuepper, Managing Director & Vice President Asia-Pacific, Koelnmesse Pte Ltd., said, “This debut has given us a strong starting point for developing interzum jakarta and International Hardware Fair Indonesia into long-term platforms for the region. In 2026, we aim to welcome even more international companies, national pavilions, and collaborators, reflecting a promising market and the increasing footprint of these industries in Southeast Asia. With the continued support of exhibitors, partners, and visitors, we look forward to strengthening Jakarta’s role as a central meeting point for innovation, sustainability, and business opportunities.”

The next edition of the three events will return to JIExpo Kemayoran, from 23rd to 26th September 2026, offering an integrated platform where global trends, new technologies, and sustainable practices converge to shape the industries of tomorrow.

Quick takes

Malaysia focuses tourism in 2026

According to the Malaysian Tourism Federation (MTF), the Malaysian government will focus on tourism during Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026). The government has allocated more than 700 million ringgit (US$166 million) to strengthen the tourism sector, aiming to attract 47 million visitors and generate 329 billion ringgit (US$78 billion) in revenues during VMY2026.

Nineteen Group acquires National Painting and Decorating Show

Nineteen Group acquired of the National Painting and Decorating Show from PDS Promotions Ltd. National Painting and Decorating Show is a trade exhibition in the U.K. for painting and decorating professionals. After the acquisition, the event will retain its brand identity at the NEC, and will be managed by Lyrical Communications, part of Nineteen Group. No financial details of the transaction have been released.

ADITUS purchases Info Salons Middle East

Hanover-based technology company, ADITUS, announced the acquisition of Info Salons Middle East, a leading event technology provider in the Middle East, with retroactive effect from 1st July 2025. The two companies have been in collaboration for two years, and now 100% of Infor Salons shares have been purchased by ADITUS. After the acquisition, Chris Lloyd will take over management of the Dubai operations and will lead the company jointly with Marc Luzoff, Sebastian Grein, and Wilbert Heijmans.

NürnbergMesse appoints new head of trendfairs

International exhibition organiser, NürnbergMesse, has appointed Christoper Boss as head NürnbergMesse subsidiary trendfairs GmbH, effective from 1st January 2026. Boss will succeed founder Michael Rambach, who will step aside to focus on new personal projects. Boss has extensive experience in the exhibition sector and within the NürnbergMesse Group, where he is recently the Executive Director of EUROGUSS and the Managing Director of MedtecLIVE GmbH.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

TCEB and TAT collaborate for premium MICE groups

Thailand, 2nd October: The Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) jointly launch “Thailand Power Up” campaign, offering new support and incentives for long-haul and short-haul meeting and incentive travel organisers between October 2025 and July 2026.

The partnership aims to boost economic growth in the MICE sector, enhance Thailand’s competitive edge, and create new opportunities to welcome high-quality international travellers.

Events hosting over 100 participants from long-haul markets (Europe, Africa, North America, South America and Oceania), or over 200 participants from short-haul markets (within Asia), for at least four-night stay in Thailand will be qualify for support under the new campaign, which is offered in two forms: financial assistance and non-financial assistance. The non-financial assistance will include souvenirs from local communities, MICE Premium Lane Service for arrivals at airport, coordination with government agencies, Thailand-related information, performances, and Thai-style hospitality.

It is expected to attract 65,000 travellers, generating 4.29 billion baht (US$132 million) in revenue.

Dr. Supawan Teerarat, President of TCEB, said, “Collaboration with TAT is one key strategy for TCEB in engaging related bodies within the travel industry to strengthen Thailand’s MICE ecosystem and to enable offerings for maximisation. We aim to ensure the success of events in Thailand with measurable Return on Investment (ROI) and Return on Experience (ROX), delivering tangible business outcomes as well as exceptional participant experiences. This powerful partnership not only supports events but also shapes a sustainable and globally competitive MICE ecosystem for Thailand, backed by world-class infrastructure and services, while fostering business and investment connections and opportunities and boosting the national economy.”

HKTDC appoints new Executive Director

Hong Kong, 2nd October: The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) appointed Sophia Chong as its new Executive Director, assuming on 1st October 2025.

At the same time, Jenny Koo was also appointed as the new Deputy Executive Director, overseeing international exhibitions and related services and digital business. She has prior served as Assistant Executive Director, overseeing exhibitions and digital business initiatives, with a focus on promoting Hong Kong’s external trade.

Ms Chong stated, “The global economy is ever-changing, and Hong Kong’s role as a ‘superconnector’ and ‘super value-adder’ is more crucial than ever. The HKTDC has long stood shoulder to shoulder with Hong Kong businesses, helping enterprises seize opportunities amid global uncertainty. We will continue to enhance the depth and breadth of our services, leveraging Hong Kong’s unique strengths and advantages, to support businesses in boosting competitiveness and exploring new markets. At the same time, we will attract more enterprises to utilise the Hong Kong platform for international expansion, which will inject new momentum into our city’s economy and solidify its position as an international business hub.”

Messe Frankfurt launches Foundry Tech in Japan

Japan, 6th October: Messe Frankfurt Japan Ltd will launch its new Foundry Tech and Expo, with Japan Foundry Society, Inc., running from 9th to 11th September 2026, at Tokyo Big Sight South Hall 4.

Holding concurrently with Thermotec 2026, the only exhibition in the field of industrial furnaces and related technology in Japan, Foundry Tech and Expo 2026 will feature 80 exhibitors, displaying products and services, with a wide range of applications.

Targeting at contribute to the further development and sustainability of Japan’s metal casting industry, driving new opportunities for a sector that provides critical components across several industries, the new show will provide the potential for new manufacturing approaches by bringing metal casting technologies, equipment, materials, solutions and related products, covering three key elements: environmental consideration, economic value, and technical excellence.

Mr Shinji Fujiwara, Chairman of the Japan Foundry Society, Inc., was quoted, “At this exhibition, alongside booth displays by individual companies and organisations, we will present the latest technologies and research findings to the entire industry through seminars including keynote speeches. Furthermore, aiming to foster the next generation of talent and promote industry-academia collaboration, we will strive to create an opportunity for more people to discover the appeal of the foundry industry.”

Quick takes

Messe Düsseldorf expands REHACARE in UAE

International exhibition organiser, Messe Düsseldorf, has entered a strategic partnership with UAE-based Nadd AlShiba PR & Event Management to acquire a stake in AccessAbilities Expo, a leading event for assistive technologies in the Middle East. Through the partnership, Messe Düsseldorf will further expand the global importance of its REHACARE International, a leading trade fair for rehabilitation and assistive technologies in the world.

HKTDC to open 4 tech fairs in October

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will open its four major technology fairs this month. Taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), the Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and electronicAsia will be held at from 13th to 16th October, while the Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition) will run from 27th to 30th October. The Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo will be held at AsiaWorld-Expo, from 28th to 30th October. The four fairs will bring over 6,200 exhibitors from 27 countries and regions, showcasing innovative products and solutions, lighting products and advanced technologies.

50,000+ professionals at electronica India

Messe München India’s (MMI) electronica India and productronica India 2025 concluded at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), with 50,194 trade professionals. Over 6,000 global brands from more than 50 countries showcased at the three-day co-located trade fairs, serving the entire electronics manufacturing value chain, encompassing design, components, assembly, automation, embedded systems, and quality assurance. From 2026, the trade fairs will be held bi-annually, taking place in Greater Noida in April, and Bengaluru in September.

OSH India 2025 attracts 9,000+ visitors

Informa Markets in India concluded its 13th edition of OSH India Expo, a leading occupational safety and health event in South Asia, attracting over 9,000 visitors, over 150 delegates and more than 60 speakers. Running from 16th to 18th September 2025, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai, the event showcased over 170 exhibitors, presenting more than 300 leading brands and over 1,500 products from 13 countries.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

Haymarket Media Group acquires Marketing Week

U.K., 25th September: Haymarket Media Group, the global media, data and information company, announced the acquisition of Marketing Week, Creative Review, and Festival of Marketing from Centaur Media plc, for £3.9 million in cash (US$5.3 million).

After the acquisition, the acquired brands will be under the Haymarket’s Business Media (HBM) division, and will remain operating as a separate business unit alongside the other brands. They will continue to be led by the existing Managing Director, Claire Rance, who will report into HBM’s Deputy Managing Director, Donna Murphy.

Marketing Week, with more than 40 years history, has been at the centre of marketing, documenting, championing and questioning the industry’s key people, events and brands. Creative Review, bringing the creative community together since 1980, delivers the sharpest opinion, analysis and advice on life in the commercial creative industries. Festival of Marketing, Marketing Week’s flagship event, is to empower marketers to build better brands.

Kevin Costello, Global Chief Executive of Haymarket Media Group, said: “I am delighted to welcome Marketing Week, Creative Review, and Festival of Marketing into our portfolio. These highly respected brands provide market-leading insights and analysis for their communities and align perfectly with our commitment to serving specialist audiences globally. Our combined skills and influence in the sector makes for a very exciting future working together.”

New venue at Philippines’ Cebu

Cebu, 29th September: Cebu in Philippines will have a new venue, Mactan Expo Center, by the end of the 2025.

The new venue will be a two-storey standalone convention centre, located within the 30-hectare township of Megaworld’s Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City, and is a 15-mintue drive away from the Mactan Cebu International Airport.

On the ground floor, there is a 2,600 m2 state-of-the art convention hall, and a 1,426 m2 pre-function area, three VIP rooms, a dedicated showroom. On the mezzanine level, there are two meeting rooms, a pre-function space and an open-air balcony.

New TICA President unveils proposals

Thailand, 24th September: The Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA) appointed Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk, veteran hotelier and Dusit executive, as its new President for the 2025-2026 term.

In the new position, Prachoom will lead TICA in a strategic push to reinforce Thailand’s standing as a leading business events hub.

Prachoom has already unveiled seven strategic proposals, focusing on core challenges, including infrastructure, sustainability, talent, digitalization, policy reform, and brand protection, which aimed at positioning Thailand for long-term growth and competitiveness in the global business events market. The proposals will be submitted later in the year, and TICA will be working closely with public agencies to secure cross-sector support.

Prachoom said, “Ultimately, these proposals will need to be discussed with relevant agencies because they cover many dimensions, not just tourism. TICA is ready to act as a bridge between the private and public sectors to drive these proposals forward.”

Informa Markets India launches Tools & Equipment Expo

India, 30th September: Informa Markets India, Indian subsidiary of international exhibition organiser, Informa Markets, will launch Tools & Equipment Expo (TAEE) 2026, previously the HTF-CWT Expo, with four co-located events: Hand Tools & Fasteners Expo (HTF), Cutting & Welding Expo (CWE), International Machine Tools Expo (IMEX), and Used Machinery Expo (UMEX).

Running from 17th to 19th September 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, the new event will target as India’s most comprehensive B2B platform for hand tools, power tools, cutting and welding equipment, industrial machinery, and accessories.

Mr. Wouter Molman, Informa Markets India’s Chief Commercial Officer, was quoted, “The launch of Tools & Equipment Expo reflects our commitment to creating platforms that connect industries locally and integrate them globally. India is a dynamic growth market, with its manufacturing sector playing a key role in the global supply chain. By unifying these major industrial showcases under TAEE, we aim to deliver greater scale, innovation, and collaboration. Following our acquisition of Hyve India, this strategic evolution combines complementary strengths, global reach, digital innovation, and financial resources to reinforce India’s position as a global hub for tools, equipment, and industrial excellence.”