UFI releases latest Industry Partners Benchmark Survey

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Paris, 15th February: UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has released its latest edition of the Industry Partners Benchmark Survey, finding innovation from industry partners to meet the evolving expectations of organisers and venues.

In its third edition, the survey showed the demand for services remain high and have increased from the previous years. Booth construction is the most relied upon service, while communication and marketing are the most important elements for event success. However, digital services decrease due to focus is back on live events. Satisfaction with regards to innovation from service providers also posts a decrease from the last survey.

ABEA signs MOU with ICCA

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Australia, 19th February: The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) and ICCA – International Congress and Convention Association signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), strengthening their partnership through a commitment.

The two associations will work together to strengthen their core values and positions on three pillars: Diversity, Equity, and inclusion (DEI); Legacy and Sustainability; and Talent Development and Retention. They will publish white papers, access to programs and information sharing, and develop key opportunities for emerging leaders.

Hong Kong’s events see strong rebound

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Hong Kong, 19th February: The Hong Kong government expects the convention and exhibition industry to reach or exceed pre-COVID levels this year, in the result for returning activities that left during the pandemic.

The two main event venues in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) on Lantau is set to host about 150 conferences and 160 exhibitions this year.

Separately, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) announced its major focus areas for 2024-2025 to strengthen Hong Kong’s status as a leading global business and investment hub and convention and exhibition (C&E) centre.

ICC Sydney releases six trends shaping the evolution of events

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Sydney, 20th February: International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by ASM Global, announced its new approach to inclusive, socially impactful, sustainable events that prioritise health and wellbeing, human connection and human-centric technology, to strengthen its “venue of choice” status for event organisers and attendees.

ICC Sydney and McCrindle have released a report, “RESPECT: Shaping Events for Success”, showing a high representation from Gen Z at events. The report also highlighted the importance of socially impactful, sustainable, accessible, innovative and connected event experiences for Australians.