Netsun narrows loss in Q3

Hangzhou, 31st October: Last week, Shenzhen-listed Zhejiang Netsun, a B2B e-commerce platform, reported its financial results for the nine months ended 30th September 2025. The company’s revenues were US$58 million, representing a year-on-year growth of 6.7%.

The company narrowed its net loss from US$2.1 million in the first nine months in 2024, down to a net loss of US$394,000 in the first nine months in 2025.

The company also announced its results for the quarter ended 30th September. Revenues dropped 22% year-on-year, amounting at US$15 million. However, the company’s net profit jumped 136% in the quarter, reaching US$595,000.

However, the company did not comment on its changes in revenues and profits.

Quick takes

Adelaide secures 149 future business events

Business Events Adelaide announced Adelaide has secured 149 business events, which will generate over A$684 million (US$447 million). According to Business Events Adelaide, the Malinauskas Government continues to support the business events industry, including a recent A$10.9 million (US$7.1 million) allocation for business events over the next four years.

RX launches WTM Spotlight in India

RX Global (formerly Reed Exhibitions) will launch a brand-new event in India, WTM Spotlight Delhi, showcasing the power, potential and diversity of India’s travel market. The inaugural edition is scheduled to take place in February 2027 for three days of business, inspiration and cultural connection to unite destinations, travel brands, buyers and media.

ORGATEC India 2025 opens at JWCC

Organised by Koelnmesse India, ORGATEC India 2025 was launched on 4th November and ran until 6th November, running at Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC). Some 103 exhibitors from about 10 countries presented workspace design, furniture and facility management. The next edition will return to JWCC, running from 19th to 21st November.

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)

Publicis to acquire HEPMIL

Singapore, 29th October: Publicis Groupe announced to acquire HEPMIL Media Group, a preeminent influencer agency in the Southeast Asia.

HEPMIL, founded in 2015 in Singapore, serves over 450 brands through over 3,000 creators, with a total creator reach of over 1 billion in six Southeast Asian markets. The company has expertise in building digital communities, empowering local creators, and delivering platform-native branded content that engages audiences and drives growth for clients.

Under the acquisition, MEPMIL will be combined with Publicis’ best-in-class data across Lotame and Epsilon’s ID graph spanning over 800 million consumer profiles in the Southeast Asia, cementing Publicis’ leadership in ID-driven influencer marketing in a key region for clients. After the acquisition, HEPMIL will continue to operate as a brand, and work in close collaboration with Publicis Groups teams across the Southeast Asia.

Amrita Randhawa, CEO of Publicis Groupe Singapore and Southeast Asia, said, “Parts of the solution that is right for clients exist in all parts of industry. But no one has brought everything together meaningfully in Southeast Asia. We will change that. HEPMIL’s origins as the creators of some of Southeast Asia’s most loved consumer content has helped redefine how brands can show up natively, authentically, and with real-time cultural relevance. Now powered by the AI, data and platform prowess of Publicis Groupe we will ensure every dollar of clients’ social and influence spend is genuine, accountable and in service of growth in Southeast Asia.”

RELX reports 7% growth for first 9 months

London, 23rd October: RELX Group plc, parent company of RX Global (formerly Reed Exhibitions), reported underlying revenue growth of 7% for the first nine months of 2025.

The company continue to see positive momentum across the company, and it is expected another year of strong underlying growth in revenue and adjusted operating profit.

The exhibitions business posted an underlying revenues growth of 8% year-on-year for the first nine months of 2025. The company attributed the strong growth to the improved growth profile of its event portfolio and good progress on value-enhancing digital initiatives for its customers. It is also expected a strong underlying revenue growth with an improvement in adjusted operating margin for the year.

DLG Exhibitions up 10% in revenues

Shanghai, 28th October: Earlier this week, DLG Exhibitions & Events (formerly known as Shanghai Lansheng), a Shanghai-listed exhibition organiser and conglomerate, announced its results for the nine months ended 30th September 2025. The company generated revenues of US$144 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 10%.

The company posted a net profit of US$37 million in the first nine months of 2025, which is flat with last year. Diluted earnings per share in the nine-month period were RMB 0.25 (US$0.035).

In the reported period, the company hosted and organised a total of 17 exhibitions occupying a scale of over 1.2 million m2. The Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center (SWEECC), the venue operated by DLG, held some 65 exhibitions and events, with a total rental area of over 7.8 million m2.

DLG also released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September. Revenues in the quarter were US$66 million, growing 38% year-on-year. Net profit was US$22 million, was flat with the third quarter in 2024.

Quick takes

300+ business events at MyCEB in 2024

Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) reported a total of 307 business events held in Malaysia, attracting over 770,000 delegates and generating an estimated economic impact of RM 3.4 billion (US$762 million). The 307 events included 129 conventions, 49 exhibitions, 107 corporate meetings & incentives, and 22 international sports events. In 2024, MyCEB secured 66 event bids, which will bring over 63,000 delegates, generating an estimated economic impact of RM 623 million (US$140 million).

SCMP restructures leadership team

South China Morning Post (SCMP) announced a restructure of its leadership team. CEO Catherine So will depart, Editor-in-chief Tammy Tam has been appointed as the newly created position of publisher, and Executive Editor Chow Chung Yan will be Head of the newsroom.

Messe Frankfurt adds 3 events in Automotive division

International exhibition organiser, Messe Frankfurt, will expand its Automechanika portfolio in Jakarta and Baku. Messe Frankfurt also will also launch Festival of Motoring in Sydney, Australia. Automechanika Baku will run from 3rd to 5th March 2027, while Automechanika Jakarta will be held from 24th to 27th September 2026. In addition, Festival of Motoring in Sydney will take place from 20th to 22nd November 2026.

Informa TechTarget appoints new Chief Marketing Officer

Informa TechTarget announced the appointment of Staci M. Gullotta as its new Chief Marketing Officer, effective 27th October 2025. She will succeed John Steinert, an industry though leader who will support that activity full time at the company. Prior joining Informa TechTarget, Gullotta led demand marketing at ARIS, a business process management leader. She also has over two decades of experience in global marketing of enterprise technology products and services.

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)

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.”