News
GLOBAL SNAPSHOT
UK
UK Events reveals sector worth stands at £ 68.7bn The UK events industry is worth around £ 68.7bn according to a new economic impact study from the UK Events umbrella organisation. The report highlights the UK’ s growing reputation as a safe, stable destination for international events amid global geopolitical uncertainty and predicts that its events sector will grow 3 – 5 % annually through 2027.
EUROPE
RX’ s ibtm World posts 8 % rise in pre-scheduled meetings and 12,000 visitors The 2025 edition of Barcelona-based meetings show, ibtm World, attracted nearly 12,000 visitors and recorded 79,000 + pre-scheduled meetings, an 8 % rise from 2024. New show-floor features included IBTM Ignite, a bold new platform connecting over 80 start-ups with investors, advisors, and industry leaders. From AI-driven engagement tools to sustainability-focused tech, IBTM Ignite showcased the trailblazers set to shape the next decade of events.
AMERICAS
SlidesLive opens Las Vegas office Conference streaming tech provider SlidesLive has opened a new office in Las Vegas, expanding its US operations by establishing a West Coast base alongside its New York hub. Las Vegas was selected for its scale as a global meetings destination, allowing SlidesLive to provide on-site technical support and faster deployment for conferences and exhibitions held across the region.
MIDDLE EAST
Legends Global appointed venue operator for Saudi Event Investment Fund Saudi Arabia’ s Event Investment Fund( EIF) has partnered with global venue management firm Legends Global in a joint venture designed to accelerate the Kingdom’ s growing venue industry and support the ambitions of Vision 2030. Legends Global will serve as venue operator for upcoming EIF projects across the Kingdom, covering exhibition and convention centres as well as entertainment and indoor sports venues.
6 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / ISSUE 140