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Conclusion The global exhibitions industry is evolving rapidly, driven by regional momentum, technological change, and shifting stakeholder expectations. Specialised industry expertise is critical in helping organisations navigate this complexity – offering strategic insight, operational clarity, and global connectivity. In doing so, consultants are not just supporting industry transformation; they are helping to shape its future. EW |
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room for value creation among established players.
Diversification, sustainability, talent and tech: the transformation agenda Four major trends are redefining the playbook for international growth and long-term resilience: diversification, sustainability, talent, and technology. Diversification is top of mind as organisations seek to expand revenue sources beyond traditional squaremetre sales. The focus is on creating high-value touchpoints and services – ranging from curated buyer-seller programmes, paid delegate streams, content monetisation, and premium experiences. These efforts are driving innovation and value creation across business models and event delivery. Digital transformation is accelerating, with artificial intelligence and event tech reshaping operations. Organisers are integrating AI into everything from personalisation and predictive analytics to marketing automation and operational planning – enabling more targeted and efficient decision-making.
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Sustainability has become a business imperative. Clients increasingly seek alignment with environmental, social, and governance( ESG) principles as a core criterion of their international growth. From sourcing eco-friendly venues to reducing carbon footprints and embedding circular economy principles, sustainability is transforming how events are conceived and delivered. Talent is a growing concern across the industry. Global workforce shortages, evolving employee expectations, and competition for skilled professionals are prompting organisations to rethink how they attract, develop, and retain talent. As organisations scale across borders, they face growing demand for leadership and specialised roles, making human capital strategy more critical than ever.
Parallel to these trends is the ongoing consolidation of the market, particularly among organisers and service providers. Mergers, acquisitions, and strategic alliances are reshaping the competitive landscape, requiring clear analysis, risk assessment, and integration planning.
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Above: Tahaluf ' s CPHI Middle East event highlighted Saudi Arabia’ s ambitious pharma goals, with over 400 exhibitors and more than 30,000 visitors anticipated to attend in December 2025
“ Four major trends are redefining the playbook for international growth and long-term resilience: diversification, sustainability, talent, and technology.”
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n Many thanks to our contributors: Matthias Tesi Baur, founder, MBB Consulting-Group; Berislav Čižmek, founder & CEO, CBBS; Mark Cochrane, managing director, BSG; Robert Heinemann, founder & CEO, Heinemann Management Consulting; Florent Jarry, managing director, Stax LCC; and Sebastian Witt, senior consultant, jwc. businesses globally. |
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www. exhibitionworld. co. uk |
Issue 3 2025 43 |