Editor ’ s Note
The race to enrich data and to move into new markets
W ith event tech and AI moving fast , although not necessarily in an obvious or linear direction , the more practical studies and examples of harnessing our new tools and possibilities the better . In this issue , our correspondent Theo Reilly spoke to Events Intelligence ’ s Mark Parsons who predicts we will have an entirely new class of exhibition organiser within five years . This new elite will be expert at enriching and connecting their data , he believes . How they are moving along that evolutionary road you can read all about on pages 12-15 .
An even broader historical perspective on the industry and its evolution is offered in one of our industry ’ s most original thinkers Enrico Gallorini ’ s new book , ‘ In-Person ’, in which he explores how human gatherings and events have shaped history and societal progress . After that Christmas and New Year ’ s lunch you may just find this an ideal read on the sofa . Check it out on Amazon .
And while our industry ’ s forums , camp-fire sessions and talks are all about projecting into the future and what is trending – especially as we approach the New Year – what is clear is that Saudi Arabia is the new ‘ hot ’ destination for event launches and geo-adaptation . EW was the only media at a C-suite invitation breakfast hosted by the Saudi Convention and Exhibitions General Authority ( SCEGA ) at the UFI Congress in Cologne in November , where His Excellency Fahd Al Rasheed , SCEGA chairman , outlined the vast investment being made in that Kingdom ’ s economy .
Our feature on dmg events ’ collaboration with Koelnmesse on two show launches in KSA is firm evidence of this kind of opportunity . And we look forward to reporting from the International MICE Summit convened for 15-17 December in Riyadh at short notice , with organisers , nevertheless , confident of attracting over 1,000 cross-industry and government leaders .
Very best New Year wishes to all our readers and every success in 2025 . Keep us posted ! EW
Paul Colston Editor Twitter : @ ExhibitionWorld Instagram : @ ew _ magazine
Managing Editor : Paul Colston ; Portfolio Director : Iain Stirling ; International Reporter : Theo Reilly ;
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