Staying in sync in an asynchronous world
s recently as three
A years ago , we were enjoying a rare episode in the history of our industry – synchronous economic growth throughout the world . Nearly everywhere , this was a period of growth for our businesses and for our sector .
Fast forward to today , our operating contexts varies significantly around the world . While key markets like China and Hong Kong battle with the pandemic , the US is accelerating its recovery – although suffering from the highest inflation seen in generations . In Europe , Spain , France , and the UK are enjoying strong show results . However , Germany , Europe ’ s leading international market , struggles to overcome Covid regulations , which has our colleagues from AUMA appealing to the government to finally end this ‘ Ice Age ’ for the German industry . We have already seen the permanent cancellation of some international shows and portfolio adjustments by some of the German Messes . In Hong Kong , we are seeing fall out from lack of government clarity about post-pandemic re-openings with
Kai Hattendorf UFI managing director / CEO
organisers moving flagship shows away from that market by hosting ‘ special editions ’ in Singapore or Dubai .
Across Asia , conversations are still focused on reopening cross- Asian travel to drive the recovery of our sector . Right now , the
“ It is more important than ever that we rely on the unique values we possess : On our ability to be agile . On our skills to scale . On our culture to care about connecting people ” developments look promising , with the exception of travel in and out of China .
Added to the pandemic context we are also facing geopolitical conflicts – notably Russian troops attacking Ukraine , forcing millions of Ukrainians to flee their country ( see elsewhere in this edition for our industry ’ s response ) – and you have an entirely different challenge for our global industry . As we navigate the challenges , it is more important than ever that we rely on the unique values we possess : On our ability to be agile . On our skills to scale . On our culture to care about connecting people .
In this asynchronous world , what remains on the agenda is the urge to collaborate , the need to advocate for our industry , and the necessity to act on the climate challenge . Advocacy will take centre stage again in a few weeks with our 7th Global Exhibitions Day coming up on 1 June . Let me ask each and every one of you reading this column – join in on that day .
www . exhibitionworld . co . uk Issue 2 2022 9