The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) has chosen Thailand to host the UFI Asia-Pacific Conference 2026 in Bangkok. Its decision is based on the strong support expressed by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and Thai Exhibition Association (TEA).

TCEB’s partnership with TEA for the conference is part of TCEB’s strategy to attract more international events to Thailand by teaming up with industry stakeholders.

UFI’s CEO, Mr. Kai Hattendorf, and TCEB President, Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during a press conference held on August 22 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok.

The UFI Asia-Pacific Conference is a regional gathering for professionals and decision-makers in the exhibition industry to examine issues affecting the industry, exchange experiences, network and explore business opportunities in the host destination. The 2026 edition is expected to attract at least 200 delegates to Bangkok.

Mr. Kai Hattendorf, CEO, UFI said: “The exhibition industry across Asia-Pacific is successfully recovering after the Covid-enforced break. Our UFI global data shows that the region, including Thailand, is on a similar trajectory as other parts of the world. Those markets who reopened first are already reaching their pre-pandemic revenues again – a strong testament to the value of face-to-face market places and meeting places.

“UFI and TCEB have a long-standing partnership, and UFI is delighted to return to Bangkok in 2026 – this time with our Asia-Pacific Conference. Together, UFI and TCEB will make sure that event industry leaders from the region and beyond will find their time well spent – and leave with new insights, make and renew contacts, explore business opportunities, and experience Thailand’s friendship, hospitality and professionalism.”

Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President, TCEB, said: “TCEB has been a staunch supporter of UFI through the years and we look forward to working together again to energise the global trade show industry. TCEB is delighted that UFI has chosen Thailand to host the UFI Asia Pacific Conference 2026. This will be the second time for Thailand after the 2016 edition in Chiang Mai.

“Thailand is ASEAN’s top destination for exhibitions. UFI’s decision to bring its Asia Pacific conference to Thailand will help spotlight Thailand’s many advantages as an exhibition hub. Additionally, it will offer opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs to showcase their capabilities and expand their network globally. The value of hosting an event as important as the UFI Asia-Pacific Conference is undoubtable. Thailand and the region will benefit from the ideas, insights, and friendships inspired by it.”

Ms. Panittha Buri, President of TEA, said: “It is a great pleasure for us at TEA to welcome the UFI Asia-Pacific Conference back to the Kingdom of Smiles in 2026. TEA will be working closely with TCEB to make this event a fulfilling, lively, and memorable experience. This will be a tremendous opportunity for our industry colleagues from Thailand as well as those from around the world to reconnect and share best practices within the UFI community.”

Exhibitions is an important component of Thailand’s MICE industry and plays a catalyst role in Thailand’s trade and industrial development. Exhibition visitors as a group is also a lead contributor in terms of revenue compared to other sub-sectors of MICE.

The latest TCEB data indicate that Thailand’s exhibition industry has rebounded strongly and overseas exhibition visitors are leading the way. In the nine months from October 2022 to June 2023, the number of overseas exhibition visitors stood at 204,397. This makes up 46% of the total 440,946 overseas MICE visitors recorded. Exhibition visitors were responsible for 13,017 billion baht in revenue generated, which is half of the total 26, 274 billion baht by all MICE visitors.

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A new roofing system on the Morial Convention Center won’t just save money, but will help save energy too.

The $40 million “cool roof” is already reducing heat absorption by 67%.

Adam Straight is the COO and says they started down a sustainable journey a few years ago, and they’ve made significant investments within their central plan to replace chillers, boilers, and LED lights throughout the facility.

That sustainability plan has made this the largest convention center project in the U.S. that’s LEED certified.

Initiatives like recycling gravel from the existing roof into parking lots and installing EV charging stations have helped achieve that certification.

But the cool roof is helping all of us by reflecting away heat that would typically be absorbed by the pavement and buildings downtown.

Adam says the new system will dramatically decrease the urban heat island effect within that portion of New Orleans. The urban heat island effect is the retention of heat by the cityscape due to its lack of green space and proliferation of asphalt and concrete.

Sustainability is a core principle of the entire half-a-billion-dollar convention center improvement plan.

Straight says they’re trying to push their sustainable mission outward to the community, and hoping that everyone will jump on board too.

One final note about the environmental friendliness of the new roof.

When it rains, 90% of the water will be directly diverted into the Mississippi River instead of the city storm drains which can quickly become overrun in heavy rain events.

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The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre is poised to host 20 conventions throughout 2024, projecting an estimate of RM75million economic contribution to the city and country.

The upcoming events, set to draw over 32,000 delegates from around the world, showcase Kuala Lumpur’s continued ascendancy as a favoured international destination for business and knowledge exchange. 

John Burke, the Centre’s General Manager, expressed elation at the burgeoning growth in association meetings and conventions, “Having already delivered 18 conventions successfully so far during 2023 with 12 more confirmed to take place before the end of the year, the Centre’s record of accomplishment underscores its commitment to excellence.

The ongoing interest in Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur as a favoured destination for event planners reflects the enduring allure of the city, solidifying its position as the 6th top city in Asia Pacific region according to ICCA City and Country Ranking.”

Among the illustrious international gatherings on the Centre’s 2024 roster are the International Surgical Week 2024, the 21st International Association of Applied Linguistics (AILA)World Congress 2024; the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) meets Asia 2024, the 12th World Federation of Chiropractic Global Education Conference 2024, the International Union of Architects (UIA) International Forum 2024, and the 26th Regional Conference of Dermatology 2024.

Surpassing several other major cities in the region, Kuala Lumpur’s ICCA ranking reflect the city’s attributes: affordability, English proficiency, vibrant local culture, and an adept and professional business events ecosystem.

“We are also thrilled to have secured bids to host four international conferences at the Centre between 2024 to 2030, anticipating over 5,000 delegates from around the world. These meetings will generate a remarkable RM18million economic impact. Delegates will revel being in the integrated Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) precinct (where the Centre is located), enveloped by a lush 50-acre park, abundant accommodation choices, and an unparalleled view of the iconic world’s tallest twin towers. The appeal extends to immersive cultural experiences, all within walking distance from our venue,” Burke added.

Dr Khairul Anuar Mohd Salleh, Chairman of the 18th Asia Pacific Conference for Non-Destructive Testing (APCNDT) 2029, shared that, “We have chosen the iconic Centre to host the APCNDT 2029 as it epitomizes premium experience and convenience. Nestled in the city’s heart, it provides easy access to Kuala Lumpur’s offerings. The Centre’s comprehensive facilities and adaptable solutions mirror their commitment to excellence and will undoubtedly ensure an exceptional delegate experience.”

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The Tourism Business Council of South Africa expects the BRICS Summit to boost tourism in the country.

Speaking to a news agency before the 15th BRICS Summit, which got underway in Johannesburg on Tuesday, Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, the council’s CEO, said that it is expecting the summit to bring more tourists to the African nation.

Tshivhengwa said that it’s a major event. They are expecting it to boost their tourism. The booking of conference space, restaurants and hotels will bring in a lot of revenue.

They need to look beyond the traditional areas that bring in tourists; they need to focus on countries like China to bring more tourists to the country, he said, adding that South Africa ought to make it simple for Chinese tourists to travel to the country.

The 15th BRICS Summit runs through Thursday.

According to Tshivhengwa, around 93,000 Chinese visitors visited South Africa in 2019. The pandemic interrupted the flow of tourists, despite South Africa’s efforts to draw visitors from China.

In the first quarter of 2023, foreign direct spending skyrocketed to 25.3 billion rand ($ 1.3 billion), up by 143.9 percent from a year earlier, according to the Tourism Department’s report on international spending and tourism impact.

Thandiwe Mathibela, a spokesperson for South Africa Tourism, told a news agency that the country had started to welcome visitors from China in March this year.

Events are always the biggest drivers of tourists. People may come to an event for the first time, and they will want to come again to experience the country. Some delegates come with their families, she said.

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This new level of relationship offers seamless accommodation services for planners of conventions, congresses, events, and trade fairs still looking for the right destination to place their next gathering in Düsseldorf.

The service, brought to the partnership by Kuoni Tumlare Congress, allows for the brokerage of hotels including room block management through a state-of-the-art booking tool. This can be customised to the needs of the client and tailor-made for each event to maximise the booking pickups. The service also includes customer support for the event participants to ensure they have a smooth and easy booking process.

Düsseldorf’ Convention Bureau’s vast partner network and the procurement power of Kuoni Tumlare Congress to negotiate the best rates and conditions in the most suitable hotels for event participants, guarantee the start of a new era of seamless accommodation arrangements across the city and throughout the year.

Hana Peregrinova, Head of Kuoni Tumlare Congress: “We are excited to collaborate with the Düsseldorf Convention Bureau to build the bridge between event organisers, their participants, and the fantastic suppliers in Düsseldorf. We believe that technology can make a difference when managing big allotments and we are happy to provide state-of-the-art technology which supports organisers, participants, and suppliers to elevate the booking process to the next level. Our team of dedicated professionals is here to support you in every stage of the process. If you have never thought about

Düsseldorf as your next event destination, right now is the perfect time” Jens Ihsen, Director of Düsseldorf Convention Bureau, commented: “As the Convention Bureau in Düsseldorf, our goal is to connect event planners and our partners. By starting our cooperation with Kuoni Tumlare and using its newest technology, we strongly believe that we move closer to achieving an effortless organisation of business events and also international congresses. The right accommodation plays an important role for event planners. For us, it is the perfect addition to present our partners and give a full image of the vast network and possibilities here in Düsseldorf”

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Donovan White, director of tourism at the Jamaica Tourist Board, has asserted that business travel is on the rise and that Jamaica is rapidly bouncing back to pre-COVID-19 levels due to the anticipated growth of the country’s meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector.

The growth of the MICE market is typically not measured in percentages, but hoteliers report that group travel is flourishing, with reservations being made up to 18 months prior to arrivals.

Business travel is back and in-person events are once again being well attended. White told this to more than 40 planners and buyers who attended the Caribbean Meeting and Incentive Travel Exchange (CMITE) one-on-one meetings with Jamaican suppliers in an effort to attract more business to the island.

The CMITE focus meetings that took place at Secrets Wild Orchid connected pre-qualified, fully hosted, North American meeting planners & incentive buyers with leading Caribbean and Mexico-based suppliers to foster meaningful industry relationships.

The objective of the CMITE meeting is to promote Jamaica as a warm-weather destination of choice with the personnel, infrastructure, and strong cultural appeal that will result in reservations for meeting and incentive groups.

VITAL SECTOR

White noted that the MICE market remains a vital sector for Jamaica as a destination, and the country is pleased that CMITE has selected Jamaica to host this important meeting.

It’s the kind of market that’s built on a lot of sensitivity, so we’ve worked very hard over the last two and a half to three years since COVID to rebuild Jamaica’s appetite for business travel, meetings, and conventions, he said.

In addition to the Montego Bay Convention Centre and the Jamaica Conference Centre in Kingston, which are owned by the Government, the island also has other large conference rooms on resort properties, he states.

According to the tourism director, MICE travel, which is a segment of the travel and tourism market in which people travel for business-oriented purposes such as meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions, is a segment not measured by percentages because groups come in different sizes and meetings come in different shapes and sizes.

The global MICE market was worth $876.42 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 7.5 per cent between 2023 and 2030.

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The second quarter of 2023 in the UK’s events landscape tells a story of growth coupled with challenges. The latest data from The Business of Events’ Event Economy Tracker Q2 2023 reveals a significant 22% rise in Revenue Per Delegate for conferences and meetings, soaring to £137.85 from the previous quarter’s £112.95. This surge has propelled the average Revenue Per Delegate for the first half of the year to £125.40, surpassing the annual averages of £108.96 in 2021 and £104.78 in 2022.

Rising Revenue Per Delegate

Comparing Q2 2023 to the same period in the prior year (2022), the quarter’s average revenue per delegate exhibited remarkable growth, standing at £113.23 in 2022. This substantial increase underscores the upward trajectory of event costs.

Confirmed Events Surge and Booking Trends

The second quarter of 2023 showcased a surge in confirmed events, surpassing the previous quarter’s numbers. While forward bookings remained stable, registering a minor dip in June, the overall quarter exhibited robustness, despite a slight decline in peak numbers compared to Q1. The confirmed events in June mirrored the zenith observed in November 2022 and matched the figures of March, consistently highlighting the third month’s strength in event activity. The consistent growth in in-person events during Q2 2023 can be attributed to pent-up demand following pandemic-related restrictions. Businesses, keen on reestablishing connections and collaboration, continue to prioritize face-to-face interactions, reaffirming the enduring significance of physical gatherings.

Challenges of High Demand and Inflation

While the events industry thrives on the demand for in-person gatherings, maintaining quality service has proven challenging due to the surge in event volumes. Although June’s inflation eased slightly to 7.9%, it did not translate to reduced event costs. The sector has been particularly affected by energy price hikes, intensifying cost pressures for commercial venues that lacked the same level of government support extended to individuals.

Lead Time and Delegate Numbers

The average lead time for conferences and meetings in Q2 2023 expanded to 80 days from the previous quarter’s 64 days. Although this increase is fractional compared to Q2 2022’s 77 days, it highlights a departure from the pre-pandemic trend observed in 2019. Despite this shift, short lead times remain the norm. The average number of delegates per event continued to decline, settling at 65 in Q2 2023, down from Q1’s 74. This year’s average is notably lower than the 2022 average of 93 delegates per event, reflecting a substantial 25% drop. This shift towards smaller events, despite their increased frequency, contributes to the upward trajectory of prices as venues aim to compensate for reduced delegate numbers.

Adapting to Change and Ensuring Profitability

As the events sector grapples with inflationary pressures and evolving attendee dynamics, adapting to the changing landscape while ensuring quality and profitability remains a paramount challenge. The ability to strike a balance between providing excellent service and managing the financial implications of increased costs and decreased delegate numbers will be critical in navigating the sector’s future.

Expert ‘s Talk

Martin Fullard, Director of News & Content, notes that Q2 presents a mixed picture. While the appetite for in-person events remains strong, there are challenges. Inflation has led to a notable increase in Revenue Per Delegate, with a simultaneous reduction in delegate numbers.

Peter Heath, Managing Director of Venue Performance, emphasizes the positive desire for in-person meetings. He highlights the increasing Revenue Per Delegate as a response to inflation-induced cost increases and underscores the need for a new operational approach to handle shifting lead times.

The UK’s events landscape in Q2 2023 reflects a dynamic environment characterized by growth in revenue but also challenges stemming from high demand and inflation. The sector’s adaptability and resilience are evident as it continues to navigate changing dynamics while maintaining its role as a platform for meaningful interactions and business growth.

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The 4 day US Travel Association’s annual conference is held in a different location each year.

This year, they chose the hostess city.

City, state, and federal leaders all meet to discuss different ways to promote tourism to help boost the economy.

They also talk about some of the challenges and concerns. Congressman Buddy Carter says labor is one of those challenges.

Tourism is a very labor intensive industry. It is important as a member of congress that while they are in the district, they meet with those who are the boots on the ground and hear directly from them.

Congressman Carter says there’s also still challenges for international travel.

He says travelers are experiencing long wait times to receive a VISA or passport which prevents the U-S from welcoming new visitors.

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Thailand’s ongoing efforts to develop a distinctive product portfolio for meeting and incentive visitors has again impressed industry stakeholders and meeting planners, who, for the third consecutive year, voted Thailand Best Meeting & Incentive Destination (Asia) at the M&C Asia Stella Awards 2023.

The awards programme recognises outstanding performance in Asia’s MICE industry. This year’s winners were announced at an awards ceremony held at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore on August 16, 2023.

Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) President Mr Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya said: “I thank our industry colleagues, M&C Asia magazine, and its readers for recognising Thailand’s distinction in meetings and incentive travel. This is the third consecutive year Thailand has won the Best Meeting & Incentive Destination (Asia) at M&C Asia Stella Awards and I believe Thailand’s appeal as a top business and leisure destination will be further enhanced by this latest honour. This award will motivate all of us at TCEB as we work with our local and overseas partners to develop new destinations and products for MICE.”

The award came at a time when MI arrivals in Thailand is rising sharply. Data from TCEB-supported groups show that up to July this year the number of overseas MI visitors had more than tripled compared to the same period last year. In the first seven months last year, TCEB supported 37 MI groups with a total of 17,694 visitors. This year, the numbers jumped to 138 groups with 60,568 visitors.

This momentum is expected to be sustained through the end of the year. The strong turnouts at TCEB’s recent roadshows to India and China in July and August suggest that arrival numbers will continue to trend upwards. The India roadshow generated leads on 54 groups with an estimated 47,480 visitors. For China, the tally was 54 groups with 53,306 visitors. TCEB’s participation in international trade shows in the last two years is also keeping Thailand fresh on the minds of business event planners worldwide.

Mr Chiruit added that, for the rest of 2023, TCEB is pressing on with efforts to develop new products for international MICE, especially in new destinations. It is working with provincial authorities, local businesses, and academic institutions to co-create new products that draw on the unique cultural and natural resources of a city or region. TCEB is also working with city destinations to attract or create events and festivals that would appeal to meeting and incentive visitors. The goal is to help planners deliver a most compelling and distinctive MICE experience in Thailand.

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IBTM World has revealed the first details of its new-look Association Leaders’ Forum, which will take place on day one of IBTM World and focus on how the associations community can contribute to the ongoing debate around sustainability and the challenges that come with it.

Taking place at Fira, Barcelona, on Tuesday November 28th, 2023, and produced in partnership with the prestigious ESAE (European Society of Association Executives), the IBTM World Association Leaders’ Forum highlights the power of event professionals to shape culture and drive the future of business. The programme has evolved into the annual meeting point for association leaders to exchange, learn and advance knowledge and best practices in a peer-to-peer setting.

High level presentations, lightning talks and interactive debates are part of a fresh new format designed to infuse energy and foster culture among participants, to replace that sense of community which may have been lost in the shift to home working.

The programme will open with a thought-provoking exploration of association trends for 2024 from Mike Morrissey, ESAE President, and CEO of the European Cancer Organisation. This will be followed by a speaker-led debate moderated by Mohamed Mezghani, Secretary General, UITP (The International Association of Public Transport). The debate will centre on travel and sustainability, with participants exploring the merit of carbon offsetting and the broader positive effects to society that a meeting or a conference can have. Following this, a selection of high-profile association leaders will participate in a panel discussion on how associations can change the world for the better. The discussion will include incorporating ESG into decision making and operations, and explore topics such as DEI, Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility. 

The afternoon’s sessions will feature fast-paced lightning talks on hot topics including Artificial Intelligence, ESG and Impact vs Environment. There will be opportunities to network throughout the forum as well as networking drinks afterwards.

Mike Morrissey said: “When associations come together to share knowledge and ideas, we know they can really make a difference. This forum is a space for association and events professionals to debate the issues that are unique to them. We are delighted to be working with IBTM on the content for this important event and invite all association events professionals to join us, make connections and share their inspiration and ideas.”

David Thompson, Event Director, IBTM World, said: “This engaging forum on the important topic of sustainability, incorporating environment, social and governance, is designed to fuel delegates’ curiosity, inspire attendees to make a difference, and provide the stimulation delegates need to encourage culture to flourish. Business culture thrives when we are together, and the forum provides a space for this culture to grow.”

The ESAE is the leading organisation in Europe for bringing together association professionals. It facilitates the exchange of best practice among peers and ensures that current and future leaders understand association business and strategy.

The Association Leaders Forum is open to Association Buyers and select Media attending IBTM World. To apply for the Hosted Buyer Programme and Forum, submit your details via the IBTM World website.

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