PARIS — Recognizing the important role trade shows play in driving economies throughout the world, UFI’s Global Exhibitions Day (GED) on June 2 was like no other. The exhibitions industry celebrated the launch of the first-of-its-kind global coalition, which is designed to prioritize safety and success of communities as they return to business post-COVID.
“Exhibitions and business events are the fastest of fast-tracks to economic recovery. We are business events professionals, and the best prepped sector in the world to set up and run exhibitions and business events safely with top class procedures in place. Exhibitions are ready for you, better than ever!” Kai Hattendorf, Managing Director / CEO at UFI, said.
While the event is into its sixth year, the 2021 GED event focused on just how critical and influential exhibitions are in creating platforms for growth and recovery, while also revving up confidence and enthusiasm to encourage participation in organized events that equally prioritize both safety and success.
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This coalition — led by GED organizer UFI, and including industry associations such as SISO and leading exhibitions organizers including Clarion Events, Comexposium, Diversified Communications, Emerald, Informa Markets, Reed Exhibitions (RX) and Tarsus — have joined forces because their customers have made it clear they are ready to return to live events. Regarding GED 2021, the coalition focused on proving in-person opportunities for connections and businesses can happen safely and successfully, with a focus on teamwork, stability and customer experience.
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The GED 2021 campaign, which engaged audiences in more than 46 countries/regions, offered a gamut of events including videos, meetings with policymakers, webinars, hybrid events, webcasts, social campaigns and virtual running parties.
Some companies, such as Informa Markets in India — in addition to urging solidarity, resilience and safety for the industry — have taken their efforts one step further. Informa launched two noteworthy initiatives: The “Namaste-Leaders’ Playbook” is an exclusive industry e-newsletter that will explore industry trends, projections and insights that capture the distinctive challenges of the trade show industry. And to ensure the safety of their employees and their families, help stop the spread of the virus and prepare for the return of face-to-face trade shows, Informa has just launched a vaccination drive, a timely undertaking when the general perception is that it is difficult to get vaccinated.
UFI’s European Conference held June 9-10 followed on the heels of its online Asia-Pacific Conference and its in-person MEA Conference at Dubai World Trade Center.
Hattendorf said UFI’s focus will shift back to in-person events again, driven by the 88th UFI Global Congress scheduled to be held November 3-6 in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Reach Kai Hattendorf at +40 171 5441198 or kh@ufi.org.
