Is the economic crisis behind us?
In the fourth Global Exhibition Barometer, published by UFI in conjunction with SISO (Society of Independent Show Organizers – USA) and AFIDA (Asociacion International de Feria de America – South America), the answer may be “Not just yet.” As well, the recovery will affect different regions of the world differently.
Some of the conclusions the study has drawn are:
In spite of the downturn 90% of respondents to the survey have maintained a positive operating profit.
- Turnover should have bottomed out in the first half of 2010 except in Europe where they have seen the greatest reduction in operating profit.
- The Middle East and Africa appear to be less affected by the economic crisis.
- 88% of respondents believe that the global recovery will not begin before the second half of 2010. The America’s and Asia Pacific countries in the second half of 2010 and Europe and Middle Eastern countries not before 2011.
You can see the whole report at ufi.org/ufipublications/surveysandstudies.
Let us know what the impact of the economic crisis has had on you and your fairs and what steps you are taking to mitigate its effect.
In India and atleast in our Exhibition Venue we saw a late reccison effect which started in 2nd Quater of 2009. But saw a quick and faster recovery. The bookings for 2010 are very encouraging.
[…] January 18, 2010 Is the economic crisis behind us? In the fourth Global Exhibition Barometer, published by UFI in conjunction with SISO (Society of Independent Show Organizers – USA) and AFIDA (Asociacion International de Feria de America – South America), the answer … Continue reading … […]
Sanjay: the Asian response to the UFI barometer research clearly shows that Asian exhibitions felt the ‘heat’ from the downturn first but also, exactly as you suggest, recovered first and that Asia in general is now well into the recovery phase.
In Toronto, Canada we are finding that the economic situation is still challenging but is getting better
At the Direct Energy Centre, the Toronto International Boat Show closed Jan 17th and the 9 day event had record sales for some, strong sales for others and dozens of leads for exhibitors.
If this is an indication for what to expect in 2010 we can say it’s very encouraging.
Predictions have been made that Canada will bounce back in the second part of the year (2010) and after successful shows like the Toronto International Boat Show, National Bridal Show and the opening of a new show, The International Soccer Show at Direct Energy Centre, it appears that we are beginning to see a steady curve upwards for the Toronto / Canadian Market. Has anyone else had a strong start to the new year?
While the recession is receding, the exhibition industry is still not out od the woods yet. Companies are still extremely careful about their budgets and choice of events to take part in.
However, my sense is that we could see a brighter picture from the middle of the year. Let’s hope that the Year of the Tiger would roar louder and bring us better results for this year and beyond.