Dear colleagues, dear friends,

In February, we released the latest edition of the Global Barometer research, which takes the pulse of the industry. This edition of UFI’s bi-annual industry survey includes data from 401 companies in 53 countries and regions. With easing travel restrictions, our community is eager to see each other again and to meet new people!

The results highlight the accelerating pace of the industry’s recovery in 2022, following the severe impact of COVID still felt on activities in 2021. There is strong anticipation that the sector, primarily driven by physical exhibitions and business events, will bounce back quickly (38% “Yes, for sure”, 42% “most probably” and 13% “unsure”). In terms of the future of exhibition formats, our results indicate that 80% of companies (up from 78% six months ago and 64% 12 months ago) are confident that “COVID-19 confirms the value of face-to-face events”.

More and more countries have announced an end to coronavirus restrictions, either partially or entirely. While UFI members have not yet been able to gather at our regional conferences in Asia, markets are starting to reopen. The UFI Asia-Pacific week will take place across Asia from 28 March to 1 April 2022! We understand the irreplaceable value of face-to-face meetings and have put together this new regional format to allow our members to gather locally. UFI Week in Asia will allow our community to see familiar faces and look ahead to brighter days! There will be many opportunities to network and have some much-needed fun.

We have seen many examples of trade shows taking place all over the world. Many of you participated in Global Exhibition Day (GED) activities in the past. Let’s make use of this excellent platform for the industry to celebrate collaboration, invest in advocacy efforts and recognise success. May I once again remind you that the #GED2022 will take place on 1 June 2022. UFI has provided you with support and ideas to help build your initiative, which you can find at https://www.ufi.org/industry-resources/global-exhibitions-day/.

 

Spring is coming, and the light at the end of the tunnel is getting closer and closer! Like always, UFI is here to support you, and this busy edition of UFI Info proves that yet again!

 

Best regards,

Monica Lee Muller
UFI President