Dear Members and Friends,

With the arrival of a new year comes a pivotal moment – one charged with possibilities, challenges, and our collective commitment to driving progress as a dynamic and resilient community.

If we reflect on the past year, we see that the global economic landscape remains complex and uncertain.

Economic slowdowns in key markets, such as China, continue to ripple across industries worldwide. Rising interest rates have had far-reaching impacts, particularly in the construction and real estate sectors. At the same time, the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has reshaped consumer behavior in industries ranging from retail to gifts. Coupled with geopolitical tensions, the overall atmosphere may feel uneasy for many of the industries we serve.

But it is amid these challenges that our industry shines brightest.

The exhibition sector is uniquely equipped to help businesses uncover opportunities and chart the course forward. When markets shift and uncertainty looms, trade shows and events go beyond simply connecting buyers with sellers – they serve as launchpads to the future. They bring to light new innovations and unveil strategies that drive industries forward. This ability to inspire solutions and growth positions our sector as an essential force in recovery and resurgence, and it’s a role we must champion on a global scale.

Our industry must also lead by example. By embracing sustainability initiatives, leveraging the power of data and technology, and reimagining the event experience, we possess the tools to guide businesses confidently into the future. At UFI, we are committed to championing these efforts and equipping our members with the resources to unlock their full potential. One such example is the UFI Awards, which celebrate excellence and innovation within our industry. Winning an award not only showcases your team’s creativity but also amplifies your impact on a global stage. Applications for the 2025 UFI Awards are open until 19 March 2025, and I encourage everyone to use this opportunity to highlight your team’s success.

This year holds particular significance – it marks UFI’s centenary. For 100 years, UFI has stood at the forefront of leadership and innovation, shaping our industry and our community. While we take pride in our legacy, this milestone challenges us to think bigger, pushing us to envision the future and lay the groundwork for the next century of growth and achievement.

Through events, advocacy, research, and education, UFI will continue to serve as a global platform for dialogue, strategy, and collaboration.

I am excited to work closely with our members, partners, and leadership team, including Chris Skeith OBE, our new CEO. Chris brings a wealth of vision and experience that will be invaluable in steering UFI forward.

This is a pivotal moment for all of us. Together, we can look to innovate, collaborate, and transform the challenges of our time into opportunities. I encourage you to engage actively with UFI and leverage this global network to its fullest. Through our shared dedication, we will turn obstacles into stepping stones and propel our industry toward a future that is bright, dynamic, and filled with promise.

Thank you for your unwavering support, trust, and dedication to our shared mission. Here’s to a successful and impactful year ahead!

Warmest regards,
Hugh Jones
UFI President