As part of our centennial celebrations, we’re spotlighting the leaders, innovators, and visionaries who have shaped our association over the years. This month, we spoke with Rita Chu, who is based in Hong Kong SAR. Since joining UFI in 2006, Rita and her father have been instrumental in shaping the Asia-Pacific Chapter, both serving as Chairs and driving the region’s growth.
How long has your company been a member of UFI, and what inspired you to join?
Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd. has been a proud UFI member since 2006, when our founder, Stanley Chu, decided to join. We recognized UFI as a global platform that fosters industry collaboration, upholds standards, and drives innovation. Since then, CHINAPLAS has grown from 92,000 sqm with 1,300 exhibitors in 2006 to 380,000 sqm with 4,495 exhibitors in 2024, attracting 321,879 visitors, including 73,204 international attendees. This transformation reflects UFI’s role in elevating our exhibitions and strengthening our global presence.
What is your first UFI memory?
I joined Adsale in 2011, and my involvement with UFI began in 2016, introduced by my father, who was then the Asia-Pacific Chapter Chair. A defining moment was the 2017 UFI Congress in South Africa, where I met many industry peers who have since become trusted partners and friends. This experience shaped my appreciation for UFI’s global network, and in 2024, I am honored to step into the role of Asia-Pacific Chapter Chair, continuing to foster connections within the industry.
How has your involvement with UFI shaped your career or organisation’s success?
Prior to joining UFI, I began my career as an auditor. Entering the exhibitions industry was a hands-on learning experience—being on the ground, understanding operations, and learning by doing. UFI provided a structured platform to accelerate this learning, allowing me to gain insights from the best in the industry. Through UFI, Adsale has also benefited from global best practices, strategic insights, and valuable networking opportunities, helping CHINAPLAS evolve into a truly international platform. Personally, UFI has broadened my perspective, giving me the knowledge and connections to drive impactful contributions to the exhibition industry.
What message would you like to wish to UFI as we celebrate 100 years together and look ahead to the next 100 years?
Congratulations to UFI on 100 years of leadership and innovation! Over the decades, UFI has empowered the exhibition industry, set new benchmarks, and fostered invaluable global connections. Adsale is proud to be part of this journey, and we look forward to continued collaboration in the years ahead. As UFI embarks on its next century, we are confident it will keep driving industry progress and creating opportunities for future generations. Happy 100th Anniversary!
Rita…….great comments . You and your father Stanley have contributed immensely in making Hong Kong a very important regional centre for Trade Fairs / Exhibitions. The growth of Chinaplas has proven your expertise . Thank you also for all your contributions to UFI continued with you being Chapter Chair.