Global Convention and Exhibition Market 2024–2033

Reports Description

As per the current market research conducted by the CMI Team, the global Convention and Exhibition Market is expected to record a CAGR of 5.1% from 2024 to 2033. In 2024, the market size is projected to reach a valuation of USD 61,184.2 Million. By 2033, the valuation is anticipated to reach USD 95,733.4 Million.

The convention and exhibition market encompasses the planning, organization, and hosting of events that bring together businesses, professionals, and enthusiasts to showcase products, exchange knowledge, and facilitate networking.

These events, ranging from trade shows and conferences to expos and seminars, serve as platforms for industries to promote innovation, collaboration, and market growth. The market involves a wide array of stakeholders, including event organizers, exhibitors, venue operators, and attendees, and spans diverse sectors such as technology, healthcare, automotive, and finance.

Its significance lies in fostering connections, driving economic activity, and fostering the exchange of ideas on a global scale.

Convention and Exhibition Market – Significant Growth Factors

The Convention and Exhibition Market presents significant growth opportunities due to several factors:

• Technological Advancements: The integration of advanced technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) is driving innovation in the convention and exhibition market. These technologies enhance attendee engagement, offer immersive experiences, and facilitate virtual participation, expanding the reach and impact of events.

• Globalization and Internationalization: Increasing globalization has fueled demand for international conventions and exhibitions, providing opportunities for businesses to showcase products, forge partnerships, and access new markets. The global nature of these events fosters cross-border collaboration, knowledge exchange, and cultural diversity within the market.

• Changing Consumer Expectations: Evolving consumer preferences, particularly towards personalized experiences and interactive content, are driving the transformation of conventions and exhibitions. Organizers are adapting to meet these expectations by offering curated content, networking opportunities, and experiential activations tailored to the interests and needs of attendees.

• Focus on Sustainability: Growing awareness of environmental issues and corporate social responsibility has led to a focus on sustainability within the convention and exhibition market. Stakeholders are implementing eco-friendly practices, reducing waste, and incorporating sustainable design elements to minimize environmental impact and enhance the industry’s long-term sustainability.

• Hybrid Event Models: The rise of hybrid event models, combining in-person and virtual components, presents opportunities for organizers to extend the reach of events, increase attendance, and maximize engagement.

Convention and Exhibition Market – Mergers and Acquisitions

The Convention and Exhibition Market has seen several mergers and acquisitions in recent years, with companies seeking to expand their market presence and leverage synergies to improve their product offerings and profitability. Some notable examples of mergers and acquisitions in the Convention and Exhibition Market include:

• In 2023, The Overland Park Convention Center introduced a comprehensive program to enhance trade shows and conventions, offering cost savings and improved experiences. The initiative includes a cashback loyalty program, discounts, digital displays, internet access, live feeds, equipment sharing, time-lapse videos, and complimentary refreshments.

• In 2022, GL Events acquired Field & Lawn Ltd, a British provider of temporary buildings, bolstering its presence in the UK. With expertise in event structures, industrial buildings, placemaking, and festive lighting, this acquisition allows GL Events to expand its service offerings and market reach.

These mergers and acquisitions helped companies expand their product offerings, improve their market presence, and capitalize on growth opportunities in the Convention and Exhibition Market. The trend is expected to continue as companies seek to gain a competitive edge in the market.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE RELATED MARKET

Convention and Exhibition Market – Significant Threats

The Convention and Exhibition Market faces several significant threats that could impact its growth and profitability in the future. Some of these threats include:

• Health Pandemics and Global Crises: Health pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, pose a significant threat to the convention and exhibition market by leading to event cancellations, travel restrictions, and reduced attendance. Global crises, including natural disasters and geopolitical instability, can also disrupt events and deter participation, impacting revenue and long-term viability.

• Economic Downturns and Recession: Economic downturns and recessions can negatively impact the convention and exhibition market by reducing corporate spending on marketing and events, leading to decreased exhibitor participation and sponsorship. Lower consumer confidence and disposable income may also result in lower attendance and decreased demand for exhibition space, affecting the financial performance of events.

• Technological Disruption and Competition: Rapid technological advancements and the emergence of digital alternatives pose a threat to traditional conventions and exhibitions. Virtual events, online platforms, and digital marketing solutions offer cost-effective alternatives to physical gatherings, attracting exhibitors and attendees away from traditional events and eroding market share.

• Security and Safety Concerns: Security and safety concerns, including terrorism, cyberattacks, and physical threats, can undermine confidence in attending conventions and exhibitions. High-profile security incidents or breaches may deter attendees and exhibitors from participating in events, leading to decreased attendance, reputational damage, and increased security costs for organizers.

Category-Wise Insights:

By Event Type

• Trade Shows: Trade shows are exhibitions where businesses showcase their products and services to potential customers, partners, and industry professionals. Trends include the integration of digital technology for interactive displays, personalized experiences, and data-driven insights to enhance attendee engagement and exhibitor ROI.

• Conferences: Conferences are gatherings of professionals to exchange knowledge, discuss industry trends, and network. Trends include hybrid formats combining in-person and virtual elements, interactive sessions, and thematic tracks catering to diverse interests and expertise levels.

• Seminars and Workshops: Seminars and workshops provide focused learning opportunities on specific topics or skills. Trends include hands-on experiential learning, expert-led sessions, and customizable content tailored to participants’ needs and interests.

• Expos: Expos are large-scale exhibitions where multiple exhibitors showcase products, services, and innovations. Trends include themed pavilions, immersive experiences, and matchmaking platforms to facilitate connections between exhibitors and attendees.

• Product Launches: Product launches are events where companies introduce new products or services to the market. Trends include multi-channel marketing campaigns, live demonstrations, and interactive unveilings to generate excitement and engage target audiences.

• Networking Events: Networking events facilitate professional connections and relationship-building among attendees. Trends include curated networking sessions, matchmaking algorithms, and virtual networking platforms to foster meaningful interactions and expand professional networks.

By Target Audience

• Business Professionals (B2B): Business-to-Business (B2B) conventions and exhibitions target professionals and organizations seeking networking opportunities, industry insights, and business partnerships. Trends in this segment include specialized trade shows catering to niche industries, emphasis on B2B matchmaking and lead generation services, integration of technology for efficient business interactions, and the rise of hybrid events combining physical and virtual components to facilitate global networking.

• Consumers (B2C): Business-to-consumer (B2C) conventions and exhibitions focus on engaging with end consumers, showcasing products, and fostering brand awareness and loyalty. Trends in this segment include experiential marketing activations, interactive product demonstrations, influencer, and celebrity appearances to attract crowds, emphasis on entertainment and lifestyle elements, and integration of e-commerce platforms for seamless purchasing experiences.

• Others: The “Others” segment includes educational institutions, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and special interest groups organizing conventions and exhibitions for specific purposes such as education, advocacy, or community engagement. Trends in this segment vary widely depending on the objectives and target audience but may include an emphasis on knowledge sharing, public awareness campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and social impact initiatives.

By Technology Adoption

• Traditional Events: Traditional events in the Convention and Exhibition Market refer to gatherings that primarily rely on in-person interactions and physical infrastructure. While still prevalent, traditional events are increasingly incorporating technology for registration, networking, and content delivery.

• Technology-Enhanced Events: Technology-enhanced events integrate digital tools and platforms to enhance attendee experiences, streamline event management, and extend event reach. Trends include the use of mobile apps for scheduling and networking, interactive digital displays, and live streaming of sessions.

• Virtual Events: Virtual events leverage online platforms to facilitate remote participation and engagement. With advancements in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), virtual events offer immersive experiences and opportunities for global connectivity. Trends include virtual trade shows, webinars, and interactive virtual environments for networking and product demonstrations.

By Revenue Model

• Paid Events: Paid events in the convention and exhibition market involve attendees purchasing tickets or passes to access the event. Organizers generate revenue through ticket sales, booth rentals, and sponsorship. Trends show a growing emphasis on premium experiences, exclusive access, and added value to justify ticket prices, as well as offering flexible pricing options to attract diverse attendee segments and maximize revenue potential.

• Free Events with Sponsorship: Free events with sponsorship rely on sponsors to cover the costs of organizing the event, allowing attendees to participate at no cost. Organizers generate revenue through sponsorship agreements, branding opportunities, and advertising. Trends indicate an increasing reliance on strategic partnerships, targeted sponsorship packages, and creative branding activations to secure sponsorships and enhance the attendee experience while maintaining free admission.

• Freemium Model: The freemium model offers basic event access for free while charging for premium features or upgrades. Organizers leverage the free tier to attract a larger audience while monetizing premium offerings such as VIP access, networking opportunities, or exclusive content. Trends show a focus on tiered pricing structures, personalized upselling, and value-added services to incentivize attendees to upgrade and maximize revenue potential.

• Subscription-based Models: Subscription-based models in the convention and exhibition market offer access to a series of events or premium content for a recurring fee. Organizers provide subscribers with benefits such as discounted tickets, early access, and exclusive perks. Trends indicate an increasing adoption of membership programs, loyalty schemes, and subscription-based platforms to foster recurring revenue streams, build customer loyalty, and offer ongoing value to subscribers.

By Industry

• Technology: Technology conventions and exhibitions showcase innovations, products, and trends in the tech industry. Emphasis on emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain, focus on sustainability and green tech, growth of virtual and hybrid events, and increasing integration of digital experiences.

• Healthcare: Healthcare conventions and exhibitions bring together professionals and organizations to showcase medical advancements and solutions. The rise of telemedicine and digital health solutions focuses on personalized medicine and patient-centered care, the growing importance of healthcare IT and cybersecurity, and increased emphasis on medical device innovations.

• Automotive: Automotive conventions and exhibitions highlight new vehicles, technologies, and trends in the automotive industry. Shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles, focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, integration of connectivity and smart technologies, and emphasis on safety and mobility solutions.

• Fashion and Apparel: Fashion and apparel conventions and exhibitions showcase the latest trends, designs, and innovations in the fashion industry. Rise of sustainable and ethical fashion, adoption of digital fashion shows and virtual showrooms, focus on inclusivity and diversity, and increasing integration of technology in wearable tech and smart textiles.

• Consumer Electronics: Consumer electronics conventions and exhibitions feature the latest gadgets, devices, and technology trends for consumers. Growth of smart home and IoT devices, focus on 5G connectivity and high-definition displays, the rise of immersive technologies like AR and VR, and increasing demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient electronics.

• Food and Beverage: Food and beverage conventions and exhibitions showcase products, trends, and innovations in the food and beverage industry. Rise of plant-based and alternative proteins, focus on sustainability and food waste reduction, growth of functional and health-focused foods, and increasing demand for gourmet and artisanal products.

• Finance and Banking: Finance and banking conventions and exhibitions bring together professionals and organizations to discuss trends and developments in the financial industry. Adoption of fintech solutions and digital banking, focus on cybersecurity and data privacy, growth of mobile payment platforms, and increasing emphasis on financial inclusion and accessibility.

• Manufacturing: Manufacturing conventions and exhibitions showcase equipment, processes, and innovations in the manufacturing industry. Rise of Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing, focus on automation and robotics, integration of additive manufacturing and 3D printing, and emphasis on sustainability and resource efficiency.

• Others: Adoption of virtual and hybrid event formats, focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices across industries, growth of niche and specialized events catering to specific interests, increasing emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in event programming, and integration of experiential and interactive elements to enhance attendee engagement.

Report Scope

Convention and Exhibition Market – Regional Analysis

The Convention and Exhibition Market is segmented into various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. Here is a brief overview of each region:

• North America: With a strong emphasis on technology and innovation, North America leads in the adoption of virtual and hybrid event formats, utilizing cutting-edge platforms to create immersive experiences and reach broader audiences. Sustainability initiatives are also gaining traction, with organizers implementing eco-friendly practices to reduce environmental impact. Furthermore, the region boasts a diverse range of venues, from modern convention centers to historic landmarks, offering unique settings for events that cater to various interests and preferences.

• Europe: In Europe, cultural diversity and inclusivity are paramount in convention and exhibition programming, with a wide array of events celebrating different cultures and identities. The region fosters collaboration between industries, promoting cross-sector partnerships and interdisciplinary events that drive innovation and knowledge exchange. Additionally, Europe’s rich heritage and architectural landmarks serve as iconic venues for hosting conventions and exhibitions, providing attendees with memorable and inspiring experiences.

• Asia-Pacific: Rapid digital transformation characterizes the convention and exhibition market in Asia-Pacific, with a focus on virtual events, online platforms, and digital marketing solutions to cater to tech-savvy audiences. Emerging markets such as China, India, and Southeast Asian nations offer significant growth opportunities, hosting large-scale events that showcase economic and technological advancements. Cultural experiences are also prioritized, as organizers integrate traditional elements and customs into event programming to provide authentic and immersive experiences for attendees.

• LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, and Africa): LAMEA regions are known for their vibrant cultural festivals and events, which incorporate conventions and exhibitions to celebrate local traditions, art, and cuisine while facilitating networking and business opportunities. Investment in infrastructure and venue development is on the rise to support the growing market, with new facilities and modern amenities being constructed to attract international events. Additionally, LAMEA regions embrace emerging technologies to enhance event experiences and sustainability efforts, contributing to the region’s growth in the convention and exhibition market.

Competitive Landscape – Convention and Exhibition Market

The Convention and Exhibition Market is highly competitive, with a large number of manufacturers and retailers operating globally. Some of the key players in the market include:

• Reed Exhibitions Limited
• Informa PLC
• Messe Frankfurt GmbH
• UBM plc (now part of Informa)
• Emerald Expositions Events Inc.
• ITE Group plc (now Hyve Group plc)
• Koelnmesse GmbH
• Fiera Milano SpA
• Tarsus Group plc
• Messe Düsseldorf GmbH
• GL Events SA
• Comexposium Group (part of Artexis Easyfairs)
• Hannover Messe International GmbH
• Tokyo Big Sight Inc.
• Deutsche Messe AG
• Others

These companies operate in the market through various strategies such as product innovation, mergers and acquisitions, and partnerships.

New players entering the convention and exhibition market are often characterized by their adoption of innovation and development to differentiate themselves and gain a foothold in the industry. These emerging companies leverage technology, unique event formats, and niche offerings to attract attendees and exhibitors.

However, key players such as Reed Exhibitions, Informa PLC, and Messe Frankfurt dominate the market with their extensive experience, global reach, and diverse portfolio of events. They maintain their dominance through strategic partnerships, brand recognition, and continuous investment in cutting-edge technologies and market research, ensuring their relevance and leadership in the industry.

The Convention and Exhibition Market is segmented as follows:

By Event Type

• Trade Shows
• Conferences
• Seminars and Workshops
• Expos
• Product Launches
• Networking Events

By Target Audience

• Business Professionals (B2B)
• Consumers (B2C)
• Others

By Technology Adoption

• Traditional Events
• Technology-Enhanced Events
• Virtual Events

By Revenue Model

• Paid Events
• Free Events with Sponsorship
• Freemium Model
• Subscription-based Models

By Industry

• Technology
• Healthcare
• Automotive
• Fashion and Apparel
• Consumer Electronics
• Food and Beverage
• Finance and Banking
• Manufacturing
• Others

Regional Coverage:

North America

• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
• Rest of North America

Europe

• Germany
• France
• U.K.
• Russia
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• New Zealand
• Australia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Egypt
• Kuwait
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America