Despite series of strikes in the first quarter, the German trade fair industry grew significantly in 2024. AUMA reports growth in all key figures - a dynamic year for the industry.

German trade fair venues are planning extensive investments to modernise and further develop their infrastructures by 2029. The aim is to improve the service for exhibiting companies and visitors and to fulfil sustainability goals and high digital standards.

AUMA has now published a guideline for the standardised calculation of greenhouse gases when organising trade fairs. The aim is to ensure the reliability, comparability and transparency of emissions accounting at trade fairs in Germany.

Trade fair participation by companies from Germany remains stable - compared to the previous year, however, the ongoing mix of recession, inflation and political uncertainties is making the decision to participate in trade fairs increasingly dynamic.

The leaders of the global trade fair industry are currently meeting at the UFI Global Summit in Milan, Italy. An important date for Chris Skeith, OBE, who took up his new post as CEO of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry in January. In this interview, the new CEO explains what his first projects are and how Europe can learn from the new trade fair markets