When the American Fence Association (AFA) gathered for its annual convention and trade show in February at the Salt Palace Convention Center, FENCETECH increased the number of its exhibitors from 310 in 2024 to 343 in 2025, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 10.6%.

Did you know that incorporating wellness into events can significantly improve attendee satisfaction and net promoter scores without necessarily increasing budgets? By weaving tailored wellness experiences into events, planners can not only create more engaging and impactful event experiences that drive engagement, elevate attendee wellbeing, and foster a greater sense of community but also address the growing demand for wellness in professional settings. After all, when attendees feel physically and mentally balanced, they are more engaged, focused, and open to new ideas.  

Heather Larson’s journey into the hospitality, tourism, and events industries began at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she developed a strong passion for service, relationships, and travel. After graduating and falling in love with Chicago’s stately old grand hotels, she began her career honing her skills at iconic Windy City properties including The Allegro (formerly The Bismarck), The Whitehall, The Drake, and the Fairmont Hotel. 

This month, several event marketing agencies and DMCs have announced major mergers and acquisitions as they seek to increase their market share, expand their global reach, strengthen their capabilities, and broaden their client services.

With ITB trade shows in Berlin, Shanghai, Singapore, and Mumbai, Messe Berlin is expanding its portfolio of B2B tourism events with the launch of ITB Americas, debuting Nov. 10-12, 2026, in Guadalajara, Mexico. Messe Berlin announced the news on March 5 at a press conference at ITB Berlin and signed a memorandum of understanding with the Mexican ambassador in Berlin and representatives of the State of Jalisco.  

Emerald Holding, Inc., a public, live events company that is traded on the New York Stock Exchange, reported $398.8 million in revenue for 2024, a 4.2% increase compared with 2023, driven by organic growth and acquisitions while shedding unprofitable events, according to its Q4 2024 and full year results on March 14.  

The International Housewares Association (IHA) held the 125th edition of its tentpole annual event, the Inspired Home Show (IHS), March 2-4. As it has since its inception, the housewares trade show—the largest of its kind in North America—took place in Chicago, at McCormick Place. 

During Women’s History Month, TSNN makes a point of honoring the trade show industry’s outstanding female professionals by sharing their stories, insights, accomplishments, and words of inspiration.  

Three exhibit design and production companies announced recent business deals and new product launches geared to enable exhibiting companies to deliver more impactful brand experiences at live events. 

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) hosted the 81st edition of its International Builders’ Show (IBS) Feb. 25-27. And though the construction show is one the largest of its kind, it boasted record attendance for the first time in 17 years.