SACEOS, the Singapore Association of Conventions, Exhibitions and Suppliers and SISO, the Society of Independent Show Organizers, have jointly signed an agreement to share knowledge and information among their respective exhibition industry members.

"This agreement will offer our members an unprecedented opportunity to grow their respective brands in and around the Singapore area as we recognize Singapore as central to the entire ASEAN market base,” Rick McConnell, Chairman of SISO, said.

SISO, established in 1990, has more than 160 members globally, but with its largest number of members based in the United States. SACEOS, founded in 1979, currently has 120 members in Singapore that organize international exhibitions, operate venues and provide exhibition services. SACEOS members also include national and international associations of the exhibition industry.

While SACEOS and SISO are industry associations with similar objectives, the membership of SISO consists only of Independent Show Organizers whereas SACEOS members include Independent Organizers, as well as other exhibition related organizations that essentially operate in different geographic regions.

The two associations recognize that the benefits of membership in the two entities can be considered complementary.

With this agreement, SACEOS and SISO have agreed to work together for the mutual benefit of their members and the advancement of the global trade show industry.

Association members will benefit from a greater exchange of ideas, research and data related to the exhibition industry in their respective geographic regions. The members of each association will gain from the assistance and support that will be shared as they grow their brands into countries outside their traditional areas.

"This relationship will allow both memberships the opportunity to move their Brands into emerging markets with the knowledge and assistance of our international partners, making their expansions efficient and cost effective,” said Lew Shomer, executive director of SISO.

At the same time, SISO will act as the eyes and ears of the U.S. market as SACEOS organizer members seek opportunities outside of their primary markets. Lilian Kuan, Executive Director of SACEOS, said, "It's a win-win for both of our Associations' members."

SISO and SACEOS recognize that by working together they can assist their respective members in understanding the business climate and culture of the other party's area of geographic emphasis.

"This agreement will encourage a new synergy as both associations, recognizing the unique benefits of the International exhibition industry for enhancing world trade, cooperate in promoting the industry and maximizing networking opportunities,” Kuan said.