5 Takeaways From Informa’s Trading Update

June 24, 2024

Released on June 21, the latest trading update highlights from Informa reveals continued momentum and growth across its business units, driven by strategic focus, financial discipline and technological integration. 

What they’re saying: “The Informa Group has changed gears and we are now delivering 10%+ growth,” said Informa Group Chief Executive Stephen A. Carter. “Our strategy to focus on specialist markets, unique content and internationalization is delivering double-digit underlying revenue growth, margin expansion and increasing profits and cash flows.”

Context: Informa employs more than 12,000 colleagues in approximately 30 countries and serves customers in 150 countries, according to its Informa Annual Report 2023. The company, which owns TSNN, reported group underlying revenue growth of 30% in 2023, with Informa Markets, its B2B exhibitions division, exceeding 2019 revenue in 2023.

Why it matters: We curated five takeaways for trade show organizers and suppliers to draw market insights from Informa, producer of B2B exhibitions and events serving specialist markets, including biotech and pharma, health and nutrition, artificial intelligence, medicine and healthcare, finance, foodservice, education, professional beauty, labels and packaging, and psychology

1. Strong Revenue Growth
Informa reported a robust 10.1% underlying revenue growth in the first five months of 2024. This reflects strong operational performances across all its businesses.

2. Increased Financial Visibility
The company has delivered approximately £1.4 billion (approximately $1.75 billion USD) in revenues year-to-date with an additional £1 billion (approximately $1.25 billion USD) in committed and visible revenue for 2024. Event rebookings for 2025 are also strong, ensuring continued financial visibility.

3. Solid Balance Sheet and Cash Flow
Informa’s operating performance and capital allocation discipline have led to enhanced credit ratings from Moody’s and S&P Global. The company is on track to generate more than £720 million (approximately $900 million USD) in free cash flow in 2024. [Free Cash Flow = Operating Cash Flow − Capital Expenditures]

4. AI Technology Integration
The deployment of AI technology is driving efficiencies and product benefits across Informa. This includes applications in research submission, data validation and content summaries, as well as exploring new partnerships in AI.

5. Strategic Partnerships and Expansion
Informa continues to expand through strategic partnerships, particularly in key markets, such as Saudi Arabia and China. The proposed combination with TechTarget is set to create a leading B2B digital services business by the end of 2024.

Read the full release here.

 

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