Tarsus, the global B2B media group, has completed the acquisition of 70 percent of the Shenzhen Zhong Xin Cai Exhibition Company; owner and organizer of Touch China & 3D Glass Expo, strengthening the Group’s presence in its Shenzhen, China, hub.

The acquisition represents the Group’s first move into the fast-growing and strategically important electronics sector in Shenzhen. It also marks the first acquisition under Tarsus’ new Charterhouse Capital Partners ownership.

“We are delighted to have completed our first investment under our new owners, Charterhouse Capital Partners,” said Tarsus CEO Douglas Emslie. “Touch China represents our first move into the strategically important electronics sector in Shenzhen. The Asia-Pacific region is dominating the global 3D glass market – China is undoubtedly the hub of smartphone manufacturing and in turn is the largest user of 3D glass.”

He added, “China has long been a cornerstone of our corporate strategy and plans for future growth. This acquisition marks another important milestone in our aim to further expand our base in Shenzhen whilst giving us access to an important, growing industry.”

Touch China was launched in 2006 and now is firmly established as the leading exhibition in the 3D curved glass manufacturing sector.

The exhibition is held annually at the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center (SZCEC). The 2019 edition of Touch China, held in June, attracted some 380 exhibitors covering a gross area of 37,500 m2 and saw more than 22,500 visitors in attendance.

“Shenzhen is a showcase city for the future growth of the Chinese market and an anchor for the future development of the Greater Bay Area,” said Su Jie, founder and CEO of Shenzhen Zhong Xin Cai Exhibition Company and Deputy Secretary General of China Communications Industry Association.

He added, “I firmly believe that this deal will significantly advance our growth trajectory and international market presence as we move forward with Tarsus – their experience in delivering customer value and investing in operational excellence will benefit our customers and boost the event’s future development tremendously.”

Key to the event’s ongoing success is the extensive support it garners from leading bodies in the market, including the China Communication Industry Association along with top manufacturers in the industry.

According to industry sources, the global 3D glass market reached $1.9 billion in 2018, a figure which is projected to soar to $2.7 billion in 2019 and to more than $8 billion by 2025.

In 2018, at least 30 million pieces of 3D glass were needed in China – this demand is expected to outnumber 170 million pieces by 2025 and will see many manufacturers pushing to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the sector.

3D glass is expected to see rapid adoption and volume growth in a broad range of end market applications including telecommunications, consumer products, automotive, medical, and smart homes.

The 2020 edition of China touch is scheduled to take place July 2-4 at the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center. For more information visit: www.touchchinaexpo.com.