TSNN Trade Show News

Big Sound, Bigger Crowd: AXPONA 2025 Sets Attendance Record

dtormohlen@tsnn.com — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:19:01 +0000

Big Sound, Bigger Crowd: AXPONA 2025 Sets Attendance Record

April 28, 2025

Held April 11-13 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center in Illinois, AXPONA (Audio Expo North America) drew 10,910 attendees--a 5% increase over its largest previous event, marking its biggest show yet. The B2B and B2C show offered music lovers and industry professionals three days of sound, technology, seminars, live music and the latest audio products. Trade passes grew 20%, as AXPONA continues to attract more members of the high-end audio industry.

Context: AXPONA (Audio Expo North America), which launched in 2010, touts itself as the North America’s largest event for audiophiles, manufacturers of high-end audio equipment, musicians, and music lovers. The three-day experience features 200+ high-fidelity listening rooms, providing guests the enviable opportunity to experience the newest technology in high-end consumer audio products. Attendees are encouraged to go from room to room and sit, listen, and compare the various systems.

By the numbers: AXPONA 2025 featured 213 dedicated listening rooms on 12 floors crafted by the best in the business, including 700 global manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and brands.

The expo hall at AXPONA is home to the Record Fair. Photo: AXPONA

In-person experiences: The Ear Gear Experience featured everything for personal audio––from headphones and electronics to accessories and cables. The expo hall, which is home to the Record Fair, showcased an array of turntables, cables, accessories, racks, stands, tonearms, cartridges, and new and vintage vinyl.

AXPONA 2025 featured nightly concerts. Photo: AXPONA

What they’re saying: “AXPONA 2025 was truly our biggest and best show yet,” said AXPONA Event Director Liz Smith. “With record-breaking attendance, 200+ incredible listening rooms, and nonstop energy from start to finish, the passion for high-fidelity audio was felt in every corner. We’re so grateful to our exhibitors, attendees, sponsors, and artists for making this weekend unforgettable. The AXPONA community continues to grow, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!”

Held April 11-13, AXPONA (Audio Expo North America) drew 10,910 attendees to the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center. Photo: AXPONA

New in 2025: The new Car Audio Showcase offered passionate music lovers the best sounds in car audio. Manufacturers and dealers of high-performance car audio featured demonstrations from leading brands to discover new audio products for purchase and upgrades.

The Car Audio Showcase was a new feaure added in 2025. Photo: AXPONA

Show floor highlights: “AXPONA continues to set the standard for high-end audio events, and this year, we welcomed top-tier exhibitors. Their presence showcases the innovation, passion, and growth within the industry, making this a can’t miss experience for audiophiles and music lovers alike,” said Smith. Major sponsors included companies like Technics, Axiss Audio, Music Direct ,and more. A full list of sponsors can be found here.

The B2B and B2C show offered music lovers and industry professionals three days of sound, technology, seminars, live music and the latest audio products. Photo: AXPONA

Fan favorites: Live concerts nightly at AXPONA are always a big hit. On Friday night, AXPONA welcomed The Kyle Asche Organ Quartet to a packed and energetic crowd. Saturday night’s concert featured fan-favorite Patricia Barber, who closed out the concert series with more than 600 attendees.

One of 213 dedicated listening rooms on 12 floors at AXPONA 2025. Photo: AXPONA

Looking ahead: AXPONA returns April 10-12, 2026, to the Schaumburg Convention Center.

The MoFi booth at AXPONA 2025. Photo: AXPONA

We caught up with Smith to find out more about how and why this year’s event set attendance records. Here’s what we learned.

Tormohlen: What can you tell us about the size of the audio industry and its growth projections?

AXPONA Event Director Liz Smith

Smith: The home high-end audio system market is projected to grow from $5.25 billion in 2025 to $7.72 billion by 2034, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.37% during the forecast period (2025-2034). The market size for home high-end audio system market was valued at $5.36 billion in 2024, according to a report by Market Future Institute.

Some market trends identified in the report: “The market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for high-quality sound experiences among consumers. Factors such as advancements in audio technology, the rise of streaming services, and a growing appreciation for music and movies in high fidelity are pushing many consumers to invest in premium audio solutions. Furthermore, the shift towards home entertainment, accelerated by recent events, has further fueled interest in enhancing audio experiences at home. This trend is particularly evident among audiophiles and consumers looking for immersive experiences directly in their households.”

Tormohlen: What factors do you attribute to the record-breaking growth in trade attendance and overall turnout this year?

Smith: Overall, AXPONA has experienced consistent growth year over year, establishing itself as an annual destination for music lovers and the audio industry. Several factors contribute to this growth, including the industry's passion and support, an increasing number of younger attendees interested in high-quality audio systems, and the implementation of new marketing tactics to build awareness and attract new attendees. We also have a loyal community that makes AXPONA an annual trip.

In fall 2024, we launched a podcast called Audio Insider, an AXPONA podcast hosted by content creator Lenny Florentine on YouTube and various podcast platforms. This initiative aims to engage our community year-round and expand our reach. One of our top priorities is to attract more younger attendees, and YouTube has proven to be an excellent platform to support this goal.

Our exhibitor community serves as our strongest advocates, promoting the event within the trade and establishing it as a significant B2B event for the audio industry. Exhibitors invite their partners to attend the show, support their exhibits, network, and forge new connections. For dealers in the United States, AXPONA offers an excellent opportunity to discover new products and meet with partners without the need for international travel.

We are constantly exploring ways to grow and expand AXPONA. This year, we launched the Car Audio Showcase, attracting car enthusiasts who also care about great sound. The expanded Ear Gear Experience, a dedicated space for personal audio, saw its largest footprint yet. It featured a vast array of headphones, DACs (digital-to-analog converters), amplifiers, and accessories, catering to the growing community of personal audio enthusiasts.

Lastly, our live concerts are always a fan favorite. We had more than 600 attendees at Saturday night’s concert with Patricia Barber. Lines formed early as fans eagerly awaited Barber’s performance.

The show floor at AXPONA 2025. Photo: AXPONA

Tormohlen: Describe the Car Audio Showcase. What was one of the coolest things on display?

Smith: We partnered with the International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) to launch this new showcase, aiming to provide attendees with a space to experience high-performance car audio. For the first time, passionate music lovers experienced the best sounds in car audio. Manufacturers and dealers of high-performance car audio offered demonstrations from leading brands to discover new audio products for purchase and upgrades. We had 20 cars on display and five exhibitors for attendees to engage with through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.

The cars boasted true innovations in sound—custom speakers, precision-tuned subwoofers, amplifiers and more. The coolest thing to see was The Audio Wave handcrafted car audio amp that retails at $35,000. It's extremely limited and has a two-year waiting list! Natan Budiono's winning vehicle was also a must-see.

AXPONA partnered with the International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) to launch the new Car Audio Showcase. Photo: AXPONA

Tormohlen: Tell us about one of the 213+ listening room experiences.

Smith: One of the most notable listening rooms at this year's AXPONA was presented by Magico. Located on the 15th floor, attendees had the opportunity to experience the Magico M9s, a state-of-the-art loudspeaker renowned for its power and ability to reproduce micro details from recordings. These stunning loudspeakers stand 80 inches tall and weigh a combined 2,000 pounds. It was a true privilege to have them at AXPONA, offering music lovers and audiophiles a dream system to experience.

The Magico listening room at AXPONA 2025. Photo: AXPONA

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Recap: Debut of Overland Expo SoCal Exceeds Expectations

lpsavas@tsnn.com — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 16:39:05 +0000

Recap: Debut of Overland Expo SoCal Exceeds Expectations

April 25, 2025

Lisa Plummer Savas

Not all show launches go off with a bang, but the inaugural edition of Overland Expo SoCal certainly did–in the form of record-breaking participation. Held March 15-16 at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, Calif., the event is the newest edition to the Overland Expo B2C event series for do-it-yourself adventure travel enthusiasts.

Overland Expo SoCal, which is owned and produced Emerald, shattered past launch event records, with 19,000 attendees, 303 exhibitors, and 84 hands-on classes, demos, and activities drawing adventure enthusiasts from across the U.S., particularly from the West and Pacific Northwest, according to Emerald officials.

Backstory: Founded in 2009, the weekend event series attracts hundreds of exhibitors of adventure travel equipment, camping gear, bikes, vehicles, and services, and hosts hundreds of session hours of classes, including off-road driving techniques, adventure motorcycling, inspirational programs, roundtable discussions, demonstrations, and the Overland Film Festival.

Context: The new Southern California event follows Emerald’s acquisition of the Overland Expo series in early 2023, marking the global show organizer’s first foray into the consumer lifestyle event space.

What they’re saying: “The turnout at Overland Expo SoCal far exceeded our expectations,” said Emerald Vice President of Consumer Events Jessica Kirchner. “With 70% of attendees reporting SoCal as their first Overland Expo, exhibitors were particularly excited about the opportunity to connect with a new overlanding audience, eager to learn and begin building out their vehicles for adventure. Across the board, exhibitors considered the event a tremendous success, with many already securing their spots for next year based on the incredible turnout, strong sales and high engagement.”

A Festival-Like Atmosphere

Offering something for both seasoned overlanders and newcomers, the show floor featured industry-leading brands, hands-on education, and immersive experiences, and attendees had access to a variety of immersive activities and expert-led sessions.

Overland Expo veteran Chris Bradley shared insider tips in “How to Get the Most Out of Overland Expo,” drawing from his experience attending every show, while at the DIY Showcase and Creator Vehicle areas, the “My Perfect Rig” series gave attendees a firsthand look at incredible overland builds and gear setups. Food lovers gathered at the Backcountry & Culinary Pavilion, where Chef Corso led interactive cooking sessions such as “No More Deli Sandwiches,” inspiring attendees to take their camp meals to the next level. 

The weekend also included key networking and social events, such as the Women Who Wander Networking Event, which united female overlanders to share stories, tips, and inspiration. Meanwhile, Subaru kept the energy high with puppy adoptions and an in-booth party, where attendees had a chance to enjoy refreshments and check out Subaru’s latest adventure-ready vehicles.

Enthusiastic Exhibitors and Engaged Attendees

According to Emerald officials, among the show’s more than 300 exhibitors, several positive themes emerged:  

A new and engaged audience: Exhibitors noticed a different demographic compared to other Overland Expos, with more families, beginners, and new consumers demonstrating an eagerness to learn.
High sales and product demand: Brands reported strong sales, with some selling out of inventory. Attendees were excited about new product launches, with some brands even taking preorders onsite.
High energy and robust turnout: Exhibitors were impressed by the large crowd of attendees and were energized by their enthusiasm and engagement in the festival-like atmosphere.
Location and timing: In addition to Southern California’s strong market potential and ideal location, the show’s spring timing served as an opportune time for exhibitors to connect with consumers before peak adventure season.
Valuable partnerships were forged: Exhibitors mentioned they found new partnership and brand collaboration opportunities that they hadn’t encountered at other events, and that the event provided a great platform for networking and brand exposure within the overlanding community.

Serving an Untapped Demographic

So why launch this Southern California event and why now? According to Lindsay Hubley, senior vice president, Consumer Events, Emerald, Southern California has long been a prime target for Overland Expo, as demographic data has consistently shown a significant portion of the show’s attendees and exhibitors come from California and neighboring states.

“Historically, Overland Expo featured just two shows: one in Flagstaff, Arizona, serving the western U.S., and another in Virginia for the East,” Hubley explained. “As demand from our community continued to grow, we expanded into Colorado in 2021 and Oregon in 2022. With those two events now firmly established, we felt like the market was ready for another syndication of the Overland Expo brand and there was overwhelming call for it to be in California – and we’re excited to finally make that happen.”

Hubley added that Emerald had originally anticipated the California show to draw around 200 brands and 10,000 attendees, so attracting the support of more than 300 brands and 19,000 attendees came as an unexpected but much-welcomed surprise.

“The show’s proximity to major population centers like Los Angeles and Orange County played a key role [in high participation], especially since most of our other Overland Expo events are held in more remote, destination-style markets located two or more hours from a major metro area.”

She continued, “The other interesting thing that we saw was these attendees were new. The marketing team has tapped into a brand-new database of potential destination event attendees with this launch. Since 2019, Overland Expo has continued to truly invest in the brand, launching digital content channels, hyper-driving its social reach and influence, and becoming the premier show for the overland and outdoor consumer markets. These attendees came to experience the show and to get into the overland market.”

Looking Ahead

Building on this year’s excitement and strong attendance, Overland Expo SoCal will return March 14-15, 2026, to the OC Fair & Event Center, featuring an expanded floorplan and new indoor pavilions showcasing product categories such as surf, paddle, hike/run, climb, bike, photography, and videography.

Upcoming 2025 Overland Expo events include:

Overland Expo West: May 16-18, Flagstaff, Ariz.
Overland Expo PNW: June 27-29, Redmond, Ore.
Overland Expo Mountain West: August 22-24, Loveland, Colo.
Overland Expo East: October 3-5, Arrington, Va.

Check out a recap video of 2025 Overland Expo SoCal here.

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What’s Hot vs. Not in Trade Shows Today

lpsavas@tsnn.com — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:09:21 +0000

What’s Hot vs. Not in Trade Shows Today

April 24, 2025

Shannon Thaler

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE)—the largest association for the industry, representing more than 12,000 professionals—recently released the latest edition of its landmark “The Art of the Show” textbook.

Unveiled in March, it marks the sixth edition of the text, and the first to be published in nearly four years. It’s safe to say a lot has changed in trade show trends in that time, and “the latest textbook highlights the increasing complexity of events and the genuine need to understand our audiences,” according to Rich Vallaster, the director of industry relations and community engagement at Personify—and one of 50 industry experts who contributed to the text’s 30 chapters.

Vallaster told TSNN that “the pace of change” is the most significant shift in the trade show landscape. Just think of the "evolution and significance of sustainability, research, data, technology, risk, and security” alone, Vallaster challenged. Gone are the days of “a familiar ‘rinse-and-repeat' approach [to putting on a trade show’ that has worked in the past.” Here’s what booth layouts, designs, exhibits, and more are buzzing at trade shows today—plus what’s totally bust.

What’s Hot

Smaller, High-Impact Booths

“Smaller, modular, high-impact booths are absolutely trending,” Vallaster said, noting that he’s seen exhibitors and sponsors buying up smaller booths in multiple areas of a trade show floor to increase the likelihood of engagement. “It’s all about flexibility and being able to scale presence without losing brand impact.”

Speaking of impact, achieve it by prioritizing the customer journey, Vallaster recommended. “I’ve been struck by how challenging it can be for attendees to navigate, understand, or even register for some events, even as someone who does it daily," he said, adding that, “too often we, as event organizers, focus on what we like rather than our end users.”

Creating Events Within an Event

Creativity is not slapping colorful LED lighting onto a booth or some interactive technology that merely looks cool, said Vallaster, who’s also an IAEE board member. Rather, real creativity comes from “creating an event within an event,” he added. “This can include offering mini-educational sessions with industry leaders, hands-on opportunities and product demos, unique experiences, or even fun activities—as long as it welcomes and engages prospects by delivering a memorable message.”

Blurring the Lines Between Show Floor and Education

For large trade show organizers, an impressive lineup of speakers has become a popular way of drawing attendees. The latest CES in January, for instance, substantially increased its educational offerings to feature more than 12,000 speakers across 300 conference sessions. In contrast, CES 2024 featured a mere 1,000 speakers.

Rich Vallaster

Per Vallaster’s research, leaning into educational sessions is effective when it’s “intentional.”

“Event organizers too often treat education and exhibits as separate entities with conflicting objectives and timelines,” he explained. “For success, education and exhibit teams must work together. The more we blur the lines between the show floor and with educational elements, the more attendees will perceive the entire event—and every space within it—as a learning opportunity.”

Vallaster pointed to one exhibitor at the American Society of Landscape Architects Annual Conference that “created a dog agility park to demonstrate their equipment with real dogs” as a great example of this line blurring in action. The booth saw so much success that “show management has since expanded the agility park into a full-fledged dog park, featuring multiple non-competing exhibitors that showcase products and services essential for a traditional dog park, such as waste bags, turf, and more.”

“It’s engaging and exciting for attendees—after all, who doesn't love dogs? More importantly, it generates additional revenue for the floor space and attracts more exhibitors to this area on the show floor,” Vallaster said.

An Omnichannel Approach to Marketing

“It may seem that a small, 10-by-10-foot booth would have little chance of generating as many lead scans as the larger anchor booths with bigger marketing budgets,” Vallaster said. It’s not true—but only if exhibitors “market their booth before the event, actively maintain an online presence, [and] invest in clear messaging.”

The same is true of an omnichannel marketing strategy, so just think of your company’s presence at a trade show as part of that customer-centric, multimedium marketing approach, Vallaster offered. Assets aren’t the only thing that relay messaging: “A cohesive narrative should also extend to booth staffing,” Vallaster said, advising marketing and sales teams to be aligned ahead of getting to the trade show floor.

What’s Not

Participating Because of Tradition

“Attending ‘just because’ or participating simply because of tradition is no longer acceptable,” Vallaster said, noting the importance of exhibitors articulating value to their booth visitors now more than ever. “If event organizers cannot deliver on expectations for each of their audiences, they will struggle to maintain relevance.” With that, it should come as no surprise that exhibitors can also skip the following, according to Vallaster and IAEE’s latest textbook:

poor booth messaging
generic swag
absent booth staff
...and a tired bowl of candy.

To Vallaster, all of these pitfalls can be avoided with proper marketing (see above).

Pitches During Educational Sessions

Sales pitches from vendors have no place being disguised as “education,” Vallaster said. “If it's a pitch, it should be clearly identified as such.” Organizers owe it to attendees—and the vendors, who "are likely to also feel disappointed in the outcome”—by letting them know when to expect a sales pitch.

By allowing vendors to offer a pitch over a true education session, trade show organizers are also “failing to leverage [the] valuable insights and expertise” these professionals have in their respective fields.

The most effective and creative use of vendors’ knowledge Vallaster has seen: "Carefully curated show floor tours with 15-minute mini-sessions (not pitches) in exhibitors booths.”

Cheap Pens and Stress Balls

Engagement is evolving—and the amount of cheap, branded pens and stress balls that end up in the garbage are a testament to that. “It’s just junk,” Vallaster said. And as younger attendees enter the industry, this type of swag does nothing to appeal to their priorities, which everyone knows includes sustainability.

Vallaster said that Personify has found success with “limited edition socks each year [that] people wear to our booth.” It’s because “they are practical and useable,” he said.

Lack of Booth Staff Training

It's a shame to see trade shows taking up so much marketing spend—and yet companies will miss goals because they overlook the importance of preparing their front-line staff, Vallaster said.

"To address these challenges even with our own exhibiting, we have implemented a ‘Trade Show Boot Camp’ for our booth staff,” Vallaster shared. “Regardless of their experience level, we provide training before each event to clarify expectations, teach engagement techniques, and more, ensuring that we maximize our own investment in events.”

IAEE did not respond to TSNN’s request for comment.

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10 Steps to More Sustainable Exhibiting

lpsavas@tsnn.com — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:16:19 +0000

10 Steps to More Sustainable Exhibiting

April 23, 2025

Helen Sheppard

Helen Sheppard is an experienced sustainability leader who joined RX in January 2022 as Sustainability Director to lead its sustainability globally with a focus on implementing the Net Zero Carbon Events commitments. In her current role, she leads an internal Global Sustainability Council and has launched an RX Sustainability Playbook and more recently RX’s Net Zero Pathway. She is an active member of the Net Zero Carbon Events taskforce.

Sustainable exhibiting is a powerful way to showcase your brand without impacting the environment. From eco-friendly booth materials to digital marketing and responsible catering, adopting sustainable practices can cut costs, reduce waste, boost your brand’s reputation, and increase customer value. Here are my top ten steps to help you exhibit more sustainably - minimizing your footprint while maximizing your impact.

Choose sustainable suppliers

Go for contractors and suppliers who have signed the Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge which commits them to reduce their global GHG emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050 at the latest. You can also look for certifications like ISO 14001, ISO 20121, FSC, and B Corp, which indicate responsible environmental and social practices. Assess their use of recyclable, biodegradable, or reusable materials, energy-efficient production, and waste reduction efforts. Look for modular, reusable stand designs and recycling programs. Review their sustainability policies, transparency, and memberships in organisations like the Sustainable Event Alliance to confirm their commitment to green practices. And, because you can’t manage what you can’t measure, ask your supplier to measure the carbon footprint of your exhibition booth. 

Plan ahead to design out waste

Sustainability starts with smart planning. Designing your booth with reusable materials ensures a lower environmental impact. Modular components that can be reconfigured for different layouts make a great eco-friendly choice. Consider open plan designs to reduce the need for excess materials like walls. Planning ahead also helps avoid last-minute changes and unnecessary printing, saving both resources and costs.

If you can’t reuse it, recycle it

Reusability should be your guiding rule when designing your stand. Opt for reusable flooring platforms, carpet tiles made from recycled materials (dark colours have a longer lifespan), and furniture rentals to cut waste. Check out lightweight, sustainable materials like recycled cardboard, bamboo, and eco-friendly fabrics - they’re not only greener but also easier and cheaper to transport. Most importantly, ditch single-use materials to make your stand as sustainable as possible.

Ship responsibly

Simple adjustments to your shipping plans can significantly reduce your event emissions. Talk to your suppliers about how your items are transported and look for ways to consolidate shipments to reduce trips – for example, by using the event’s preferred shipping partner. Sourcing materials locally cuts emissions and supports the local economy. For long-distance transport, choose lower-impact options like rail or electric vehicles. Finally, pack efficiently, avoid foam and plastic film, and opt for recyclable or biodegradable packaging to further reduce your environmental impact.

Use energy-efficient lighting and digital displays

Reduce your carbon emissions with energy-efficient lighting and electronics. LED lights use less power, last longer, and cut costs, while energy-efficient screens and light boxes deliver bright, eye-catching displays with minimal energy use. Use reflective surfaces and light colours in your booth design to reduce the need for extra lighting and remember to dim or turn off lighting, screens, and equipment outside show hours.

Cater consciously

Food waste is a big issue at events, but smart choices can make a big difference. Source local, seasonal food to cut transport emissions and support the local economy. Offer low-carbon vegetarian and vegan choices. Swap single-use plastics for reusable water stations or glass bottles. And donate leftovers to local food banks or community projects – many RX events and venues now partner with such schemes to reduce waste and give back.

Go digital

Connecting digitally at trade shows is a smarter, greener alternative to printed business cards, brochures, and pamphlets. It cuts down on paper waste and transport emissions while letting you capture and qualify leads instantly for quicker, more efficient follow-ups. Plus, visitors will thank you for it! At RX events, attendees can simply scan Colleqt QR Codes at your stand to receive your product information digitally––no more heavy tote bags stuffed with brochures, just a seamless, eco-friendly experience. Avoid disposable ‘give-aways’ and choose digital incentives too, such as white papers and sales discounts which can be redeemed on your stand or online.

Sort and recycle your waste

If you’ve followed the steps above, you shouldn’t have too much waste destined for landfill. But you should still have a clear waste management plan outlining how your recyclable, compostable, and general waste will be handled. Work with the event organisers and venue – many now provide clearly marked, colour-coded recycling stations making it easy to sort your waste at the event, and during build-up and break-down. If room allows, do the same for visitors on your stand. Finally, check if the organiser or venue operates any schemes to donate excess food or unwanted stand items and materials to local community projects. It’s a great way to make a difference whilst reducing your environmental impact.

Reduce your travel footprint

The carbon emissions associated with travel can’t be avoided, but they can be reduced. Where possible, choose local employees to staff your stand. Use public transport to travel between the show and your hotel. Prioritise rail over air for longer distances. If you can’t avoid flying and staying over, choose airlines and hotels which have credible Net Zero and sustainability strategies.

Promote your eco-friendly practices

If sustainability is part of your brand, an eco-friendly exhibition stand is a great way to attract and engage visitors and set out your credentials. People are drawn to innovative, sustainable designs, giving you the perfect chance to showcase your brand’s green values and start meaningful conversations. Highlighting your use of eco-friendly materials and practices positions you as a sustainability leader, helping you stand out in a crowded event space. If there’s an award for ‘Most Sustainable Exhibitor,’ why not go for it? Just be sure your efforts are genuine––authenticity matters more than ever.

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TSNN, IAVM, and Honeycomb Strategies Launch Industry-First Sustainability Benchmarking Platform for Venues

dtormohlen@tsnn.com — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 11:16:51 +0000

TSNN, IAVM, and Honeycomb Strategies Launch Industry-First Sustainability Benchmarking Platform for Venues

April 22, 2025

Danica Tormohlen

In a groundbreaking move for sustainability in the live event space, Trade Show News Network (TSNN), the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), and Honeycomb Strategies have announced the launch of Venue Sustainalytics—a first-of-its-kind sustainability benchmarking and data intelligence platform purpose-built for venues and event organizers.

Launching officially on Earth Day, April 22, the announcement marks the start of a powerful new collaboration that aims to bring consistency, visibility, and accountability to sustainability efforts across convention centers, stadiums, arenas, performing art centers, and other live event spaces.

“This initiative is a game changer for both venues and event organizers,” said Lindsay Arell, CEO of Honeycomb Strategies. “It delivers consistent, reliable data that helps track environmental impact, benchmark progress, and guide smarter, more sustainable decisions. By standardizing how we measure and report, we not only create transparency but also unlock insights that drive meaningful progress across the live events industry.”

Lindsay Arell, CEO of Honeycomb Strategies

A Platform Built for Progress

The Venue Sustainalytics platform will:

Offer a user-friendly online dashboard to track environmental performance
Establish a standardized framework for data collection and reporting
Produce an annual industry benchmarking report highlighting trends and leaders
Provide educational resources such as toolkits, webinars, and case studies
Celebrate excellence through a recognition and awards program

“Event organizers are eager to take action on sustainability, but the industry has lacked a consistent way to compare venues—until now,” said Danica Tormohlen, VP of Group Content, Meetings, Travel & Sports, for Informa Connect, which publishes TSNN. “By launching this data-driven resource with the first-ever industry benchmarking report, this partnership solves that gap and helps event organizers who want to align strategy with impact.”

A United Industry Effort

Each partner brings unique strengths to the collaboration:

Trevor Mitchell, IAVM President & CEO

TSNN, the industry’s leading media platform, will drive awareness and recognition through editorial coverage and integration into the TSNN Awards.
IAVM, as the association partner, will leverage its vast venue network to increase participation and incorporate benchmarking insights into member education and strategy.
Honeycomb Strategies, a recognized sustainability consultancy, will lead the platform’s development, data analysis, and knowledge-sharing.

“Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s essential. Venue Sustainalytics empowers our members with the data, tools, and industry insights they will need to lead with purpose and transparency,” said Trevor Mitchell, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CDP, IAVM President & CEO. “This collaboration brings the industry together in a unified effort to drive meaningful progress, and we’re proud to support our venues in setting a higher standard for environmental responsibility.

A Long-Term Commitment

The program launches later this spring with a data collection phase running through the end of 2025. The first industry benchmarking report is expected to be released in early 2026, along with the recognition of top-performing venues through dedicated case studies and awards.

Danica Tormohlen, VP of Group Content, Meetings, Travel & Sports, for Informa Connect

The initiative is funded through a combination of partner contributions and sponsorships, with in-kind support from Honeycomb Strategies and Year One funding provided by IAVM. For information about becoming a founding sponsor, contact John Rice, TSNN Director of Sales, at (617) 201-7088 or email: jrice@tsnn.com

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How Will the Tariffs Impact Business Events? Industry Experts Weigh In

lpsavas@tsnn.com — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 13:06:47 +0000

How Will the Tariffs Impact Business Events? Industry Experts Weigh In

April 21, 2025

Michele Laufik

Both consumers and the stock market have been experiencing whiplash lately over President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs.

He recently announced a 90-day pause for countries that were hit by higher U.S. tariffs on April 2, saying that, as of right now, they will only face a blanket tariff of 10%, except for China, whose tariffs have been raised to 145%. This is in addition to the levies that were already imposed on Mexico and Canada earlier in the year.

The back-and-forth has created a level of uncertainty for the global meetings sector that hasn’t been felt since COVID.

The tariffs are expected to increase the costs of materials used at trade shows, such as audiovisual equipment, modular display systems, and promotional items, as well as cause declines in event participation as international attendees reconsider their visits to the U.S. amidst the trade war.

So, what can the industry do to advocate for itself during this unprecedented time? We asked some show organizers and top officials at various organizations for their insights – here’s what they had to say.

Hervé Sedky, president and CEO of Emerald and chair of the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance’s Board of Directors:

"Tariffs and other trade barriers present broad challenges across the global economy, underscoring the strategic value of in-person events as trusted environments for connection, clarity, and commerce in uncertain times.

Our industry has consistently demonstrated its ability to adapt and thrive amid complexity, which is why we strongly support the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA) and its efforts to ensure that strength endures. Trade policies that create barriers can impact the ability of live events to fuel growth—particularly for small businesses that power both our industry and the broader U.S. economy. At Emerald, we remain committed to working with our industry peers to ensure that trade policy enhances—not hinders—the competitiveness, inclusivity, and global reach of the U.S. business events sector."

Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM, president and chief executive officer of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE):

“Generally speaking, any proposed tariffs will drive up expenses for everyone involved in business-to-business exhibitions and events—from organizers and exhibitors to attendees. This burden will fall especially hard on small businesses, which make up the vast majority of companies in the industry (99%) and represent four out of five exhibitors.

It’s important that professionals work together to communicate the value that our industry brings to the U.S. and global economy. The best way to do this is to share their concerns with their policymakers through the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance’s Advocacy Network Action Center. IAEE remains committed to collaborating with its members, partners, and influential stakeholders in Washington, D.C. to champion trade policies that enhance the competitiveness of the U.S. business and professional events sector.”

Julie Kagy, CEM, executive director of the Exhibition Services & Contractors Association (ESCA):

"The latest round of tariffs has the potential to significantly increase costs for both U.S. and international exhibiting companies—especially those importing structural components, technology, or custom materials. These added expenses could ultimately impact participation levels and limit the ability of companies to showcase their innovations effectively.

At ESCA, we are closely monitoring these developments and sharing timely insights with our members. We’re also proud to support the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (ECA) in their continued efforts to advocate for our industry in Washington. Through ECA, we’re working collectively to ensure policymakers understand how trade policies affect the exhibitions ecosystem—from small business exhibitors to contractors, suppliers, and venues across the country.”

Cherif Moujabber, owner of Creative Expo and Conferences, consultant, and international trade show expert:

“The U.S. is still the largest market in the world in several sectors. Companies that are already in the market cannot vacate just like that. They have invested in developing their client base and need to service that base even by adding the tariffs to their price.”

His advice to show organizers: “Don’t panic! The danger might disappear as quickly as it appeared. In the meantime, be patient and explain to your exhibitors the above and give examples of companies or national pavilions that remain with you. Finally, do what you should always do, work that aging list thoroughly and focus on those who are delaying payments, and if you are lucky to have a solid priority system for location choice, use it subtly but firmly.”

Doug Emslie, chairman of Cuil Bay Capital (representing the Society of Independent Show Organizers):

"At the end of the day, the trade show industry thrives on free trade, free flow of goods, free flow of people.... We're going to have to adapt. I think that the cost of exhibiting is going to be put under a lot of pressure. I think we're going to have to be more imaginative around the use of technology.

A good thing that's came out of the pandemic was the formation of the ECA. I think all we can do as an industry is engage as much as possible with our advocacy body. Obviously, we're against tariffs in terms of the impact on the industry, but it's a reality and therefore we've got to understand how we navigate our way through it.”

Vinnie Polito, chief executive officer of the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO):

"It is inescapable that tariffs will impact U.S. tradeshows. It is also important not to overreact. In the last week alone, the ‘to-ing’ and ‘fro-ing’ regarding policy has been nonstop. Trade shows remain the most cost-effective way for international companies to experience U.S. trade events regardless of tariff levels. ... We have already experienced impacts, and our nearest trading partners have lessened their participation in our events. Organizers can perhaps work best with international participants with more flexible terms and conditions on participation that will discourage cancellations until we can assess the impact with more certainty.

The best way to advocate for the industry will be to get on board with the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance. You can stay updated on the movements, reach out to your representative to register your opinions, and visit the tariff resource center to stay current with the ever-changing landscape.”

Jeff Quade, president, North America exhibition at GES:

“We are carefully navigating the complexity that tariffs present. Our goal is to have proactive communication with our clients to keep them informed and educated. If their event is impacted, we will work with them on a solution.”

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE, listen to our latest podcast HERE and engage with us on LinkedIn!

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Recap: 23 Takeaways from the SISO CEO Summit in Austin

dtormohlen@tsnn.com — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 10:43:26 +0000

Recap: 23 Takeaways from the SISO CEO Summit in Austin

April 18, 2025

Danica Tormohlen

Held March 31-April 3 at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin, Texas, the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) CEO Summit 2025 broke attendance records with a total of 325 attendees, of which 22% were first-timers, said SISO CEO Vinnie Polito.

The annual gathering attracted a who’s who of industry leaders, with representatives from all major independent trade show companies, including Informa, RX, Clarion, Access Intelligence, Diversified, Emerald, and more.

If you didn’t attend this year’s event or you want to relive the highlights, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our curated list of 23 photos with key quotes, intelligence and observations from the 2025 SISO CEO Summit. View the entire photo gallery from the SISO CEO Summit here.

1. Research. Freeman presented data from its most recent survey. “Hands-on exposure turns attendees into product advocates,” said Freeman SVP Strategy Ken Holsinger. According to the survey, 96% of attendees said hands-on exposure to products made it easier for me to advocate for the purchase of a product/service.

Freeman's Kimberly Hardcastle-Geddes (left) and Ken Holsinger (right) presented SISO Specific Research & Trends for 2025.

2. Job growth. Austin, Round Rock, and San Marcos, Texas ranked No. 1 in employment growth from February 2020 to February 2025 among the 25 largest metro areas. Over the last five years, employment growth in the area was 19.2%, said Sage Policy Group Inc. Chairman and CEO Anirban Basu. Rounding out the top 5 list: 2) Orlando, Kissimmee, and Sanford, Fla. (12.4%); 3) Dallas, Fort Worth and Arlington, Texas (12.0%); 4) Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, Fla. (10.4%); and 5) Phoenix, Mesa and Chandler, Ariz. (10.2%).

Sage Policy Group Inc. Chairman and CEO Anirban Basu presented an economic outlook.

3. Economic outlook. “Forecast is for growth in 2025, but there are risks, including rising interest rates and falling asset prices,” Basu said.

The Economic Outlook session at SISO CEO Summit, held March 31-April 3 at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa.

4. M&A update. When asked how attractive the U.S. market is, international CEOs are bullish on M&As in the U.S., according to all panelists CloserStill Media CEO Gareth Bowhill, Hyve Group EVP Corporate Development Robert Pfeiffer and Plural Strategy Partner Jonny Baynes. “We are not seeing any pullback on strategic deals, which are at an all-time high right now,” Baynes said.

A session at SISO CEO Summit: How to spark innovation through M&A

5. Play the long game. “It took 30 years to build and grow South by Southwest,” said SXSW Co-President and Chief Programming Officer Hugh Forrest. After the launch of SXSW Sydney in 2023 in Australia, SXSW is debuting in June in London.

SXSW's Hugh Forrest (left) and Terrapin's Greg Hitchen (right) during a fireside chat.

6. Use AI to improve experience. The key to growth for the next few years: finding ways to meet customers where they are, Forrest said. For example, this year’s SXSW used AI to generate schedules for attendees based on interests. With 40 things going on at any one time, it was one way to improve the experience, he said.

Audience Q&A during a sessions at a SISO CEO Summit

7. Sales vs. Marketing. Who makes exhibiting decisions today? “Marketing makes the decisions on participation and investment,” said GoodRx VP, Growth Marketing Lindsay Merkle.

SISO CEO Summit session: What do customers want from an event?

8. Women’s Forum. The SISO Women’s Forum featured three hours of programming on topics related to emotional intelligence (EI). Sessions included: EI strategies, leading with EI, utilizing EI for successful integration, and M&A through an EI lens.

Sylvia Baffour, Executive Coach, Professional Speaker, and Author presented at the SISO Women's Forum.

9. Small Business Roundtable. Expanded to five hours in 2025, attendees had the opportunity to bring up challenges from their own events while diving into key industry topics, including how to: find financing, implement AI solutions, optimize your tech stack, develop innovative event formats, navigate new tariffs, and plan your exit strategy.

The SISO Small Business Roundtable was expanded to five hours in 2025.

10. Networking. The SISO CEO Summit features a plethora of networking opportunities during hosted breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and breaks. On the last afternoon, attendees could select from a variety of activities, from tennis and pickleball to golf and cocktails by the pool.

Networking at SISO CEO Summit

11. Incoming chair. As the SISO Incoming Chair, Questex CEO Paul Miller planned the programming and content for the 2025 CEO Summit.

SISO Incoming Chair and Questex CEO Paul Miller

12. Sessions. The SISO CEO Summit offered one and one-half days of education. Our three favorite sessions: The Innovation Imperative; What do Attendees Want from an Event?; and What Do Customers Want from an Event? According to Miller, 54% of presenters were female.

SISO CEO Summit session: What do Attendees Want from an Event?

13. Location. Tucked into the Texas Hill Country, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa sits on 4,000 acres of countryside in Austin. Located 18 miles from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the resort offers 493 hotel rooms and 76,192 square feet of meeting space.

The outdoor meeting space at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin

14. Registration. This year’s registration was the highest ever, with 325 industry executives in attendance. The full attendee list can be found here. Badges were printed on recycled paper.

Badge pick-up at SISO CEO Summit

15. Swag. At the reception and dinner sponsored by the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, hand-rolled cigars were available for attendees.

Hand-rolled cigars during the Las Vegas reception and dinner

16. Entertainment. During the evening reception, live entertainment played at the Hill Country Pavilion and Lawn.

Entertainment during an evening reception

17. Business lunch. At the annual business lunch, Freeman Chairman Emeritus Don Freeman Jr. welcomed attendees before Nineteen Group President U.S. Mary Larkin presented Exposition Development Company Inc. CEO and Partner David Audrain with the Krakoff Award.

Freeman Chairman Emeritus Don Freeman Jr. at the SISO annual business lunch

18. Introductions. Whether you love it or hate it, attendee introductions are an annual SISO CEO tradition. SISO CEO Vinnie Polito kicked off the introductions on the first morning of the event.

SISO CEO Vinnie Polito kicked off the introductions on the first morning of the event.

19. First-timers. With 22% of attendees joining for the first time, this year’s first-timers reception was bigger than in previous year’s.

The lawn at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa set up at SISO CEO Summit.

20. Women’s meetup. The Women in Exhibitions Network North America hosted a meetup at the event, which was sponsored by Visit Austin.

Women in Exhibitions Network North America meetup at SISO CEO Summit

21. Staging. All sessions were held in the Brazos Ballroom. The podium featured a digital panel with a SISO-brand video graphic.

All sessions were held in the Brazos Ballroom at the Omni Barton Creek Resort.

22. Golf. The annual SISO Golf Tournament, sponsored by Visit Dallas, was held at the Fazio Foothills Golf Course.

The annual SISO Golf Tournament

23. Cocktails & Talk. For those not interested in sporting activities, SISO provided cocktails and cabanas by the pool for networking.

The pool at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

Looking ahead: The next SISO CEO Summit will be held March 9-11, 2026, at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Resort in South Carolina.

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Resort in South Carolina

Photos: Coleman Photography LLC

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Leading Through the Uncertainty: What Eventprofs Should Do Right Now

lpsavas@tsnn.com — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 13:10:59 +0000

Leading Through the Uncertainty: What Eventprofs Should Do Right Now

April 17, 2025

Brad Gillespie

Brad Gillespie is the former General Manager of Consulting for Cvent and Founder of The METHOD Project, a research and advisory firm focused on corporate meetings, events, travel, and hospitality.

As I drafted this article on Monday, April 7, the Dow was down 500 points, the S&P nearing bear market territory, and U.S. President Donald Trump threatened, yet again, additional tariffs on China. By Wednesday, Trump had paused all tariffs except for China, and the Dow rebounded, hitting its largest one-day point gain…ever. Things are quite fluid, to say the least. The markets hate uncertainty, and according to the index that monitors it, trade uncertainty is at an all-time high.

Let’s take a collective breath, #eventprofs, and remind ourselves that we’ve dealt with uncertainty before. We’ve experienced our industry when things are out of our control. While things are fluid at the moment, now is not the time to worry about what’s out of our control. Now is the time to identify the foreseeable risks to our programs and lead our organizations forward and through them.

Understanding the impact of tariffs

Rather than generalizing on the potential impact that tariffs may have on our programs, let’s break things down in a bit more detail. In the short term, events in certain industries (Government), in certain regions (EU, Asia-Pacific), or around certain topics (DEI) will likely be impacted more than others. Some of your programs will see little to no consequential impact, and in some sectors, meetings and travel will actually increase.

For example, companies that may be impacted by tariffs, directly or indirectly, will likely be traveling to meetings with key suppliers and partners in the supply chain to discuss the impact of tariffs on their products and services. These types of meetings represent activity that would not have happened if it weren't for tariffs.

There are many recent articles and data about goods and services that are more sensitive to tariffs (apparel, consumer electronics, food items, automobiles, alcoholic beverages, steel and aluminum, etc.). Conversely, we should not expect to see meaningful cost increases for items such as AV, local labor, electricity, wi-fi, etc. Crude oil, natural gas, and refined petroleum products are exempt from tariffs from all countries, including Canada and Mexico, and so we should also not expect gas prices to go up to the extent they have a material effect on air fares, shipping costs, etc.

We don’t know how long tariffs will be in play. In my view, tariffs are not intended to be permanent. However, most experts agree that a protracted trade war will almost certainly drive inflation higher. Inflation is currently holding steady, but a meaningful increase would have a broader impact on overall costs much greater than tariffs, themselves. One step at a time.

Budgets holding steady

On Monday at the BTN Strategic Meetings Summit, a room full of industry leaders weighed in on this topic. A combined 76% of attendees said that budgets will remain the same or higher than 2024.

That sentiment echoes recent research from multiple groups suggesting that 2025 budgets in many sectors generally track with the 10+ year historical average.

A proactive approach

Five years ago, I wrote an article suggesting what leaders can do, proactively, in times such as these. The pandemic gave us a playbook to deal with uncertainty, and much of it applies today. Here are few thoughts on what we can all be doing to lean in and lead:

Rally the troops. In times of uncertainty, start with those closest to you - acknowledge the potential impact on your customers, team, and agency partners. It’s a simple first step, and you may have already taken it. If not, address it immediately. Let them know together that you’ll get through whatever comes.
Triage your program using a basic framework. “Level 1 – Urgent” - Understand the commitments to programs and spend that require decisions NOW. Quickly determine the go/no-go decisions that need to be made immediately. Next go to “Level 3 – Not Urgent” – look for projects slated later in the year, program spend that won’t hit until Q4, items from your idea board, etc. De-prioritize these. What’s left should be “Level 2 – Important.” Give this list scrutiny as you may find one or two to elevate to Level 1. That’s all you need to do for now. Now go back to your Level 1s and set a plan in motion. That plan should include being ready to implement some of the virtual event strategies you proved out during the pandemic.
Partner with vendors and suppliers. For your “Level 1” programs, it’s time to connect with key vendors and suppliers. This will be a test of your partnership. Just as it’s time for you to lead, it’s time for our partners to do just that – partner.
Ask for (and expect to receive) cost transparency. Suppliers may already be talking about cost increases stemming from the current economic climate. “Trust but verify” is your modus operandi. In partnership, your key vendors and suppliers should share, with specificity, what is driving cost increases. We know to expect certain increases in produce items coming from Mexico, for example. If the cost of tomatoes is increasing by 25%, that’s what we should see in our supplier’s data.
Consider cost sharing arrangements. Perhaps the ultimate example of partnership, ask key vendors and suppliers to enter a cost sharing arrangement with you. It’s commonplace in certain industries for certain costs, or unexpected cost increases, to be shared between the parties rather than simply passing them along to you, and to attendees. If you work with agencies in this area, collaborate with them on a game plan to take to suppliers together.

These uncertain times are nothing new for the events industry. We’ve faced uncertainty, challenges, and price increases before, and we certainly will again. By taking the time to take a step back, assess the real potential impact and make a plan accordingly, we can ensure that our energy will focus on the priorities within our control, and as leaders, help our organizations navigate the potential pitfalls that can impact our businesses.

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE, listen to our latest podcast HERE and engage with us on LinkedIn!

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New Capital, Big Moves: Easyfairs Plots U.S. Growth with Backing from Cuil Bay Capital

dtormohlen@tsnn.com — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:00:35 +0000

New Capital, Big Moves: Easyfairs Plots U.S. Growth with Backing from Cuil Bay Capital

April 16, 2025

Danica Tormohlen

After leading Tarsus Group through multiple decades of global growth and eventually a $940 million acquisition by Informa in 2023, industry heavyweight Doug Emslie is back with a bold new move: investing in Belgium-based trade show organizer Easyfairs through his investment firm Cuil Bay Capital.

In an exclusive interview with TSNN, Emslie shares why Easyfairs’ tech-forward, exhibitor-friendly approach and niche market strategy are uniquely positioned to disrupt the U.S. events landscape—and why now is the time to double down on events.

From launching industrial shows in Detroit to targeting high-growth verticals and frictionless exhibitor experiences, Easyfairs is making its mark—and Emslie, now a board member, is helping steer the ship.

Here are 5 highlights from our interview. Listen to the full conversation here.

1. Easyfairs: A Global Player with U.S. Ambitions

Emslie’s Cuil Bay Capital has made a significant investment in Easyfairs, a Belgium-based trade show organizer that’s “likely to enter the top 10 global organizers soon.”

“Easyfairs is entrepreneurial at its core but operates at global scale with 120 shows. It’s a business I’ve admired for years,” Emslie said.

Cuil Bay Capital Chairman Doug Emslie

The company plans to bring its model—focused on ease of exhibiting and niche community engagement—to the U.S. market, starting with Coiltech USA, launching in June 11-12 in Novi, Mich., a suburb of Detroit.

2. U.S. Expansion Kicks Off with Niche Industrial Events

Easyfairs has had success growing industrial shows in Europe and is replicating that model stateside.

“They bought a small coil winding event in Italy, expanded it into Germany, and are now bringing it to Detroit. That’s their playbook—scale up niche sectors that others overlook,” Emslie shared.

With backing from Emslie and support from industry veteran Rachel Wimberly, the company is actively looking to acquire and launch more events in the U.S.

Easyfairs Chair Eric Everard

3. Technology as a Differentiator

Emslie praised Easyfairs' leadership in applying event tech to streamline exhibitor and attendee experiences.

“They’re one of the best in our industry at using technology to remove friction and deliver ROI—not just cost efficiency, but return on time,” Emslie said.

This tech-forward approach, combined with deep community engagement, is a cornerstone of their event strategy, he added.

Easyfairs CEOs Matt Benyon and Anne Lafère

4. Cuil Bay Capital’s Investment Strategy: People First

Emslie emphasized that Cuil Bay Capital focuses on backing entrepreneurs, not just sectors.

“We invest in people—entrepreneurs with vision. Whether it’s small startups or large-scale players like Easyfairs, we help them grow with strategy, network, and capital,” Emslie explained.

Cuil Bay has made nine investments since launching in late 2023, including Raccoon Media Group and Jacobs Media, and supports both early stage launches and mature businesses scaling globally.

Coiltech North America, a geoclone of Coiltech Germany 2025 (pictured), is launching in June in Michigan.

5. Industry Outlook: Tariffs, Tech & Advocacy

When asked about potential industry threats, Emslie expressed concern over tariffs, international travel restrictions, and broader economic uncertainty.

“Any point of friction—whether it’s tariffs or travel bans—is bad for our industry. We thrive on the free flow of goods and people,” Emslie emphasized.

He urged industry professionals to engage with advocacy groups like the ECA, calling their role essential in helping navigate external challenges.

Main image: Coiltech Germany 2025 Photo: Coiltech

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Trade Show M&A: Emerald Acquires Plant Based World Expo, Sports Business Journal Scoops Up National Sports Forum

lpsavas@tsnn.com — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:06:04 +0000

Trade Show M&A: Emerald Acquires Plant Based World Expo, Sports Business Journal Scoops Up National Sports Forum

April 15, 2025

Lisa Plummer Savas

Two leading event and media companies made event acquisitions in recent weeks.

Emerald Steps into High-Growth Market with Plant Based World Purchase

In a strategic move underscoring the rapid expansion and investment interest in the growing plant-based food sector, Emerald Expositions recently acquired Plant Based World (PBW), a B2B trade show platform serving the global plant-based ecosystem, from JD Events (JDE).

Collingwood, an M&A advisory firm specializing in information, media, and events businesses, advised JDE throughout the sale. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Announced on March 18, the acquisition comes at a time when the plant-based food space is projected to reach $113 billion by 2031, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2024 to 2031, according to a May 2024 report by Meticulous Research. As consumer demand for more sustainable, ethical, and health-conscious food choices continues to accelerate and reshape the global food landscape, the category has shifted from niche to mainstream.

Launched by JDE in 2019 when the global plant-based market was valued at just $3.4 billion, Plant Based World Expo North America serves as vital business gathering for foodservice and retail buyers, manufacturers, investors, and service providers, alongside its sister event Plant Based World Expo Europe and digital news platform PBW Pulse. Both shows are known for offering groundbreaking product launches, curated hosted buyer meetings, and forward-thinking panel discussions.

Joel Davis, JD Events

PBW’s most recent shows were held at ExCeL London and New York City’s Javits Center, where they attracted more than 5,000 attendees combined.

Joel Davis, founder and CEO of JDE, shared the factors that led his company to sell Plant Based World to Emerald.

“JDE is a small boutique firm that incubates trade shows; we have been launching, building, and divesting events for over 23 years now,” Davis said. “It is our unique business model to prove a show concept, establish market leadership, and then find a new owner to take the business to the next level.”

Davis added that as the plant-based industry gained momentum, the success and scale of PBW began to outgrow JDE’s bandwidth, so it was the right time to sell to a company like Emerald, which had expressed interest in acquiring PBW for many years.

“[Emerald believes] in the long-term importance of the plant-based market and has the resources to drive strategic growth both domestically and globally,” Davis continued, “[They are also] committed to investing in PBW and its team for the long term. With greater resources and infrastructure, the team will have more support to execute strategic growth initiatives.”

He added, “The plant-based category is still young, with tremendous opportunities for future growth. As the industry continues to expand, PBW is now positioned with an organization who can capitalize on emerging trends, leverage deeper industry relationships, and expand the event’s reach.”

Plant Based World Expo North America will return Dec. 2-3, 2025, to the Javits Center while the next Plant Based World Expo Europe is scheduled for Nov. 26-27, 2025, at ExCeL London.

Sports Business Journal Adds National Sports Forum to Robust Event Portfolio

Sports Business Journal (SBJ) has acquired the National Sports Forum (NSF), an annual conference for sports industry professionals representing a broad spectrum of teams, leagues, agencies, and corporate partners. NSF most recently held its 2025 conference in February in Boston and is set to celebrate its 30th annual eventFeb. 22–24, 2026, in St. Louis.

The strategic move will expand SBJ’s event portfolio while providing more valuable engagement opportunities for stakeholders across the sports business landscape.

SBJ organizes a diverse portfolio of industry events that cater to various facets of the sports business landscape, including CAA World Congress of Sports; Brand Innovation Summit; Intercollegiate Athletics Forum; Leaders Week London; AXS DRIVE; SBJ Tech Week, and more.

Founded in 1996 by NSF President Ron Seaver, NSF serves as a platform that brings together North American team and league professionals to explore innovations and emerging trends in the sports sector. With programming guided by a steering committee of industry leaders, NSF provides myriad workshops, breakout sessions, a trade show, and a student case competition from collegiate sports business programs.

National Sports Forum's Ron Seaver

“Ron Seaver spotted a tremendous void in the market when he launched the National Sports Forum in 1996 and he has built an incredible asset for stakeholders across sports,” said SBJ Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour. “He is so well respected, and I’m excited to work with Ron more closely on the Sports Forum and leverage SBJ’s extensive resources to amplify this event for the industry.”

As part of the acquisition, Seaver will assume the role of Managing Director: SBJ National Sports Forum and continue to oversee its operations. He will remain based in San Diego and report to SBJ Managing Director of Conferences & Events Jim Sullivan.

“When I founded the National Sports Forum, I wanted to create an event like no other for the sports community,” Seaver said. “I’ve known Abe for decades and SBJ is the standard for journalism and conferences in sports business. I’m proud to grow the Forum with SBJ and deliver an even better experience for our attendees and sponsors.”

Lead image: The show floor at Plant Based World Expo. Photo courtesy of JD Events

Have some trade show M&A news to share? Reach out to lisa.savas@informa.com and danica.tormohlen@informa.com.

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE, listen to our latest podcast HERE and engage with us on X, Facebook and LinkedIn!