ExhiINDIAN EXHIBITION INDUSTRY COMMUNIQUEBitsAPRIL - MAY 2019 AT AGE IMTEX is a pool of multi-faceted talent P-16

INSIDE P-08 P-13 P-47

Case Study: View Point: Interview: India Rubber Expo 2019 PPP model is the way Mr. Walter Yeh, President, grows by leaps forward for government’s Asian Federation of Exhibitions and bounds mega events and Conventions Association

APRIL - MAY | 2019 1 2 APRIL - MAY | 2019 APRIL - MAY | 2019 3 CONTENTS APRIL - MAY 2019

16 33 47

08 Case Study: All India Rubber Industries Association

11 Appointments: Comexposium gets new Chief Strategy Officer; Director- M&A Messe Frankfurt Middle-East appoints new Managing Director

13 PPP is way forward for Govt’s mega events: Srini

EDITORIAL 16 Cover Story: IMTEX is a pool of multi-faceted talent Mr V. Anbu, Secretary, Director General & CEO, IMTMA Honorary Editor | Srinivasan S Ecodesign Awards that aim at sustainable practices Associate Editor | Shikha Swaroop

25 Event Review: India Art Fair strikes a chord Design | Infant Vikas SATTE2019: A one-stop shop for travel offerings Marketing | Sharath Rao DELHIWOOD: Neighbours’ envy is also their pride! IEIA COMMITTEE MEMBERS

32 Industrial exhibitions foster the process of learning: Cyril President | Mr. KV Nagendra Prasad Pereira Ex-officio Past President | Mr. Rakesh Kumar

33 Events: India charting a successful economic story Vice President | Mr. Ravinder Sethi DMG unveils Aluminium Expo in Dubai Secretary | Mr. Bhupinder Singh IHGF-Delhi Fair Spring 2019 generates a good response WLF: Walking beyond the stereotypes Treasurer | Mr. Sudeep Sarcar IEIA Open Seminar 2019 Executive Members ITB comes to India Mr. S. Balasubramanian Mr. Max Fernandes 44 Events Calendar: For April, May & June 2019 Ms. Sonia Prashar Mr. Gaurav Juneja Mr. Vipul Agarwal 46 The future of events is digitally driven: Kailash Singh Executive Director | Nidhi Sharma 47 Interview: Walter Yeh, President of the Asian Federation of Exhibits is published bi-monthly by Indian Exhibition Industry Association Exhibitions and Conventions Association (IEIA). Material from the magazine may be reproduced, in part or in full, only with prior permission and giving due credit to the source. Articles express the views of the authors, not necessarily those of the management. 50 Study: CEIR releases 2018 Fourth Quarter Results No responsibility is undertaken for the absolute accuracy of information published. All correspondence, including material for publication, may be 52 Industry must influence academia to train talent: Andrew Lee addressed to the Editor.

54 Tech Update: How Event Apps help the community

56 Industry Update: BuildMat 2019 organised in Coimbatore Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA). Lower Ground Floor, A-337, Shivalik, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi - 110017, India UFI’s Global Exhibition Barometer focuses on trade shows’ Telefax: +91 11 41045481 | Email: [email protected] | Website: www.ieia.in growth entertainment factor Messe Düsseldorf India acquires FAMDENT EN Awards declares partnership with MICE Concierge To advertise in this magazine, Reed Exhibitions acquires Mack Brooks Exhibitions please contact: IoTShow.in focuses on ‘The Power of Internet of Things’ Sharath +91 9886144334

4 APRIL - MAY | 2019 APRIL - MAY | 2019 5 FROM THE Dear Reader, Believing the content in the first revamped issue in Feb-March 2019 was a good read and engaging, I’m happy to present the second revamped issue (April- May 2019) of ExhiBits under my stewardship and hope you enjoy the read. EDITOR As in other sectors the biggest buzzword in our industry today is mergers SRINIVASAN S and acquisitions. A plethora of organically grown domestic shows have been acquired by multinationals in the immediate past and, perhaps as you read this, many more M&A deals are under way. Whilst obviously all the action augurs well for the future, I can’t help but reflect on the many challenges and risks we in the exhibition industry face as we build successful trade shows. Obviously, the fire accident during the recently concluded Aero India show in Bengaluru, which gutted more than 300 cars (thankfully there was no loss of life or limb!) got me thinking. Although the organiser and the show are subject to several risks that are unpredictable, the one risk that keeps me on tenterhooks as an organizer is that of a fire. The exhibition industry is at greater risk of fire accidents, given the short window in which “individual showrooms” need to go up from scratch onsite whilst using electricity extensively for fabrication in environments not conducive to best practices. Given the vastness of the area and the volume of temporary labor force executing the works it is practically impossible to keep a strict preventive vigil. A scenario where thousands of workers are running against time to build temporary showrooms from scratch whilst fabricating them onsite with wood, metal and paint can send shivers up any fire chief’s spine. This risk goes up exponentially when shows are organised in temporary structures. Power lines drawn over temporary wooden floor boards and connected to working machinery and equipment is not the ideal environment. Permanent venues are perhaps a tad better off in mitigating the risk as some of them have fire prevention or fire-fighting equipment built into the infrastructure. However, given the inherent risks, it is imperative for the industry to revisit the current approach towards mitigating fire risks. But this is a task easier said than done. In a multi-stakeholder environment safety should be a shared responsibility. The onus on ensuring safety is currently completely with the organiser. So how does the organiser co-opt the other in the ecosystem to buy into the risk mitigation plan? Is a specialised consultancy service offering comprehensive services in audit and implementation of fire prevention and protection for events the need of the hour? Will spending time, effort and money in doing mock fire drills before each show help organisers in containing and limiting potential disasters? Can venue owners help create a more secure environment? Can exhibitors be educated on potential fire hazards and be co-opted in ensuring adherence to safety standards? As you chew on that, I leave you to peruse the copy in your hand & invite you to voice your candid feedback.

Regards,

Srinivasan S Honorary Editor, EXHIBITS [email protected] Tel: +919886044336

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APRIL - MAY | 2019 7 CASE STUDY: ALL INDIA RUBBER INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION

Winning ways!

How India Rubber Expo 2019 posted 60% profit over previous nine biennial editions (combined) makes for compulsive reading…

The All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA) was established in 1945. Comprising of four zone offices – Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata & Mumbai (West Zone office & HQ) – the association has championed the cause of the industry for over 74 years now. It currently has 1,400 members across the country. To bridge over 9,000 pan-India MSMEs manufacturing rubber- based products with knowledge and technology, AIRIA conceived the India Rubber Expo (IRexpo) in 2001. The biennial trade show, which began from a modest 3,000 square metres of space in 2001, stood at a whopping Headlined by Union Minister for Industry and Commerce, Mr Suresh Prabhu, the government’s ‘Make in India’ mission has seen more investments flowing into the rubber industry. 26,000 square metres in the 2019 edition. In this freewheeling interview with the show’s Chief Convenor, Mr.Vishnu Bhimrajka (VB), ExhiBits informally, and exchange notes on domestic reverse buyer-seller meet captures the objectives and journey of almost every aspect of the rubber and workshops. goods industry. IRexpo. For the inauguration the Union Minister for Industry and Commerce, Mr Suresh Prabhu, was the chief What was the rationale behind After 10 editions of IRexpo now, guest. His passionate speech and AIRIA’s initiative to conceive and would you say the initial vision and his spending quality time at the expo host a B2B trade show? objectives have been met? were much appreciated. Though progress was reasonably In 2001, while India had opened up on We also had Mr Tinku Roy, Chairman good in 2013, 2015 and in 2017, the account of economic liberalisation, of the Tripura Industrial Development objectives were altered a bit to make it still had not attracted enough Corporation, and Mr Vipul Shah, COO the 10th edition of IRexpo (2019) more attention in global markets for rubber of Reliance Industries, joining us and robust and more focussed. What we goods. In the early 1990s, and giving us valuable insights. India were almost similar in scale and achieved was a 60% increase in the numbers so far as the rubber industry bottom line as compared to all the previous nine editions of the show! is concerned. But China surged ahead How did the participation go in 2019? in the following years. For the first time, IRexpo 2019 was We had the entire ecosystem of the completely sold out and we had to Also, there was no interactive platform rubber industry in attendance: Raw deny bookings. This is a significant for the industry on a national level. It and synthetic rubber producers and big change. We also organised was but natural and necessary that and suppliers, rubber machinery additional important activities all stakeholders from the industry producers, rubber dies and mould alongside the IRexpo in 2019, such as set up this platform to showcase producers, rubber testing equipment their products to customers, mingle an international rubber conference, a

8 APRIL - MAY | 2019 CASE STUDY: ALL INDIA RUBBER INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION

manufacturers and laboratories, educational and trade associations connected with the rubber industry. Apart from the Rubber Board of India, we also got international companies, publishing houses, trade exhibition organisations to participate. The 10th IRexpo had so much more meaningful footfalls from various sectors, including defence and aerospace companies, automotive (tyres and electric vehicles) and railway establishments, marine and mining specialists, and representatives of companies and institutes in pharmaceuticals, textiles, construction, footwear, water management, consumer durables and sports.

How did this translate in terms of commerce for the industry? IRexpo 2019 ensured the world’s best and relevant were present to Even though there is no process of interact, discuss, understand needs and execute deals. recording of transactions, very frankly I can say on the basis of feedback that our 400-odd exhibitors have struck its cosmopolitan character. mattresses; from sports goods and home appliances to furniture and deals, including some export orders, The risk of shifting to another location sanitary ware – they all use rubber in excess of Rs 1,000 crore! for the next edition could be lower and its components. Besides, several proposals were participation and less meaningful converted into joint ventures, there footfalls, and that could hamper the Rubber also plays a significant role are serious new investments in the great achievements of IRexpo 2019. in India’s growth story – we are amongst the top five economies industry, and many expansion plans are going off the drawing boards and already and progressing. The into reality. Where does the Indian rubber burgeoning commercial buildings industry stand in global comparison? (malls & offices), power generation This year, visitors and exhibitors, and irrigation projects, new roads, India is among the top five countries including those from overseas, waterways and bridges, aviation and in terms of innovations, applications appreciated the truly international aerospace, the proposed ‘smart’ cities and sustainable practices. But what levels of facilities, ambience, content and towns – they will all consume is important is that the India growth and execution of the show – perhaps rubber and its components. Higher story is very much visible now. The a first for the country in the rubber performance rubber types and grades industry sees many opportunities to sector! are being used. expand and diversify – and IRexpo gives them that accessible platform in one place! Over the last 10 editions IRexpo has What are the growth drivers in this moved from city to city. Is there a sector? What are the challenges? case to keep the show anchored to one city? What are the current trends in There is no other country in the world the rubber industry? What role is today that has reached a fantastic It makes sense to hold this expo IRexpo playing in it? cross-road, where opportunity and in the country’s commercial reality coincide. Although we have a There is probably nothing man- capital, Mumbai. It has all requisite sizeable population of young people, made where some rubber goods infrastructure in terms of ease India’s per capita consumption of or components are not used. From of global accessibility, top-class rubber is still low. I can imagine that rubber bands and LPG tubing to accommodation cuisine, comfort and we would be close to double-digit surgical gloves, condoms and

APRIL - MAY | 2019 9 CASE STUDY: ALL INDIA RUBBER INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION

growth, year-on-year, for the next 20 opportunities and business Organising trade shows requires years! cooperation. With the advent of the time, effort, money and a dedicated, Goods and Sales Tax (GST) regime, skilled workforce with expertise in IRexpo 2019 had the vision to ensure with greater rationalisation of marketing, sales, operations and the world’s best and relevant business laws, and with increasing administration. How does AIRIA were present. Decision-making accountability within the government, manage such a workload without representatives from all high-growth the business atmosphere has only affecting its business? sectors were present, which allowed improved. them to interact, discuss, understand You have got it right. My colleagues needs and execute deals. The 2019 and I had to sacrifice our business expo helped in achieving so much interests for more than 2 years. Most organisers are moving more. Professionals were hired. Vendors away from conventional media were selected. But rotation makes and adapting digital channels for it all go to waste. There should be promotions. What are your views on Do automation and digital continuity by setting up a permanent this? technology affect the industry? trade show secretariat and retaining I think there are no “conventional” professionals. I hope this will be The answer to this is ‘Yes’ and ‘No’. media. Organisers of events have implemented in AIRIA in the near Yes for traditional businesses that to connect with the entire industry future. manufacture manually and with ecosystem. That said, for IRexpo unskilled labour. But those who 2019 we did road shows, involved adopted automation and digital newspapers and trade magazines, Is there scope for associations such technology have managed to make and used written communication as AIRIA to engage the services of a finer and more robust products, as much as we employed Twitter, professional show organiser for a are able to deliver faster, increase Facebook, LinkedIn, radio, WhatsApp, fee or on a revenue sharing model? productivity and drastically reduced and mass mailers. product rejections. I think a professional show organiser has to be one which with the ability to understand the sector, and also What are the challenges your How has ‘Make in India’ influenced have a committed approach that will exhibition has faced over the years? this sector? deliver actual numbers. Otherwise, it The main challenge was to form an spells disaster! Projects running into billions of industry association, have committed dollars need 70% localisation. You I have met some such professional and passionate involvement in it, and cannot execute them with each and show organisers, but I could not see to professionalise it. With the help every thing imported. I can cite the in them the ability to deliver top- or of my colleague and by inducting examples of our own projects: the bottom-line results, or generate professionals, we have managed it all Bullet train, defence upgradation, meaningful content, or capable of in less than 14 months! ‘Smart’ cities, Ganga rejuvenation ensuring meaningful footfalls for us. and inland waterways, nuclear and aerospace projects, power generation and electric vehicles, to name a few. The government’s ‘Make in India’ mission has influenced the rubber There is no other country in the world today that has industry positively – more investments have been flowing into this core reached a fantastic cross-road, where opportunity and sector! reality coincide. I can imagine that the rubber industry would be close to double-digit growth, year-on-year, for How have the quality of exhibitors and nature of visitors changed over the next 20 years! these past 10 years? Honestly, the growth momentum – Mr.Vishnu Bhimrajka, in these past 5 years is a significant Chief Convenor, attraction for multi-nationals All India Rubber Industries Association. and technology companies from abroad have come to India seeking

10 APRIL - MAY | 2019 APPOINTMENTS

Comexposium gets new Chief Strategy Officer, Director- M&A

Comexposium, one of the that includes his recent stint as the world’s leading event organizers Managing Partner at Oak Tree Event headquartered in France, which hosts Consultants. Prior to that, Mellor more than 135 B2B and B2B2C events spent 13 years at DMG events, which across several sectors, significantly is a leading trade fair organiser in agriculture, construction, fashion, headquartered in London, in various food, health, leisure, real estate, capacities. retail, security, students, tourism, and The Middle East portfolio of Messe works council, has announced that Frankfurt includes Automechanika Severine Dubarry-Bardon will become Dubai, Intersec, Light Middle East, the new Chief Strategy Officer for the Beautyworld Middle East and Group. Currently, Bardon holds the Paperworld Middle East. Equipped position of the Chief Development with a 145-strong workforce, the Officer at Comexposium. With Bardon Messe Frankfurt subsidiary has the assuming a new strategic role, Driss credit of organising a total of 16 trade Tazi will take the position of Director of fairs in the region. mergers & acquisitions of the Group. Ms. Severine Dubarry-Bardon In order to achieve their objectives, in their new roles, both Bardon and Frankfurt’s subsidiary in Dubai Tazi are to work closely with Renaud replacing Ahmed Pauwels. Hamaide, President of Comexposium, Speaking on his appointment, and Simon Foster, the CEO. Wolfgang Marzin, President and Whilst Bardon, in her new role, is Chief Executive Officer of Messe all set to lead the Group’s strategy Frankfurt, said, “We are delighted to by partnering with the business unit have secured Simon Mellor for our director and working on the many subsidiary in the Middle East. He has facets of growth that the business many years of experience in trade fair has been targeting like acquisitions, management and has an excellent launches and organic growth, Tazi’s international network at his disposal, responsibilities will include entire M&A particularly in the Middle East. In activity of the business and managing addition, he has extensive knowledge the whole procedure of acquisition of the relevant industry sector and through to the full integration of newly region and has close ties with key acquired company. multipliers and venue operators.” Messe Frankfurt Middle-East With this appointment, British-born appoints new Managing Director Simon Mellor, whose CV flaunts proven event expertise, will be joining Simon Mellor has been appointed the ranks of the Messe Frankfurt as the new Managing Director of subsidiary that was acquired in Messe Frankfurt Middle East, Messe 2002. Mellor has a rich experience Mr. Simon Mellor

APRIL - MAY | 2019 11 MEMBERS’ CONNECT

JAIPUR JEWELLERY SHOW INNCREWIN TECHNOLOGIES PVT LTD SMART EVENTS Mr Mahavir P Sharma Mr.Rituraj Gupta – Regional Manager Mr. Harpreet Singh NEW MEMBERS Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.jaipurjewelleryshow.org Website: www.instagathering.com Website: www.smarteventsindia.com Ordinary Member: Address: Third GoldSouk Mall TF-01 Address: Sarjapur Main Road, Address: Unit No. 409, 4th Floor, Vipul Jagatpura Road, Jawahar Circle, Jaipur, Jakkasandra, 1st Block, Kormangala, Business Park, Sector-48, Sohna Road, TRADE PROMOTION COUNCIL OF INDIA Rajasthan 302017 Bengaluru,Karnataka 560034 Gurgaon -122004 Mr Sandip Das – Director E-mail: [email protected] Associate Member: PANACHE EXHIBITIONS PVT LTD WHIMSICAL EVENTS & EXPO Website: www.tpci.in Mr Mohd Razi Shakir - CEO Mr. Subramaniyam Konar Address:- 9,Scindia House 2nd Floor, PREMIER MARKETING Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Connaught Circus, New Delhi 110001 Ms. Renuka Uchil – CEO Website: www.panache-india.com Website: whimsicalevents.in Email Id: renuka@[email protected] Address: G-66, 2nd floor, Sarita Vihar Address: 214, Bluerose Industrial HELIPAD EXHIBITION GROUND Address: S-13, Zoom Plaza, 2nd Floor, Road, Near Kalindi kunj,New Delhi Estate, Near Magathane Petrol Pump, Mr. Zaigham Ali Khan – Director Nr.Bus Depot, Borivali West. 110025 Opp Western Express Highway, Borivali Email: [email protected] Mumbai – 400019 (E), Mumbai 400066 Website: www.garud.org.in SHARMA ART Address: 8th Floor, Block No. 18, BEND REALITY Mr. Ranjeet Choudhary Auxiliary Member: Udyog Bhavan, Sector-11, Gandhinagar, Ms. Shalini Yadav – Director Email: [email protected] Gujarat – 382017 Email: Shalini.yadav@ Address: D-2, Gurunanak Dev Colony Mr. Jagmohan Chopra indiaeventtechforum.com Bhalswar Diary, New Delhi - 110042 Self Employed INDORE INFOLINE PVT. LTD. Website: www.indiaeventtechforum.com Email: [email protected] Mr. Rajkumar Agrawal Address: 143, Amar Jyoti Apartments Email: [email protected] Mayur Vihar phase – 1 Delhi 110091 Young Member: Website: www.indoreinfoline.in Address: “Info-House”, 246, Greater Mr Aditya Jhurmarwala Brijeshwari, Indore - 452016 GPE Expo Pvt Ltd Email: [email protected]

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12 APRIL - MAY | 2019 VIEW POINT

PPP is the way forward for govt’s mega events

Private enterprises can make a difference in building magnitude for trade shows and contribute to building value for stakeholders.

With participation from private collaborators, this year’s Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh was true to the government’s aim: ‘divya’ (holy) and ‘bhavya’ (grand).

BY SRINIVASAN S to exhibitors by attracting robust and government-led agencies volumes of attendees representing in organising trade events is Trade events are expected to foster the entire demand side. praiseworthy – they may attract a symbiotic relationship between foreign direct investment, catalyse Obviously, this exercise requires the supply and demand sides while domestic industrial growth, push the dedicated skilled manpower that can offering scope for converting business ‘Make in India’ agenda and even open map the entire ecosystem, gather potential to commerce. Besides, opportunities for export earnings market intelligence, build data and trade shows/events are also expected – they are neither mandated nor communicate effectively to influence to catalyse the growth of domestic expected to commit such resources, participation. From engagement industries by bridging industry with time or monies to foster successful to conversion is typically a 12-14 technology and knowledge. trade events. month exercise for experienced, A successful trade show needs professional trade event organising PPP model to deliver value to the attendees companies that are happy to commit Hence there may be a strong case by offering an adequate volume resources, time, effort and money to for public-private partnership (PPP) of exhibitors representing the the enterprise. models in hosting trade events hitherto entire spectrum of the supply-side Whilst the vision of governments being organised by governments. Let ecosystem. It also has to deliver value

APRIL - MAY | 2019 13 VIEW POINT

The biggest challenge is to match the government’s commitment with global us look at some popular Perhaps recognising government-run trade the complexities of events and their models. industry’s aspirations. Who organising a trade event of this scale the The recently concluded would know the pulse of the Ministry of Defence Aero India – the biggest (MoD) had in the earlier and most prestigious editions partnered air show in Asia, held industry better than the events with the Federation biennially in Bengaluru of Indian Chambers – has since its inception industry itself? of Commerce & displayed India’s air Industry (FICCI) and prowess to the world with the Confederation of more than 400 exhibitors Indian Industry (CII), from the around the which have their own world taking part to offer specialised trade show defence, aerospace and aeronautical biennial event. Though the HAL did a organising units, to organise Aero solutions to India. good job in organising the air show, India from 2005 to 2015. the trade events industry felt that the Putting behind the sombre loss of an government should have engaged a While still retaining ownership, the Indian Air Force pilot of the Surya Kiran professional trade event organiser to MoD used to call for technical and aerobatic team during rehearsals, conduct the country’s signature air commercial bids at least 14 months the recently concluded 2019 edition show. prior to the event, and the entity with of the mega air show (February 20 the best royalty bid and technical bid to 24), dazzled the Bengaluru sky HAL is a defence public sector would get to organise the event. The with magnificent steel birds. There undertaking (PSU) set up for defence winning bidder successfully worked were the light combat aircraft Tejas, production, not organising trade fairs. with the MoD on the blueprint and the trainer aircraft HTT-40 and The government could have given infrastructure for the mega event. Hawk-I, civil utility Dornier-228, the the events industry an opportunity to advanced light helicopter Dhruv, organise a global event of this scale. While the flying display from steel and the 4th-generation Sukhoi-MkI The popular industry perception was birds of participating nations caught fighter, all from the HAL’s (Hindustan that a professional event organiser the imagination of thousands of Aeronautics Limited) stables. could have used its business expertise visitors, the business deals on the and outreach in showcasing India on a ground were well planned and The display and fly-pasts of the global platform. organised for future billion-dollar Rafale, the F-16 Fighting Falcon, defence deals. There was value for F/A-18 Super Hornet and the mighty The essence of ‘Make in India’ and the both the attendees and the business B-52 Stratofortress bomber also Aero India motto, ‘Innovate, Integrate visitors. impressed the lay visitors as much as and Lead’, could have been retained decision-makers in the defence and and promoted better. Govt. protocol aviation sectors. The government or its PSUs are not The MoD decided to appoint HAL Missed chances mandated to staff talent proficient to organise Aero India 2019 just a in organising and managing global few months prior to the event. It HAL was mandated to manage the trade shows. It is also not fair to was a woefully small window to air show at the Air Force Station expect a PSU to operate as well as a host a successful event, even for Yelahanka and provide end-to-end professional trade show organiser. professional show organisers. The logistic support to the successful

14 APRIL - MAY | 2019 VIEW POINT

result was a global event – which defence fairs tends to add negative congregation of people on earth hitherto attracted top manufacturers, value, and Defexpo 2018 was an this year was a glorious example of suppliers and solution providers in example. public-private partnership. aerospace and aircraft engineering By moving Defexpo to Goa first and The government of Uttar Pradesh – failed to enlist participation from later to Chennai last year, the MoD wanted to project the Kumbh as a some important companies. threw the primary rationale of a trade showcase of India’s religio-cultural As reported by The Times of India, show out of the window. Participation values and to make it a success it both the Gripen fighter by Saab at Chennai is said to have dropped engaged Ernst & Young after an open and Eurofighter’s Typhoon were by 40% and the qualified attendee tender process. The state created conspicuous by their absence at Aero turnout dropped proportionately. an authority, the Prayagraj Mela India 2019 due to delays in venue Pradhikaran under the Industries Better synergy announcements and engagement Act. True to intent, the Kumbh this with participants. Successful trade shows across the year was “divya” (holy) and “bhavya” globe are anchored to a particular (grand)! The preparation for big-ticket location. The world’s leading events like Aero India, Defexpo or India is the world’s largest democracy construction fair has been anchored any international trade fair begins and, according to a Bloomberg to Munich (Germany) for ages, and months in advance. Since government analysis, the country will have the the world descends on the event every protocols require participation with largest workforce by the year 2027 three years when it is held. the private sector only through with a billion people aged between 15 tenders, the procedure begins at The proposal to shift Aero India from and 64 years. A healthy partnership least 15 months prior to the event. It Bengaluru to Lucknow would have between government and its young requires a lot of planning and team adversely impacted the air show. This entrepreneurs to showcase India work. is another area where the industry through its multidimensional events experts can advise the government. and business fairs will catapult One has to work within the Apparently, CII prepared a concept the image of the country to greater government framework and budgets. paper the need to remain in Bengaluru heights. The biggest challenge is to match and had presented it to MoD. the government’s commitment with global industry’s aspirations. Who In the West and in Israel, there is a – Mr Srinivasan is would know the pulse of the industry high level of synergy between the Managing Director of better than the industry itself? state, academia and industry. Israel, Bengaluru-based PDA which supports and encourages Data is a critical component of the Trade Fairs Pvt. Ltd. innovation, is called the startup entire infrastructure for any broad- He is also Honorary nation and innovation hub. Industry based, intra- and inter-country Editor, ExhiBits. or innovation-related fairs and trade engagement. It is a laborious team shows are successfully held in exercise to mine, clean and update partnership between the state and data for productive use. This exercise private industry. In India, we are yet to also needs a PPP model. reach that synergy. There are many aspects that need to But when it does happen it creates be factored in to make an international magic, as in the case of the recently trade fair or business expo a success. concluded Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj Shifting of venues for global trade and in Uttar Pradesh. The largest

APRIL - MAY | 2019 15 COVER STORY

is a pool of multi-faceted talent

Indian Machine Tool Industry Association has come a long way since its pre- independence inception. Its flagship show, IMTEX has proved to be a perfect platform for exhibiting latest innovations and networking for the visitors.

Back in 1946, just a year before association later shifted its office invest in education and spreading independence, when the Indian to Delhi and then made Bangalore awareness about the domain by Machine Tool Industry Association International Exhibition Centre in conducting short-term seminars and (IMTMA) was formed by the coming Bengaluru its permanent residence. workshops, organising ‘Technology together of 20 machine tool Mission’ at the international trade fair Nearly two decades after it laid its manufactures at the Godrej Campus specifically meant for enlightening the foundation, IMTMA, in 1969, expanded in Vikhroli, Mumbai, it knew that it was CEOs. The association has invested its horizon by hosting its first-ever there for a long haul and will shape a lot of effort to raise the machine flagship event, IMTEX, attested the future of India. With its relentless tool’s industry concern in front of the to be a prominent B2B machine efforts, the association went on to government. tool exhibition. The exhibition, now build the machine tools association conducted at BIEC, has grown in size One of the major focus areas of the brick by brick and eventually expanded and after 50 years, is arguably one of association is training programs its reach to become the face of the the largest machine tool exhibitions which it conducts throughout the year Machine tool industry. in South and South . and has skill development as one of its Given the gradual growth, the vision. It runs short –term and long- Besides, the exhibition, IMTMA also

16 APRIL - MAY | 2019 COVER STORY

term programmes for up-scaling the sales and export volumes. Akin to support technology and skill talents, which not only helps create a this, the association has equipped development, develop vision, mission talent pool but also fill the existing gap itself with a comprehensive database and strategies both at association between academia in the industry and of foreign importers, R&D, latest and industry level, interact with the professionals. Through its wide technologies and related products. , customers and users, interact with range of programmes, it emphasises the association has made a sincere the Government on policy issues on up-skilling and up-scaling of effort in equipping itself with relevant important to the industry, Interact talents for the viability of the machine and handy information on R&D and with other industry associations on tool industry. the latest manufacturing technologies matters of mutual interest, foster to help its members become globally international linkages, disseminate Flaunting memberships of some of competitive. information about the industry and its the most illustrious bodies worldwide, achievements and provide business IMTMA has the credit of coming up Besides, objectives to build a strong opportunities through exhibitions, with initiatives that aim at enhancing brand for the Indian machine tool trade missions and related activities the positioning of the machine tool industry, enhance productivity and the association practise, the industry and aid in increasing the competitiveness in manufacturing, association follows a strict code of

APRIL - MAY | 2019 17 COVER STORY

conduct and has a vigil mechanism systems and highlighting the latest policy in place. trends in the tooling industry. IMTEX and Tooltech The venue, BIEC, saw the visitation of players from a wide spectrum In order to give the machine and of manufacturing and ancillary tooling industry the best of technical industries, wherein key decision and innovations and prowess, IMTEX and policy makers were also present. Tooltech Exhibition over the years, The occasion was also marked by the have brought together best of both presence of people at the helm of the worlds under one roof. affairs in terms of technology curation Recently in January, the Indian and sourcing the breakthrough Machine Tool Manufacturers’ technology and manufacturing Association (IMTMA) marked the solutions for their product lines. 50th year of the IMTEX and Tooltech Speaking on the occasion, Jamshyd exhibition, which was held at N. Godrej, Chairman, Exhibitions- Bangalore International Exhibition latest technologies in the field of IMTMA, said, “Understanding the Centre (BIEC) from Jan 24 to 30 in manufacturing were put on display. needs of the manufacturing industry an area of 80,000 square metres. Whilst, IMTEX has the credit of being has been IMTMA’s core strength The occasion saw the participation the flagship event for the Indian metal over these years. IMTMA took a lead of around 1222 exhibitors and a cutting industry and being South and in showcasing global developments footfall of about 91,446 and flaunted 7 South East Asia’s apex exhibition that when the Indian manufacturing country pavilions. The exhibition also put on display both the technological industry was in a nascent stage. We saw participations from 26 countries advancement in the field, Tooltech made a start 50 years ago and we and featured several domestic and 2019 happened to be a concurrent are immensely proud of how the foreign visitors who were seen visiting premier event displaying the recent show has evolved in 5 decades and the stalls for sourcing the machines machine tool accessories, metrology fostered an understanding among the for their production units. Several and CAD/CAM cutting tools, tooling manufacturing fraternity”. Speaking about IMTEX’s relevance, President-IMTMA, P. Ramadas said, “IMTEX is a must-attend exhibition for technology enthusiasts. It is at IMTEX that latest technologies which are widely prevalent in overseas countries are launched and displayed live. The current edition of IMTEX will showcase advanced technologies like 3D printing, internet of things, automation, robotics, and Industry 4.0.” The whole exhibition saw the presence of many players exhibiting their products. One of the participants at the exhibition, Dr. H. Raja Simha, Technical Advisor for Tumakuru Machine Tool Park, said, “IMTEX is an excellent platform for the players in the industry. The ambience is good and the footfall is commendable with visitors from France, , Germany

18 APRIL - MAY | 2019 COVER STORY

and other countries.” have evolved into a world-class from Russia, Germany, China and exhibition equipped with a state-of- other countries besides India.” On its 50th anniversary, the event the-art infrastructure.” was marked by a series of new To mark its 50th anniversary, the event initiatives, which focused on A representative from Strategi was marked by several discussions exhibiting the latest trends besides Automation Solution Pvt.Ltd., a and seminars, and witnessed the technological refinements from India company in the business of Machine institution of Ecodesign awards to and players worldwide, with ‘Additive building, Factory Automation and promulgate the idea of encouraging Manufacturing and Factory of the Motion Control noted “We are happy sustainable practices encompassing Future (Industry 4.0) ‘the way for a new with the footfall this year. We had the entire value-chain; exhibitors, era in manufacturing and leveraging inquiries from Bangalore, and other designers and stall fabricators. the industry’s position’ as the focus. cities in India and from countries like Overall, the event proved to be a The occasion also witnessed a live Italy, China.” Mecca of learning for the visitors demo on implementing Industry 4.0 The event has been one of the and a good business platform for in manufacturing. There was also an premier events in the machine & the buyers. It also witnessed a high Experience Zone set up adjacent to tool domain and in five decades of its number of students footfall. functioning, it has brought together the leading names, diverse groups and stakeholders under one roof wherein there has been a healthy exchanger of ideas. Like every year, this year too, the event witnessed an eclectic display of state-of-the-art tools and machines. Speaking about the show, Selvaganeshan M, Manager at GEDEE Weiler Private Limited, that manufacture important components for the industries like textile, automobile, medical, domestic hall 4 At BIEC and had several vintage appliances and aerospace among machines and pictures put on display. others, said, “ IMTEX is one of the The event was also marked by the paramount exhibitions in Asia. This screening of a short film on the IMTEX year, we have got lots of inquiries journey and the launch of IMTEX’s wherein buyers from all over India coffee table book, which traces the visited our stall. We have also had history of IMTEX and talks about its several overseas visitations.” journey so far. When asked about the event, S.K. Boasting of 7 country pavilions, the Thakkur, Proprietor of Seventh event was marked by the presence of International, a well-known exporter several exhibitors who put on display of magnetic products said, “We their latest innovations. have been participating in the event for more than three decades. The An official from Toolcraft machine event has grown from small size to tools, one of the leading manufacturer a big one and now it has managed of CNC Mini milling & Engraving to garner a good response due to Machines and Spark Erosion the world-class arrangements and Machines (EDMs) in India, which has offerings. the event provides us the been participating at the event for ample exposure to both national and more than four decades now, said, international clients. This year, we “Over the years, IMTEX and Tooltech have had a larger number of visitors

APRIL - MAY | 2019 19 COVER STORY

On the 50th edition of the show, Mr V. Anbu, Secretary, Director General & CEO, IMTMA, spoke at length to ExhiBits about the exhibition, venue and industry as a whole.

IMTEX, which is among the biggest grown exponentially and kept pace What are the growth drivers in this trade fairs in India for machine tools with global developments in terms of sector and what are the challenges has completed 50 years. How has technologies. Today it is the biggest that face the industry? the machine tool industry evolved brand in South East Asia. One of the primary growth drivers, over the years and what were the Where does the Indian machine the Indian automotive industry is on challenges it has faced? tool industry stand in global its way to becoming the third largest The history of machine tool industry comparison? What is the current in the world by 2026. Automobile in India can roughly be traced back market size of machine tool industry manufacturing is the main driver to the Second World War period. In and what are the trends which are of Make in India and private vehicle 1946, a group of manufacturers came changing its dynamics? production. Indian automotive together to form Indian Machine Tool industry (including component Indian machine tool industry was Manufacturers’ Association (IMTMA) manufacturing) is expected to ranked 10th in production and 8th to nurture and promote the machine reach US$251-283 billion by 2026. in consumption (in 2017) as per tool industry. In the same year, the Some of the other drivers are the Gardner’s ‘World Machine Tool Association received recognition Defence industry, which has opened Output Survey 2018’ in the global list from the Government of India as a manufacturing to private sector. of world machine tool consuming and representative organization for Indian Modernization of railways, Strong producing countries. The market size machine tool industry. Its goal was demand for consumer durables and of Indian machine tool industry in 2017- to make India self-sufficient in the Infrastructure development will be 18 was around US$2.2 billion with a manufacturing of machine tools. The the other strong drivers. growth of around 26% in production Association worked closely with the and around 27% in consumption. It is Challenges include high demand government and various industry expected that machine tool production of user industries for high-quality bodies to explore possibilities of during 2018-19 could reach US$2.7 end products at competitive prices. meeting the requirements of various billion and consumption may touch This has made it imperative for the industry segments. US$2.7 billion. Growth is expected to machine tool industry to take an The idea of organizing an exhibition be around 30% during the period. inventory of present technologies and along the lines of the Hannover Fair then bridge the technology gap with Customer needs are changing to display Indian manufacturing upgradation. significantly and it is important to align development strengths and explore to their requirements in the changing The Indian machine tool industry possibilities of exports was mooted. scenario. This can be achievable has improved considerably in terms As a result, in 1969, the first All when manufacturing industry deploys of technology for manufacturing India Machine Tool Exhibition, which game-changing technologies such machines in various industry would in later years gain popularity as artificial intelligence, machine sectors. Challenges remain in terms as IMTEX was organized in Bombay. learning, Industry 4.0, big data, IoT, of meeting some requirements in In the last 50 years the event has robotics, automation. strategic and other services sectors

20 APRIL - MAY | 2019 COVER STORY

which needs to be bridged. now events are being organized across the year keeping in view the The industry has to compete for market demands and the period of talent with other industries such as business for products. To encourage IT and retail. The industry is taking organizers to use the facility steps to develop skills through larger throughout the year venues are academic and industry partnership offering differential rates for peak and in manufacturing for all round off-peak seasons. This has proved to development of skills. be an advantage for small organizers to use large-scale exhibition facilities BIEC is one of the most modern instead of organizing them in open international exhibition centers grounds and improve the standards in India. How does it compare with of their exhibition. other international venues and Are there any expansion plans. If with other Metro’s such as Delhi or yes, please elaborate. Mumbai? BIEC was launched in the year 2007 Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers’ and reached a capacity of 42,000 for conducting large-scale industrial Association (IMTMA) built Bangalore square metres in 2009. Since then exhibitions and conferences. International Exhibition Centre BIEC has added around 35,000 square (BIEC) as a centre of excellence for Can you describe BIEC’s journey, metres exhibition space in its campus primarily conducting IMTEX shows thus far? What has been achieved? to make it a leading venue in the and other events of IMTMA as well as country. With the addition of Hall 5 BIEC is recognized for hosting for supporting other industry sectors BIEC has an exhibition space of 77,200 events organized by national and in organizing exhibitions, conferences square metres. In future as demand international organizers. The venue and B2B events. for large-scale exhibitions grow BIEC has successfully attracted large shows may look for further opportunities to The venue’s architecture, design, and conferences from exhibition meet the demand. and columnless exhibition halls give organizers such as Hannover Messe, an advantage to utilize the space to Messe Munich India, Koelnmesse, Is there any green initiative taken by the maximum extent. The exhibition UBM Asia, Nürnberg Messe, Pacific BIEC in its campus? Do you plan to centre also has a separate conference Asia Travel Association, use or using renewable resources facility, a dedicated food court with External Development Council, for energy consumption? vendors who can cater to any kind etc. Government of India and the BIEC is India’s centre of cuisines which suit domestic and Government of Karnataka have held to be certified as a “Green Project” international tastes. The exhibition many of their prestigious events at for the following reasons that include facility is located in Bangalore the venue. the use of 50% fly ash in construction which is known for its salubrious The exhibition centre has also in non-critical areas, Rain water climate. The city is well connected attracted many medical fraternity and harvesting, Maintenance of natural with road, rail and air network to associations besides international contour of land, Ozone friendly air- many destinations in India as well as brands such as SAP, Google, conditioning systems, Recycling of overseas. People can travel from any Herbalife, and many more. In 12 years waste water through a treatment part of the world to Bangalore today. since 2007 BIEC has hosted over 280 process. Many prominent hotels such as Taj, shows occupying over 1600 days. Sheraton and others are in the vicinity In addition, the Halls designated of the exhibition centre. It is thought that most of the venues to get maximum natural lighting in India are packed during peak during the daytime, Close to 100 Bangalore is famous as an IT city periods, and is poor during off-peak species of plants and 3500 trees in and as a manufacturing hub with seasons. Do you agree with this and the campus and the use of battery- the presence of many machine tool what has BIEC’s experience been? driven vehicles, reduces pollution and companies and many other industrial land development adds to the green units. The city has many hotels The industry has made significant initiative. catering to all kind of tastes and BIEC progress in the past few years and

APRIL - MAY | 2019 21 COVER STORY

manufacturing are revolutionizing the manufacturing sector in a big way. Machines are able to take care of predictive maintenance, prescriptive maintenance, storing of information for future use, etc. Industry is able to manufacture products with newer designs that are cleaner, lighter and safer. IMTEX 2019 & Tooltech 2019 had on display these technologies. IMTEX will continue to reach out to the new generation with future technologies. Further, with greater partnership between industry and academics IMTMA will continue to bridge the gaps between institutions and industries for a better R&D which will help the manufacturing sector grow immensely in the coming years. In your opinion, what does the BIEC has also obtained IMS best light to cement its place in future hold for the Indian exhibition certification: ISO 9001 (Quality manufacturing and IMTEX is the best industry? Management System), ISO 14001 place to do so. The kind of innovation (Environmental Management System) which exists in the industry at every Indian exhibition industry grew at and OHSAS 18001 (Occupational level, small, medium or large, finds a a CAGR of 8.8% from 2012 to 2016 Health and Safety Management place in IMTEX. Visitors are enthralled and is expected to record a growth System) and Hall 4 of BIEC was when they see ‘Live’ machines as of 10.7% by 2021. Several new and conferred with ‘Gold’ rating by Indian against reading a catalogue or surfing niche industry sectors are keen on Green Building Council. The award a website. By touching and feeling the organizing shows. With the entry of has been a crowning achievement product and interacting with different foreign exhibition organizers Indian for BIEC’s efforts in ushering a green exhibitors they are able to take the exhibition industry is becoming building movement in India. right decisions for their production vibrant and competitive. As the lines. The most recent edition of manufacturing industry and service How has ‘Make in India’ affected IMTEX 2019 & Tooltech 2019 recorded industry grows the size of exhibitions the machine tool sector and how booked orders worth ` 2,446 crores will also grow parallely. Association- have IMTEX and Tooltech made a and enquiries generated to the tune led exhibitions in India are still playing difference to the exhibitors? of ` 23,780 crores. a dominant role in Indian Exhibition Make in India has given the industry growth whereas mergers, What is your vision for IMTEX and manufacturing industry a certain acquisitions and joint ventures Tooltech in the coming years? direction and enabled the Indian between Indian and foreign players manufacturing sector to upgrade IMTMA by organizing IMTEX has would also enable the exhibition their technological capabilities and endeavoured to bring new industries industry to record a 10 - 12% growth explore possibilities of tie-ups and and latest technologies in the market in the coming future. At the same time joint ventures. Many companies have to the doorsteps of even the small infrastructure development for venue made India their manufacturing manufacturers. This enables their and skill sets of human resource base by shifting their plants and self-development and helps them needs to be constantly upgraded or transferring their technology and manufacture products which they can enhanced. As we meet these growing knowhow to Indian manufacturers. sell globally. IMTEX has always been a demands the exhibition industry This exchange has resulted in shop- catalyst and trend-setter in developing of India could match international floors upgrading their technology the manufacturing ecosystem and standards in a short time. and manpower for better results. will continue to do so. Technologies It is important to show India in the such as Industry 4.0 and additive

22 APRIL - MAY | 2019 COVER STORY Ecodesign Awards that aim at sustainable practices

With the sustainability buzz gaining effective design, design of products resource consumption during booth momentum across the globe and & services with an environmental construction, reduced pollution set its increasing importance in every life cycle perspective, minimising up, minimal waste post-use, and re- business domain, sustainable stall resource consumption during use of the materials were considered. design has become the need of construction, reducing pollution The stall set up by the exhibitors at BIEC the hour in the exhibition industry during set-up, reducing waste post- were scrutinised by the jury members, as well. With the environment and use and promote re-use to the extent Mr Sharukh Mistry, the celebrated sustainability becoming a priority in possible. architect in India and founder, Mistry recent years, ecologically aligned IMTMA at IMTEX 2019 constituted the Architects, Mr K V Nagendra Prasad booths at exhibitions have become a Eco Design Awards as an endeavour , President, IEIA & Chief Operating medium to attract new customers. to encourage exhibitors to use eco- Officer, HITEX Ltd. and Mr Praveen Keeping in mind the sustainability friendly materials in the construction Kumar Soma, Senior Counsellor, CII need, IMTEX has incepted Ecodesign of their booths. The award has also under the stall categories of the area awards that aim to sensitise and been designed to promote sustainable of 30 to 50 m2, 51 to 100 m2, 101 to 250 encourage stakeholders in the value lifecycle practices in exhibitions m2 and above 250 m2 and included the chain, establish body of knowledge/ that balance quality, environment award categories of top Performer (TP guidelines in stand design and and economics with compliance to and Commendations for Achievement fabrication for the future shows, health and safety obligations. It also and Commitment to Excel. About 13 improve vendor empanelment by promotes modularity and recycling companies were given awards under IMTMA for future IMTEX/Tooltech & approach in design so as to ensure 6 groups. other exhibitions, spread awareness better set-up and dismantling, helps Mr V. Anbu, Secretary, Director General and implementation in other BIEC strengthen exhibitor’s design brief to & CEO, IMTMA, while addressing the exhibitions through its introduction. the stand contractor on sustainability audience in his inaugural speech at IMTEX also aims at building on and works towards ‘designing in’ the award ceremony, explained details and encouraging the concept of quality & eco- friendly design. about the award and said, “Ecodesign sustainability among the exhibitors. This year, several categories were award aims at promoting sustainable Rolled out with the aim to ‘promote created under the designated award practices, especially sustainable sustainable lifecycle practices in and exhibitors were encouraged to and human management practices exhibitions that balance quality, participate and contribute towards covering the entire value-chain, i.e., environment and economics with creating minimum ‘carbon footprint’. exhibitors, designers, stall fabricators. compliance to health and safety While designing the award, several We strongly believe that rewarding obligations’, the awards concept factors like environmental and those stalls and exhibitors with eco- includes environmental and cost- cost-effective design, reduced design principles would certainly set

APRIL - MAY | 2019 23 COVER STORY

an example for others to follow. The according to Mr K.V. Nagendra award assessment involves not only Prasad, President of IEIA and Chief upfront design planning, choice of Operating Officer of HITEX Ltd. material, but also the exclusion during He said, “I was invited to the 50th construction, particularly, during the anniversary edition of IMTEX to judge set-up period.” the exhibitors participating in the Elaborating further on the awards Ecodesign Awards programme. I process, Mr Sharukh Mistry, the find the concept very interesting and celebrated architect and the founder relevant to the exhibition industry.” of Mistry Architects said, “There “We usually find tons of booth have been many firsts for IMTMA construction, exhibit packing material, and BIEC and its leadership remains product collaterals, etc. being unchallenged. The way I see it, the scrapped by the majority of exhibiting Ecodesign award is one more initiative companies, which requires additional that we can be proud of. We noticed manpower and dismantling time,” he a fair amount of sensitive responses noted. including wheelchair friendly saving a lot on materials.” accesses, and awareness towards The eco-design concept not only green issues like volatile organic encourages the use of eco-friendly The awards were given away to several compounds. However, the prime materials in stall construction, but companies both under Tooltech and focus was their engagement with the also reuse of the same in future IMTEX under the categories 30-50 customers and I must say it’s a great trade shows, he said, adding that the m², 51-100 m², 101-250 m², above 250 beginning.” eco-design concept also promotes m². Some of the winners who won the modular design and material, which awards expressed delight over the Mr Jamshed N. Godrej, Chairman can last long and can be assembled whole process and said that they were Exhibitions, IMTMA, said, “The and disassembled quickly. encouraged to participate in the future background as to why this award with more energy. was introduced is that we are aware “Attention to detail helps conserve of the fact that a lot of material the environment. Exhibitors could Some of the award winners included used in making an exhibit eventually avoid the use of disposable plastic Dynascan Inspection Systems, HAWE results in a non-sustainable process. water bottles and glasses. Instead Hydraulics, GH Induction, Taegu Tec The criteria set up for the award of printing collaterals on paper, India, YG Cutting Tools Corporation, is to encourage everyone to use exhibitors could provide e-catalogues Fuel Instruments & Engineers, Ace materials and processes that are eco- and e-brochures, and source their Micromatic Group, Kennametal India, friendly. This award is a part of our booth material from local source,” he UCAM, Renishaw Metrology Systems sustainability initiative for IMTMA and added. and Manar Tools. IMTEX wherein we want to see how Mr Praveen Kumar Soma, Senior Expressing their delight over the best we can be on materials, which Counsellor, Indian Green Building awards, participants said that the would, in turn, encourage the green Council and Jury member, said, award encouraged them to use and process. This is a great initiative and “IMTEX has taken the lead from the include a more eco-friendlier design I hope that we can keep on improving front and started it as an initiative in alternative in the future. They said that this process in time to come.” order to bring awareness among the they had been actively participating in With an increasing emphasis on stall owners. Besides, there is also a greener initiative and the award was a sustainable development, the sustainability element wherein instead step towards encouraging a greener exhibition industry too needs to of using new materials for stalls every and sustainable model. embrace the eco-friendly approach, time, they can reuse and recycle, thus,

24 APRIL - MAY | 2019 EVENT REVIEW

India Art Fair strikes a chord

In its 11th edition, India Art Fair 2019, held from Jan 31-Feb 3, 2019 at NSIC Exhibition Complex , New Delhi, witnessed an eclectic display of artworks from India, South Asia region and across the world. Art, once thought of as elitist, is now finding more takers from amongst the common Indians and millennials. The edition proved to be a testimony of an evolving taste of Indian crowd, and the increasing popularity of Indian art and the South Asian market eventually finding its spark. Thanks to the relentless efforts of the ‘India Art fair’, which has been bringing together an array of artists, mediums of art and art galleries, both national and international, under one roof. marked by the launch of India Art enters a new decade, we welcome The fair has the credit of working Fair’s magazine. Several gallerists, our strongest line-up of exhibitors on leveraging the South Asian art collectors, artists, museum from across South Asia and the ecosystem, and it also provides professionals and philanthropists world. Modern and contemporary an ideal platform to the galleries, visited the show and the edition saw South Asian art remains the focus of museums and shows from across yet another season of new collectors the fair, with 70% of the floor space India to be exhibited both among the entering both the contemporary and dedicated to Indian galleries, and regional and international audience. modern markets. some incredible artists.” This year, the fair leveraged the Expressing her views on the 11th Good show & good business domain by featuring inaugural edition, Jagdip Jagpal, Fair Director of performance art programme and As many as 75 modern, contemporary India Art Fair, said, “As India Art Fair artist talks. The occasion was also and institutional exhibitors displayed their collections at the fair. The fair also saw several modernists display their work. Whilst, old galleries like DAG and Dhoomimal Gallery from New Delhi exhibited the works of Raja Ravi Varma, Tyeb Mehta, F. N. Souza, Akbar Padamsee and Ram Kumar, as returning participants, several international galleries also participated in the show. Throwing light on his experience at the event, James Green, Director, David Zwirner London, New York and Hong Kong, said, “We have built on our experience of last year’s fair, working hard during the year to build relationships with collectors here and this has really paid off this week. Sales have been strong.”

APRIL - MAY | 2019 25 EVENT REVIEW

Cultural Centre and Korean Cultural Centre India making their presence felt. Among all the eclectic display of art, The #14 Art car– BMW 850 CSi, 1995 created by David Hockney struck a chord and stood out as a brilliant piece of art. Several art aficionados were seen visiting the show from across India, the South Asia region and overseas. Institutional collectors from countries like China, the UK, the USA, Germany, France, Switzerland, Russia and Dubai visited the show. Curators and Directors also paid a visit. The fair also coincided with the launch of Art Tactic’s 2019 South Asia Art Market Report, which recorded 7.7% increase in the South Asian art market and an increase in gallery The 11th edition’s Focus section, fair. sales of 9.1%. In addition, the new however, was solo shows wherein philanthropic initiatives across the Several leading cultural organisations galleries and institutions curating country reflect a steadying market and foundations from the South Asia solo presentations featured 7 artists. and the long-term investments being region, including the Foundation for made into the South Asian art scene. At the show, Suchithra Nedungadi, Indian Contemporary Art (FICA), Kiran Gallery Manager, Sanchit Art,speaking Nadar Museum of Art, New Delhi, India Art Fair, in its 11th edition, about the footfall said,” We have been Museum of Art and Photography was an inclusive event, with a new participating in the art fair since 2012 (MAP) , Bangalore, Nepal Photo programme featuring dedicated tours and this time we are happy with the Library, Nepal and the Bengal for people needing special assistance. footfall and the overall response Foundation, Dhaka exhibited their Art-making workshops attracted has been good. Several buyers from work. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation school students and families. The countries like Indonesia, Singapore, also displayed the works created by refreshed layout and diversity of USA, France and Korea visited our the recipients of the Inlaks Fine Art focused and curated displays was stall.” Awards throughout the fair. It also noted by many visitors, along with the saw Delhi-based Italian Embassy high standard of gallery presentations. The ‘Art Projects’ at the event witnessed an extensive display of interactive installations, sculptures and video work. Reporting a good business, Roshini Vadehra, Director , Vadhera Art Gallery, New Delhi, said, “We had a great start at the fair, with major pieces selling. We’ve met several new international collectors from Dubai, Europe and the USA.” Other emerging art practices and art collectives from South Asia like Tribal Art Forms, Delhi Crafts Council and Blueprint 12 and Swaraj Art Archive (Noida) and Britto Art Trust (Dhaka, Bangladesh). Metta Contemporary (Navi Mumbai) also exhibited at the

26 APRIL - MAY | 2019 EVENT REVIEW

SATTE2019: A one-stop shop for travel offerings

India’s largest B2B trade show, in its 26th edition, saw over 1,000 participants from over 50 countries and 28 Indian states.

Held between Jan 16 to18, 2019, to come together and promote both Association of Tour Operators (IATO), SATTE, South Asia’s leading travel inbound and outbound tourism in Travel Agents Association of India and trade show organised by UBM India. (TAAI), Association of Domestic Tour India at India Expo Centre, Greater Operators of India (ADTOI), Travel The show was supported by the Noida, witnessed high footfall. The Agents Federation of India (TAFI), Ministry of Tourism, Government three-day event proved to be a IATA Agents Association of India of India and backed by Indian and comprehensive platform for both (IAAI), India Convention Promotion international organizations. Some domestic and international buyers to Bureau (ICPB), Universal Federation of the organisations supporting display their offerings. The event also of Travel Agents Association (UFTAA), the events included World Tourism gave ample exposure and opportunity Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Organisation (UNWTO), Indian to the hospitality and tourism industry

APRIL - MAY | 2019 27 EVENT REVIEW

the partner states. The event also witnessed the first time participation of countries like Qatar, Iceland, and Cyprus. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mahesh Sharma said, “SATTE is the tourism maestro and this platform has taken the tourism to a new height. The potential of tourism in India is high. Currently, it contributes 6.8 per cent of the country’s GDP and has shown a growth of 9 per cent to 13 per cent in the number of tourists visiting India.” Expressing his view on the growing popularity and importance of the Indian tourism market for Sri Lanka Mr. John Amaratunga said, “The expo enabled professionals to congregate and conduct business and promote inbound, outbound and domestic and Enterprising Travel Agents Ministry of Tourism of the Republic tourism in India. Our goal is to Association (ETAA) and several more. of Indonesia; Ms. Eunji Tae, Officer, make Sri Lanka the most preferred Regional Department for Asia and destination for Indian tourists.” The event was inaugurated by the the Pacific, UNWTO and Mr. Subhash Chief Guest Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Speaking on Indonesia being the Goyal, Member, National Tourism Union Minister of state for culture, featured destination, Ms. Nia Niscaya Advisory Committee. Government of India. Other eminent said, “India is a very important market personalities present at the occasion SATTE, this year, saw several for Indonesia and is growing at the were Mr. John Amaratunga, Minister countries making their presence felt rate of over 30 per cent. This year, we of Tourism Development, Christian and using the opportunity to display are targeting 700,000 travellers from Affairs and Wildlife, Government of their culture. Indonesia was assigned India.” Sri Lanka; Mr. YB Tuan Muhammad the status of featured destination, Mr. Yasa, Operation Manager, SASA Bakhtiar bin Wan Chik, Deputy while Thailand, Malaysia and Sri Tours, Bali said, “SATTE is a good Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Lanka were the partner countries. platform and we are glad to be here Malaysia; Ms. Nia Niscaya, Deputy Among the India states, Rajasthan, and to present Bali as an attraction to Minister of Tourism Marketing, Goa and Madhya Pradesh were the Indian tourist.” Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India, said, “Tourism is a competitive business in a global context. In India, the industry is growing at an unprecedented pace with the travel sector expected to grow to a USD 56 billion market opportunity by 2020. Also, with proactive measures from the Government such as ease of visa, Regional Connectivity Scheme, the launch of Incredible India 2.0 campaign, and various other schemes, the tourism industry is set to flourish.” As per the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) estimates, India´s as well as the South Asia’s position in world tourism is increasingly becoming more

28 APRIL - MAY | 2019 EVENT REVIEW

destination briefing sessions by Dubai Tourism and Skal International, Day 2 witnessed several education sessions on GDS Content, NDC, Corporate Travel , Way Forward and Business Visa and Ground Transport. It included topics of discussion like ‘Is Handholding the Only Way to Manage Conference Business or Online will become the solution – A Perspective’; ‘Maintaining Balance in Relationships between the Vendor, Agent and the Customer while Planning Events and Exhibitions’. There was also a workshop held on MICE and destination briefing sessions by Czech Republic Tourism, Dubai Tourism and Singapore

significant, both as a destination and as a source market. Tourism is among one of the leading economic sectors of the world, surpassing 1.4 billion in international arrivals in 2018, two years ahead of the forecasted time. This year, the show was marked by quite a high number of admissions for the Domestic Buyer Programme with 500 domestic buyers comprising tour operators, travel agents, wedding planners, corporate travel decision makers, and potential investors in the field of hospitality, leisure and travel industries registering for the exhibition.

Besides, the expo also featured Tourism. insightful conferences, sessions and discussion. Whilst, the highlight of Day The I-Pledge campaign, incepted last 1 was sessions held by United Nations year, organized in association with World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Green Yatra, a non-profit organisation, on ‘Tourism and Jobs: A better Future which works on environmental for all’; a session by CLIA on ‘Cruise conservation and ‘Pedh Lagao’ Tourism: ‘India Ahoy!’ and a workshop mission received over 40,000 pledges. on ‘Cruise Tourism’ for agents and The three-day event was also marked operators; ‘Are NTO’s India Ready?’; by an award ceremony where several ‘Digital Marketing and Social Media key stakeholders in the Travel and in MICE promotion and Its Impact’; Tourism domain were covered ‘Changing Perception of Customers under 21 award segments for their Towards Incentive Services’; and outstanding contribution in the field.

APRIL - MAY | 2019 29 EVENT REVIEW

Neighbours’ envy is also their pride!

Among the top two B2B technology shows for the wood-based furniture manufacturing sector in Asia, DelhiWood 2019, which concluded in Greater Noida recently, demonstrated the importance of such events not only for the domestic audience, but also for woodworking professionals from neighbouring countries.

Close to 70% of India’s furniture requirements of global corporations for machinery, raw materials and requirements are met through and end users. semi-finished products, components imports from China and South Asian and consumables, hardware and To help meet this need, DelhiWood countries. This is primarily because fittings for the interior and furniture has consistently offered an all- as the demand size becomes more manufacturing sector. encompassing platform for both the organised, driven by corporate or demand and supply sides to equip There were more than 550 exhibitors brand specifications, the supply side themselves with latest in technology, from 30 countries and 12 country has to increase its quality standards design, machinery, raw materials and pavilions. and delivery orientation. unlimited market opportunities. Furniture and kitchen manufacturers, High customer expectations are The 4-day trade show (13-16 March) architects, interior designers, timber now the driving factor to upgrade in Greater Noida again offered the traders, saw millers, builders, manufacturing technology, adopt furniture manufacturing industry an contractors, hardware distributors, scientific production processes, and impressive 42,000 square metres dealers from all over the country – set quality standards to meet these of demonstration and display space including those from Nepal, Bhutan,

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Sri Lanka and West Asia – came to participate in 2019. Neighbour’s envy Mr Channa Wijesakara, the owner of Lima Interiors in Sri Lanka, speaks with equal measures of envy and pride, about how DelhiWood and its bigger avatar, IndiaWood in Bengaluru, have benefitted him personally. Envy because his country does not have similar technology fairs in woodworking; and pride because these events help the furniture ecosystem develop in the entire sub- continent. He should know, because he is a trained engineer; runs one of Sri Lanka’s largest furniture and interiors’ company; is President of the Sri Lanka Green & self-reliant conserving nature and not exploiting Wood-Based Industries Association; it for greed. But in conserving our On the other end of the scale is Mr and heads the advisory committee resources, we see tremendous Tshering Dorji, a manufacturer of on woodworking in the government’s potential in modern machinery and furniture in Haas district of Bhutan. Ministry of Industries. To boot, he is tools; in using the ‘green’ adhesives He, along with a dozen other operators a trained woodworking professionals and coatings; in employing correct of the Yangen Wood-Based Industry from a German university – he prefers fittings and accessories for our cluster in the Himalayan kingdom, to call himself a carpenter, rather furniture,” he explains. than a businessman! visited DelhiWood for the first time. And at DelhiWood the Bhutanese They were bowled over with the vast He has been attending the biennial delegation found many solutions line-up of woodworking machinery, IndiaWood since 2004, and visited to reducing waste, increasing new and better materials (wood- DelhiWood for the first time. “It is productivity, harvesting and seasoning based composite boards and panels) important for all manufacturers to the best raw material, and adding and consumables such as abrasives, learn, upgrade and scale up in order value to their furniture and wood- adhesives and paints. However, they to go up the business ladder,” he based architectural requirements. said. “One needs to go beyond the had a different take on the importance traditional skills handed from one of DelhiWood. Along with India, the economy of the sub-continent is deemed to be robust, generation of carpenters to the next.” “In Bhutan we are self-sufficient in with higher potential for growth. Some timber, we harvest our forests in a In an ever-demanding and changing of the key factors for this positive sustainable manner, and we aim to market, it is essential to upgrade prognosis are government support, remain self-sufficient in wood-based manufacturing technology, use better sustained investment in scientific furniture, architectural and interior material, increase productivity and manufacturing and strong domestic elements. We don’t aim to exploit add value to factory production. “And consumption. Trade and technology more than we need, and certainly not what better opportunity to explore shows are an opportunity to help for export,” Dorji said. and gain exposure through such fairs us and our neighbours to upgrade, as IndiaWood and DelhiWood!” he So, how does DelhiWood make sense? upscale and compete. stresses. “In Bhutan we are very careful about

APRIL - MAY | 2019 31 VIEW POINT

Industrial Exhibitions foster the process of learning

BY CYRIL PEREIRA

Industrial Exhibitions are an opportunity for companies to showcase and demonstrate their products and services, meet up with prospects, initiate partners and attract customers, get to know of one’s competition. It also gives them a chance to understand recent changes in market trends and values all under one roof and for face-to-face interactions with key industry players. Entrepreneurs or decision makers, the future and aid in creating value for be collected on what they are about to especially new to the industry, come the relationship and services. release or on plans that are activated. with an open mind to learn in detail. The feedback gives them an idea on This, in turn, helps them in their Industrial Exhibitions in a broader how to improve themselves further decision-making process. It gives an sense, helps one gather as much and get to know the businesses opportunity to such entrepreneurs to information while trying to expanding better. Learning through such engage in making new connections business in the same space and time. exhibitions help gain confidence and and partnerships with well- It helps in understanding the market, advancement, in the short-term and established companies. updating and improving marketing long-term planning of the company. strategies and making participation Well-established companies make worthwhile. Thus, attending an industrial use of industrial exhibitions to keep exhibition fosters the process of abreast of the competition, the Beyond just business, these learning not only for companies in the industry and also have the unique exhibitions share a positive range of Industry but also for people related to advantage of understanding and information and knowledge about that Industry, directly. meeting their competitor’s in a the industry for one to learn. They single platform. They also have the are also an ideal platform for social opportunity to showcase their product interaction and involvement. - Mr. Cyril Pereira is offerings to others. Companies get the chance to collect the Managing Director, Developing connections with the core market information on basic features Reed Triune Exhibitors industry players can result in a unique and benefits and quality standards Pvt. Ltd (TEPL), and the experience for new businesses. They of the businesses that visit the organiser of Indiaplast. help define the business’s journey in exhibitions. In that way, feedback can

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India charting a successful economic story The 5th edition of the Global Business Summit organised by The Economic Times and YES Bank, and powered by Facebook, was held at New Delhi from 22-23 February.

The two–day Global Business The same optimism has also been The event was marked by several Summit, held at Taj Hotels, New shared in a report published by the keynote speakers sharing their Delhi, witnessed several global World Bank recently in which it has perspective on themes spanning CEOs, economists, innovators, young forecasted India’s Gross Domestic sustainability, scalability and social entrepreneurs and high-ranking Product (GDP) to grow at 7.3 per change and discussed the challenges government representatives coming cent for 2018-19 and 7.5% in 2019- staring at the world in transition due in droves to participate in this high 20 despite a warning that if a trade to digital disruption and an emerging profile event and hear the views of war between the US and China leads shared economy. world leaders on India’s economic to a global slowdown, the spill over Several big names from all over growth. effects on emerging market and the world flew down especially to developing economies (EMDEs) could In sync with the prevailing optimism, participate and see for themselves be profound. It has cited upswing in Shri Narendra Modi, Honourable the exciting developments in what is, consumption and investments as the Prime Minister of India, in his chief arguably the fastest growing economy drivers of growth. guest address ‘Preparing India for in the world. It also provided an the Future Day’ said, “Since we have Speaking about the event, Mr Vineet opportunity to network with decision formed the Government, hesitations Jain, Managing Director of the Times makers and other movers and have changed to hopes, obstacles to group, in his welcome address said, shakers. optimism and issues to initiatives. “Our mission is for GBS to establish For the past several years, the Since 2014, India has made a itself as the Davos of the East. It may summit has proven to be an ideal significant improvement in almost all not snow in Delhi but the sun is shining podium for Business to Business, international rankings. The world’s on the world’s fastest-growing large Government to Government and perception of India is changing.” economy.”

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Business to Government meetings Unleashing the Next Wave of Radical Leadership, Ease of Doing Business and have become one of the preferred Transformation, the Digital Advantage: and Sustainability. destinations for the economy and Outperforming the Competition, Panel This year, it brought together about business stakeholders in various Discussions on Data Regulation, 2,000 delegates from UK, Ireland, domains. Privacy & Transparency: Striking Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh, the Right Balance and several other The event had several sessions on Jamaica, Poland, Oman, Cyprus and relevant topics. The summit also held subjects like Navigating a World India under one roof. sessions on Infrastructure, Women in Transition, Driving Disruption:

DMG unveils Aluminium Expo in Dubai

The Dubai headquartered DMG ‘Windows, Doors & Facades and Gulf addition to DMG Events’ expanding Events, a leading organiser of face-to- Glass’. These complement Aluminium construction division, which has face events and a publisher of trade Expo and make this event a complete already established successful shows magazines, announced the launch of destination for facades and exteriors.” in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt Aluminium Expo, scheduled from 24 and across Africa. The expo will be an ideal platform to 26 September 2019, at Dubai World for the visitors to meet suppliers The event will be marked by a host Trade Centre. from across the entire aluminium of networking and learning sessions Speaking about the event, Chris Kilbee, value chain, including the providers alongside the exhibition, thus, giving senior vice president – construction at of raw materials, finished products the attendees an opportunity to gain DMG Events, said, “The UAE is a well- and the machinery that produces the knowledge and debate with experts in known exporter of aluminium and products. The demand for aluminium the industry. with no existing platform to gather products across the Middle East, as a About 10,000 professionals are international and local professionals, dynamic product for the construction expected to attend Aluminium Expo, it felt natural for us to launch an event industry, has created enough room Gulf Glass and Windows Doors & for this industry. It is also a perfect for innovations and new creations. Facades in September. fit for the entire industry value chain The launch of Aluminium Expo is an represented by our co-located events

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IHGF-Delhi Fair Spring 2019 generates a good response The 47th edition of IHGF-Delhi Fair Spring’2019, held from 18 to 22 February at the India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida, ends on a positive note.

IHGF-Delhi Fair Spring 2019, a five- home furnishing, furniture, gifts Minister of State for Textiles, Shri day event, displayed an eclectic and decoratives, lamps and lighting, P.P. Chaudhary, Union Minister collection of home, lifestyle, fashion Christmas & festive décor, fashion of State for Law and Justice, Shri and textiles products by around 3200 jewellery & accessories, spa & Raghvendra Singh, Secretary Textiles, Indian handicraft exporters from wellness, carpets and rugs, bathroom Shri Shantmanu, Development different parts of the country and accessories, garden accessories, Commissioner, Shri Ratnesh acted as an ideal convergence point educational toys & games, handmade Kumar Jha, Additional Development for the handicraft merchant and paper products and stationery, and Commissioner, Handicrafts and the buyers. leather bags spread over an exhibit officials of State of Uttar Pradesh. area of over 1,90,000 square meters. This year’s edition showcased over Speaking about the show, Rakesh 2000 products and more than 300 Besides buyers, the show was also Kumar, Director General, EPCH, trends specific design developments visited by the Government and State said, “The uniqueness of the products that spread across 14 product Government, including Shri Ajay showcased at this fair will continue categories, including houseware, Kumar Tamta, Honourable Union to be the domination of hand crafted

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and hand made products where buying houses, designers and trend Zimbabwe along with first-time buyers machines are used only for finishing forecasters. from Albania, Togo and Barbados purposes. Unlike other countries, who sourced their requirement from It also saw overseas buyers from 110 India still has predominance in around 3200 Indian handicrafts countries including Albania, Austria, handcrafted and handmade products exhibitors. Australia, Belgium, Argentina Brazil, and this is the reason that India Chile, Colombia, Canada, China, Amongst the international visitors, offers uniqueness in craftsmanship, Denmark, France, Ghana, Germany, were several representatives finish and presentation, which brings Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Italy, of International companies and further value- addition to the finished Israel, Iran, Japan, Korea, Mexico, departmental stores. Prominent products.” New Zealand, Norway, Nigeria, Indian retail and online brands The show had an impressive range Netherlands, Oman, Philippines, including FabnRugs, Raymonds, of visitors, including wholesalers, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Godrej, FabIndia, Goodearth, Archie’s distributors, chain stores, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Slovakia, Westside, Pepperfry, Paytm and India departmental stores, retailers, mail- Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Bazar also sourced several of their order companies, brand owners, Togo, , USA, UAE, Vietnam and requirements from the fair. Elaborating on the business front, Kumar said, “This fair has always played a positive and important role in providing a world-class marketing platform to the exporters to showcase their creativity and craftsmanship. This has led to foreign exchange earnings through exports to reach Rs. 23,029.36 crores in 2017-18 and will easily surpass the target of Rs. 26,500 crores set for 2018-19.” In terms of participation, the maximum number of exhibitors were from Uttar Pradesh followed by Rajasthan Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Besides, exhibitors in small numbers from other parts of the country also displayed their exquisite products to generate export orders from the

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overseas buying community. ‘Designer theme’ pavilion where governing online business’, ‘Explore various innovative products created export opportunities in African One of the regular features of the by designers flaunting the traditional markets’, ‘Trends and forecasts’, event has been highlighting the crafts and materials like banana fibre, ‘What Indian vendors and factories can themes of North Eastern Region, sustainable indigo crafts and dried do better to grow their business with which flaunts a rich tradition of eco- pumpkins as a sustainable substitute the USA’, ‘Availability of alternative friendly crafts and products made to plastic and innovation in khadi, species for wooden handicrafts’, ‘The from cane, bamboo, timber, silk, clay, hand spun and hand woven home risk assessment & management and natural fibre, etc. EPCH’s efforts have textiles, products made from coconut Financial disputes and solutions’ leveraged their positions and there coir were put on display. were also held. has been an evident growth in the export of the products from the North Seminars & Awards The curtain of the fair came down Eastern states. In order to promote with an award ceremony wherein the Several knowledge seminars on crafts from Jammu & Kashmir, a Ajai Shankar memorial along with relevant topics on international trade pavilion was also set up for the state. P.N. Suri memorial awards for the like ‘How to safeguard against cyber best design and display stands were The fair also focussed on promoting crimes’, ‘Indo Iran Trade–Prospects handed out. young designers by setting up a and Challenges’, ‘Regulatory policies

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Women’s Leadership Forum: Walking beyond the stereotypes

In its second edition, the Women’s Leadership Forum, organised by the Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) in collaboration with the India Chapter of International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), proved to be a celebration of women power.

The recently held ‘Women’s Ms Riddhi Parikh Mehta, Founder- people as well as the stakeholders.” leadership Forum: Connect Now Leaders Track were present. She further added, “The WLF Advisory India’ at Hilton, Mumbai, saw several Ms Nidhi Sharma, Executive Director, Committee is continuously working celebrated women from across the IEIA; Program Coordinator, Women’s on the agenda of bringing in the industry making their presence Leadership Forum in her welcome awareness amongst the stakeholders felt. The event that was held on the address reiterated the importance of for building a strong exhibition occasion of Women’s Day, took the inclusive leadership in the exhibition industry with equal opportunities for vision of inclusive leadership and industry. men and women.” promoting gender parity forward. Credited as one of its kind in the Elaborating on the sole purpose of The program then proceeded with exhibition industry, it saw women the inception of Women’s Leadership a video message from Ms Sonia power in its full and women of all Forum, she said, “IEIA, in collaboration Prashar, Chairperson WLF Advisory ages participating, regardless of with IAEE’s India Chapter, has come Committee, who, quoting the example the individual situation and current up with the initiative of this Women’s of her own organisation, stated that position held in their companies. Leadership Forum. The idea is to her female colleagues have been bring in gender parity and inclusive exhibiting exemplary ownership Ms Seema Srivastava and Ms Neetu leadership in the exhibition industry. and taking up all challenging roles Arora, advisory committee members We know there are challenges but with strong commitment. She of WLF, Ms Nidhi Sharma, ED, IEIA, we need to bring in the change in further urged the audiences to build and Program coordinator WLF, and ourselves and also in the mind-set of an environment for equal work

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Ms. Aneeta Pankaj, VP-Lamhas Satellite Services Ltd. speaking on ‘Women as Effective Leaders’. opportunities for all in the sector. Another report that grabbed the attention of the forum was the With gender inequality in India staring McKinsey Global Institute (MGI) in its us at the face and being one of the India-focussed extract from the ‘The most persistent issues affecting the Power of Parity: Advancing Women’s economic growth, there is a need to Equality in Asia Pacific’ report, come up with more policy initiatives, originally made public in May 2018, forums and women empowerment that revealed only 18 % of the 612.2 programs, which would not only million women in India, contribute to work toward their emancipation but the GDP. With the global average of also inclusion. Women’s Leadership 36 per cent women in the workforce, Forum is one such initiative where India’s low percentage led it to score women are not only included in the a lowly GPS of 0.30, in terms of gender growth process but also encouraged equality at work. This was quite low to represent. The forum is extensively for the economy, which generates working on promoting gender parity almost 10 per cent of regional GDP as it is one of the most ignored and is home to 33 per cent of the aspects of growth in India. region’s combined female population. A report released by McKinsey India The day-long program focused last year that stated India’s annual on networking, engagement and gross domestic product (GDP) could inculcating leadership among raise an additional 18 per cent or the the audience that would not only US $770 billion over its business-as- Ms. Riddhi Parikh Mehta, Founder-Leaders strengthen their role as an individual, usual GDP, by 2025, if more women Track sharing her experience with the crowd. but also leaders. Several speakers were to be a part of the paid labour at the event shared anecdotes about force, was also discussed.

Ms. Aveesha Desai, Senior Project Director, Audience all ears Messe Muenchen India, moderating the panel discussion.

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their personal journey and talked about how they took the challenges head-on and emerged as the leader in their said domain. The welcome address was followed by a keynote address on ‘Leadership Development’ by Ms Riddhi Parikh Mehta, Founder-Leaders Track, who shared the detail of her life experiences that moulded her into a good leader and pointed out that for becoming a good leader, we should build connections and network, put ourselves out there and strengthen our expertise.” She encouraged the audience to be open to learning and added that research says that 70% of learning happens when we take a new Ms. Seema Srivastava and Ms. Neetu Arora sharing their opinions as panellist. challenge at our job, 20% through networking, forums and mentors, and 10 % via classrooms and new courses and to take the needed leap in careers, it was important to create your circle of influence and build a network and

Ms. Sandhya Purohit, Director-HR, Capgemini briefing on Building Strong Teams.

Ms. Sharmi Sheth, Public Sector & Ms. Shweta Pathak, Talent Acquisition Sustainability Consultant briefing on Gender Specialist talking about the importance of Diversity for Organisational Development. social media.

gather experience in your journey. She further added, “I strongly believe practices like reassessing Speaking on the topic, Gender job requirements, expanding the Diversity for Organisational applicant pool, considering your Development, Ms Sharmi Sheth, biases, rethinking your interview Public Sector & Sustainability process, providing uniform access Consultant, said, “I strongly believe to opportunity, minimising gender that gender diversity is not just a pay gap, addressing work-life pressing moral or social issue, but a balance, becoming mentor for all, fair critical economic challenge as well. evaluation, will help organizations The global economy cannot operate bring in gender equity and gender at its full potential with constraints equality across all generations.” holding back a significant proportion of the world’s population”. Briefing the audience on the topic, ‘Women as Effective Leaders’, Ms

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to voice out their concern. Ms Sandhya Purohit, Director-HR, Capgemini, also spoke on the subject of ‘Building Strong Teams’, which was followed by a panel discussion comprising Q&A session on topics like how to attract more women talent in the exhibition industry, Gender Diversity and Financial Equality. The panel discussion was moderated by Ms Aveesha Desai, Senior Project Director, Messe Muenchen India with panellists, Ms Seema Srivastava ED, India ITME and Ms Neetu Arora Director, Print Packaging Exhibitions. An important factor adding to the Aneeta Pankaj, VP-Lamhas Satellite while supporting and felicitating your success of this Women’s Leadership Services Ltd. said, “Many of us have team at the right moments. I believe in program was the participation taken a risk and we have not been the exhibition industry, these qualities of the industry leaders from the perfect. It is all about how much risk are imperative as a lot of coordination other gender who came forward to you can take and how much courage and efforts from different functions support this important initiative as you can muster when you actually face are needed.” thought leaders of the industry. The the problems. Risk has to be taken in The event also featured a talk by Ms event ended with a vote of thanks both personal and professional level. Shweta Pathak, Talent Acquisition by Ms Nidhi Sharma along with the Sometimes you will pass, sometimes Specialist, who spoke extensively felicitation of the panellists, speakers you will fail and at other occasions, on the theme, ‘Leading the Virtual and partners. you will just thrive. But you must have World- Leveraging Social Media the resilience to bounce back.” The WLF program will be next & Technology for Professional organised in Hyderabad and She added further, “You have to be & Organisational growth’. She Bengaluru in the immediate future. optimistic and have integrity towards highlighted the importance of social the organisation you are working for media and how it has helped people

WLF ends on a successful note

APRIL - MAY | 2019 41 EVENT Open Seminar 2019: Catalysing India’s economic growth

The annual edition of IEIA Open providing one-of-its-kind networking solutions, safety solution, material Seminar 2019, which will be held opportunity for all participating handling etc., will participate in from 13-15 June, at India Expo organizations. prefixed Business Match Making Centre & Mart (IEML), Noida, is the sessions to build strategic The 9th edition will bring discuss and Association’s flagship international partnerships. debate new topics of importance to conclave, where the Indian the sector, facilitating a high level of • More and more young Exhibition Industry comes together knowledge exchange through the pool professionals are entering the with its members, associates and of eminent and expert speakers. exhibition industry and striving international delegates to deliberate for excellence. The Young on the happenings in the industry and Event Highlights Professionals Meet up is a unique build on the business, presence and • The keynote address and panel platform to bring them together network. discussions will see Global leaders at one place and provide them With the theme ‘Catalysing India’s and experts from the Indian with an opportunity to meet peers, Economic Growth’, the Seminar, and global exhibition industries make new friends and excel in the in its 9th edition, is all set to create participating in Panel Discussions industry. a meaningful platform for peers to highlighting industry trends and • Women’s Leadership Forum meet, share knowledge, discuss initiatives. Eminent speakers will (WLF) aims at fostering inclusive collaborations and developments, address the delegates and share leadership and gender diversity address industry challenges and, their experiences. in the exhibitions and events most importantly, network with • The Exhibition Services Expo is an industry in India. WLF provides members and participants. integral part of the Open Seminar. a platform to network with the With Indian economy registering a Organizations from the exhibition women leaders of the industry consistent growth of over 7%, the industry will exhibit their products, and builds leadership skills for country is attracting investors from all services and event portfolio positive growth in their careers. over the world. The Indian exhibition to national and international • Exhibition industry professionals industry is also witnessing rapid delegates and members of the who have recently completed growth over the past few years (over association. Certified in Exhibition 10.4% annually in the last 3 years) • The Indian Exhibition Industry Management (CEM) programs will and thus attracting exhibitions from Awards celebrate the be presented with their certificates all corners of the globe. achievements of IEIA Members in the graduation ceremony in the The last edition of the IEIA Open and acknowledge the talent, presence of industry leaders Seminar witnessed participation creativity and dedication they Concurrent Events of stalwarts of the industry from render for the Exhibition Industry. 30 countries with heads of 33 It honours organizers, venue AFECA Asian Federation and international exhibition and owners, technology providers, Convention Association board conference industry bodies present at logistics providers, suppliers and meeting, BRICS Mice forum meeting, the event. people working in different areas IEIA association board meeting and of exhibition industry with diverse the IAEE India chapter board meeting This year, around 600 exhibition award categories. are the events that will be held during industry professionals with around this time. 100 international delegates from • Companies offering various various countries including leading products and services in For more details players from the Indian exhibition technology and automation, please contact: [email protected] industry will are expected to attend, exhibition management, logistics

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ITB comes to India

ITB India 2020, one of the leading an upward swing with its fastest- editions of ITB Asia, it is logical for travel trade shows, organised by growing economy and having the us to progress to the next frontier Messe Berlin, is all set test Indian second-largest population in the of travel in Asia. India represents an waters. Scheduled to be held from world, the country exhibits a strong extremely promising market with a 15 -17 April, 2020, in Mumbai, the growth potential for both inbound and growing purchasing power among opening edition of ITB India will outbound travel. The Indian travel travellers from the region. We are feature B2B travel trade show and industry is expected to be valued at optimistic that ITB India will be a convention, putting light on the Indian US$56 billion, by 2020, with UNTWO, prominent platform for attendees travel market. the World Tourism Organization, from the MICE, leisure and corporate predicting that there will be 50 million sectors to come together to further The three-day event will take place outbound travellers by then. ITB India, grow the Indian travel market,” said at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in with its extensive list of participants Katrina Leung, Managing Director Mumbai and will act as a platform for and visitors, is going to offer a major of Messe Berlin (Singapore), the the players in the domain to interact opportunity for National Tourism organiser of ITB India. under the same roof. The show will be Organisations (NTOs), travel, and marked by the visitation of key travel “We’re proud to be supporting Messe hospitality companies. industry leaders and buyers from Berlin in organising its premier cities across India, and international Speaking about the move, Dr. Christian event in the Indian market. As ITB exhibitors from the MICE, leisure and Göke, Chief Executive Officer of Messe is a renowned international brand, corporate sector. Berlin said, “In recent years, we have we’re delighted to be a key partner given the ITB brand an increasingly and together, make ITB India the The occasion will also feature a international dimension. From a leading travel trade event for the India ‘Hosted Buyers’ Programme’, which global and regional perspective, India market,” added Bernhard Steinrücke, will cater to buyers from first, second, is a vast source market for the travel Director General, Indo-German and third tier cities in India. industry with a huge growth potential. Chamber of Commerce. Among all the buyers at ITB India, We are delighted that ITB India will, As for other ITB shows, exhibitors 50% are expected to focus on leisure in future, complement the trio of will be drawn from a wide range of travel, while MICE and corporate ITB Berlin, ITB Asia and ITB China, companies and representatives from travel buyers will form up to 25%, making it a quartet and strengthening travel agencies and operators, NTOs, respectively. It has been assessed the global ITB brand.” business travel and MICE, travel that almost a third of all buyers at According to an estimate, India’s technology, accommodation, and ITB India are expected to have a outbound travel expenditure transport. purchasing power of more than US$1 increased 7% on average year-on- million. C-suite level players and key year between 2006 and 2016 and saw decision makers are anticipated to an even higher growth rate of 8.5% in make their presence felt at the show travel expenditure from 2015 to 2016. and 70% of the crowd would be from This rate was considerably higher this segment. The show will also see than growth rates seen by other major 86% of the expected buyers from the countries including China, Indonesia, western and northern parts of India. and Brazil for the same period. With India’s growth graph showing “Having successfully run eleven

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Secutech India RenewX India Commercial Real Estate Expo

April 25-27, 2019 April, 26-27, 2019 June 21-23, 2019 Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Mumbai, Hitex Exhibition Center, Hyderabad, India Hitex Exhibition Center, Hyderabad, India India UBM India Pvt. Ltd. HITEX Ltd. ABEC Exhibitions and Conferences Pvt ltd. Concrete Show Hotelier Summit India Palmexpo May, 16-18, 2019 May 20-21, 2019 May 30-1 June, 2019 Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Mumbai, W Goa, Vagator, India Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai India IDE Consulting Services Private Limited ABEC Exhibitions and Conferences Pvt ltd. UBM India MEDIKO India Fire & Safety India Global Pharma Regulatory Summit May 3-5, 2019 April 25-27 2019 May 29- 31, 2019 HITEX Exhibition Centre Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Mumbai, The Lalit Mumbai, India Hyderabad, India India UBM India Messe India ABEC Exhibitions and Conferences Pvt ltd. PharmaLytica’2019 eAge Print Led Expo Mumbai June 10 – 12, 2019 31 May - 03 June 2019 May 09-11, 2019 Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai, INDIA Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Mumbai, UBM, India Messe India India Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd. Cosmoprof’2019 Fastener Fair-Mumbai India June 12 -14, 2019 April 25-26, 2019 Home Expo India Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Mumbai, UBM , India India April 16-18, 2019 Inter Ads Exhibitions Private Limited India Exposition Mart, Greater Noida, India Hyderabad Jewellery Fair Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts Great Indian Travel Bazaar June 14 – 16, 2019 Roof India HICC, Novotel, Hyderabad 28-30 Apr 2019 UBM India Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre, April 25-27, 2019 Jaipur, India Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Mumbai, Security and Fire Expo FICCI India International Trade & Exhibitions India Pvt. June 27- 29, 2019 FAMDENT’2019 Ltd Hitex Exhibition Center, Hyderabad UBM India June 7- 9, 2019 Blech India Bombay Exhibition Centre OSH India Messe Düsseldorf India Pvt. Ltd. April 25-27, 2019 Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre June 27 –28. 2019 Natural Gas Vehicles India Summit (BEC), Mumbai, India Hitex Exhibition Center, Hyderabad Inter Ads Exhibitions Private Limited UBM India 09-10 May, 2019 The Lalit New Delhi, India Fastener Fair ITMA 2019 Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd.

April, 25-26, 2019 June 20-26, 2019 Heimtextil India Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre Firo de Barcelona, Via Barcelona , Spain, (BEC), Mumbai, India Falcon Exhibition June 13-15, 2019 Inter Ads Exhibitions Private Limited NSIC Exhibition Complex, New Delhi, India Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd.

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Ambiente India Dairy Livestock & Poultry Expo Think Literature - Festival of Ideas

June 13-15, 2019 June, 19-21, 2019 June 30, 2019, NSIC Exhibition Complex, New Delhi, India Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Novotel, Mumbai, India Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd. Nairobi, Kenya Tefla’s Radeecal Communications LED Expo Thailand Indie Fashion & Lifestyle confluence Agritec Africa June 27-29, 2019 April 29, 2019 IMPACT Exhibition Center, PakKred District, June 19-21, 2019 Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Dubai Thailand Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Tefla’s Mex Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd. Nairobi, Kenya Radeecal Communications Indie SME Conclave & Awards 2019 it-sa India - India’s IT Security Expo and Conference Graintech Africa June 26-27, 2019 Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre May 15-16, 2019 June 19-21, 2019 Hotel, Mumbai, Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Mumbai, Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Tefla’s India Nairobi, Kenya NürnbergMesse India Pvt. Ltd. Radeecal Communications CEO Weekend 2019

Pharmac South Globoil International June 26-27, 2019 Renaissance, Mumbai June 28-29, 2019 April 28-30, 2019 Tefla’s Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai, India The St. Regis Dubai Al Habtoor Polo Resort Orbit Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd. & Club, Dubai, UAE Thaifex-World of Food Asia Tefla’s Flea Expo May 28, 2019 Commodity Equity Outlook Weekend Impact Exhibition & Convention Centre, Apr 12 – May 10, 2019 Bangkok, Thailand Shipra Mall, Delhi/NCR June 26-27, 2019 Trade Promotion Council of India Orient Exhibitions & Events Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel, Mumbai, India Flea Market Tefla’s

May 1 – Jun 29 , 2019 VVIP Mall, Gaziabad Orient Exhibitions & Events

Navrang Exhibition

Unity One Mall, Apr 20 – 30, 2019 Unity Mall, Rohini Orient Exhibitions & Events

KW DELHI- 6

May 20 – June 18 , 2019 KW DELHI 6, Raj Nagar Extension Orient Exhibitions & Events

Non-Woven Tech Asia

June 06-08, 2019 Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India Radeecal Communications

APRIL - MAY | 2019 45 VIEW POINT

Future landscape Smart mobile apps, hybrid meeting The future of events is solutions, virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools, will be pivotal in revolutionizing the event management backdrop. Event digitally driven planners will soon be able to analyze the audience data and leverage technologies such as AI and VR BY KAILASH SINGH to engage delegates with tailored While events are considered to be content while delivering immersive The positive repercussion of the most effective marketing channel experiences. Data can be harnessed technology adoption across the world for a majority of the world’s most from a variety of sources and it is has resulted in an era of globalization influential organizations, there still possible to use software tools to of the world we live in. Access exists a misconception of being an automate project management and to information and international unpredictable, non-trackable, and not capture information such as content markets has never before been an ROI-driven model. interest as well as location and as convenient. With the advent of logistic preferences from attendees. social platforms and evolving digital Mindset transition landscape, connecting with potential Online tracking tools within project Up until the recent decade, events management software are steadily prospects and building business were regarded as a sophisticated relations is no longer a tedious task; replacing spreadsheets and can cover communication medium, but have now every aspect of project delivery. The but then the question arises… is that been repositioned to be experiential good enough!?! latest meeting management tools marketing activations focused at assist with venue sourcing solutions, There is no denying the strategic sampling, lead-generation and marketing, attendee management, impact of creating a strong digital demographic build-up to brands in a budgeting and post-event analytics. It footprint for organizations has created focused market. There has been an also enables speakers and exhibitors an overwhelming clutter of online evident mindset transition, with both to see tasks through a self-service marketing channels. It is because clients as well as the audiences now portal and receive automated of this multiplicity that connecting, taking events as a serious sales tool; prompts. enticing and engaging the right target hence ensuring wholesome, engaging market now has a complex layering and fun experiences are delivered Modern attendees seek to leverage and it has become a time-consuming while achieving financial goals, which digital experiences to have a better activity. is the epitome of a successful event. grasp of the event content and enhance their face-to-face interactions. All said and done, despite the The event industry is undergoing Event planners have been on a prevalent digital ecology ‘Face Time’ a metamorphosis with growing constant lookout to implement the a primary human essence, is what investments alongside innovative right solutions to live up to these truly drives business value at the end technology adoption; there is a whole expectations and understand the of it all. According to a recent study by revolution of the ecosystem, globally. need to embrace innovative event Meeting Professionals International Live events are now considered to be management tools. Studies have (MPI), face-to-face meetings have the tipping point for marketers, as with proved how effective implementation the potential to convert over 40% of the implementation of new execution of the right event management prospects into new customers, and models backed with technology, the technology can decrease costs by as around 28% of existing business could impact level has increased multifold. much as 30%, increase productivity by be lost without it. According to American Express 27% and attendance by 20%. Today’s modern business ecosystem Meetings and Events – 2018, Global demands brand visibility through Meetings and Events Forecast, the multiple touch points while aligning ongoing evolution of mobile apps and Mr Kailash Singh strategic lead generation activations, hybrid meeting solutions, combined is the Managing and what better platform than with the potential applications for Director of Tefla’s networking events. Efficient execution newer technologies, such as virtual - Creator of Global can help capture high impact clients reality (VR) and artificial intelligence Business Platforms and lead to conversions faster than (AI), have exciting implications for through Conferences any digital initiations. meeting owners and attendees alike. and Events.

46 APRIL - MAY | 2019 INTERVIEW: WALTER YEH

‘We are the node for regional development’

The Asian Federation of Exhibition and Can you briefly describe your role at Convention Associations (AFECA) is a platform AFECA? that binds international organisations and acts In the past 4 years as president of AFECA, I have been working to as a stage for its members to meet, interact realise my great expectations for the exchange and benefit. ExhiBits recently organisation and the changes it can interacted with AFECA President, Mr Walter Yeh, create for Asia’s MICE industry. at his Singapore headquarters to find out more… In organizing events such as the annual general meetings, board meetings and joint meetings with the IAEE, I invite member representatives to personally attend the events. These occasions are opportunities to cooperate and partner, and therefore explore more business possibilities. While Europe and North America have strong MICE development and traditions, Asia’s MICE industry has been slower. However, the recent global economic shift toward Asia has resulted in the surging development of its MICE industry. I actively recruit members from

APRIL - MAY | 2019 47 INTERVIEW: WALTER YEH

AFECA strives to find solutions to the talent shortage among member nations, which has been a problem in the Asian MICE industry for several years.

– Mr Walter Yeh, President, Asian Federation of Exhibition and Convention Associations.

Asian MICE associations to join What activities does AFECA plan to Outstanding Venue, and AFECA Young AFECA, and make AFECA the most promote individual member region Professionals. powerful organisation in the Asian industries? The Asia MICE Youth Challenge MICE industry. This year AFECA AFECA assists the Asian MICE industry competition is for students in Asia will organise events such as Young to communicate and interact with to cultivate young talent studying Professional Awards, Youth Challenge each other, supporting and promoting business management, tourism, and AFECA Awards. the outstanding organizations MICE travel management and more. The These events not only encourage industry and events in Asia, and 5th AFECA Asia MICE Youth Challenge students to enter the MICE industry promoting training for young Asian application kit was released in March but also select and recognise people and workers. (https://afeca.asia/news/164/detail). outstanding young MICE professionals AFECA’s Board and Advisory Council and companies and honour their meeting and annual general meeting contribution to the industry. How does AFECA collaborate with are hosted by a single member every regional member associations to year. These two AFECA events have promote the industry? been held in Malaysia, Singapore, What is the rationale behind , Taiwan, Thailand, India, AFECA aims to share, support, establishing AFECA, its mandate, Xiamen, mainland China, and have collaborate with, as well as learn short-term goals, and long-term become important annual events in from regional member associations. objectives? Asia’s MICE industry. These connections have inspired The rationale behind establishing much exchange and interaction: the This year, the board meeting will be AFECA is to act as a vehicle that will Malaysian Association of Convention held in June in New Delhi, India. We shape the destiny of the industry & Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers are grateful to the Indian Exhibition in Asia; to serve as a focal point to (MACEOS), Singapore Association of Industry Association (IEIA) for hosting tackle regional development; to face Convention and Exhibition Organisers the event once again. challenges in the global arena as a and Suppliers (SACEOS), Philippine united front; and to act as a collective AFECA has six sub-committees on Association of Convention/Exhibition voice for the exhibition and convention Education and Training, Membership Organizers and Suppliers (PACEOS), industry in Asia. Recruitment and Marketing, and Thailand Incentive and Convention Sustainable Development, AFECA Association (TICA). AFECA’s main objectives are to Asian Awards, Asia MICE Youth promote the growth and development In November 2018, our association Challenge and Young Professional. of the exhibition and convention members and the Myanmar Exhibition industry in Asia; to promote and The AFECA Asian Awards consist of Association and MACEOS, signed an establish common industry standards competition for Outstanding Trade MOU. In the same month, the China in Asia; and to represent Asian Exhibition, Outstanding Consumer City Association of Convention and interests at the international level. Exhibition, Outstanding Convention Exhibition (CCACE) signed an MOU or Congress, Outstanding Service, with the Indian Exhibition Industry

48 APRIL - MAY | 2019 INTERVIEW: WALTER YEH

The Asia MICE Youth Challenge is for students in Asia to cultivate young talent in business management, tourism, travel management and more.

Association (IEIA), MACEOS, SACEOS, in the Asian MICE industry for several the President of the Taiwan Exhibition Thailand Exhibition Association (TEA), years. and Convention Association (TECA) PACEOS, IECA, and the Indonesian and CEO of the Taiwan External Trade This year (2019), our education and Exhibition Industry Association (IECA). Development Council (TAITRA). training sub-committee surveyed the In December, 2018, our association MICE curriculum lists of our members These organisations promote MICE members IECA and the Taiwan and would also like to examine the industry opinions regarding the Exhibition Conference Association needs of MICE courses. In the near amending of labour standard laws (TECA) signed an MOU. These are just future, we hope to be able to provide to the Ministry of Labour in Taiwan. a few examples of mutual cooperation education training programmes AFECA has met with success in and interaction that have generated exclusively for Asia. initiating changes in regulations more and more business cooperation. affecting the MICE industry. With interaction between members Does AFECA join forces with city during AFECA events and meetings, Does AFECA host summits, councils, tourism boards and MICE and tourism government conferences or workshops regulatory authorities to lobby on units from different nations are to educate and offer member behalf of the industry? also involved, which further associations knowledge and AFECA strives to voice the opinions encourages exchange between Asian technology opportunities? of the MICE industry and advocate governments. This, in turn, can result Cultivating MICE professionals has better working environments in new trends and ideas for Asian always been an important mission for and regulations among member government leaders to draft new AFECA as the talent shortage among countries. For example, besides policies and initiate change. member nations has been a problem being President of AFECA, I am also

APRIL - MAY | 2019 49 STUDY

CEIR releases 2018 Fourth Quarter Results

A report released by the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) says that the recent growth of the exhibition industry continued during the fourth quarter of 2018. The growth of the industry, as measured by the CEIR Total Index, accelerated from a year-over-year gain of 0.9% in the third quarter to 2.5% in the fourth quarter (see Figure 1). With this stronger performance, the exhibition industry has narrowed the growth gap with inflation-adjusted GDP (see Figure 2).

Figure 1: Quarterly CEIR Total Index for the Overall Exhibition The Center for Exhibition Industry Industry, Year-over-Year Growth, 2011Q1-2018Q4 Research (CEIR) works toward advancing the growth, awareness and value of exhibitions and other face-to-face marketing events by producing and delivering knowledge- based research tools that enable stakeholder organizations to enhance their ability to meet current and emerging customer needs, improve their business performance and strengthen their competitive position. CEIR Economist, Allen Shaw, Ph.D., Chief Economist for Global Economic Consulting Associates, Inc. said, “The performance during the fourth quarter shows the resilience of the exhibition industry despite uncertainties surrounding the trade negotiation with China, volatile stock markets and slowing world economic Figure 2: Quarterly CEIR Total Index for the Overall Exhibition Industry growth.” vs. Quarterly Real GDP, Year-over-Year Growth, 2008Q1-2018Q4. Food; government; and raw materials and science all registered robust

50 APRIL - MAY | 2019 STUDY

year-over-year gains. By contrast, consumer goods and retail trade; financial, legal, and real estate; and transportation posted year-over-year declines. All exhibition metrics in the fourth quarter posted positive year-over- year gains (Figures 3 and 4). Real revenues (nominal revenues adjusted for inflation) and attendees posted the largest increase of 4.4% and 3.2%, respectively. Net square feet (NSF) rose 1.6% and exhibitors expanded 1.0%. Figure 3: Quarterly CEIR Metrics for the Overall Exhibition For the year 2018 as a whole, the Total Industry, Year-over-Year Growth, 2018Q4 Index increased by 1.9%, just slightly lower than the 2.0% gain in 2017. At 109.0 (2014=100), the Total Index in 2018 surpassed the previous peak of 107.6 in 2007. “Nearly a decade after the great recession, the exhibition industry in 2018 has finally entered an aggregate size above the previous peak,” said CEIR CEO Cathy Breden, CMP, CAE. “Barring an unexpected recession, the overall growth for the industry in 2019 will continue, albeit at a modest pace, as the economy remains healthy, even though a little softer than 2018.” In addition to compiling the quarterly exhibition index, CEIR also offers analytical tools, an annual in-depth report and an outlook conference. The CEIR Event Performance Analyzer Figure 4: Quarterly CEIR Metrics for the Overall Exhibition Industry, Year-over-Year Growth, 2009-2018Q4 provides exhibition organizers with a tool to measure how an event is performing in its sector, as well as in the overall industry. The CEIR Index Report provides an economic overview of the exhibition industry, including key indicators for growth. Together, three-year forecast for the business- provide exhibition professionals with these resources provide insights for to-business exhibitions and events macroeconomic insights and help developing business strategies and industry. attendees understand the economic and political factors impacting the goals. The annual CEIR Predict Conference, exhibition industry. The 2019 CEIR Index Report will be scheduled for 16-17 September 2019 released in April and will include a at the MGM National Harbor, will Source: iaee.informz.net

APRIL - MAY | 2019 51 VIEW POINT

Industry must influence academia to train talent

BY ANDREW LEE Opportunities in the MICE industry (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) are advocated at different levels in South-East Asia. For countries like Singapore and Thailand, where MICE is seen as an integral component of the economy, the advocacy starts from the government level and trickles down to the educational institutions. Therefore, the youth is exposed to the term ‘MICE’ in their curriculum and the aspiration to join the industry starts from there. So, with an industry agenda of attracting, growing and retaining talent, the key to the MICE industry and government working Government support In South-East Asia, industry together lies in the “attract” part associations are already championing It is possible to exercise influence with of that agenda. The MICE industry MICE activities in academic mainstream academia to relook at will/must do the rest in growing and institutions. Private enterprises are integrating courses suitable for MICE retaining that talent. driven by revenues and profits. While industry in the curriculum. However, there is money to be made in the MICE Education and skills training are the level of success depends on the industry, there will always be players integral to increasing the talent pool support of the respective governments jumping in! for the MICE industry. The inclusion and MICE associations. of subject matter related to the However, the problem is that In Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore MICE industry in the curriculum there is little indication that these and Thailand, there are dedicated of polytechnics and universities in organisations are addressing MICE bureaus backed by the South-East Asia is gaining traction. the underpinning issues of poor government and very active local Skills training for the existing recruitment, inappropriate education, MICE associations, which have workforce in other industries to join lack of professional training and successfully backed schools and the MICE industry is another effective appropriate job fit on any significant overseas education institutions to roll plan to increase the talent pool. scale. out courses and programmes on the The MICE sector does not have a MICE industry. So, it is clear that events industry clearly identified career path, and educators have joint responsibility Events management is yet to achieve so recruiting into such a sector is with industrial bodies and professional status, and the increasing difficult because of the uncertainty of associations to create courses and use of volunteer and casual staff is a where such positions lead. However, routes to qualifications that meet the worrying trend that will not further students gaining some element of needs of employers, with increased the status of the sector. A strong work experience within an events opportunities for practical experience. management degree programme, formal structure for professional including a placement year, has been advancement with accredited degrees Student expectations and training routes would surely found to be beneficial to both the Students are generally motivated by benefit the industry. graduates and industry. an interest in the subject and a desire

52 APRIL - MAY | 2019 VIEW POINT

Given India’s growth in the exhibitions and conferences industry space, a talent search and placement service acts as an outsourced and external partner, but plays an integral role in the overall human resources process.

– Mr Andrew Lee, Managing Partner, tfconnect Asia.

for creative expression, rather than career structure within our industry from other business sectors. an expectation that they will follow a is often not clearly identifiable, With no single professional structure particular career route. Road shows, notwithstanding exceptions within the to follow, talented and valued recruits career fairs and industry lecturers large corporates. to the MICE industry can come from are some of the best platforms to But this means it can be difficult any background – the fact that they engage the academic community and for ambitious talent to see a way are not proven within the industry attract young talent into the industry. through to the top. We seek talent itself shouldn’t be considered an Given India’s growth in the exhibitions with experience over and above issue. and conferences industry space, a qualifications, and yet it is difficult for Skills are skills, attitude is attitude. talent search and placement service talent to move into the industry and One of the challenges within the acts as an outsourced and external get that experience. industry is that of thinking we are partner, but plays an integral role in Aspiration & passion special and require a special kind of the overall human resources process talent. Such beliefs may be limiting of the MICE companies. Many of these When growing up, we might aspire to the way in which we look at and attract companies, including the well-known be doctors, engineers, lawyers – even talent from outside our industry. players, have been streamlining their a policeman or firefighter – but hardly business structures. to be a MICE professional, unless – Mr Andrew Lee is Managing you are born into the business. But Partner, tfconnect Asia. His company Some companies do not even have passion is passion and talent is talent! is an international MICE talent an HR department – just an office recruiter and senior executive manager! Therefore, specialist I have personally witnessed industry search consultancy, which recently search and placement services are colleagues who were previously from opened a regional office in Singapore. there to help these companies find the banking and engineering sectors Andrew has worked at Reed the best talent to join their teams. and came to embrace the MICE Exhibitions, AsiaWorld Expo, Pico industry as their profession of choice. That said, the MICE industry suffers Group, International Association of As long as our industry maintains a from an aspiration image problem for Amusement Parks & Attractions, and high level of standards and ethics, a number of reasons. The industry is Six Flags Entertainment. and embraces the idea of transferable often not thought of as a profession skills, learning and development, we in the same way other more formal should be able to attract more talent career choices would be. The

APRIL - MAY | 2019 53 TECH UPDATE

Apps that can go beyond exhibitions

BY HEMANTH SHETTY

In today’s world we encounter digital technology in every aspect of our lives. Even businesses are moving from traditional to digital in planning, production, inventory, accounting and sales functions across the world. This includes digital marketing to stay connected to prospective customers and business partners. According to Google’s ‘Mobile & Website Design Statistics’, most B2B buyers perform up to 12 online searches before interacting with a vendor’s website. They are 57% of the way through the buying process only before and during the event. But get instant feedback during and after before they speak with a sales this throws up many questions about the exhibition. these very Apps: representative. Digital marketing Apps can also host active catalogues, tools influence 67% of purchases for • Do they help to connect the supply which should help exhibitors reduce multiple industrial manufacturing with the demand side? their cost of printing them. Exhibitors and pack-and-ship industries. can connect with visitors by instant • Does the time and investment on push messages and get voice The mobile phone platform drives or the App substantiate return on feedback of customers on the go. influences more than 40% of revenue investment? in leading B2B organisations. More For visitors, an event App should • Does the user (visitor and/or than 50% of B2B search queries today do more than digital registration. exhibitor) see real value of your are made on ‘smart’ phones, and this It should also save visitors time by App? percentage is expected to grow to easy and advanced navigation system 70% by the year 2020. Future of Apps to reach exhibitors. They need to stay easily connected with relevant The Google study also states that 46% The future of App-driven technology is exhibitors and suppliers even after visitors leave a website because of a focussing on enabling and supporting the exhibition. lack of message (it is not clear what the exhibition industry to stay the company does), and 37% leave connected with business partners, Visitors these days are already digital- because of poor design or navigation which should lead to a business savvy, and are willing to access of the website. eventually. How does it help the live digital catalogue of exhibitors, To be a part of the new B2B marketing events community? which eventually reduce the strain of carrying catalogues across the event strategy, one has to be in his/her Apart from online visitor or exhibitor venue. customers’ (business partners’) registration and basic search mobile phone. The Internet and functionality, next generation apps – Mr Hemanth Shetty is Co-Founder mobile connects buyers and sellers are focussing on bringing additional of Bizebrand, a Bengaluru-based on the go. online registrations from the listed Nasscom 10K start-up certified by Today event organisers are running exhibitors too! the Union government’s Department od Industrial Policy and Promotion. with many mobile App solutions It gives more leverage to the organiser, Bizebrand is an engagement App to offered in the market. As a trend, most and provides more value to the stay connected with business partners of them are investing in traditional exhibitor by connecting with visitors globally. (www.bizebrand.com) event Apps, which typically serve even after the exhibition. Organisers

54 APRIL - MAY | 2019 Education Industry Study Bussiness Matchmaking Host & Venue Partner Platinum Partner Awards Nights & Gold Partner Gala Dinner Partner Programs Partner Partner Partner

Silver Partners Conference Tea/Co ee Partners Notepad Partner

Venue Branding Partner Technology Partner Media Partners

Supporting Associations

APRIL - MAY | 2019 55 INDUSTRY UPDATES

UFI’s Global Exhibition Barometer focuses on trade shows’ growth entertainment factor

Published semi-annually by UFI, the markets around the globe. Regions The newest UFI survey, completed Global Association for the Exhibition in the Americas and Europe recorded in January, included data from Industry, the UFI Global Exhibition very high increases in gross turnover 302 companies in 53 countries Barometer, is an important document in recent years, yet fewer companies and delivers analysis for markets and plays a pivotal role in reporting are expecting growth to remain as including Australia, Brazil, China, about the global trade show health. strong as it has been. Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan (for The recently published report in the first time), Italy, Macau, Mexico, Kai Hattendorf, Managing Director February has revealed a positive Russia, South Africa, Thailand, the UK and CEO, UFI, said, “The data shows outlook for 2019. and the U.S. that the exhibition industry is set to The data shows that between mid- continue to grow globally as a whole, 2018 and the end of 2019, a majority but foresees obstacles in various of companies from all four global markets and regions.” regions has indicated gross turnover The recent Global Visitors Insights increases. This positive outlook is published by UFI and Explori especially strong in the Asia/Pacific reported that, many companies and Middle East/Africa regions, are getting more creative with the wherein each recorded their highest on-site experience, planning new levels in the last five years. activities either in the classic range of The report also says that a growing exhibition industry activities including number of companies are also trying the entertainment component of the to expand into new geographical exhibition.

The Africa Sign, Digital & Printing Expo, which was scheduled during 21-23 November 2018 in Kenya, Africa Sign Digital & has been postponed indefinitely due to certain unavoidable reasons. Fresh dates for the show will Printing Expo Postponed be announced shortly. BuildMat 2019 organised in Coimbatore

The Builders Association of India (BAI) and trends, and developers are and all proceeds from it will be used in association with the Coimbatore also focusing on addressing the for the betterment of the industry. centres of Indian Institute of Architects concerns of the buyers. The building The exhibition was held in a total (IIA), Association of Consulting Civil industry is significant as it generates display area of nearly two lakh square Engineers (ACCE-I) organised the employment in large numbers. With feet and one hall with 114 stalls was ninth edition of construction and credit rate cuts, the housing sector is dedicated to affordable housing. interiors fair BuildMat 2019 at the expected to see demand picking up. The event proved to be an ideal CODISSIA Trade Fair Complex, The developers should focus on green platform for manufacturers, Coimbatore, from 14 to 17 February buildings, he said. professionals, and customers to 2019. Speaking about the event, P. Arun showcase their products and interact. V. Lakshminarayanasamy, president of Prasad, chairman of the event, said Several national and international the Indian Chamber of Commerce and the expo, which is held once in two players from the construction sector Industry, Coimbatore, pointed out that years, was started in 2003 and is now participated in the exhibition and also new technologies are making inroads rated among the leading construction showcased environment-friendly in the construction sector, buyers are fairs in the country. This year, the products. educated about their requirements exhibition has more than 600 stalls

56 APRIL - MAY | 2019 INDUSTRY UPDATES

a live online booking service, visit planning including restaurants and EN Awards declares partnership airport transfers and exclusive food and beverage discounts at selected hotels. with MICE Concierge On the association, Simon Farnfield, EN portfolio director, said, “We’re Organised by Mash Media, the EN The partnership is aimed at minimising thrilled to be partnering with MICE Awards, announced a partnership hassle for the visitors at the event and Concierge for the 2019 EN Awards. with MICE Concierge keeping in mind avail benefits with the help of MICE Thanks to this partnership visitors the 2019 event, which took place on 22 Concierge team, which will be offering have an expertly curated experience March at Battersea Evolution, UK. top rates for hotels close to the venue, for the duration of their visit.” Messe Düsseldorf India acquires FAMDENT

Further fortifying its position, Messe Düsseldorf India has acquired the FAMDENT Shows, one of the leading Indian trade events for dental medicine. With this acquisition, the event will become a member of the MEDICAlliance, the umbrella brand for all global healthcare exhibition activities of the Messe Düsseldorf Group. There was also a signing of a corresponding agreement between Thomas Schlitt, Managing Director of Messe Düsseldorf India Pvt. Ltd., and Dr. Anil Arora and Dr. Jyotika Arora, the organisers of the FAMDENT Shows. India is eventually opening up to FAMDENT, added, “I am excited with healthcare provisions. As per the this development. Messe Dusseldorf The agreement was signed during the market study released by the Indian India is a leader in medical exhibitions 25th Medical Fair India, which was Dental Association (IDA), the national and brings global and local expertise. held from 21 – 23 February 2019. market volume for dental services I am confident that this synergy with The event which has the credit of amounts to about US$ 1.2 billion and Messe Dusseldorf India will help being one of the leading medical its annual growth rate is estimated at FAMDENT Shows achieve new heights fairs in India and forms part of the 20%. Furthermore, the subcontinent by making the shows international MEDICAlliance , attracted over 600 is benefiting from global digitalisation – both in terms of exhibitors and exhibitors and about 15,000 trade because dental technology services visitors.” visitors. are being outsourced to Indian He further added, “Our publications laboratories in its wake. Expressing his views over the Famdent & Endodent will continue acquisition, Thomas Schlitt, Managing Further highlighting a competitive to stay within the Famdent Group’s Director of Messe Düsseldorf India edge here, Schlitt said, “Held in umbrella under the leadership Pvt. Ltd., said, “Over the coming years parallel with the trade fairs are of Jyotika and myself and we will we will develop the FAMDENT Shows conferences and workshops for continue our endeavours to utilize further in close cooperation with Dr continuous dental education rewarded this effectively to grow the exhibition Anil Arora. It perfectly fits in with our with CDE credits. Accordingly, and award portfolio. I am looking growth strategy through which we these side events primarily address forward to work in close cooperation install new trade fair themes for India a skilled professional audience. with Messe Dusseldorf India. Our while also capitalising on promising In addition, every year sees the loyal dental community across India investment opportunities by acquiring ‘FAMDENT Awards’ presented to that attend our shows year after year already established industry events.” honour outstanding achievements in will have access to more international With the rise in per capita income dental medicine. “ exhibitors and speakers in addition to reputed Indian speakers and and growing health awareness, Dr Anil Arora, Founder and CEO of exhibitors.”

APRIL - MAY | 2019 57 INDUSTRY UPDATES Messe Frankfurt India and MEX Exhibitions join hands to host Gartex Texprocess India

MEX Exhibitions, the organisation which holds the apparel and textile trade fair, Gartex India, has entered into strategic agreement Texprocess India, Messe Frankfurt’s international trade fair for processing textiles and flexible materials. This union has resulted in creating a common industry platform, Gartex Texprocess India will be the part of Messe Frankfurt’s Texpertise Network and will leverage the group’s strong global network and expertise in the sector. Speaking about this association, Raj Manek, executive Director than 35 million people in the country. technologies and encourages more and Board Member, Messe By 2024, the country’s export volume and better automation processes for Frankfurt Asia Holding said,” Our is expected to reach more than 300 the textile and apparel sector. shared commitment for industry billion US dollars. Besides, India development has led to the decision “Gartex India has grown multifold in also has the second largest textile of working in collaboration with MEX size since its debut in 2016, making manufacturing capacity globally Exhibitions., which is a strong brand the event wider in scope and greater with the textile machinery sector of enhanced offerings through a in significance year after year. It witnessing a growth of 8 to 10%, year single-source business platform - has created new standards for the on year. Gartex Texprocess India.” industry. Now, it is time to take it Both, Texprocess India and Gartex to the next level and this strategic Indian textile industry is one of the India, is supported by leading alliance with Texprocess of Messe largest industries in India, second associations and companies, and Frankfurt Trade Fairs India, Gartex only to China. It is the second aims to support the increase in India will take it to even greater largest industry in terms of providing manufacturing capacities, upgrading heights,” said Gaurav Juneja, director, employment opportunities to more MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd.

manufacturing). A broad programme Reed Exhibitions acquires of geo-cloning has successfully positioned many of these brands and related adjacencies outside Germany Mack Brooks Exhibitions and the United Kingdom to include a A division of RELX Group, Reed than 30 business-to-business events presence today in countries including Exhibitions, has inked a definitive in 14 countries, including Germany France, Italy, the United States, agreement to acquire Mack Brooks and the United Kingdom, serving Mexico, China, Singapore, Thailand, Exhibitions. This acquisition will not nine industry sectors. Flagship India and Turkey. only boost the already rich global brands include EuroBLECH (sheet Expressing his delight over the portfolio of the organisation, but metal working technology); inter agreement, Stephen Brooks, also help it attain an impressive airport (airport infrastructure and Chairman of Mack Brooks, said, “I assortment of industry-leading technology); Fastener Fair (fastener am delighted for our customers and brands. The agreement also gives and fixing technology); Chemspec (fine staff and extremely positive about the access to innovation and new value in and speciality chemicals); RAILTEX future of Mack Brooks as part of Reed both face-to-face and digital formats (rail infrastructure and technology); Exhibitions.” for the more than 175,000 Mack ICE Europe (paper, film and foil Brooks customers around the world. converting); CCE (manufacturing and The transaction is subject to converting corrugated and carton customary regulatory consents and is Mack Brooks Exhibitions based in board); PSE Europe (plastics) and expected to close during the first half St. Albans, United Kingdom, and InPrint (print technology for industrial of 2019. established in 1965 and features more

58 APRIL - MAY | 2019 INDUSTRY UPDATES

Vitafoods Europe ’19 to explore collaborations for nutra sector’s future

The 2019 edition of Vitafoods Europe, products, processes and packaging. Chris Lee, Managing Director, Global organised by Informa Exhibitions Health and Nutrition Network, Europe, The event will also include an array of and scheduled to take place at Informa Exhibitions, said, “The move popular interactive events, including Palexpo, Geneva, from 7 to 9 May, towards true circularity requires a innovation tours, a tasting centre, a is all set to explore the possibility monumental shift across the entire new ingredient zone and a distributor of collaboration in order to create a nutraceutical product lifecycle – from matchmaking service. better and sustainable future for the ingredient to shelf – and can only nutraceutical industry. The exhibition will also be marked be made possible by collaboration by Vitafoods Education Programme, across the entire supply chain.” There has been increased popularity that aims at giving the visitors ample of plant-based ingredients in recent “Our goal is to get the industry talking opportunity to learn and network with years and growth in the demand to understand how we can create the world’s leading nutraceutical, for responsible farming methods, a sustainable future, as well as to supplement and functional food worldwide. The focus of the three-day inspire the nutraceutical community industry experts, who would be event is to align consumer demands with trends, insights and solutions seen discussing topics including with manufacturers and seek a that support market-leading product personalised nutrition, sustainability, balance between naturally sourced development and business growth,” contract manufacturing and ingredients and sustainably produced he added. technological innovation. nutraceuticals, via innovative new

in various segments. The eminent speakers included, Divyanshu Verma, IoTShow.in focuses on ‘The Senior Engineering Manager, Intel R&D; Shahcindra and Shreya Saha, REVOtic Engineering; Rittu Sachdev, Power of Internet of Things’ RF engineer, TI; Ratnakar Gandhe, Head - Product Engineering Services The fourth edition of IoTShow.in new product development, we have and IoT solutions Group, Mindteck; was organised by EFY Group and conference tracks on Artificial Hemalatha Bhaskar, Director the Karnataka Trade Promotion intelligence, Machine Learning and - Platform Engineering, VISA; Organization, in Bengaluru from 26 Deep Learning, Blockchain and Poonam J Prasad, Senior Scientist, – 28 February, with ‘The Power of Distributed Ledgers, Cloud, Fog and CSIR - National Environmental Internet of Things’ being this year’s Edge Computing and similar subjects Engineering Research Institute; theme. that are important for our engineers Sumanth Naropanth, CEO, Deep to master.” Armor; Anand V, Managing Director, the inaugural address was delivered Anasup Consulting; Yogendran by Ramesh Chopra, Founder Virendra Chaudhari, IoT Sales Head Gopalakrishnan Gopithenna, IoT & Big and Chairman, EFY Group who - India, Intelligent Cloud, Microsoft Data Architect and Technical Product emphasised on the importance of delivered the keynote address on “The Owner, and Sunil Kumar Verma, IoT for business and how industry Power of Internet of Things”, which Senior IoT and Big Data Engineer, leaders can leverage the power of IoT was followed by a panel discussion SAP Labs; and Dr. Manjunath Iyer, to maximise profits. on – Profit from IoT. The topic of the Principal Consultant, Wipro. discussion was, “The Macro Dynamics Welcoming the dignitaries, Chopra, - Shifting Paradigms in Strategies, The IoTShow, was co-located event said, “I want to to thank those Policies, Disruptive Technologies and of the India Electronics Week (IEW) who have supported us including their impact on business revenue.” 2019 - one of the largest global the Ministry of Electronics and events to promote Indian electronics Information Technology (MeitY), our There were several talks by experts industry. The event was supported other partners, sponsors, participants and industry leaders on topics by the Ministry of Electronics and and well-wishers. This year, besides as varied as cybersecurity in IoT, Information Technology (MeitY), focus on electronics design and blockchain, 5G to IoT’s applications Digital India and Electronics India.

APRIL - MAY | 2019 59 INDUSTRY UPDATES

growth opportunity, key market and Exhibitions Market to Exhibit key players. The study objectives are to present the Exhibitions development in the Impressive Growth by 2025 United States, Europe and China. The ‘Global Exhibitions Research’ HTF Market Intelligence Report Global Exhibitions Forecast till 2025*. is for a leading company and is an recently announced their Global intelligent process of gathering and The leading key companies covered Exhibitions study with over 100 market analyzing the numerical data related in the research are Fiera Milano, data tables and figures on Exhibitions. to services and products, gives GL Events, ITE Group, MCH Group, The research allows you to get an idea about aiming the targeted Messe Frankfurt, RELX Group & UBM different methods for maximizing customer’s understanding, needs and and the report focuses on the global your profit and provides estimates for wants. and how effectively a company Exhibitions status, future forecast, can meet its requirements.

in cooperation with the Messe Düsseldorf Group, and the FTR4H Medical Fair India 2019 to Conference (Future for Health). This is the third time in a row that the event has been held and it addresses all attract industry experts the issues associated with the digital transformation of healthcare. Organised by Messe Dusseldorf India, the show this year, REHAINDIA, from 21 – 23 February at the Pragati powered by REHACARE, included The ‘Voice of Healthcare’, a 2-day Maidan Exhibition Center, New Delhi, ranges for rehabilitation and nursing conference dealing with various the 25th edition of Medical Fair India care. Besides, exhibitors from cross-sector topics related to 2019, saw several Indian health segments like medical products and the implementation of a modern industry stalwarts collect under one devices, laboratory technology and healthcare system was also held, roof. diagnostics, clinic and health centre which was about trends in technology furniture, and the health IT and mobile such as Artificial Intelligence, aspects There were over 15,000 trade visitors health solutions were also present. of international cooperation through seen visiting the fair and more than joint ventures with manufacturers 600 exhibitors participating in the The event also featured Clin Lab and institutions or other countries trade fair which is an ideal platform India, a conference with exhibition as well as about best practices for for the healthcare domain. on lab medicine trends conceived start-up companies and company and organised by Scherago (USA) A new feature was introduced at management.

AFECA-IAEE Joint Meeting during CEFCO 2019 in Qionghai!

Mr Walter Yeh, AFECA President and Mr. Jackson Chang, IPIM, Macao), speak during the plenary session: New Mr Edward Liu, IPP, hosted a meeting Andrew Phau, STB, Singapore, as Era, New Mission, at CEFCO 2019, with Mr Tom Cindric, IAEE Chairman well as AFECA’s members Haikou and therefore had the opportunity and David DuBois, President & CEO, Convention and Exhibition Industry to promote AFECA to an audience where AFECA was introduced the Association, SINEC and several more of over 600 international, Asian, and latest global and Asian industry joined the meeting, which saw more China MICE industry professionals. trends shared along with the recent than 60 participants. highlights of CES 2019. AFECA President Yeh was also invited to advisor, Irene Lau (who represented

60 APRIL - MAY | 2019 INDUSTRY UPDATES

Vasai Industrial Expo marks MSME growth in Maharashtra

EXHICON organised the 4th edition Mr. M. Q Syed, Managing Director, important industrial topics. of Vasai Industrial Expo from 16 to EXHICON said, “ EXHICON has This year was marked by the first- 18 February, at the Hitendra Thakur been a trendsetter and pioneer in ever Vasai Start-up Challenge which Appa ground, Vasai (east). The expo, conceptualizing geographic industrial aimed at facilitating and boosting covering an area of over 20,000 shows at various industrial belts of young entrepreneurs in Vasai. Five square metres, is a platform for more Maharashtra. The growth of Vasai semi-finalists were selected and were than 175 companies from Vasai and Industrial Expo 2019 is a subsequent given a chance to present their ideas in Thane industrial belt to get exposure step in consistently providing a front of a panel of peers. The winners to the global market. The event was platform to SME’s, MSME’s, and got full funding and mentoring by organized in association with Govalis local businesses. With the exhibition Exhicon to build their businesses. Industries Association, MACCIA, growing multi-laterally year on Besides, there was also distribution Udyami Maharashtra, VIA, PMAL, year, trade in Vasai is set to get a of food licenses to 1000 women from SME Chamber of India, Imamia tremendous boost”. across the region to help them start Chamber of Commerce and Industry, The exhibition boasted of around 175 their own business ventures in the TSSAI, and COSIA. participants and over 10000 visitors food industry in Mumbai. The exhibition was aimed at facilitating and provided an interactive platform The expo witnessed product launches International Trade and Investment for the participants and visitors. and displays from sectors like and was marked by the presence of Some of the highlights in association plastic & polymers, engineering & a 10-member high profile delegation with PSUs, Private Sector Majors, manufacturing, electrical, luminaire from a globally renowned Automobile MNCs, Utility & Services, Automobile & electronics, print & packaging, Company from Iran. Several new Giants etc., MSME & National Small renewable, solar energy, LED, food and existing industrial products Industries Corporation (NSIC) processing, plants & equipment. were displayed and launched at the Pavilion, VIE SME Awards 2019 exhibition. and seminars, and workshops on

Record participation by Indian exhibitors at Ambiente trade fair in Germany

Organised by Messe Frankfurt, called ‘Handmake in India’ at the fair He also said that more than 500 Ambiente 2019, which was held to promote local Indian handicraft Indian exhibitors participated in this from February 8 to 12 2019, saw the products. international fair making India one of participation of over 500 exhibitors the top participants. Messe Frankfurt’s India head Raj from India displaying Indian Manak pointed out that around 35 It is estimated that approximately handicrafts. The exhibition, held in special Geographical Indication (GI) Rs 1,200 crore business by over 500 Germany’s with India as the partner tagged products representing the Indian participants and another Rs country, is one of the world’s leading crafts of India were the main highlight 2,000 crore of business inquiries were trade fairs for consumer goods. of the fair this year. He further generated during Ambiente 2019. With The event, is an annual trade added that traditional crafts such as more than 4000 exhibitors from about fair of home decors, kitchenware Rajasthan’s gemstone carvings and 80 countries, it is the preferred ground and textiles, with more than 4000 metal craft, Kashmir’s Kani Shawl, for décor trend spotting, colour trends exhibitors from about 80 countries Delhi’s Mughal wood carving, West and getting the first look at some of participating. The textiles ministry, Bengal’s Masland Mat weaving were the most revolutionary products in along with Messe Frankfurt India showcased and five Indian craftsmen the living and dining categories. had also launched a global campaign also gave live demos at the fair.

APRIL - MAY | 2019 61 13 - 15, June 2019 India Expo Centre & Mart, Delhi NCR

Catalysing India’s Economic Growth

International Conclave of the Indian Exhibition Industry

Education Industry Study Bussiness Matchmaking Host & Venue Partner Platinum Partner Awards Nights & Gold Partner Gala Dinner Partner Programs Partner Partner Partner

Silver Partners Conference Tea/Co ee Partners Notepad Partner

Venue Branding Partner Technology Partner Media Partners

Supporting Associations

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