Events Industry Alliance Unveils 2024 SASiE Report Highlighting Exhibition Sector's Growth

The Events Industry Alliance (EIA), representing AEO, AEV, and ESSA, has released the ninth edition of the Size and Scale Index for Exhibitions (SASiE) report. This comprehensive analysis indicates a notable recovery in the UK's exhibition sector, with total event days and gross space sold aligning closely with figures from before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the report notes slight decreases in average event duration and both gross and net exhibition sizes compared to the previous year.​

Marija Erzen, co-owner of Solutions2 and current EIA chair, emphasized the report's significance, stating, "The report provides vitally important market insight for our industry and includes cumulative comparative data from 2015." Rachel Parker, AEV director, highlighted its role as the sole in-depth analysis of UK exhibitions, offering substantial value to members and informing governmental discussions.​

The 2024 report documents over 1,000 exhibitions, marking a significant increase and nearing pre-pandemic levels. While visitor and exhibitor numbers are showing signs of recovery, they have yet to fully return to their former figures. Notably, some venues have reported a surge in new show launches, underscoring the exhibition industry's positive impact on UK trade.​

The uptick in events is partly attributed to a rise in conference events featuring at least 500m² of exhibition space, alongside numerous new consumer events. Parker added, "The UK exhibitions industry will continue to play a crucial role in driving international trade and prosperity for business event destinations across the UK while, at the same time, supporting the government’s growth agenda."​

Compiled annually by RJS Associates and Tony Rogers Conference & Event Services, the SASiE report is based on data from participating AEV and AEO members. The full report is accessible through the EIA website and the member zones of AEV, AEO, and ESSA.​

Author: ESSA News
Original Source: essa.uk.com

Read the full report: SASiE 2024 Report