Under this innovative partnership, SUSS graduates will have the opportunity to embed nine modules from the CEM program within their degree program. Students who successfully pass the exams for all nine modules will earn the prestigious CEM designation alongside their bachelor’s degree, providing them with a competitive advantage when entering the MICE and events industry workforce.

“This partnership represents a transformative step forward in enhancing global exhibitions and events education,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “By integrating our internationally recognized CEM certification directly into SUSS’s degree program, we are creating a new standard for academic excellence that will better prepare the next generation of industry professionals by ensuring graduates enter the workforce with both theoretical knowledge and industry-validated expertise.”

The signing ceremony was conducted by CEM Commission Chairperson Kyle F. Jordan, Ed.M., MS, CAE, CEM-AP, CMP Fellow, DES, CMM and Associate Professor Tan Teng Hooi, Dean of the School of Science and Technology at SUSS. The ceremony was witnessed by Dr. Edward Koh, Chairman of the Programme Advisory Committee at SUSS and Executive Director of Conventions, Meetings and Incentive Travel at Singapore Tourism Board, along with Richard Ireland, President of SACEOS (Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers). 

The program will take effect with the commencement of the January 2026 semester at SUSS. This initiative was spearheaded by SACEOS Head of Talent and Capability Development Lloyd Tan, CEM, who has been recognized as a champion for IAEE and the CEM program. The announcement has generated considerable excitement within Singapore’s events community, reflecting the region’s enthusiasm for enhanced educational standards and professional development opportunities.

IAEE’s Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) designation is a globally recognized designation that demonstrates the highest professional standard throughout the exhibitions and events management arena. It was created in 1975 to raise professional standards in the events industry and continues to be the premier mark of professional achievement. Click here to learn more about the IAEE Certification Journey.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
Sr. Communications & Content Manager | IAEE
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post IAEE Partners with Singapore University of Social Sciences to Integrate CEM Certification into Degree Program appeared first on IAEE.

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with the Events Industry Council (EIC) to include the Sustainable Event Professional Certificate (SEPC) program as part of IAEE’s globally recognized Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) Learning Program. This collaboration reinforces the shared commitment of both organizations to elevate professional standards and promote sustainable practices in the exhibitions and events industry.

The SEPC program, developed and delivered by EIC, equips event professionals with the knowledge and tools to implement sustainable event strategies, measure impact, and influence change. By integrating SEPC into its educational portfolio, IAEE will offer CEM candidates and industry professionals an opportunity to deepen their understanding of sustainability, an increasingly vital area of expertise in today’s business events landscape.

“The CEM Learning Program is designed to support exhibitions and events professionals at every stage of their career, and sustainability is a critical component of that journey,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “At IAEE, we are deeply committed to helping industry professionals make their exhibitions and events more environmentally sustainable since sustainability has moved from being a bonus feature to becoming an ethical obligation and critical success factor for forward-thinking exhibitions. We are proud to collaborate with EIC to offer the SEPC program and further empower our global community with the education needed to lead responsibly and effectively.

“This commitment to sustainability extends beyond our educational offerings to our own events. We are particularly proud that Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition has been recognized by EIC for achieving Silver Level Certification in its Sustainable Event Standards two years in a row – a significant step up from our previous Bronze Level Certification. This recognition demonstrates our organization’s dedication to walking the walk when it comes to sustainable event practices, and it reinforces why integrating sustainability education into the CEM Learning Program is so important for our industry’s future.”

Launched in 1975, IAEE’s CEM Learning Program is the premier professional designation for exhibition and event organizers, recognized in more than 20 countries. The program emphasizes practical knowledge, real-world application, and ongoing professional growth across a variety of core competencies, including event planning, marketing, operations, and now, sustainability through the SEPC program.

“We are excited to join forces with IAEE in bringing the SEPC program to a wider audience,” added EIC President and CEO Amy Calvert. “This partnership strengthens our collective ability to embed sustainable thinking into the foundation of our industry’s education and practices.”

The SEPC program is now available through IAEE’s CEM Learning Program offerings. Click here For more information.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

About Events Industry Council (EIC)
The Events Industry Council (EIC) is the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition, and standards. EIC promotes a vibrant and resilient global events ecosystem through certification, education, and initiatives such as the Sustainable Event Professional Certificate (SEPC) and the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation.

EIC’s global federation includes more than 30 Association Members representing more than 103,500 individuals and 19,500 entities, and more than 30 Corporate Members and Strategic Partners with global operations and event teams in countries around the world.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
Sr. Communications & Content Manager | IAEE
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post IAEE Partners with Events Industry Council to Offer Sustainability Course as Part of CEM Learning Program appeared first on IAEE.

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announced today that registration is now open for Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition 2025, taking place 8-10 December 2025 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.

This year’s theme, ONE EPIC EVENT, highlights what makes Expo! Expo! the premier annual gathering for exhibitions and events professionals worldwide. Expo! Expo! provides unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking and business development by bringing together the largest concentration of exhibition organizers, suppliers and industry experts in North America. Through innovative programming and comprehensive networking opportunities, Expo! Expo! sets the standard for professional development in the exhibition industry.

“Expo! Expo! truly empowers industry professionals to redefine success in epic ways,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “This year’s program demonstrates how innovative approaches to education, networking and business development can transform not just individual careers, but entire events and organizations by putting exceptional show design into action.”

EPIC Learning Opportunities

Expo! Expo! 2025 hones professional development by bringing education directly to the exhibition floor through five specialized learning zones that demonstrates how attendees can integrate dynamic learning experiences into their own events:

• Captivate, Engage, Elevate: The Ultimate Marketing Playbook explores cutting-edge strategies for digital marketing, content creation, brand management and customer engagement, providing practical knowledge for driving business growth in today’s competitive landscape.
• Monetize & Maximize: Sales and Sponsorship Mastery delivers actionable tactics for identifying and enhancing exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities while developing essential selling skills to meet evolving customer needs.
• Event Excellence: Elevating Design, Operations and Engagement offers comprehensive insights into strategic and operational excellence, covering everything from contracting and safety protocols to sustainability practices and experiential design principles.
• Forward Thinking: Innovations and Insights Shaping the Future equips participants with forward-thinking perspectives on workforce development, data analysis and emerging trends that are reshaping the exhibitions and events landscape.
• The Power of AI’s Impact on Event Evolution provides hands-on applications for integrating AI-driven solutions into trade show operations, featuring real-world case studies from successful implementations.

EPIC Networking and Business Development Opportunities

With extended exhibition floor hours and innovative engagement zones, Expo! Expo! 2025 creates unprecedented opportunities for meaningful connections. Attendees can network with the largest gathering of exhibition organizers in the industry, representing the decision-makers behind the $90 billion business-to-business (B2B) exhibitions industry.

Expo! Expo! brings together owners, executives and managers from companies and associations organizing events across all marketplace verticals – from niche gatherings to North America’s largest trade shows. Whether showcasing new products, meeting potential customers or networking with industry experts, Expo! Expo! delivers unparalleled value for exhibitors and attendees alike.

The Expo! Expo! exhibition floor will feature 250 exhibitors across 70+ categories of products, services and innovations for the exhibitions and events industry. This diverse ecosystem ensures connections that are unmatched in scope and value by offering attendees and exhibitors the perfect platform to connect, collaborate and create.

EPIC Registration Incentives

To maximize value for attendees, Expo! Expo! 2025 offers BE SMART early registration rates through 17 October 2025. Additional specialized discounts are available for first-time attendees, sophomore participants, hosted buyers, professionals with the Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) designation, and multiple registrants from the same company. Click here for complete registration information, program details and special discount opportunities.

Learn more about what makes Expo! Expo! ONE EPIC EVENT here.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
Sr. Communications & Content Manager | IAEE
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post Expo! Expo! 2025 Registration Now Open appeared first on IAEE.

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) successfully concluded two specialized events on 25 June 2025 in Baltimore, Md. that delivered critical insights and practical strategies to exhibitions and events professionals operating in distinct market segments. IAEE’s Half-Day Healthcare Forum and Organizer Insights Summit, both powered by Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) data, addressed the unique challenges and opportunities facing healthcare exhibition managers and small-to-midsize show organizers in today’s evolving marketplace.

“These specialized forums underscore our commitment to delivering focused, research-driven insights that address the distinct economic and operational challenges within our industry,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “Whether our members are navigating complex healthcare compliance or working to enhance the impact of smaller-scale events, they deserve strategies that are precisely aligned with their unique market conditions.”

Half-Day Healthcare Forum Addresses Sector-Specific Challenges

The IAEE Half-Day Healthcare Forum brought together meeting professionals and exhibit managers to tackle the dynamic healthcare exhibition landscape. CEIR Vice President of Research Nancy Drapeau, IPC opened the program with “Unlocking Success: Insights and Strategies from CEIR’s Benchmarking Study to Elevate Your Healthcare Event,” revealing that while the overall exhibition industry remains 7.4% below 2019 levels, the medical and healthcare sector faces particular headwinds, trailing 14.6% behind pre-pandemic performance.

“The healthcare exhibition sector is experiencing unique pressures from macroeconomic factors, particularly trade tariffs and inflation,” explained Drapeau. “However, the CEIR Index indicates the healthcare sector will sustain a steady pace of recovery in spite of these challenges. To help healthcare events maximize positive outcomes in today’s challenging business environment, adopting best practices in goal setting and use of metrics, ideally monitoring progress in real time to assure exhibit sales and attendee acquisition results are on pace to hit goals is critical. CEIR’s new benchmarking playbook report offers insights to help organizers succeed.”

Melissa Vallone, Partner at Barnes & Thornburg LLP, delivered a comprehensive session on “Insights Into Medical Meeting Management: Challenges, Risks and Solutions,” addressing three critical areas: data privacy compliance, legally compliant content sourcing and transparency requirements under the Physician Payment Sunshine Act (Open Payments). Vallone emphasized rapidly evolving privacy laws and the serious implications of copyright infringement, noting that statutory damages can reach up to $150,000 per infringed work.

The forum concluded with a panel discussion, “Navigating the Future of Healthcare Exhibitions: Insights from Industry Players,” moderated by Flanagan and featuring La Shon Smith, CEM, Director of Exhibitions at the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Aubrey Wanner, CEO of the National Society of Histotechnology.

IAEE extends a special thank you to the title sponsor of the Half-Day Healthcare Forum, New Orleans & Company.

Organizer Insights Summit Empowers Small-to-Midsize Exhibition Professionals

The IAEE Organizer Insights Summit specifically targeted professionals managing exhibitions under 199,000 net square feet, delivering tailored strategies for success in the current economic environment. CEIR research presented by Drapeau revealed that while larger events show the strongest recovery results, smaller shows face a more gradual rebound timeline, with economic conditions prompting forecast adjustments showing smaller shows recovering more slowly than their larger counterparts.

Key insights shared during the summit included:

• Market Recovery Patterns: By event size, the largest events demonstrate the strongest performance, with exhibitors and net square feet leading recovery across all event sizes.
• Economic Impact: 29% of global travel buyers expect declining business travel volume in 2025, which suggests challenges for international attendance particularly affected by trade policy uncertainties.
• Strategic Adaptation: The importance of agility in monitoring trends, revising goals, and managing expectations while capitalizing on domestic opportunities.

Both events emphasized the critical importance of benchmarking strategies, real-time performance monitoring, and data-driven decision making. Summit attendees gained access to CEIR’s Performance Benchmark Playbook series and Event Performance Analyzer tool to help optimize their exhibition strategies. Click here to access the first three reports from the Performance Benchmark Playbook series, available for free to IAEE members and $249 USD each for non-members.

IAEE extends a special thank you to its Organizer Insights Summit partners Discover Puerto Rico and Fern, an Nth Degree Company.

Industry Outlook and Strategic Recommendations

Both forums highlighted the need for continued adaptation in a challenging economic environment. Key recommendations included:

• Embrace Agility: Monitor trends continuously and pivot strategies when market conditions change.
• Leverage Domestic Opportunities: Explore onshoring trends and resilient supply chain developments to attract new exhibitors and partnerships.
• Support Non-Attending Participants: Consider hybrid formats and digital engagement options to maintain community connections.
• Elevate Benchmarking: Implement robust performance tracking systems to drive success and inform strategic planning.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

About CEIR
The official research division of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE), the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) serves to advance 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. For additional information, visit https://ceir.iaee.com/.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
Sr. Communications & Content Manager | IAEE
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post IAEE Delivers Critical Industry Intelligence to Exhibition Professionals appeared first on IAEE.

These Playbooks offer the same gold-standard CEIR data redesigned to be more accessible, visual, and actionable than ever.

For Small Shows

See how your event stacks up across financial benchmarks, pricing, and participation — and how tracking performance metrics directly ties to revenue and exhibitor growth.

For Midsize Shows

Run a smarter, more strategic midsize event with benchmarks for revenue, digital ROI, and exhibitor success. You’ll learn what high-performing shows do differently and how you compare.

For Healthcare Events

Tailored to your compliance-heavy world, this playbook includes participation benchmarks, smart education strategies, and ways to balance sponsor ROI with regulatory realities.

What’s the #1 insight across all three?

Tracking performance metrics isn’t just a best practice — it’s a proven growth strategy. Events that consistently track attendee sentiment and exhibitor activity outperform their peers in revenue, attendance, and profitability.

Bonus Resource

Every download now includes a Benchmarking Worksheet, a simple tool to help you apply the data to your event and build smarter goals for 2025.

Pick the report that matches your event or grab all three. They’re free to IAEE members ($249 USD each for non-members), easy to scan, and built to help you lead with confidence! Click here to download.

The post CEIR’s New Performance Benchmark Playbooks Now Available for Download appeared first on IAEE.

Today, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announced that IAAPA Expo Europe 2024 has been honored with the 2025 IAEE International Excellence Award, recognizing the event’s outstanding achievements as an international exhibition and its significant contribution to elevating the global exhibition industry.

IAAPA Expo Europe 2024, held at the RAI in Amsterdam, marked a historic milestone as the largest European show in IAAPA’s history. Among its achievements, the four-day event welcomed 17,370 verified attendees, representing a remarkable 41% increase from the previous year. The exhibition floor expanded to cover 18,670 square meters, providing a showcase platform for 685 exhibiting companies – an 8% increase year-over-year – to present their latest products and services to the global attractions community. Beyond the impressive show floor expansion, IAAPA Expo Europe 2024 delivered exceptional educational value and networking opportunities.

IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM presented the 2025 IAEE International Excellence Award at the awards gala held during IMEX Frankfurt in May. “It is a sincere pleasure to recognize IAAPA Expo Europe 2024 for exemplifying the power of international exhibitions to drive industry growth and innovation,” she said. “IAAPA’s commitment and success in creating meaningful connections, educational opportunities and business development platforms is truly commendable.”

“We are deeply honored to receive IAEE’s International Excellence Award, which is a testament to the hard work, vision and global collaboration that drive IAAPA Expo Europe,” added IAAPA Vice President of Expo Operations and Sales Christy Spahn. “This recognition reflects our commitment to delivering an unparalleled experience for the international attractions community. With record-breaking attendance and the largest trade show floor in the event’s history, this year’s Expo not only exceeded expectations – it demonstrated the growing strength and global impact of our industry.”

The IAEE Awards Program celebrates outstanding achievement in exhibitions and events by IAEE members across 10 categories. These awards represent IAEE’s highest honors, and the remaining honors will be presented at Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition taking place 8-10 December 2025 in Houston, Texas.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
IAEE Sr. Communications & Content Manager
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post IAAPA Expo Europe 2024 Receives Prestigious 2025 IAEE International Excellence Award appeared first on IAEE.

Today, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) and BTX Global Logistics announced a comprehensive three-year partnership agreement naming BTX as the Official Ground/Air Freight Carrier for Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition from 2025 through 2027.

The partnership encompasses three major industry events:

• Expo! Expo! 2025: 8-10 December in Houston, TX
• Expo! Expo! 2026: 16-18 November in Milwaukee, WI
• Expo! Expo! 2027: 6-8 December in New Orleans, LA

Under the agreement, BTX Global Logistics will provide comprehensive freight transportation services to IAEE exhibitors, including domestic and international air, surface, ocean and caravan services, as well as customs brokerage capabilities. The company will maintain an onsite service desk throughout each event’s move-in and move-out periods, ensuring seamless logistics support for all participants.

“We are excited to partner with BTX Global Logistics to enhance the exhibitor experience at Expo! Expo!,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “Its comprehensive logistics capabilities and commitment to exceptional service align perfectly with our commitment to providing outstanding value to Expo! Expo! attendees and exhibitors.”

BTX Global Logistics will offer specialized services including exact per-pound quotes, a 10% “Round Trip” discount for exhibitors shipping both inbound and outbound, pre-printed shipping labels delivered directly to exhibitor booths, and a dedicated 24/7 monitored email system with online portal access for quotes, bookings, and shipment tracking.

“This partnership represents a significant milestone for BTX Global Logistics,” said Glenn Patton, Vice President of Compliance and Risk at BTX Global Logistics. “We look forward to bringing our expertise in trade show logistics to serve the IAEE community and support Expo! Expo!’s continued success.”

BTX Global Logistics is a leading provider of comprehensive freight transportation and logistics services, specializing in trade show and exhibition logistics. Based in Shelton, Connecticut, BTX offers domestic and international shipping solutions, customs brokerage, and specialized event logistics services to clients across various industries.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
IAEE Sr. Communications & Content Manager
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post BTX Global Logistics Named Official Expo! Expo! Ground/Air Freight Carrier appeared first on IAEE.

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE), applauds recent legislation from the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways & Means and Committee on Education & the Workforce that will strengthen the competitiveness of the industry going forward.

As part of the ongoing Congressional budget reconciliation process, the House of Representatives advanced two bills in recent days that would maintain several Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (ECA)-supported tax policies while creating two new workforce development pathways for the industry’s next-generation workforce.

• The House Committee on Ways & Means’ “One Big, Beautiful Bill” would retain the pro-growth tax treatment of business profits, private investments, and association events while transforming Section 529 college savings programs into career savings programs by paying for certain licenses and certifications.
• The House Committee on Education & the Workforce’s “Student Success and Taxpayer Savings Plan” would expand the Pell Grant program to pay for high-quality short-term skilled workforce training for the first time.

“The House of Representatives has taken two big steps forward toward ensuring our industry’s collective ability to drive economic growth, support job creation, and empower small businesses into the future,” said ECA Executive Vice President Tommy Goodwin. “These issues will be front and center on ECA Legislative Action Day on May 29, where industry leaders and advocates will encourage Congress to keep the positive momentum going.”

Click here for more information about ECA Legislative Action Day 2025.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

About the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance
The Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA) is a coalition of leading professional and industry associations comprising the unified advocacy voice of the business and professional events industry. To learn more about ECA and its work to advance the interests of the industry, please visit https://www.exhibitionsconferencesalliance.org/.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
IAEE Sr. Communications & Content Manager
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

Tommy Goodwin
ECA Vice President
+1 (703) 672-0780
tommy.goodwin@exhibitionsconferencesalliance.org

The post IAEE Applauds House of Representatives Tax and Workforce Legislation appeared first on IAEE.

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) is pleased to announce the promotion of Stacy Powers, CEM to Vice President of Learning Experiences, effective immediately. In her new role, Powers will lead the operational strategy, delivery, and execution of knowledge and education initiatives to enhance value for IAEE members worldwide.

Powers previously served as IAEE’s Director of Learning Experiences, where she was responsible for the development and planning of IAEE’s education programs including Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition education, multiple Women’s Leadership Forums, IAEE Leadership Institute (formerly KLI), and IAEE webinar content. Prior to that, she held the position of Senior Education Manager at IAEE. Her promotion recognizes her significant contributions to IAEE’s educational offerings and her strategic vision for the future of professional development in the exhibitions and events industry.

“I am truly honored and excited to step into this new position as Vice President of Learning Experiences,” said Powers. “It’s an amazing opportunity to further contribute to the team and organization, and I look forward to leading and driving impactful strategies that will not only elevate our team and organization to new levels of success but also enhance the educational offerings that we provide to our membership.”

“We conducted an extensive search to find the right fit for this important leadership role, and Stacy stood out as the clear choice,” added IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “Her years of experience in both education and the association space, combined with her deep understanding of our organization and commitment to its mission, made her the ideal candidate. It’s especially rewarding to be able to promote from within and recognize the talent and leadership we already have on our team.”

In her expanded role, Powers will oversee all aspects of IAEE’s educational and professional development programs, including the prestigious Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) designation program. She will lead the development of new CEM licensees globally while maintaining current relationships with licensees. Additionally, she will manage the Education Department team, providing strategic leadership to ensure efficient operations and achievement of departmental goals.

Powers brings a diverse and extensive background to her new role. Before joining IAEE, she served as Professional Development Manager at Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) and spent 12 years as a Director of Human Resources and Compliance within the medical and dental industry. She also worked at Meeting Professionals International (MPI) managing various educational programs.

Powers began her career as a counselor assisting at-risk youth, battered women and children, drawing on her initial background in Psychology. She holds a Master of Science Degree in Human Resources and Training and the Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) designation. This multifaceted experience has equipped her with a unique perspective on professional development and education in the exhibitions and events industry.

Click here for more information about IAEE’s learning experiences and initiatives.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
IAEE Sr. Communications & Content Manager
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post IAEE Announces Promotion of Stacy Powers, CEM to Vice President of Learning Experiences appeared first on IAEE.

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announced today the release of the 2025 CEIR Index Dashboard, a comprehensive analysis of the 2024 U.S. business-to-business (B2B) exhibition industry performance that includes economic and industry forecasts through 2027.

The CEIR Index Dashboard is produced by IAEE’s research division, the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR), and powered by Oxford Economics’ Symphony BI engine – a robust interactive tool that measures year-over-year changes across four critical metrics dating back to 2000 up to present day: net square feet (NSF) of exhibit space sold, professional attendance, number of exhibiting companies and gross revenue. These metrics are analyzed for exhibitions of all sizes across 14 distinct industry sectors:

• Business Services (BZ)
• Consumer Goods and Services (CG)
• Discretionary Consumer Goods and Services (CS)
• Education (ED)
• Food (FD)
• Financial, Legal and Real Estate (FN)
• Government (GV)
• Building, Construction, Home and Repair (HM)
• Industrial/Heavy Machinery and Finished Business Inputs (ID)
• Communications and Information Technology (IT)
• Medical and Health Care (MD)
• Raw Materials and Science (RM)
• Sporting Goods, Travel and Entertainment (ST)
• Transportation (TX)

“The 2025 CEIR Index Dashboard was developed in collaboration with Oxford Economics’ Symphony BI resulting in a trusted, independent resource for business leaders and analysts aiming to assess the U.S. B2B exhibitions sector’s contribution to the wider economy,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “Backed by rigorous data analysis, historical benchmarks and forward-looking economic forecasts through 2027, this tool provides reliable intelligence on one of the most enduring and essential drivers of in-person commerce.”

Recent findings reflect that the exhibition industry demonstrated strong recovery momentum in Q4 2024, with the CEIR Total Index reaching 95.6, representing a 6.0% improvement from the previous year. This performance positioned the industry just 4.4% below pre-pandemic levels, marking significant progress compared to the 20.3% shortfall in Q4 2022 and 10.9% deficit in Q4 2023. Notably, 37.0% of completed events in 2024 surpassed their pre-pandemic performance levels, an 8.0 percentage point increase from 2023.

“Our outlook for the exhibition industry remains positive based on recent corporate earnings and observed bookings for future events,” said Adam Sacks, President of Tourism Economics. “However, tariffs pose significant risks to U.S. business performance as input costs rise and sentiment is unsettled by ongoing policy uncertainty. In addition, contentious policy and rhetoric from the administration are discouraging travel to the U.S., which will limit international participation in trade shows.”

Sacks will present a forecast update of the 2025 CEIR Index in a webinar on 14 May 2025 titled, “Where Is the B2B Exhibition Industry Now? What is the Outlook? How to Plan When the Business Environment Keeps Changing!” Click here for more details and to register.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

About CEIR
The official research division of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE), the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) serves to advance 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. For additional information, visit https://ceir.iaee.com/.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
Sr. Communications & Content Manager | IAEE
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post IAEE Releases Comprehensive Update of U.S. B2B Trade Show Industry appeared first on IAEE.

These tariffs will increase costs for business and professional event organizers, exhibitors, and attendees alike. Moreover, these tariffs will particularly harm small businesses, which account for 99% of industry companies and 80% of all exhibitors.

This year, the exhibitions and events industry is on track to employ 2.63 million Americans and drive $426.1 billion in spending nationwide. That is why IAEE and ECA oppose these new tariffs, which will negatively impact our collective ability to drive economic growth, support job creation, empower small businesses, and help to solve our most urgent societal challenges.

IAEE will continue to work with its members, partners, and other key stakeholders in Washington, DC to advocate for trade policies that will strengthen the competitiveness of the U.S. business and professional events industry going forward and allow us to continue to serve as a growth engine for the U.S. economy.

IAEE also encourages industry leaders and advocates to share their concerns with their policymakers through the ECA Advocacy Network’s email action center. In addition, ECA has also established the ECA Tariff Resource Center on the ECA website with the latest news impacting the industry.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

About the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance
The Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA) is a coalition of leading professional and industry associations comprising the unified advocacy voice of the business and professional events industry. To learn more about ECA and its work to advance the interests of the industry, please visit https://www.exhibitionsconferencesalliance.org/.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
IAEE Sr. Communications & Content Manager
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

Tommy Goodwin
ECA Vice President
+1 (703) 672-0780
tommy.goodwin@exhibitionsconferencesalliance.org

The post IAEE Statement on Introduction of New Tariffs appeared first on IAEE.

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announced today that Kapil Kher, CEM, Chief Information Officer at the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has joined its Board of Directors. With more than 20 years of technology leadership experience, Kher excels in aligning digital strategies with organizational goals, driving transformation and fostering growth.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kapil to our Board of Directors,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “His extensive technology expertise and proven track record of innovation will be invaluable in helping IAEE continue to lead and transform the exhibitions and events industry.”

“Joining the IAEE Board is an exciting opportunity to drive technological advancement and strategic growth in an industry that thrives on community connections and meaningful experiences,” added Kher. “I’m thrilled to contribute my expertise in harnessing data and Gen AI to enhance digital experiences that bring us together. I look forward to supporting IAEE’s mission by blending cutting-edge technology with human interaction and transforming face-to-face events into vital catalysts for business development and innovation.”

A visionary leader, Kher made significant contributions to AVIXA, the producer of InfoComm, as Senior Vice President of Information Technology. During his tenure, he revolutionized event technology and enhanced digital experiences through strategic initiatives that fueled innovation, revenue growth, and inclusivity. His efforts in integrating AI into event planning and managing global events like Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) underscore his strategic acumen, commitment to excellence, and advocacy for diverse perspectives.

Kher held numerous director-level roles in IT prior to AVIXA, consistently delivering operational efficiencies and spearheading global projects. His innovative solutions in database and web development have left a lasting impact across various organizations. He holds a Master of Science in Computer Engineering degree from the University of Maryland and is certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP) as well as Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM).

For the past three years, Kher has chaired IAEE’s Event Technologies Committee, reflecting his dedication to innovation, diversity, and professional growth within the industry. His passion for leveraging technology, AI, and generative AI positions him as a transformative figure, shaping the future of sustainable development and event technology on a global scale.

About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.

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Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
IAEE Sr. Communications & Content Manager
+1 (972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com

The post Kapil Kher, CEM Joins IAEE Board of Directors appeared first on IAEE.