The performance of the industry, as measured by the CEIR Total Index, posted a decent year-over-year gain of 1.8 per cent (see Figure 1), even though it underperformed the macroeconomy (see Figure 2).

“The increase in the first quarter supports our prediction that the exhibition industry will finally enter into an expansion phase in 2018 with the Total Index surpassing its previous peak,” said CEIR economist Allen Shaw, Ph.D., chief economist for Global Economic Consulting Associates, Inc.

Building, Construction, Home and Repair; Industrial/Heavy Machinery and Finished Business Inputs; and Government all registered robust year-over-year gains. In contrast, Consumer Goods and Retail Trade and Education posted year-over-year declines.

All exhibition metrics in the first quarter posted positive year-over-year gains (Figures 3 and 4). Real revenues (nominal revenues adjusted for inflation) posted the largest increase of 2.8 per cent followed by net square feet which rose 2.0 per cent, whereas attendees and exhibitors gained 1.8 per cent and 0.7 per cent, respectively.

“The first quarter of 2018 demonstrates that even in times when some sectors may be struggling, the total CEIR Index indicates the exhibitions industry is poised for steady growth,” said CEIR CEO Cathy Breden, CMP, CAE.

The CEIR Event Performance Analyser provides exhibition organisers with a tool to measure how an event is performing in its sector as well as the overall industry. The CEIR Index Report provides an economic overview of the exhibition industry, including key indicators for growth. Together, these resources provide insights for developing business strategies and goals.