From January 8 to 10, 2025, the 20th China Expo Forum for International Cooperation (CEFCO 2025), with the theme "Fostering New Productivity for a Sustainable Future," was held in Tianjin. This forum was jointly hosted by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO), and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). It brought together representatives from renowned global exhibition companies, industry organizations, government departments, and professional media agencies to exchange ideas and discuss collaboration opportunities.
As a comprehensive solutions provider in the events and exhibitions sector, GL events was invited to attend the event. Mr. Romain Peiffert, CEO of GL events Greater China, and Mr. Stephen Lu, COO of GL events Greater China, attended the forum and delivered speeches, sharing GL events' successful practices and forward-thinking perspectives in the global exhibition industry. They also engaged in in-depth discussions and exchanges with industry partners both domestically and internationally.
The Success of Exhibition Destination Cities: Building a Professional Exhibition Ecosystem
Mr. Romain Peiffert emphasized that with the acceleration of globalization, building a professional exhibition ecosystem has become a key strategy for shaping "exhibition destinations." He highlighted that the collaborative development of both soft and hardware, the localization of global resources, and multi-party cooperation are essential factors in successfully creating an exhibition ecosystem.
By sharing classic case studies, such as the Sirha International Hotel and Catering Exhibition, the São Paulo Carnival in Brazil, and the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, he demonstrated GL events' experience in building successful exhibition ecosystems and the pivotal role exhibitions play in driving the economic, cultural, and sustainable development of cities. He also pointed out that the future exhibition industry will focus on digital transformation and green exhibitions to respond to the rapid changes in the global market and help cities achieve long-term prosperity and the sustainable development of exhibition destinations.
Exhibition Innovation Practices and Outlook: Core Principles in a Changing World
In the current global market environment, changes occur rapidly, and customer demands and expectations are constantly adjusting. The demand for service quality and professionalism continues to rise. Mr. Stephen Lu stated that innovation is the core principle for responding to this changing world, sharing GL events' innovation paths and successful practices in three key areas: business model innovation, digital innovation, and green innovation.
Through early planning and the integration of three major business sectors, GL events has adapted to economic structural changes and market demands. In the face of budget reductions, GL events is committed to providing clients with more diverse solutions that offer long-term growth potential. For example, in addition to offering exhibition stand services, GL events now tracks customer needs and leverages advantages from other business sectors, such as providing event venues, roadshow planning, and more, extending short-term cooperation into long-term partnerships.
In terms of green innovation, GL events proposed using 100% removable temporary eco-friendly structures for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. This solution successfully completed the Olympic venue construction while achieving cost savings and environmental goals. Looking ahead, GL events will continue to drive innovation to inject new energy into the global exhibition industry.
GL events: Driving the Future of the Industry with Innovation
With years of rich experience, a strong service network, and continuous innovation capabilities, GL events has become one of the leading companies in the global exhibition industry. In recent years, GL events has not only made steady progress in the domestic market but has also successfully launched numerous international exhibition projects, expanding its network of partners.
By participating in CEFCO 2025, GL events once again showcased its forward-looking vision and innovation-driven approach within the exhibition industry. The group is committed to continually expanding innovation to enhance customer experience, optimize service processes, and promote the sustainable development of the industry. GL events looks forward to exploring new opportunities with industry partners and jointly creating a better future for the exhibition industry.