Messe Frankfurt hits ‘record sales’ for German tradeshow

Messe Frankfurt is on track to post the “highest level” of sales by a German tradeshow, according to the group’s latest financial update.

The 2024 sales figures are projected to increase 28% to €780 million – from €609m in 2023. Read all about it below.

Here are the top headlines for your weekly event news updates:

• Messe Frankfurt records ‘highest ever’ sales by a German tradeshow
• AEO partners with M&A advisory firm Novistra
• Metro Toronto Convention Centre gets new CEO

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Messe Frankfurt records ‘highest ever’ sales by a German tradeshow

Messe Frankfurt projects its annual sales will increase 28% to €780m in 2024 – marking the “highest level” of sales recorded by a German trade fair company.

CEO Wolfgang Marzin attributed the growth to successful flagship events and strong international operations.

The company’s report sets out that this will be the “highest level of sales ever recorded” in the German market by a trade fair company.

Source: Messe Frankfurt Gmbh

Preliminary financial figures show:

• Group sales of €780m, up from €609m in 2023
• Domestic sales in Germany reaching €442m
• International operations accounting for 43% of group sales
• Group result expected to exceed €50m, compared to €18.5m in 2023

Wolfgang said: “At present, we expect consolidated sales for the year to be in the region of €780m (2023: €609m) – 28% more than in the previous year.

“With this substantial cushion, we are even better positioned to repay the loans that we arranged during the pandemic.

“It also means that we have the reserves we need for further investments in modernising our processes and IT systems, in the Group’s sustainable transformation, in future challenges in our business operations and, of course, in our employees.”

Detlef Braun, member of the executive board of Messe Frankfurt, said: “Face-to-face interaction is absolutely essential for building up and cultivating business relationships, particularly in the face of the many economic challenges and global market shifts.

“Healthy growth, very high satisfaction and record levels of internationality at our Group events all point to the strength of our brands and their importance for their communities.”

The company hosted more than 330 events worldwide in 2024, attracting over 98,000 exhibiting companies and an estimated 4.4m visitors.

Messe Frankfurt is expanding its presence in Asia through new events in Central Asia and ASEAN regions, while strengthening its position in the U.S. market across textiles, mobility and technology sectors.

The company completed its EMAS environmental validation in November and plans to publish its second environmental status report this month.

AEO partners with M&A advisory firm Novistra

The Association of Event Organisers has formed a partnership with mergers and acquisitions advisory firm Novistra Ltd to provide strategic services to its members.

The 12-month agreement establishes Novistra as AEO’s exclusive M&A partner.

The firm will offer consulting services to AEO members for acquisitions, restructuring and growth initiatives.

Sarah Scott, AEO’s director of events and operations, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Novistra and bring their expertise to AEO members.

“Mergers and acquisitions are pivotal moments in any business journey and having a trusted partner like this will be invaluable for our members as they explore opportunities for growth and evolution.

“This partnership is an exciting step forward in delivering tailored support that meets the strategic needs of our community.”

The collaboration will support event industry organizations during business transitions and expansion efforts.

Members will receive access to Novistra’s M&A advisory services as part of their AEO membership benefits.

Ash Mittel, managing director at Novistra Ltd, added: “At the core of Novistra’s value proposition is a deep-rooted passion for helping founders and shareholders maximise the value they extract from their business.

“Over the past 10+ years, the firm has advised and helped over 150 founders through various stages of their growth journey.

“The leadership team brings significant exhibition industry experience and knowledge to the table which, when coupled with the company’s global presence and investor network, means we are well-positioned to offer best-in-class M&A advisory to AEO’s members.

“We are excited to be partnering with the AEO and supporting its members on their M&A journey.”

Metro Toronto Convention Centre gets new CEO

Kathy Haley has been named president and CEO of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, becoming the first woman to lead the organization.

She joins after having worked for the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ), where she served as chief customer experience officer overseeing improvements at three major airports.

At PANYNJ, she led customer experience initiatives at LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy International and Newark Liberty International airports.

She previously served as the first president of Toronto’s Union Pearson Express airport rail system.

Justin Mooney, chair of the MTCC board of directors, said: “Kathy Haley’s proven track record in transforming customer experiences, managing complex large-scale operations and stakeholder groups, and driving business growth makes her an ideal leader for the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

“Her global experience, combined with her passion for elevating cities and regions, will be instrumental as we continue to position Toronto as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and events.”

Kathy added: “MTCC is a key asset to Toronto’s tourism and business ecosystem, and I look forward to working with the exceptional team to enhance the Centre’s global reputation, optimize its brand value, and deliver world-class experiences for visitors and event organizers alike.”

In her new role, Kathy will focus on expanding the convention center’s economic impact and enhancing customer service operations.

The MTCC hosts major events and conferences in downtown Toronto, contributing to the regional economy.

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