The International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES) has launched a global research initiative focused on exhibitor spending and purchasing decisions. The study will examine where exhibitors spend their money, what influences those decisions and which services they value most.
IFES is conducting the research with independent partner jwc GmbH. Together, they aim to build a clearer international picture of exhibitor budgets and service priorities.
The survey is open through the end of October. IFES is encouraging exhibitors and industry partners around the world to participate.
Where Exhibitors Spend
The research will examine spending on stand space, construction and design, logistics, transport, accommodation, personnel, rigging, marketing and communication. It will also cover other services connected to exhibition participation.
In addition, researchers will compare purchasing decisions across regions, industries and event formats. The study will also examine differences between B2B and B2C events.
IFES President Jörg Zeissig said the industry already has strong data on exhibition space, attendance and market trends. However, comparable international data on exhibitor budgets and purchasing decisions remains limited.
“Understanding where exhibitors invest, what they value from their partners and what influences their choices, will give the wider industry a clearer view,” Zeissig said.
He said the research could also create a benchmark for tracking how customer expectations and markets change over time.
Why Participation Matters
The study aims to give service providers better information about customer priorities and demand. As a result, IFES hopes companies can use the findings to compare markets, refine services and make better investment decisions.
The project has two parts. First, researchers will examine developments in the global exhibition market, including growth areas and structural trends. The second part will focus on exhibition and event services through an international survey of exhibitors.
IFES Executive Director Gregor Bischkopf said broad participation will be critical to producing useful results.
“No single company can build this picture alone,” Bischkopf said. “By opening the survey to exhibitor networks across our membership and industry partners, we can create an evidence base that is more representative and more useful to everyone.”
Therefore, IFES is asking members and industry partners to share the survey with their exhibitor networks. A broad response could provide better comparisons across countries, industries and event formats.
Results Expected by Year-End
The survey will remain open through the end of October, followed by analysis in November. IFES expects to publish the results by year-end.
The findings are expected to include regional comparisons, visual benchmarks and practical information for exhibition and event service providers. Over time, IFES also wants the research to track changes in exhibitor spending, expectations and purchasing priorities.
Exhibitors can participate in the survey here.
About
The International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services is a global trade association representing exhibition designers and providers of tradeshow and event services. Its network includes more than 350 companies in more than 47 countries. For more information, visit ifesnet.org.
Press release submitted by the International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services. Edited by Exhibit City News for clarity, length and style.
