The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) announced on May 18 that data collected for the annual CEIR Index report for the first quarter of 2010 reveals that the exhibition industry experienced an overall decline of 4 percent when compared to the same quarter of the previous year. However, the decline is much smaller compared to the 11.6 percent decline between the first quarter 2008 and the first quarter of 2009.
The CEIR Index, released in April, reported that one of the leading indicators to look for in a recovery of the exhibition industry is professional attendees. First quarter data indicates a decrease of 0.2 percent over 2009, which is much less than the 1.5 percent decrease over the same period last year, as well as the year-end overall decrease of 4.1 percent.
Parallel lagging indicators of recovery of net square feet and revenue are still showing a decline. Although net square feet of exhibit space sold showed a decline of 6.2 percent, the decline is slowing from the 14.8 decline at the same time in 2009. Revenue declined 8.4 percent, compared to a 19.7 decline in 2009 first quarter results. It is anticipated that slow growth will continue through 2010.
The Leading Economic Index (LEI), used by The Conference Board to project economic performance, reports an increase of 1.4 percent in March, following a 0.4 percent gain in February and a 0.6 percent rise in January. The U.S. LEI is now at its highest level. This indicates to economists that there will likely be moderately improving economic conditions over the next six to nine months.
As an objective measure of the annual performance of the exhibition industry, the CEIR Index measures year-over-year changes in four key metrics to determine overall performance. The CEIR Index provides exhibition industry performance across 11 key industry sectors including professional business services, consumer and retail trade, sports and entertainment, food, government, building and construction, industrial and manufacturing, communications and information technology, medical and health care, raw materials and science and transportation.
Those interested in additional information or to purchase the CEIR Index, an Analysis of the 2009 Exhibition Industry and Future Outlook report, contact Cathy Breden, CAE, CMP, executive director of CEIR at cbreden@ceir.org or (972) 687-9201.
