Driving Progress and Sustainability: The Role of Exhibitions in India's Growth Story

Today, we proudly join the global community in celebrating the 9th edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED). At Informa Markets in India, we are honoured to be a catalyst for industries to connect, do business, and grow. As India’s leading exhibition organiser, we are dedicated to helping specialist markets and customer communities trade, innovate, and grow through our exhibitions, digital content & services, and conferences & seminars

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.Every year, we host over 25 large-scale exhibitions and 40 conferences, along with industry awards and training across the country. These events enable trade across multiple industry verticals and foster connections that drive innovation and economic growth.

The global exhibitions industry is a powerhouse, contributing over $325 billion to the global GDP annually. It supports 3.2 million jobs worldwide and is instrumental in generating significant business opportunities, with exhibitors reporting an average return on investment (ROI) of 3 to 5 times their initial spend. Trade shows and expositions, by attracting attendees from different regions, significantly boost local economies. These events lead to getting all industry stakeholders under one giant umbrella, along with increased tourism, higher hotel bookings, and a surge in revenue for local businesses, ranging from restaurants to transportation services. This industry not only drives economic growth but also fosters innovation and collaboration across borders.

Celebrating GED is vital as it highlights the profound impact exhibitions have on global economies and communities. It is a day to honour the role exhibitions play in driving progress, creating jobs, and connecting people from different industries and regions. GED highlights the importance of face-to-face interactions in building lasting business relationships and promoting sustainable futures.

This year’s GED theme, 'Exhibitions are Catalysts to Sustainable Futures,' resonates deeply with our mission. Through our exhibitions, we bring together industry leaders, innovators, and communities to showcase solutions to global challenges and create sustainable economic growth. We believe in the power of face-to-face events to foster collaboration, inspire new ideas, and build a thriving global community.

Consequently, even within the bustling Indian event industry too, there's a growing trend towards operational sustainability—a quiet revolution driven by a collective consciousness among organisers and attendees. Organizers are adopting innovative strategies to minimize their carbon footprint, from using recyclable materials to embracing digital technologies for virtual exhibits.

Informa Markets India, a leader in the industry, has made significant strides towards sustainability, with the Better Stands Initiative that phases out single use stands, reduced paper printing, and reducing approximately 11000kgs of CO2 emission per year through various initiatives among several others.

By harnessing renewable energy sources and fostering partnerships with eco-friendly vendors, the exhibition industry can lead the charge towards sustainability.

Of course, the road to sustainability isn't without its challenges. In a country grappling with infrastructural challenges and bureaucratic hurdles, implementing green practices can be daunting. Yet, therein lies the opportunity for innovation. According to a recent study by Nielsen, 73% of Indian consumers are willing to pay extra for sustainable offerings, reflecting a significant shift in consumer behavior towards eco-friendly products and services. Moreover, a report by McKinsey estimates that by 2030, adopting sustainable practices could unlock economic opportunities worth $1 trillion in India.

As stakeholders in India's vibrant exhibition ecosystem, we have a collective responsibility to drive positive change. Operating Pan India, Informa Markets in India continues to support industries and create opportunities for meaningful connections and lasting impact. As we celebrate GED, let's acknowledge the vital role exhibitions play in shaping a sustainable future and driving progress. We remain committed to empowering industries and creating platforms for growth and innovation.

Happy Global Exhibitions Day!