Global growth for BETT

Education trade show BETT has merged with GSV Summit, adding a trans-Atlantic presence to its global portfolio. The London-based trade show already has sister events in Brazil and Asia, and the US has long been in the sights of show organiser Hyve.

“Our Bett customers have told us time and again they want more access and insight into the U.S. and now we can deliver that,” says portfolio director for BETT Duncan Verry. “With GSV Summit joining forces with BETT, we’re building bridges between two complementary communities. GSV Summit also brings exceptional strength in adjacent sectors such as workforce learning, which adds real depth to our global EdTech platform and offers valuable opportunities for Bett to expand its reach and relevance across lifelong learning. We’re excited to create even more value together.”

Although the merger will strengthen both exhibitions, each event will continue with its own identity and distinct branding. Those at the helm of both BETT and GSV Summit have shared their vision to collaborate more closely, share insights and expand what is possible for the global education community.

“In joining forces with Hyve and Bett, we will immediately convene over 100,000 education entrepreneurs, leaders, and practitioners across events in the US, UK, Brazil, and SEA—creating the largest global community focused on transformational change in learning and skills,” says GSV Summit’s co-founder Deborah Quazzo. “For GSV, the combination allows us to remain relentlessly focused on ALL people having equal access to the future while leveraging the power of a world-class global event team.”

Smart Display has long been the partner of choice for exhibition stand build at BETT, having creating some of the show’s most memorable designs for Wonde, MyLogin and Secure Schools. The impending January edition of the show has already revealed a bolstered line-up of educational leaders and, as BETT merges with GSV Summit, the team is already in talks with the industry’s key brands regarding a striking yet sustainable exhibition presence for January 2026.

“These events have incredibly passionate and committed communities, each motivated by the same meaningful purpose,” says Julie Driscoll, president of Hyve’s New Next Gen portfolio. “In GSV Summit, we have found the perfect partner for BETT, and each event has something to offer the other – whether that’s through their network, operational excellence or industry insights. Together, they’ll be an unstoppable global force for good.”

Educational brands that are yet to book their space at the ExCeL this January are advised to enquire imminently, with the majority of floorspace having already been reserved. Brands who have made a space-only booking are invited to get in touch with Smart Display to discuss a re-usable and sustainable stand design that creates the necessary impact to stand out from the competition.