The year that was
People, skills, talent and resilience have been the driving forces behind strong growth across the exhibitions sector, according to the most recent report released by UKEvents. Interpreting the most recent data available, the Q4 report indicates that trade exhibitions this year will top the £10.9 billion generated in 2023, suggesting the 2024 will be the first year of genuine post-pandemic recovery across all industry sectors.
The continued trajectory in growth has been attributed in part to an increased focus on both the human interaction element of trade shows, and the staff and skills behind every element of the exhibition process.
“People are crucial to the success of the events industry,” says Chris Skeith OBE, chair of UKEvents. “The resilience, adaptability, and innovation within our industry are second to none, and I’d like to extend my thanks to all those involved in putting this report together. Their efforts provide a strong case to share with the UK Government as we advocate for the continued recognition and support of this vital sector.”
With skills and expertise in demand, employers within the exhibition sector are increasing their workforces to meet rising demand for their product and services. Almost half of employers within the events sector (49 per cent) reported a larger workforce at the start of 2024 compared to the previous year, while 40 per cent maintained the number of staff of their payroll.
For Smart Display, the data aligns with end-or-year figures, which indicate a rise in demand for exhibition stands – particularly overseas projects – and an increase in skilled personnel across design, project management and installations.
“It is encouraging but not surprising to see such growth within the exhibition industry,” says managing director Chris Stewart. “Increased demand from our clients has seen us grow our workforce by around 20 per cent over the last 12 months. Our investment into our workforce is not however simply an increase in manpower; we’re focussing on future leaders in every department, ensuring that we can continue to exceed expectations and grow our business in line with industry demands with the most solid of foundations.”
Smart Display took time out last week to acknowledge the achievements of its staff with an awards ceremony recognising exceptional performance. From the long-established team members who take time to pass on their benefits of their expertise to the new recruits promising new talent and potential, each accolade recognised the unique skills across all departments.
And it’s been quite literally a case of hitting the ground – and the runway – running for Smart Display’s new starters. 2024 has seen the team take on more overseas jobs than ever, with installations in over 35 cities worldwide over the past 12 months. From Geneva to Lisbon to Nuremberg, Smart Display has designed and installed in countries all over Europe, taking full control of the transportation, storage and re-use of each client’s stand elements in line with its ethos of sustainability.
Now as the 2025 show schedule starts to fill up, Smart Display is poised to deliver even more more exceptional stands worldwide for both new and existing clients.
“The UK events industry has faced unprecedented challenges over the past few years, but what’s clear from this report is that we’ve not only recovered but are driving forward a growth agenda,” concludes Chris Skeith. “That will see our sector flourish in the years to come.”
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