ES. The year 2023 was promising for the industry, in your words how would you like to summarize 2023 for ABEC?
Sumit Gandhi. In 2023, ABEC experienced a year of exceptional promise, marked by noteworthy achievements and significant advancements within the industry. Navigating the dynamic business landscape with resilience and innovation, ABEC showcased its commitment to excellence and cutting-edge technology. The company not only met but exceeded expectations, leaving an indelible mark on the industry landscape. Key shows and events held in major Indian cities, including Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad, played a pivotal role in shaping ABEC’s standout year. Through active participation in these events, ABEC demonstrated its strategic vision and solidified its reputation as an industry trailblazer. The company’s success at these locations has paved the way for continued growth and prosperity in the years to come. ABEC’s ability to thrive in diverse markets and engage with key industry players has positioned it as a leader in innovation and excellence, setting a standard for the entire industry.
ES. How do you envisage the year 2024 for ABEC? What major events are in the pipeline?
Sumit Gandhi. Envisaging the year 2024 for ABEC holds great promise, with the company poised to build upon its successes and continue its trajectory of growth and innovation. As we look ahead, several major events in Hyderabad are likely to be on ABEC’s radar, presenting opportunities for the company to showcase its advancements and engage with industry stakeholders. the year 2024 holds immense potential for ABEC as it continues to innovate and lead within its industry.
ES. The Global Exhibition market is anticipated to rise at a considerable rate during the forecast period, between 2023 and 2030. What is your perspective on the growth of the Indian Exhibition Industry in the next 3 years?
Sumit Gandhi. If the Indian economy continues to grow, there is likely to be increased investment across various industries. Exhibitions play a crucial role in showcasing products and services, attracting investments, and fostering business collaborations. A growing economy often correlates with increased participation in exhibitions. Certain sectors, such as technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, are vital contributors to the exhibition industry. If these industries experience growth and innovation, it is likely to drive the demand for exhibitions where companies can showcase their latest products and solutions.
ES. As a leading trade show organizer, how do you see the development and upgradation of exhibition venues in India?
Sumit Gandhi. The continuous development and upgradation of exhibition venues in India hold immense significance for the success of our events. We recognize the pivotal role that modern infrastructure plays in delivering exceptional exhibition experiences. Investment in state-of-the-art facilities, including flexible exhibition halls, technologically advanced conference rooms, and innovative common areas, is paramount. We advocate for venues that prioritize flexibility in space design, enabling exhibitors to customize their booths creatively. Sustainability initiatives, encompassing eco-friendly practices and green technologies, are imperative to align with global environmental concerns. Our vision is anchored in creating venues that not only meet but exceed the evolving needs of the exhibition industry, ensuring that each event becomes a benchmark for excellence and innovation.
ES. What are your comments on the level of services being provided by venues and service providers & how can they be improved?
Sumit Gandhi. Venues should prioritize continuous investment in technology, including high-speed internet, cutting-edge audio-visual equipment, and digital signage. Embracing innovations such as virtual and augmented reality can also enhance the overall exhibition experience. Venues can collaborate with industry experts and event organizers to stay informed about evolving trends and requirements.
This collaboration can provide insights into best practices, ensuring that venues are well-prepared to meet the changing needs of the exhibition industry. Offering modular and flexible booth design options allows exhibitors to customize their spaces according to their branding and marketing objectives. Venues should work towards providing adaptable spaces that accommodate various booth sizes and layouts.
ES. Considering the changing times, how can exhibitions attract & engage the audiences to remain a relevant marketing platform?
Sumit Gandhi. In response to the ever-changing landscape of consumer preferences and technological advancements, exhibitions must evolve to stay relevant as effective marketing platforms. To attract and engage audiences in these dynamic times, organizers should embrace digital transformation through hybrid events that blend in-person and virtual components, providing flexibility for a broader audience. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies can be incorporated to offer immersive experiences, from virtual product demos to interactive displays. Personalized content strategies, driven by data analytics and AI-powered recommendations, ensure tailored experiences that resonate with individual attendee preferences. Building a sense of community through social media engagement, online forums, and community-building initiatives enhances the overall event experience and fosters lasting connections.
ES. According to you, what would be some evolving trends that will set a new course in the Indian Exhibition industry in the coming years?
Sumit Gandhi. The Indian Exhibition Industry is poised for a transformative journey in the coming years, marked by several emerging trends that will redefine the landscape of events. Among these, hybrid events, seamlessly blending in-person and virtual components, will become the norm, providing flexibility and expanding the reach of exhibitions globally. Virtual and augmented reality technologies will revolutionize the exhibition experience, offering immersive product demonstrations and interactive displays. The industry will increasingly leverage data analytics to personalize content, ensuring tailored recommendations and networking opportunities for attendees.
ES. Any message that you would like to share with the industry?
Sumit Gandhi. To the dynamic and vibrant community within the exhibition industry, in the midst of navigating the ever-evolving landscape of events, I wish to convey a message underscored by resilience, innovation, and a spirit of collaboration. The industry’s remarkable adaptability to changing times has been truly inspiring, and looking forward, the future presents boundless opportunities for fostering creativity and realizing substantial growth. The infusion of technologies like virtual and augmented reality, data analytics, and artificial intelligence will shape a new era of engaging and personalized exhibitions. Sustainability is not just a trend but a responsibility. Let’s continue to champion eco-friendly practices, green technologies, and sustainable design, contributing to a positive impact on both our events and the environment.
