The trade show and event planning industry includes about 4,000 companies with combined annual revenue of over $8 billion. Major companies include GES, Freeman, and Champion Exhibition Services; the industry is composed primarily of privately held companies. The industry is fragmented: the top 50 companies have about 45 percent of the market. A typical trade show company has $1.8 million in annual revenue and fewer than 20 employees.
The industry is comprised of meeting planners and suppliers who organize, design, promote, and manage business and consumer trade shows, conferences, and meetings, and doesn't include those who organize performing arts or sports events.
COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
Demand is driven by overall economic activity and corporate profits. The profitability of individual companies depends on managing costs, marketing shows effectively, and retaining valuable staff. Large companies have advantages of multiple locations and economies of scale in negotiating labor, transportation, and supply contracts. Small companies compete successfully by delivering superior customer service that drives repeat business. The industry is labor intensive: average annual revenue per employee is about $100,000.
PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
The primary industry service is producing and managing conventions, association meetings, trade shows, and company meetings. Events typically include presentations and workshops; an exhibition area for vendors to promote their products and services; and entertainment activities, such as meals, receptions, and local sightseeing tours. In addition to planning and staging events, some companies also design, build, ship, and ...
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