Event Industry CEOs provide a Mixed Outlook for 2009.

Without clear visibility on performance, following the severe economic downturn, event industry CEOs provided a mixed outlook for 2009, according to the 2009 Exhibition and Conference Industry Outlook. Conducted in December 2008, this confidential research survey provides an in-depth look at event industry CEO’s key strategic goals and growth drivers, challenges and opportunities, and their view of the M&A market for events. The survey was conducted by The Jordan, Edmiston Group, Inc. (JEGI).

Even though event industry gross revenue increased 3.6% in 2008 (through November), according to TSW, the economic downturn has started to concern event industry CEOs. Only 7% predict that 2009 will be better than 2008, and 63% feel this year will be worse for their businesses. In 2009, CEOs will be primarily focused on managing costs, but over the next two years, event industry CEOs see the launching of new events as the number one driver of revenue growth.

In regards to M&A opportunities, 63% of industry CEOs view the North American market as being “good”.

However, one recurring response among respondents was that they are having difficulty predicting future performance in the current economic environment and therefore, reconciling seller and buyer valuation expectations. As a result, 69% of respondents – potential buyers and sellers – said they are holding off on acquisitions until there is more visibility in business performance.

However, as the economy begins to turn upward and visibility on performance becomes clearer, the gap in valuation expectations will narrow and the M&A market for events will become vibrant once again. For those respondents interested in acquiring events in 2009, the focus is on mid-sized trade exhibitions, conferences, and association shows. Outside of events, 56% of respondents said they were most interested in acquiring Internet businesses to supplement their event business, further developing their web strategy and integrated media models.

To view report CLICXK on link below:
http://www.jegi.com/files/docs/2009ExhibitionIndustryOutlook.pdf>