African Exhibition News
The Source Solutions: A Season of Growth and Success
As we reflect on the successes of the year thus far, The Source Solutions is thrilled to share our journey of growth and achievement, particularly in the realm of exhibitions. One standout highlight was our custom stand creation for a client at the prestigious 2024 FIDSSA Congress, hosted at the renowned Sandton Convention Centre from […]
Scan Display’s MD presented with IFES award
Scan Display’s Managing Director, Justin Hawes, was presented with the Roger Taurant Award at the 2024 IFES (International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services) World Summit in Malaga, Spain last week. The award was established by IFES’ founding President, Roger Taurant, and acknowledges Justin’s exceptional contribution to IFES and the global exhibition industry during his […]
Youth vital to the growth of the MICE sector across Africa
The events and exhibitions sector is a rapidly growing segment of the global tourism industry, and Africa is no exception. The involvement of youth in Africa’s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) sector is crucial for driving innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development. “Engaging young professionals in MICE activities supports cultural exchange, economic diversification, and […]
The Association of African Exhibition Organisers Introduces New 2024/2025 Board at AGM
South Africa, 21 June 2024: The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) successfully concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM) today, 21 June 2024. During the meeting, the newly appointed board members, representing a diverse array of companies and expertise, were announced, highlighting AAXO’s dedication to fostering collaboration and promoting excellence in the African events industry. […]
Informal sector has a crucial role in the global economy, accounting for one third of local jobs
The informal sector has a crucial role in the global economy, and it needs to be connected to government and businesses properly so that opportunities to collaborate, learn and grow are created. This was the key message discussed during the e-Kasi talks theme on the first day of SAITEX 2024. Driven by micro enterprises across […]
Redefining the food and beverage value chain through leadership and innovation
The 21st edition of Africa’s Big 7 wrapped up three days of insights, innovation and conversation at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. Co-located with the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa and SAITEX Africa, Africa’s Big 7 2024 hosted industry leaders and decision-makers for discussions around redefining the food and beverage chain, and introduced the […]
Empowering the Next Generation: Introducing the AAXO Youth Chapter
Africa boasts the world’s youngest population, with 70% of sub-Saharan Africa under the age of 30[1]. This significant youth demographic in Africa presents a growth opportunity for the continent, which can be realised by ensuring youth inclusion in decision-making processes and providing suitable opportunities for work and innovation. Recognising the critical contributions made by the […]
ANEW Hotels & Resorts Wins Green Stand Award at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024
ExpoGuys is proud to announce that the stand designed and built for ANEW Hotels & Resorts has won the Green Stand Award at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban. This award highlights the successful collaboration between ANEW and ExpoGuys, focusing on sustainability in the travel and tourism […]
June in Jozi hots up with inaugural Mzansi Food & Drink Show
Set to become South Africa’s biggest culinary extravaganza, the Mzansi Food & Drink Show will rock the Kyalami International Convention Centre from 15 to 17 June 2024. The brainchild of RX Africa, the company behind some of the country’s premiere events, including Decorex, Comic Con Africa, Africa Travel Week and FAME Week Africa, the Ring […]
Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2024 – Uniting Minds, Innovations, and Opportunities
Access the latest trends and explore ground-breaking innovations at the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2024, Africa’s leading hospitality event, which takes place from 11-13 June at the Sandton Convention Centre. The expo offers a dynamic platform for attendees to gain exclusive insights and expertise from key industry influencers, as they reveal the latest trends […]
NEW USA DISTRIBUTOR ANNOUNCEMENT FOR TRIGA® GO FABRIC DISPLAY SYSTEMS
We’re beyond excited to share the news that Bigger Dot is now an official distributor for TRIGA® Go in the United States! This partnership signifies a pivotal moment in TRIGA® Displays’ journey towards global expansion, bringing our innovative portable display solutions closer to the US market. TRIGA® Go stands out with its lightweight hardware and […]
Unveiling boatica Cape Town 2024: Africa’s pinnacle boating showcase
boatica Cape Town, Africa’s premier boating and nautical lifestyle exhibition, returns against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mother City. From the 25th to the 27th of October 2024, the V&A Waterfront will host an exceptional showcase of South Africa’s foremost boating and lifestyle brands. Continuing its tradition of excellence, boatica Cape Town 2024 pledges to […]
RX Africa Continues to Lead the Way in Sustainable Event Practices at Decorex Cape Town 2024
Against the backdrop of one of Africa’s most vibrant cities, Decorex Cape Town returns from 6 to 9 June 2024 at the CTICC, showcasing cutting-edge design, curated exhibitions, inspiring talks, and product launches. As part of RX Africa’s commitment to sustainability, Decorex Cape Town 2024 marks a significant step towards a greener, more eco-conscious event […]
Empowering Economies – Unleashing the Potential of Exhibitions in Driving Industry Success and Economic Growth in 2024
Events and exhibitions boost local economies by creating jobs, attracting tourists, and supporting businesses. According to the 32nd UFI (The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry) Barometer, there is aforecast of 94% revenue increase in 2024 from 2023 in South Africa, highlighting growth potential, with 43% of South African respondents aim to enhance their workforce […]
Africa Day 2024: Education and skills development essential to the growth of Africa’s MICE sector
The Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) has declared 2024 as the Year of Education[1], calling on governments across Africa to accelerate progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4): “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”, recognising the transformative power of education […]
The journey to sustainability and innovation: Africa’s Big 7 redefines the food and beverage value chain
Acknowledging and celebrating African talent in the food and beverage industry is a top priority for Africa’s Big 7. In 2024, at the premier event for this sector, Africa’s Big 7 will host four dynamic features, offering the next generation of talent a platform to showcase their skills including The Game of Chefs, the Global […]
Africa’s Big 7: Celebrating and elevating the food and beverage sector across the continent
The premium food and beverage market in Africa is expected to reach $44 billion by 2025i, with top trends revolving around ethical, local, and organic produce. Celebrating this diverse and growing sector, Africa’s Big 7, in its 21st year, will bring together the best in the food and beverage business to showcase quality and in-demand […]
SAITEX 2024: Unveiling trade opportunities through the township economy in Southern Africa
In the heart of South Africa’s bustling economy lies a sector brimming with potential – the township economy. This rapidly expanding industry is essential for the prosperity of numerous South African cities and does not only benefit the local economy; but it also facilitates trade across Southern Africa. Its importance is highlighted by ecommerce giant […]
Africa’s thriving consumer market to shine at 30th edition of SAITEX
Africa has one of the world’s fastest growing consumer markets, projected to boast 1.7 billion consumers by 2030. The number of ‘ultra-high net worth’ individuals in Africa with assets exceeding $30 million is expected to grow by almost 50% this year, making way for ample retail opportunities. Consumer and business spending in Africa should reach […]
Redefining Hospitality: Trends, technologies and opportunities unpacked by leaders in the industry
Hotel and Hospitality Expo Africa 2024 will focus on the innovations, trends and conversations that are needed to redefine hospitality on the continent. The Hotel and Hospitality Expo Africa turns the African hospitality conversation towards transformative action and the innovations, conversations and changes needed to redefine hospitality on the continent. The seventh edition of the […]
Hospitality in Africa is open for increased business
As Africa’s travel and tourism industry surges, fueled by a growing middle class and a projected CAGR of 8.9% or $731.4 billion by 2032 in the “bleisure” market, the demand for innovative hospitality solutions is booming. A recent report by Africa Outlook predicts Africa will be the world’s second-fastest-growing tourism region in 2024, driven by […]
Global Exhibitions Day 2024 celebrates exhibitions as catalysts for sustainable futures
African associations the Association of African Exhibitions Organisers, the Event Greening Forum and the Exhibition and Event Association of Southern Africa partner to recognise the contributions of the African events and exhibition sector as economic enablers. Business events are essential for Africa’s economic development, creating jobs and improving infrastructure. In fact, the South African National […]
FAME Shorts Film Festival Launches Poster Design Competition in Partnership with Yes!Definitely
The FAME Film Shorts Festival, in a groundbreaking collaboration with the innovative beverage company Yes!Definitely, is thrilled to announce a call for entries for the official poster design of its 2024 edition. Scheduled to dazzle audiences from September 4 to 7 at the iconic Labia Theatre in Cape Town, the festival invites artists and designers […]
The Association of African Exhibition Organisers partners with the Exhibition and Events Association of South Africa to elevate exhibition industry standards
The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) proudly announces its strategic partnership with the Exhibition and Events Association of South Africa (EXSA), marking a significant milestone in the advancement of the exhibition sector, fostering growth, professionalism, and excellence across South Africa and the African continent. EXSA, renowned for its commitment to setting industry standards […]
AAXO Member Round-Up: UFI Middle East & Africa Conference 2024
Recently, members of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers participated in the UFI Middle East & Africa Conference, which took place in Kigali, Rwanda, from the 15th of April to the 17th of April 2024. Held annually, the conference is an important annual gathering of exhibition industry leaders in the region to have in-depth discussions […]
Member Spotlight: Informa Tech – Leading the Way in Sustainable Event Management
This month, in recognition of Earth Day celebrated on the 22nd of April, and with a strong emphasis on sustainability and green initiatives in the events and exhibition sector in Africa, the Association of African Exhibition Organisers is proud to showcase Informa Tech, one of our members, for their exceptional dedication to sustainability. James Bull, […]
Africa Travel Week 2024 opens with a significant 53% increase in attendees
WTM Africa opened its 10th edition yesterday with a remarkable 53% increase in attendees compared to the previous year. This massive surge in participation, with unaudited numbers indicating representation from 88 countries worldwide, signals a bright future for the African tourism industry. ATW, which comprises shows like the Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA), WTM Africa, […]
Elevate Your Brand at the Mzansi Food & Drink Show
Set to become the biggest and best culinary show on the African continent The Mzansi Food & Drink Show – which will take place at the Kyalami Convention Centre from June 15 to 17 – is set to become the biggest and best culinary show on the African continent. The three day event, organised by leading […]
WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards Highlight the continent’s Sustainability Trailblazers at Africa Travel Week 2024
The winners of the prestigious World Travel Market Africa (WTMA) Responsible Tourism Awards were announced at Africa Travel Week 2024 in Cape Town. Bangu Masisi of Transfrontier Parks Destinations revealed the honorees, celebrating businesses and initiatives that are making a positive impact through responsible tourism practices. “These awards are integral to WTM Africa’s responsible tourism […]
The Association of African Exhibition Organisers advocates for environmentally-conscious events amidst Africa’s business tourism growth
According to The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), business travel and tourism in Africa is projected to grow at an annual rate of 7.6% by 2028. With growing investment and attention toward events throughout the continent, prioritising environmentally-responsible gatherings has become increasingly imperative. In fact, research conducted by the Events Industry Council highlights that […]
Gallagher Convention Centre launches MusicEx
MusicEx is an immersive music experience. It will take place from 26 to 28 July 2024 at Gallagher Convention Centre. On 14 March 2024, Gallagher hosted the MusicEx launch event in the Estate Ballroom. During the event, guests enjoyed performances by Good to Go and Jesse Clegg. The MusicEx team delivered an overview of the […]
Gabon Petroleum Minister and OPEC President to Present Opportunities to Investors at IAE Forum
Gabon’s Minister of Petroleum and OPEC 2024 President Marcel Abéké has been confirmed to speak at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) forum in Paris this May, accompanied by a Gabonese delegation. A dedicated country spotlight – “Invest in Gabon” – will take place during the forum, outlining key investment opportunities within one of Africa’s most mature, yet […]
The backlit fabric lightbox revolutionises displays
Backlit fabric graphics are taking the exhibition and retail display industries by storm: using the latest technology, they combine printed fabric graphics illuminated from behind with high-intensity LED strips. The result is eye-catchingly vibrant imagery that can be used in a variety of set ups. Justin Hawes, Managing Director of local exhibition and display specialist, […]
The Fire & Feast Festival returns as part of the Mzansi Food & Drink Show
Given that the majority of South Africans like nothing more than a rump steak, lamb chop, chicken kebab or piece of boerewors done to perfection on the braai, it’s no wonder that the Fire & Feast Festival has has been a popular food attraction in Gauteng. Held in Johannesburg since 2017 (except when Covid came […]
FAME Shorts Film Festival Launches Poster Design Competition in Partnership with Yes!Definitely
The FAME Film Shorts Festival, in a groundbreaking collaboration with the innovative beverage company Yes!Definitely, is thrilled to announce a call for entries for the official poster design of its 2024 edition. Scheduled to dazzle audiences from September 4 to 7 at the iconic Labia Theatre in Cape Town, the festival invites artists and designers […]
The UFI MEA Regional Conference is around the corner!
The most anticipated industry event in Africa, UFI MEA Regional Conference, is around the corner. We’ve got 18 amazing speakers confirmed from government authorities, event organizers, venues, convention bureaus, tourism authorities, technology experts and strategists. Close to 50% of the speakers are women with executive roles,probably the highest among industry conferences! Taking place from 15-17 […]
ExpoGuys Expands Service Offerings with Generator and Evaporative Cooler Rentals for Events
ExpoGuys, a leading provider in the exhibition industry, announces the expansion of its service offerings to include generator and evaporative cooler rentals, catering to a diverse range of event and long-term needs. This development is part of the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive, sustainable solutions for event organizers, businesses, and facilities across South Africa. Generator […]
Step Inside… WTM Africa’s 2024 Content Programme
WTM Africa 2024 scheduled from 10 – 12 April 2024 in the City of Cape Town Landmark WTM Africa’s 10th anniversary programme spotlights discussion-based ‘Brain Box’ sessions driving collaboration & networking Content sessions led & facilitated by global experts with emphasis on tourism news, trends & business growth With less than two weeks until kick-off, […]
THE SABC AND RAND SHOW TEAM UP TO BRING THE EVENT TO EVERYONE
The Rand Show is pleased to announce a new partnership with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). The public broadcaster has eagerly come on board for this year’s event, which takes place at the Johannesburg Expo Centre at NASREC from 28 March to 1 April 2024. Regarded as one of the largest consumer exhibitions on the African continent, the […]
AAXO ROAR Awards Celebrates Excellence in the Exhibition Industry
The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) hosted its highly anticipated ROAR Awards ceremony on 29 February 2024 at presenting venue sponsor Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, honouring outstanding achievements in the exhibition industry. The event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to celebrate excellence and recognise the remarkable contributions made by individuals and […]
