the trade show market | France

1.1 Definition and scope of the study

For the purposes of this study, a trade fair is defined as a BtoB trade fair, i.e. a business fair for companies. This study also takes into account trade fairs, which are commercial events of exhibitors belonging to the same economic sector

Trade shows allow professionals from the same industry to come together in exhibition spaces. They are usually opportunities for exhibitors to promote a new service, enter a new market or find a business partner.

Each year, more than 350 trade shows are organized in France, which generates an activity that is mainly captured by the organizers of these shows. This is a the market is relatively concentrated, with around ten players organising almost half of all trade events In 2020, the trade show and exhibition market was overshadowed by Covid-19 with very large losses, since as a result of multiple cancellations or postponements of events, companies in the sector lost 80% of their turnover

However, the rapid growth of the sector and the increasing interest of companies in these types of events is creating opportunities for smaller event companies.

The trade shows themselves continue to evolve, as they increasingly integrate technological solutions that enhance the experience of exhibitors and visitors. The organizers' commitment to the environment is also becoming a differentiator.