ES. Can you share your journey into the exhibition industry? Were there any particular experiences or challenges that shaped your approach to organizing trade fairs and corporate events?
Namit Gupta. My journey in the exhibition industry began in 1998, from a position where I had to build everything from the ground up. The industry itself is dynamic and, at times, unpredictable, but that unpredictability has always driven me. One key lesson I learned early was that the lifeblood of any exhibition is the quality of its audience—bringing in the right buyers is non-negotiable.
I’ve encountered significant challenges, but every obstacle helped sharpen my understanding of how to align business needs with market trends. By blending tried-and-tested practices with forward-thinking innovations, I’ve developed an approach that focuses on long-term value for participants rather than short-term gains.
ES. As a director, what leadership principles guide you in your role? How do you foster a positive and productive work environment for your team?
Namit Gupta. Leadership, for me, is not about dictating but about enabling.
Strategic clarity and execution are paramount. Every exhibition we organize starts with a clear objective, and we ensure that every detail, no matter how small, aligns with that larger goal.
Empathy is essential. I take the time to understand the specific challenges and aspirations of my team, making sure that we solve problems together rather than in isolation.
I also believe in cultivating future leaders. My approach encourages autonomy, giving my team the space to grow, make decisions, and take responsibility. In doing so, I’m creating a leadership pipeline within Futurex Group that ensures our work is always progressing.
ES. Futurex Group has established itself as a leading organizer in the SAARC region. What is the core vision that drives Futurex Group, and how do you see it evolving in the coming years?
Namit Gupta. At Futurex Group, our ethos is simple but powerful: “Let’s build the future together.” This is not just a slogan but a philosophy that drives everything we do. We treat each participant not just as a customer, but as a partner in a shared goal of creating opportunities and driving industries forward. The relationships we build are based on trust and mutual growth, and that’s why clients return year after year.
In the coming years, I envision Futurex Group not only expanding geographically but deepening our role in shaping the industries we serve. Whether it’s construction, plastics, Corrugation, EVs, Packaging , Boiler , Paper , Priting or mining, our role goes beyond just organizing exhibitions—we want to influence how these industries grow, innovate, and connect globally. We’ll continue evolving our approach to create platforms that serve as catalysts for real, tangible business outcomes.
ES. Can you provide an overview of the key shows you manage? Which industries do you believe are currently experiencing the most growth, and how are your events tailored to meet the needs of these sectors?
Namit Gupta. Some of our most prominent shows include the Odisha Mining & Infrastructure Expo, Odisha Plast, the Pune EV Expo, and the Buildcon Series across SAARC and African nations.
Odisha, being India’s mining nucleus, is an obvious focus for us. The mining and infrastructure sectors are both evolving at an unprecedented rate, and our events are designed not just to keep pace but to stay ahead of these changes. We focus on integrating emerging technologies and trends into the very fabric of these expos, ensuring that our participants are always exposed to what’s next. Every aspect of our events is tailored to offer a clear value proposition for exhibitors, participants, and attendees—whether it’s the networking opportunities, the speakers, or the curated content.
ES. What upcoming shows are you most excited about? Can you share some details about their themes, expected participants, and goals?
Namit Gupta. There’s a lot on the horizon, but I’m particularly excited about the 2nd Edition of Odisha Plast, the 6th Edition of the Pune India International EV Show, and the 3rd Edition of IMT Expo in Faridabad.
Odisha Plast will bring together over 150 participants, focusing heavily on sustainability and innovation, two themes that are critical as the plastics industry faces global scrutiny. The goal is not just to showcase solutions but to drive real business discussions around sustainable growth. Similarly, the Odisha Mining & Infrastructure Expo is poised to feature over 200 participants.
This expo will dive deep into the intersection of technology, policy, and business, with the aim of transforming how the sector operates. On the international front, our events like the Nepal Wood & Working Expo and Nepal Buildcon International Expo are set to become pivotal platforms for industry players across these sectors, providing unparalleled access to emerging markets.
ES. Reflecting on the recently concluded 5th India International EV Show 2024, what were some standout moments in the exhibition?
Namit Gupta. The EV Dynamics Conference was without question a highlight, bringing together the sharpest minds and most influential figures in the electric vehicle sector. It wasn’t just about discussions—it was about real, actionable insights that will shape the future of the industry. The flagship trial run by NHEV, along with conversations around the ease of doing business in the EV space, were particularly significant moments. We also had the privilege of hosting top brands like BMW, Mahindra, Mercedes, Tata, and Volvo, which cemented the show’s position as a premier industry event.
ES. Innovation is key in any industry. How does Futurex Group leverage technology to enhance the exhibition experience for exhibitors and attendees?
Namit Gupta. At Futurex Group, technology isn’t just a tool—it’s part of our DNA. From the outset, we’ve integrated digital solutions to streamline every aspect of the exhibition experience. Our AI-driven matchmaking tools are game-changers in connecting exhibitors with the right buyers, maximizing the potential for business growth. Hybrid models have allowed us to scale our reach, giving participants from around the world the ability to connect with our events, even if they can’t attend in person.
We’ve also focused heavily on making the entire process, from registration to lead generation, as seamless as possible. By leveraging technology in this way, we’re not just enhancing the attendee experience—we’re creating measurable business outcomes for our exhibitors.
ES. Looking ahead, what is your ultimate goal for Futurex Group and its impact on the exhibition landscape in India and beyond?
Namit Gupta. The goal is clear: Futurex Group will continue to redefine the exhibition landscape, both in India and internationally. We don’t just want to organize events; we want to create ecosystems that foster innovation, collaboration, and industry growth.
Our exhibitions aren’t just transactional spaces—they’re transformational. I see Futurex Group continuing to push boundaries, not just geographically but in terms of the impact we can have on the industries we serve. Our focus will always be on creating platforms where meaningful business connections can be made, where ideas can be exchanged, and where industries can grow in ways they hadn’t previously imagined. The future is full of possibilities, and I’m excited to see how we can continue to shape it.
