UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, reports the successful conclusion of the 2024 UFI Americas Conference, which brought together over 170 exhibition industry leaders and stakeholders from across the Americas and beyond. Hosted by the Monterrey Convention & Visitors Bureau (OCV) at Cintermex, the conference took place from 10-12
September. It featured dynamic sessions, extensive networking opportunities, and a post-conference tour that showcased the vibrant culture and landscapes of Monterrey.
For the first time, UFI brought together members and industry leaders from both North America and Central & South America in a combined event, offering a unique platform to share regional updates and insights. Sessions and roundtable discussions were held in English, Spanish, and Portuguese and addressed key industry trends and innovations shaping the exhibition and events sector worldwide. During his keynote session, Fernando Fisher, CEO of RX USA, introduced the “exhibitor last mile” concept, focusing on supporting new exhibitors with fair pricing, strategic locations, and tailored solutions. Rodolfo Andrade, General Director of Anhembi District in São Paulo, Brazil, shared his company’s successful technique of optimising venue spaces to enhance flexibility and appeal. During a highly regarded sustainability session, speakers collectively emphasised viewing sustainability as an inspirational challenge, encouraging practical steps to improve environmental impact.
Additionally, exhibition industry associations from across the region convened within the framework of the UFI Associations Committee to align on work for the industry and common initiatives around advocacy and education. AMPROFEC Members also had the opportunity to gather to discuss the association’s ongoing initiatives during a special meeting.
Beyond the sessions, delegates were able to experience the best of Monterrey through two unique tours: a post-event excursion to San Pedro Garza and the stunning La Huasteca Canyon, and a city tour from Parque Fundidora to Downtown Monterrey, highlighting the city’s rich history, culture, and local attractions. Both tours gave delegates unique opportunities to explore Monterrey’s rich offerings while fostering meaningful networking experiences. David Manllo Valdés, Director of Monterrey Convention & Visitors Bureau, commented, “The UFI Americas Conference has been a milestone for Monterrey, bringing together for the first time in the city important trade show experts from different countries and the main players in the industry in Mexico and the region. It has also been an excellent opportunity to show the world the great advantages Monterrey has to offer in terms of infrastructure and services for events, its magnificent tourist attractions and the wonderful Mexican culture of the northeast. We thank UFI for having selected us as the conference venue and all the local providers who joined in to make this event a success.”
“This was for sure our best ever Americas Conference, as it was our very first one”, adds Kai Hattendorf, UFI CEO. “But the concept worked well, with participation from Canada in the north to Argentina in the south – not to mention a delegation from China, arranged through CCPIT. UFI’s role as the global connector of the exhibition industry was clear on display this week, and the connections forged will drive future developments in the regions for our sector.”
As the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, UFI organises annual regional conferences in the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa, as well as the UFI Global Congress. The next event to take place will be the 91st UFI Global Congress in Cologne, Germany, from 20-23 November. For a complete list of upcoming UFI events, visit www.ufi.org/events.
