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Wednesday, November 20
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Speed Matchmaking
Networking
Join our Speed Matchmaking session and have 6 one-to-one meetings with potential business partners before the start of the main Congress.
Powered by Expoplatform, for this session you do not need to register in advance, you just show up on the day at 10:45 to register and check-in.
Session starts at 11:00 sharp!
12:00 PM - 01:30 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Light Lunch
Networking
01:30 PM - 02:30 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
General Assembly (UFI Members only)
General Assembly
02:45 PM - 03:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Xchange Session - VisiTrans
Xchange Session
03:05 PM - 03:20 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Xchange Session - Pretix
Xchange Session
03:25 PM - 03:40 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Xchange Session - TAITRA
Xchange Session
03:45 PM - 04:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Xchange Session - Swapcard
Xchange Session
04:00 PM - 04:30 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Networking Break
Networking
04:30 PM - 04:45 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Xchange Session
Xchange Session
04:50 PM - 05:05 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Xchange Session - HKTB
Xchange Session
05:05 PM - 05:20 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Xchange Session - Aluvision
Xchange Session
07:30 PM - 10:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin Gaffel am Dom
Welcome Reception
Networking
Kick off the UFI Global Congress at our Welcome Reception on Wednesday, 20 November at 19:30, hosted at the lively Gaffel am Dom. Enjoy local Kölsch beer, traditional German cuisine, and great company in the heart of Cologne. It's the perfect start to an unforgettable week of networking!
Thursday, November 21
06:30 AM - 07:45 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
UFI Sports Club
Networking
08:00 AM - 09:00 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Networking and Refreshments
Networking
09:00 AM - 09:30 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Opening of the 91st UFI Global Congress
Session
Kai Hattendorf
Henriette Reker
Geoff Dickinson
Gerald Böse
Philip Harting
09:30 AM - 10:00 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Gaining Clarity In a Changing World
Keynote
Join us for an inspiring keynote by Anna Rosling Rönnlund, co-founder of Gapminder. Known for her ability to make complex global trends accessible and easy to understand, Anna will explore how we can transform uncertainty into opportunities for growth and success. Her Keynote promises to challenge the way we interpret change, providing valuable insights on navigating today’s rapidly evolving world. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a fresh perspective how to turn challenges into chances!
Anna Rosling Rönnlund
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Industry Insight: Turning Change into Opportunity
Insight
Gary Shapiro will share his visionary insights on how the exhibitions industry can navigate and thrive amidst rapid transformations. This is a unique opportunity to learn from a leading thought leader who understands the intricacies of adapting in a dynamic global landscape.
Gary Shapiro
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Networking Break
Networking
11:15 AM - 12:30 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
The Power Hour: The Forces Shaping Our Industry
Insight
Three experts in the geopolitical, societal and economic landscapes will share their views on the wider forces that have shaped the industry – and the world.
Zoë Williams
Tom Rafferty
Matthew Sherwood
12:30 PM - 01:45 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Networking Lunch
Networking
01:45 PM - 02:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
UFI Medal of Honour Ceremony
Session
On the eve of UFI's centennial, we are reviving UFI's legacy medal of appreciation in a reimagined format. Called the “UFI Medal of Honour”, this new scheme will award up to three individuals annually for their unique services to the global exhibition industry and the UFI community.
Join us as we announce and celebrate the initial recipients of UFI's highest honour.
Geoff Dickinson
02:00 PM - 02:45 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
The Global Exhibition Industry Board Meeting
Session
Our Industry Board come together once again to forming a joint board on behalf of our whole industry. How will the board respond to the changes and challenges between now and 2030 – and what are the chances can you take advantage of?
Session moderator: Kai Hattendorf, Managing Director/CEO, UFI
Panittha Buri
Lisa Hannant
Geoff Dickinson
Kai Hattendorf
02:45 PM - 03:15 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Congress Session
Session
03:15 PM - 03:30 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
How I See It - Elevating Our Industry Through Collaboration
How I see it
In this dynamic and thought-provoking talk, James Latham will make a compelling case for why now is the time for the industry to come together and collaborate. With a focus on raising the profile of our sector, he will highlight the power of collective action, the opportunities for innovation through partnerships, and the need for a unified voice to address changes, challenges and opportunities. James’ op-ed style will leave you inspired to play your part in shaping the future of the industry.
James Latham
03:30 PM - 04:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Networking Break
Networking
04:00 PM - 04:35 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Growth and Opportunity in the Global Exhibition Industry
Session
An analysis of the current state of the exhibition industry, including major players, market share, and growth trends.
Gregory Hitchen
Russell Wilcox
Franziska Kayser
John J. McGovern
04:35 PM - 04:50 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
How I see it - India’s Exhibition Industry: Turning Changes into Chances
How I see it
Join Sonia Prashar as she provides a snapshot of the Indian exhibition market, highlighting its journey from a burgeoning industry to a more mature and dynamic force. With insights into how the sector has evolved, she'll explore key trends and future opportunities, offering a perspective on what makes India's exhibition landscape unique and where it’s heading next.
Sonia Prashar
04:50 PM - 05:05 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
How I See It
How I see it
Join this fast-paced, opinion-driven session where industry experts deliver concise, thought-provoking insights on the latest trends and developments.
Enrico Gallorini
05:05 PM - 05:10 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Closing Day One
Session
06:30 PM - 11:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin Cologne Cathedral and Flora Köln
Congress Dinner Programme
Networking
Only very rarely, and only on the most special occasions, does Cologne Cathedral close its doors early to the public. This will be the case for UFI Global Congress delegates, who can look forward to enjoying well-known melodies during an exclusive organ concert in the magnificent ambience of this iconic building.
Following this, an exquisite dinner awaits at the stunning Flora venue, nestled in Cologne’s botanical gardens. It will be a memorable evening of fine dining, networking, and celebration!
Meeting Point at 18:30 in each hotel lobby
Friday, November 22
09:00 AM - 09:45 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
UFI Chapter Meetings (UFI Members only)
UFI Chapter Meeting
09:45 AM - 10:30 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Networking and Refreshments
Networking
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Spotlight on Excellence: Success Stories From Digital Innovation Award Winner Easyfairs, and HR Award Winner IMPACT Exhibition Management
Breakout
Join us as we celebrate the forefront of innovation in the exhibition industry.
Stephan Forseilles, Chief Technology Officer at Easyfairs, will present their award-winning approach to Digital Innovation. Easyfairs has pushed the boundaries of technology by integrating cutting-edge AI tools, transforming internal processes and external deliveries. Their holistic and visionary approach truly exemplifies their slogan, “Visit the future”.
In the HR category, Thamita Chongswatvorakul, Director of Corporate Human Resources at IMPACT Exhibition Management, will share insights into their innovative R2i project, which fosters a culture of perpetual learning and innovation. By empowering employees to innovate, IMPACT is driving business transformation and setting new standards for the industry.
Stephan Forseilles
Thamita Chongswatvorakul
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Spotlight on Excellence: Success Stories From the Industry Partners Award Winner Fiera Milano, and Marketing Award Winner RX Germany
Breakout
Join us as we celebrate the power of collaboration and data-driven innovation in the exhibition industry.
Vincenzo Cecere, Head of Investor Relations & Sustainability at Fiera Milano, will present their award-winning project, developed in partnership with Montecolino, for Industry Partners. Their initiative highlights groundbreaking R&D in green stand design, reducing environmental impact while driving exhibition success. This collaboration exemplifies synergy and excellence across the industry.
In the Marketing category, Christian Reiß, Chief Marketing Officer at RX Austria and Germany, will share how their data-driven marketing strategy for the FIBO exhibition transformed data into actionable business ideas. RX Germany’s targeted marketing approach and use of automation tools have set new benchmarks for success in the industry.
Vincenzo Cecere
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Spotlight Session: Venues
Breakout
In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, venues must navigate a range of challenges, including digital disruption, inflation, economic uncertainty, climate change, and evolving customer needs.
This interactive session brings together experts from around the world to debate these issues and share best practices and potential solutions. Unlike a traditional speaker-led format, this session encourages every participant to actively contribute, making it a unique opportunity to gather a wealth of experiences and insights.
11:00 AM - 11:15 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Networking Break
Networking
11:15 AM - 11:45 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Spotlight on Excellence: Success Stories From Operations & Services Award Winner Freeman-Zenus, and Sustainable Development Award Winner Easyfairs
Breakout
Join us as we celebrate transformative innovations that are redefining customer experience and sustainability in the exhibition industry.
Jo-Anne Kelleway, International Industry Ambassador at Freeman, will present their joint award-winning initiative in Operations & Services. Their cutting-edge digital partnership leverages ethical behavior mapping technology to provide event organisers with actionable insights into visitor sentiments, helping them enhance the customer experience and measure event success.
In the Sustainable Development category, Nil Sönmez, Chief Sustainability and Customer Experience Officer at Easyfairs, will showcase their comprehensive ESG plan. Easyfairs’ data-driven and collaborative approach to sustainability, which integrates eco-friendly practices into their business model, demonstrates how sustainability can enhance both the operational success and the attendee experience at exhibitions.
Jo-Anne Kelleway
Nil Sönmez
11:15 AM - 11:45 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Spotlight on Advocacy: Examining Global Changes and Chances. Exploring Regional Competition and Cooperation.
Breakout
Advocacy sits at the heart of UFI’s mission. We drive and advance advocacy for the exhibition industry globally through the collaborative efforts and collective voices of our members and partners. Join us to hear global advocacy efforts in Asia Pacific, Europe and the United States as we discuss chances presented by global changes and their implications for regional competition and cooperation.
Barbara Weizsäcker
Tommy Goodwin
Stuart Bailey
11:15 AM - 11:45 AM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Spotlight Session: Energy Concepts Specifically For Trade Fair and Event Organisers
Breakout
11:45 AM - 12:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Break
Networking
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
NGL Showcase: AI’s Impact On Exhibitions
Presentation
In this session, the NGL team explores the transformative potential of AI in the exhibition industry. Framed through a gaming lens, they’ll highlight AI’s current capabilities and challenges, demonstrating how it’s a powerful ally in overcoming industry-wide obstacles. Join them as they showcase how AI empowers us to level up in the exhibitions arena, driving change in real-time.
Ana Carolina Aguilera
Celia Hidalgo
Alexander Caspari
Lesley Gurney
Nadja Ella Hutton-Mills
12:30 PM - 01:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Presidency Handover Ceremony
Session
01:00 PM - 02:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Networking Lunch
Networking
02:00 PM - 04:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Country Focus: Germany
Session
04:00 PM - 04:10 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Congress Closing
Session
Saturday, November 23
09:00 AM - 02:00 PM (GMT+01:00) Berlin
Post-Congress Tours
Networking
To make the most of your time at the congress in Cologne, take part in one of the three unique post-congress tours, giving you the chance to explore the rich culture and history of the city.
How to book a tour?
Please contact the UFI team at events@ufi.org with your tour preferences and the names of participants.