International Association of Exhibitions and Events Acquisition of Exhibitor Group Signals New Era of Collaboration and Innovation in Exhibitions and Events

Published on February 14, 2026

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) has announced its acquisition of Exhibitor Group, the organization behind EXHIBITOR magazine and EXHIBITOR LIVE, one of the leading conferences for trade show and corporate event professionals. This strategic move aims to create a more connected and integrated ecosystem, offering professionals across the exhibitions and events industry expanded resources, networking opportunities, and insights.

Uniting Expertise Across the Industry

IAEE has long been recognized for its global reach and expertise in exhibition management, while Exhibitor Group is renowned for its knowledge in experiential marketing and exhibit design. Bringing these two organizations together creates a unified platform that spans the full event lifecycle—from planning and promotion to execution and post-event analysis. This integration enables a more seamless experience for event organizers, exhibitors, and suppliers, fostering collaboration and innovation throughout the industry.

The acquisition strengthens the capacity of the combined organization to serve as a central hub for professional development, knowledge sharing, and industry-wide innovation. Stakeholders can now access a broader range of tools, resources, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the planning, execution, and impact of exhibitions and corporate events worldwide.

Strengthening the Industry’s Foundation

Exhibitor Group has maintained a vital role in the industry through its educational programs, research initiatives, and thought leadership platforms. The organization’s resilience during challenging periods has preserved essential resources for professionals, ensuring the continuity of best practices and industry guidance. By joining forces with IAEE, the expertise and resources of both organizations are consolidated to strengthen the overall foundation of the exhibitions and events sector.

This partnership provides a strategic framework that addresses the evolving needs of industry professionals. It enables organizers and exhibitors to adopt innovative strategies, incorporate new technologies, and respond to shifting market dynamics with greater agility and confidence.

Enhancing Value for Stakeholders

The merger delivers significant benefits across the entire event ecosystem. Exhibition organizers gain access to comprehensive planning and management tools, while exhibitors benefit from improved marketing strategies and opportunities to reach wider audiences. Suppliers are provided with streamlined communication channels, allowing for more efficient collaboration and participation in larger-scale initiatives.

By combining global reach with specialized expertise in event marketing and experiential design, the merged organization creates opportunities for higher-quality events and more impactful audience experiences. The integration also promotes innovation by encouraging professionals to explore new event formats, technologies, and engagement strategies.

Advancing Professional Development and Collaboration

The unified organization expands opportunities for professional growth, training, and collaboration. Educational programs and workshops are delivered through a cohesive framework, enabling professionals to develop skills, share knowledge, and adopt best practices. Networking opportunities are enhanced, creating an environment for professionals to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and collaborate on innovative solutions.

This consolidated approach ensures that stakeholders are better prepared to navigate industry changes, implement effective engagement strategies, and achieve measurable outcomes for their events.

Implications for the Global Exhibitions Sector

The acquisition positions the exhibitions and events industry for stronger growth and connectivity. By merging expertise in exhibition organization and experiential marketing, the combined organization fosters a more collaborative ecosystem that benefits organizers, exhibitors, and suppliers alike. Access to research, resources, and networking channels empowers professionals to stay ahead of trends, optimize strategies, and deliver high-quality experiences for attendees.

The integration also enhances industry resilience by facilitating collaboration across previously separate sectors. Best practices can be shared more effectively, innovations can be implemented faster, and professionals across regions and disciplines can collectively address challenges and seize opportunities.

Looking Forward

This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the exhibitions and events sector. By uniting global reach with specialized expertise, IAEE and Exhibitor Group are creating a stronger, more connected industry ecosystem that supports professional growth, innovation, and long-term success.

The combined organization is designed to provide stakeholders with the tools, insights, and networks needed to thrive in a dynamic market. Event organizers, exhibitors, and suppliers can leverage this platform to enhance engagement, improve outcomes, and elevate the standard of exhibitions and corporate events worldwide.

As the industry continues to evolve, this merger sets the stage for a more resilient, innovative, and collaborative future. By consolidating expertise, resources, and professional networks, the acquisition ensures that the exhibitions and events sector is well-positioned to deliver meaningful, impactful experiences on a global scale.