Global exhibition industry UFI has formed an alliance with the European Major Exhibition Centres Association (EMECA) to promote the significance of the exhibition industry within the European Union (EU).
 
The European Exhibition Industry Alliance (EEIA) brings together Europe’s leading exhibition associations in a coordinated effort to raise awareness of the vital contribution the exhibition industry plays to economic development and job creation.
 
The EEIA is expected to be fully operational before the final quarter of 2012, whereupon it will set about promoting theexhibition industry's common interests towards the framework setting authorities in the EU.
 
 “The exhibition industry is making a vital contribution to Europe’s growth agenda and we need to make sure this is much more clearly understood across the EU,” UFI president Arie Brienen said.
 
“It makes sense that the key industry groups should work together to present a single face and single voice to ensure that we’re heard in Europe. UFI has members in 24 of the 27 EU member countries while EMECA represents the largest and most powerful exhibition centres across the region.”
 
The new alliance's mandate calls for it toactively present a strong and clear voice on all exhibition industry-related issues to the European Commission, the European Parliament and other important European stakeholders. Both associations will develop the scope of the new Brussels based industry alliance, monitoring EU issues and informing members about relevant developments.
 
A spokesman for UFI said the fostering of a European operational environment favourable to the exhibition industry sector is the alliance’s “ultimate objective”.
 
EMECA president Piero Venturelli added thejoint industry initiative will be strengthened through its partnership withUFI.
 
"EMECA is very happy to join forces with UFI. The European trade fair sector is a key player in the international exhibition market.  Our 19 EMECA members are proud to be part of this exciting new venture.
 
“With our office in Brussels, we are already in the heart of Europe. Together with UFI, we will be even stronger.”
 
Photo caption (left to right): Meeting in Hamburg, Arie Brienen and Piero Venturelli sign a memorandum of understanding creating the European Exhibition Industry Alliance, 18 June 2012.

UFI is currently holding its annual European Open Seminar in Hamburg until 21 June.
 
Any news? Contact exhibitionnews@mashmedia.net