As 2025 draws to a close, the global trade show industry is entering 2026 with unprecedented momentum. Leading organizers are aggressively expanding into new sectors, regions, and event formats through strategic acquisitions, innovative launches, and bold investments. From energy and safety to tourism and design, the year ahead promises significant growth opportunities for exhibitors, suppliers, and attendees alike.
IAAPA Partners With Private Equity Firm, Launches Morocco Summit
IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, announced a strategic partnership with Expression Capital Partners LLP, positioning the firm as IAAPA’s exclusive private equity and M&A advisory partner. The collaboration will provide members with access to investment resources, financial expertise, and strategic guidance, helping attraction owners and operators bring ambitious ideas to life.
In addition, IAAPA will host its first-ever Morocco Summit from January 19–21, 2026, in Marrakesh. This two-day event will feature educational sessions, facility tours, and networking opportunities with global industry leaders. Attendees will explore growth strategies for integrated attractions, hotel expansions, and leisure destinations like Oasiria Marrakech, Gravity Park, and Palooza Park.
Messe Düsseldorf Expands A+A Portfolio With OS+H Middle East in Dubai
Messe Düsseldorf is launching OS+H Middle East, a new trade fair focused on occupational safety and health, scheduled for October 12–14, 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The event will highlight innovations in smart PPE, AI-powered OSH solutions, exoskeletons, ergonomics, and sustainable workplace technologies. By entering the MENA market, Messe Düsseldorf is responding to growing demand for safety solutions across industries such as construction, renewable energy, healthcare, and transportation.
Fairfest Acquires WTE Miami, Accelerates U.S. Growth
Fairfest Media, organizers of OTM, has acquired WTE Miami, a leading travel and tourism expo. This acquisition marks Fairfest’s entry into the Americas and accelerates its global growth strategy.
The 2026 edition, scheduled for October 27–28, aims to double participation, with expanded B2B matchmaking and thought-leadership programming. “Joining forces under the Fairfest umbrella will allow WTE Miami to reach new heights,” said WTE Miami Director Javier P. Palencia.
New Summits and Strategic Expansions Across Sectors
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Girls Day LA: Kelly Helfman launches a women’s empowerment summit in Downtown Los Angeles on May 2, 2026, blending workshops, marketplaces, and experiential sessions to inspire personal growth and professional development.
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TechDay Up/Link SpaceTech Summit: Launching October 20–21, 2026, in New York City, the forum will focus on commercialization and investment in space technology, connecting innovators, investors, and enterprise teams driving the space economy.
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Easyfairs Acquires EPC: Easyfairs enters the U.S. energy market by acquiring the Energy Projects Conference & Expo (EPC), positioning the company for growth in Houston and across North America.
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Spiro Acquires 2Heads: GES’s experiential agency Spiro expands globally with this London-based creative agency acquisition, enhancing experiential marketing capabilities across Europe and North America.
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INTERPHEX COEX Launch: INTERPHEX introduces the Contract & Outsourcing Exchange at its 2026 New York show, creating a dedicated hub connecting pharma and biotech leaders with CDMOs.
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Terrapinn New Events in Saudi Arabia: Five new event brands will launch in 2026 to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, covering lab tech, hyperscale data centers, mobility, retail innovation, and professional services.
- Adventure Media & Events Acquires Financial Brand Forum: The acquisition strengthens the company’s presence in banking industry events and digital media, reaching over 2.5 million banking executives annually.
Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
With aggressive expansion strategies, cross-border acquisitions, and innovative new formats, trade show organizers are setting the stage for a transformative 2026. From regional growth in MENA to specialized summits in the U.S. and Europe, the industry is evolving to meet rising demand, diversify portfolios, and deliver high-impact experiences to exhibitors and attendees alike.
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