Events companies are specialized service providers responsible for planning, designing, managing, and executing a wide spectrum of events—from corporate meetings and international exhibitions to large-scale entertainment shows, sporting events, incentive travel programs, festivals, and high-profile social gatherings. Their core objective is to deliver seamless, engaging, and strategically aligned experiences that meet the communication, branding, marketing, or entertainment goals of clients across industries.
These companies operate through an integrated ecosystem of services that include venue sourcing, vendor coordination, audiovisual production, logistics management, creative design, sponsorship acquisition, guest management, travel arrangements, and post-event analytics. As businesses and consumers increasingly demand immersive and experiential engagements, events companies play a crucial role in shaping brand perception, driving stakeholder interaction, and creating environments where meaningful connections are built.
Over the years, the events industry has expanded beyond traditional physical gatherings to include hybrid and fully virtual formats. This shift has been largely enabled by advances in AI, analytics platforms, mobile applications, registration technologies, AR/VR-based engagement tools, and digital broadcasting capabilities. Modern event companies now operate at the intersection of creativity, technology, and operational excellence, offering customized planning solutions that are scalable, measurable, and aligned with evolving client expectations.
Events Market Growth Trends
The global events landscape continues to evolve rapidly, driven by rising corporate spending, expanding entertainment sectors, tourism initiatives, and a growing appetite for interactive experiences. The Global Events Market size was USD 364.43 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 386.66 billion in 2026, indicating steady momentum supported by strong recovery in business travel, trade exhibitions, and large-venue entertainment. This upward trend continues, with the market increasing to USD 410.25 billion in 2027. Interestingly, the market is also projected to remain at USD 410.25 billion by 2035, signifying a period of stabilization after years of expansion.
This trajectory reflects a CAGR of 6.1% from 2026 to 2035, driven by technological integration, the rise of hybrid events, increased sponsorship investments, and the accelerating demand for curated experiences across both corporate and consumer segments.
As companies prioritize global outreach, brand activation, stakeholder engagement, and community building, event organizers are becoming indispensable partners in achieving these strategic objectives. Whether through high-impact conferences, global trade fairs, artistic festivals, or immersive brand activations, events companies are shaping how organizations communicate, collaborate, and compete in a dynamic global marketplace.
How Big Is the Events Industry in 2025?
The global events industry in 2025 stands as one of the fastest-expanding segments of the broader media, entertainment, corporate services, and tourism ecosystem. In 2025, the Global Events Market size is valued at USD 364.43 billion, driven by a resurgence in corporate gatherings, large-scale exhibitions, live entertainment, and hybrid event formats. The year marks a strong recovery and transition phase, with demand surpassing pre-pandemic levels across key regions including North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.
Corporate events and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) account for the largest share, representing 31% of global revenue. Exhibitions and trade fairs make up approximately 25%, supported by strong participation in technology, manufacturing, consumer goods, and healthcare expos. The entertainment and live events segment continues its upward trajectory, generating around USD 102 billion in 2025, backed by rising ticket sales, sponsorships, and the popularity of music festivals, sports leagues, and arena tours.
Regionally, North America dominates with a market share of 35%, valued at more than USD 127 billion in 2025. The United States contributes the bulk, hosting over 13,000 large-scale events annually. Europe follows with a 28% share, driven by robust trade fair networks in Germany, the UK, France, and Italy. Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, holding 27% of global revenue, supported by China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asian markets that are witnessing rising corporate activity and expanding event infrastructure.
Technology adoption plays a significant role in industry expansion. Approximately 65% of global events in 2025 incorporate hybrid components such as livestreaming, digital registration, AI-enabled analytics, or virtual breakout sessions. Event tech spending alone exceeds USD 11.5 billion in 2025, reflecting a shift toward data-driven planning and enhanced attendee engagement.
Overall, 2025 positions the events industry for stable medium-term growth, with projections pointing to USD 386.66 billion in 2026 and USD 410.25 billion in 2027, underscoring continued demand for experiential and digitally enhanced event experiences worldwide.
Regional Analysis
United States of America (USA) – Growing Events Market
The United States remains the largest events market globally, driven by corporate spending, entertainment demand, and world-class event infrastructure. In 2025, the U.S. events market is estimated at USD 127–130 billion, accounting for nearly 35% of global revenue. The country hosts over 13,000 major exhibitions and trade shows annually, with Las Vegas, Orlando, Chicago, and New York leading in venue capacity. Corporate meetings and incentive travel represent 36% of total event spending, while live entertainment—dominated by Live Nation and AEG—contributes more than USD 45 billion. Growth is supported by rising investments in AI event tech, sustainability, and large-scale sports events. The U.S. market is expected to grow at a steady 6.8% CAGR through 2030.
United Kingdom (UK) – Growing Events Market
The UK remains a strategic hub for European exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events. In 2025, the UK events industry is valued at around USD 92 billion, supported by strong participation from business events and entertainment activities. London alone attracts more than 30 million event attendees annually, supported by venues like ExCeL London and Olympia. The exhibition sector contributes ~£11 billion to the national economy, while corporate events contribute another £18–20 billion. Despite post-Brexit challenges related to logistics and cross-border participation, the UK's focus on sustainability and digital-first events is driving transformation. Growth remains moderate but stable at a 5.2% CAGR.
Canada (CAN) – Growing Events Market
Canada’s events sector continues expanding due to a robust tourism infrastructure and strong government support. The 2025 market size is projected at USD 74 billion, with MICE tourism contributing over USD 18 billion. Major cities—Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal—account for nearly 45% of business events, hosting numerous technology, healthcare, and finance conferences. Canada also benefits from rising participation in entertainment and sports events, including NHL and music festivals. Investment in hybrid event technologies is rising, with more than 55% of corporate events adopting virtual components. Canada is expected to grow at a 6% CAGR over the next decade.
France (FRA) – Growing Events Market
France remains one of Europe’s strongest event economies, with a 2025 valuation of USD 58 billion. Paris—recognized globally as a top convention destination—hosts over 1,200 trade fairs annually, spanning luxury goods, fashion, technology, and aerospace. The success of the Paris 2024 Olympics has further enhanced the country’s infrastructure, stimulating demand for sports and cultural events. The French exhibition sector contributes over €35 billion to the economy annually, with venues like Paris Expo Porte de Versailles and Paris Nord Villepinte driving attendance. Growth remains steady at a 4.8% CAGR.
Germany (GER) – Growing Events Market
Germany stands as Europe's largest exhibition and trade fair market, with a 2025 valuation of USD 68 billion. The country houses 8 of the world’s 10 largest exhibition centers, including Messe Frankfurt and Messe Düsseldorf. Germany hosts more than 170 major trade fairs annually, attracting over 10 million visitors. Industrial sectors—such as manufacturing, automotive, and technology—drive strong B2B event participation. In 2025, B2B exhibitions account for over 55% of event revenue. Germany maintains leadership through high-quality infrastructure and strong international participation, growing at 5–6% CAGR.
Italy (ITA) – Growing Events Market
Italy’s events industry is valued at USD 39 billion in 2025, driven by cultural festivals, international exhibitions, and a booming wedding industry. Cities like Milan, Rome, and Bologna lead with more than 400 annual exhibitions. Italy also hosts one of the world’s largest wedding markets, contributing nearly 18% of total event revenue. Business events are rising, supported by Italy’s strong manufacturing and fashion sectors. Expected growth remains at 4.5% CAGR through 2030.
China – Growing Events Market
China is one of the fastest-growing event markets, with a 2025 valuation of USD 110–120 billion, contributing over 30% of Asia-Pacific’s events revenue. The country hosts over 200 million MICE travelers annually, with Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou serving as major hubs. China’s exhibitions exceed 4,500 per year, driven by rapid industrialization and technology adoption. Hybrid events have reached 70% adoption, supported by strong digital infrastructure. The market is expanding at 8–9% CAGR, positioning China as a global events powerhouse.
Japan (JPN) – Growing Events Market
Japan’s 2025 events industry is valued at USD 105 billion, supported by a strong corporate culture, technology exhibitions, and international conferences. Tokyo Big Sight hosts over 300 exhibitions annually, while Osaka and Yokohama continue gaining prominence. Japan’s entertainment sector also contributes significantly, with concerts and festivals generating over USD 12 billion in 2025. The market grows at 5% CAGR, driven by innovation, tourism, and corporate demand.
Global Distribution of Events Manufacturers by Country (2026)
The global distribution of events manufacturers in 2026 highlights a highly concentrated landscape dominated by North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The United States remains the global leader, accounting for 29% of all events manufacturing and service capacity, driven by strong demand for large-scale exhibitions, entertainment events, and advanced event technology. China follows with 17%, supported by rapid industrial growth, large convention centers, and high adoption of hybrid event platforms. The United Kingdom contributes 11%, bolstered by global exhibition organizers and business event firms. Germany, France, Japan, and India collectively represent a significant share due to established venues, strong tourism industries, and government-backed MICE programs. Emerging economies in the Middle East and Southeast Asia continue expanding their event capabilities, although they represent a smaller share of the global footprint. Overall, 2026 reflects a stable yet competitive global distribution shaped by infrastructure strength and technological readiness.
| Country | Share (%) | Key Contributors |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 29% | Freeman, Live Nation, Cvent |
| China | 17% | Global Sources, Meorient |
| United Kingdom | 11% | Informa, RELX, Hyve Group |
| Germany | 7% | Major Messe exhibition operators |
| France | 6% | National exhibition & convention groups |
| Japan | 5% | Regional exhibition & event firms |
| India | 4% | Growing mid-tier event organizers |
| Rest of World | 21% | Diverse regional event service providers |
Global Growth Insights unveils the top List global Events Companies:
| Company | Headquarters | Past-Year Revenue (USD) | CAGR (%) | Geographic Presence | Key Highlight | Notable Clients |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Freeman Company | Dallas, USA | 3.1 Billion | 9.2% | North America, Europe, APAC | Leader in event production & AV technologies | Microsoft, Cisco, CES |
| Informa (UBM) | London, UK | 3.5 Billion | 8.1% | Worldwide (40+ countries) | Largest global exhibitions organizer | Arab Health, CPhI, Cityscape |
| RELX Group | London, UK | 10.9 Billion | 6.5% | Global | Advanced analytics-driven exhibitions | World Travel Market, JCK Events |
| BCD Meetings & Events | Chicago, USA | 850 Million | 7.4% | North America, Europe, Asia | Specializes in incentive travel & corporate events | AstraZeneca, Ford, Dell |
| Live Nation | Beverly Hills, USA | 22.7 Billion | 10.0% | Global (50+ countries) | World’s largest live entertainment company | Taylor Swift Tours, NFL, Major Festivals |
| Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) | Los Angeles, USA | 9.0 Billion | 8.2% | North America, Europe, Asia | Major arena and venue operator | Coachella, Barclays Center, LA Live |
| Cvent Inc | Virginia, USA | 750 Million | 9.8% | Global | Leading cloud-based event management platform | Google, Marriott, Deloitte |
| ATPI Ltd | London, UK | 500 Million | 6.7% | Europe, APAC, Middle East | Marine and corporate travel events specialist | Shell, BP, Global Marine Clients |
| CWT Meetings & Events | Minnesota, USA | 600 Million | 6.0% | Worldwide | Strong in corporate travel-based events | IBM, Pfizer, Unilever |
| Production Resource Group (PRG) | New York, USA | 1.2 Billion | 8.5% | North America, Europe, Asia | Leader in AV, lighting & staging | Oscars, MTV Awards, Broadway |
| Clarion Events Ltd | London, UK | 420 Million | 5.8% | Europe, USA, Asia | Strong portfolio of specialized B2B events | ICE London, DSEI |
| Capita plc | London, UK | 3.3 Billion | 3.2% | UK & Europe | Event outsourcing & business services | UK Govt., Major Public Sector |
| Emerald Expositions Events Inc. (EEX) | New York, USA | 400 Million | 5.5% | North America | Key B2B event organizer in the U.S. | NY Now, ASD Market Week |
| Fiera Milano SpA | Milan, Italy | 260 Million | 4.9% | Europe | Leader in European exhibitions & fairgrounds | Host Milano, Micam |
| Hyve Group plc | London, UK | 350 Million | 6.1% | Europe, India, Central Asia | Digital-first event transformation | Africa Oil Week, Pure London |
| Cievents | Sydney, Australia | 150 Million | 5.0% | Australia, UK, USA | Creative corporate event solutions | KPMG, Coca-Cola, Westpac |
| Tarsus Group | London, UK | 190 Million | 6.4% | Europe, China, Middle East | Niche exhibitions in high-growth verticals | Labelexpo, Zuchex |
| Questex LLC | New York, USA | 210 Million | 5.9% | North America, Europe | Strong B2B events in hospitality & tech | Nightclub & Bar Show, Digital Pharma |
| Global Sources | Hong Kong | 280 Million | 7.2% | China, Hong Kong, Global Buyers | Leading sourcing exhibitions platform | Global Sourcing Fair, Electronics Show |
| Meorient | China | 90 Million | 8.0% | China, Middle East, Africa | Cross-border trade exhibitions | China Homelife, Business Matchmaking Clients |
2026 Latest Company Updates
The Freeman Company
In 2026, Freeman strengthened its technology suite by integrating advanced AI-driven event analytics and expanding its sustainable events division. The company launched new carbon-measurement tools for clients and expanded production capabilities in Europe and the Middle East, supporting large-scale global exhibitions.
Informa (UBM)
Informa reported continued digital marketplace growth in 2026, integrating data-driven business matchmaking solutions into its flagship events. Its Tech, Pharma, and Real Estate verticals saw double-digit growth, supported by higher exhibitor retention and expanded global reach in APAC.
RELX Group
RELX invested heavily in AI and machine-learning platforms to enhance buyer–seller engagement at global exhibitions. In 2026, its events arm introduced predictive analytics dashboards for exhibitors to improve ROI tracking.
BCD Meetings & Events
BCD expanded its incentive travel portfolio, adding new luxury destinations and launching a sustainability-focused corporate meetings program. Its events revenue grew strongly due to rising corporate travel demand.
Live Nation
2026 marked another record-breaking year for Live Nation with global concert attendance hitting new highs. The firm expanded festival properties in Asia and invested in new ticketing system enhancements.
Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG)
AEG opened two major arena expansions in Asia and North America, supporting larger entertainment and sports events. The company also strengthened venue partnerships across Europe.
Cvent Inc
Cvent launched an AI-powered event registration engine and upgraded its event mobile app with behavioral analytics. Integration with CRM and marketing platforms improved client workflows in 2026.
ATPI Ltd
ATPI deepened its specialization in marine and offshore event management, expanding support services across the Middle East. It launched enhanced duty-of-care tools for travel and event coordination.
CWT Meetings & Events
CWT rolled out new virtual engagement products, balancing hybrid event demand with rising corporate travel volumes. The firm expanded business events for pharmaceutical and tech industries.
Production Resource Group (PRG)
PRG added new XR/virtual production studios across Europe and the U.S. Demand surged for immersive stage design driven by entertainment and award shows.
Clarion Events Ltd
Clarion expanded its cybersecurity, energy, and retail events portfolio. The company reported strong attendance recovery and launched new digital content subscription offerings.
Capita plc
Capita continued restructuring non-core business units while strengthening its event outsourcing operations for enterprise and government sectors. It expanded its UK-based hybrid event service offerings.
Emerald Expositions Events Inc. (EEX)
EEX reported strong exhibitor turnout in key trade fairs. The company launched a buyer-intelligence platform to improve exhibitor ROI and expanded its co-located events strategy.
Fiera Milano SpA
Fiera Milano expanded collaboration with European event organizers and upgraded its pavilion infrastructure. It introduced more sustainability-focused event solutions in 2026.
Hyve Group plc
Hyve accelerated its digital transformation, enhancing event matchmaking capabilities. It expanded operations in India and Central Asia through targeted acquisitions.
Cievents
Cievents invested in creative production talent and expanded into digital storytelling for corporate events. Australia and UK markets experienced strong recovery.
Tarsus Group
Tarsus expanded its operations in the Middle East and China, focusing on niche verticals such as medical devices, textiles, and packaging exhibitions.
Questex LLC
Questex expanded its hospitality and wellness event portfolio, leveraging rising demand in consumer and enterprise segments. It upgraded its data intelligence tools.
Global Sources
Global Sources expanded cross-border B2B sourcing fairs in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The firm strengthened digital sourcing tools for international buyers.
Meorient
Meorient scaled up its global buyer matchmaking events in Africa and the Middle East. The company expanded its China Homelife series to new regions in 2026.
Narrative Summary of Company Profiles
The global events industry in 2026 is shaped by a diverse mix of large multinational organizers, digital-first platforms, and specialized B2B exhibition firms, each contributing unique value propositions to the growing market.
Freeman and PRG dominate the production and AV landscape, delivering world-class staging, experiential design, and hybrid event infrastructure. Their global footprint allows them to service high-profile corporate, entertainment, and industry events.
Informa, RELX, Emerald, Hyve, Tarsus, and Questex form the backbone of the global B2B exhibitions market. These companies operate across verticals—healthcare, industrial goods, fashion, real estate, technology, and consumer products—facilitating trade, product launches, and global buyer–seller engagement. Their strength lies in large-scale exhibitions supported by data-driven platforms.
In entertainment, Live Nation and AEG stand out as the world’s biggest live-event and venue operators, together influencing global concert and festival ecosystems. Their dominance is further strengthened through acquisitions, new venue developments, and technology-driven ticketing solutions.
Cvent, a global leader in event management software, drives digital transformation in the industry. Its integrated platform supports registration, analytics, mobile applications, and attendee engagement for corporate and hybrid events.
Corporate travel and meeting specialists such as BCD Meetings & Events, ATPI, and CWT Meetings & Events play crucial roles in enabling global MICE mobility, incentive programs, and managed travel operations for enterprise clients.
European and Asian organizers such as Fiera Milano, Cievents, Global Sources, and Meorient contribute significantly to regional growth through specialized exhibitions, sourcing fairs, and themed events tailored to evolving industry demands.
Collectively, these companies shape a global ecosystem built on technology, innovation, venue expansion, cross-border collaboration, and data-led decision-making—positioning the events market for strong long-term resilience and growth.
FAQ – Global Events Companies (With Facts & Figures)
- What is the size of the global events industry in 2025?
The Global Events Market reached USD 364.43 billion in 2025, driven by strong growth in corporate meetings, trade shows, entertainment events, and hybrid formats. North America accounted for 35% of total revenue, making it the largest regional market.
- Which companies are the largest players in the global events market?
The biggest global events companies by revenue include:
- Live Nation – USD 22.7 billion (largest entertainment events company worldwide)
- RELX Group – USD 10.9 billion (exhibitions & analytics)
- AEG (Anschutz Entertainment Group) – USD 9 billion
- Informa (UBM) – USD 3.5 billion
- Freeman – USD 3.1 billion
These companies collectively influence over 45% of the global organized events ecosystem through exhibitions, concerts, and B2B trade shows.
- Which region leads the global events market?
North America leads with a 35% market share, followed by:
- Europe: 28%
- Asia-Pacific: 27%
- Middle East & Africa: 6%
- Latin America: 4%
Asia-Pacific remains the fastest-growing region, supported by China, India, and Japan.
- How fast is the global events market growing?
The market is projected to grow from:
- USD 364.43 billion in 2025
- USD 386.66 billion in 2026
- USD 410.25 billion in 2027
It is expected to remain at USD 410.25 billion through 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 6.1% from 2026–2035.
- What types of events contribute most to global revenue?
The revenue breakdown in 2025 is as follows:
- Corporate Events & MICE: 31%
- Exhibitions & Trade Shows: 25%
- Entertainment & Live Events: USD 102 billion (~28%)
- Social & Weddings: 16%
Trade shows and concerts remain the highest-margin categories.
- How many major exhibitions are held annually worldwide?
More than 32,000 major exhibitions and trade fairs take place globally each year.
Top exhibition markets include:
- USA: 13,000+ events
- China: 4,500+ events
- Germany: 170+ major international fairs
- What role does technology play in events in 2025–2026?
Technology penetration is at an all-time high:
- 65% of events use hybrid elements
- Event tech spending exceeded USD 11.5 billion in 2025
- AI-driven analytics adoption increased 40% YoY
- Virtual event platforms engage 2x more global participants
- Which companies dominate the event technology market?
Leading tech-driven event companies include:
- Cvent Inc. – AI registration, event apps, analytics
- Freeman – AV, XR stages, digital event production
- PRG – Immersive lighting & virtual production
- Informa – Digital marketplace integration
These firms serve more than 200,000 corporate clients annually.
- Which country hosts the most entertainment events globally?
The United States is the largest entertainment events market:
- Live Nation managed 37,000+ events in 2024–2025
- AEG operates 300+ venues across the U.S. and Europe
- U.S. live entertainment revenue exceeded USD 45 billion in 2025
- What are the fastest-growing segments within the events industry?
Top growth areas in 2026 include:
- Hybrid and virtual events (adoption up 22%)
- Technology-driven corporate events
- Esports and gaming events (15–18% annual growth)
- Destination weddings (strongest in India & Italy)
- Sustainability-driven green events
- What challenges are facing global events companies?
Key restraints include:
- Rising venue rental and labor costs (up 12% YoY)
- Economic volatility impacting corporate budgets
- Travel regulation complexities post-pandemic
- Cybersecurity risks with hybrid and virtual platforms
- What is the outlook for global events companies through 2035?
The market stabilizes at USD 410.25 billion by 2035, with:
- Greater AI and automation adoption
- Increase in sustainable, carbon-neutral events
- Higher integration of XR/VR in exhibitions
- Expansion of global business travel and MICE tourism
- Strong competition among top exhibition organizers