As we move into 2026, may we keep building bridges across borders, empowering one another, and turning challenges into opportunities.”
- Alexandra Erdmann, pg 31
As we step into a new year, let’s carry that same warmth and determination with us.”
- Sudhir Dhavan, pg 5
Join us for two days of live and bespoke sessions!
p. 4
A message from the heart
p. 6
An anniversary congress that honoured IELA’s legacy
08 Leadership matters and continuity counts
09 Reflecting on the past. Welcoming the future.
10 Straight from the floor: voices that matter
16 Spotlight on excellence: awards that wowed
18 Snapshots that stole the show
p. 24
Next stop: Sun City, South Africa, 2026
26 Meet the hosts: passion powering the next chapter
p. 28
Dreaming big: our hopes and dreams for 2026
CONTENTS IELA WORLD
DECEMBER
Legacy in focus: thoughts from IELA Seniors’ visit in Hamburg by Nursun Erel p. 34
2025 p. 20
p. 39
IELA Working Groups: Progress, plans and actions
40 Education & Training Working Group: Ute Wiezorrek
41 Industry Relations Working Group: Kim Valdés
42 Standards & Customs Working Group: Ujjwal Gupta
p. 45
43 Membership Working Group: Alessandro Conte
44 Sustainability Working Group: Marta Kupis
Lead the way in sustainability, learn about how to participate.
A MESSAGE FROM THE HEART
Dear
colleagues, IELA members, friends,
As we approach the close of 2025, it is a moment to pause and reflect on what has been an extraordinary year for the International Exhibition Logistics Association (IELA). This year was not just another chapter in our story, but it was a milestone that celebrated our legacy and reaffirmed our commitment to shaping the future of exhibition and event logistics.
A year of milestones and celebration
The highlight of 2025 was undoubtedly the 40 th IELA Congress and 12th Partnering Event in Geneva, held under the theme “40 Years of Excellence”. Over 385 registrations from 53 countries marked this as one of our most inclusive and dynamic gatherings yet. Delegates engaged in thought-provoking sessions, from trend talks on global market shifts to sustainability dialogues that set the tone for our industry’s future. The congress was a celebration of community, collaboration, and continuity. Gala evenings, networking sessions, and the launch of the first-ever IELA SMART Award added a special dimension to this landmark occasion.
Driving knowledge and sustainability
Education remained at the heart of our mission. The 12th Winter Seminar in Amsterdam kicked off the year, offering immersive learning experiences for emerging professionals. Our IELA programme continued to empower members with advanced skills, reinforcing our commitment to professional development. Sustainability also took centre stage: the 5th and 6th Green Challenges mobilised members globally, while three sustainability webinars provided actionable
strategies for greener operations in different regions. These initiatives underscore our belief that progress and responsibility go hand in hand.
Strengthening industry alliances
Furthermore, 2025 was a year of forging stronger ties. Our Memorandum of Understanding with IFES marked a strategic step toward deeper collaboration across the exhibition value chain. Additionally, when IELA stepped onto the global stage at the UFI Global Congress and IAEE Expo! Expo! in 2025, it was all about purpose. These moments reflected our commitment to collaboration, advocacy, and sharing knowledge across borders. By aligning logistics with design and production, we are creating a more integrated and innovative industry ecosystem. Partnerships like these amplify our collective voice and enhance the value we deliver to members worldwide.
Celebrating our members and community spirit
Membership growth continued, welcoming new companies from diverse regions and reinforcing IELA’s global footprint. Through initiatives like the 60/60 meetings, working group activities, and vibrant social media engagement, we ensured that member voices were heard and celebrated. The IELA Awards 2025 recognised outstanding contributions, reminding us that excellence is not just an aspiration; it is a shared achievement.
Looking ahead with optimism
As we turn the page to 2026, our vision remains clear: to lead with innovation, foster
sustainability, and strengthen the bonds that make our association unique. The upcoming Operations Summit in Dubai and the 41st Congress in Sun City, South Africa promise new opportunities to learn, connect, and grow together. Let us carry forward the spirit of Genevathe laughter, the learning, and the leadership - into the new year. Together, we will continue to move the world of exhibition and event logistics forward.
But beyond events and milestones, what truly defines IELA is the spirit of its people; the friendships formed, the trust built, and the shared passion that drives us forward. This year reminded us that we are more than an association; we are a family united by purpose and pride in what we do.
On behalf of the Board of Management, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Your energy, ideas, and commitment make IELA what it is today. As we step into a new year, let’s carry that same warmth and determination with us. Here’s to a future filled with collaboration, progress, and moments that inspire us all.
Wishing you and your loved ones joy, health, and success in 2026.
Sudhir Dhavan
Chairperson 2024 - 2026
CELEBRATING IELA: AN ANNIVERSARY CONGRESS THAT HONOURED IELA’S LEGACY
Geneva was the stage for a milestone moment: five days that blended knowledge-sharing, networking, and pure celebration. The 40 th IELA Congress and 12 th Partnering Event marked an anniversary, which rewrote the playbook for what an industry gathering can be.
Members explored the latest trends in exhibition logistics, debated sustainability, and strengthened global partnerships. Working Groups brought fresh perspectives,
and the General Assembly set the tone for the association’s future.
And yes, there was time for fun: a day out in Annecy offered boat rides and mountain views, reminding us that connections flourish beyond conference rooms. The Partnering Event rounded things off with meaningful conversations between members and newcomers, paving the way for future collaborations.
393 participants representing 53 countries
Keynotes by Sebastian Witt and Angela Herbenholz 5 days of sessions, networking, and celebrations
Gala Dinner powered by TWI Group Inc. ,and a Host Dinner at Jardin de Penthes
A vote that revealed our next destination: Gothenburg, Sweden , for 2027
LEADERSHIP MATTERS AND CONTINUITY COUNTS
The 2025 General Assembly once again demonstrated the strength of IELA’s member-driven governance, where collaboration and shared values guide the association’s strategic direction. Among the highlights, the members voted in a new Board of Management member: Chiara Rossolimo from O.T.I.M. S.p.A. – International Fairs & Events Division. Chiara’s journey with IELA began as a student, and her election reflects a long-standing commitment to the association and its members.
In addition, the members reaffirmed their trust in existing leadership by re-electing Bas Wiendels of Valverde B.V. and Dirk Urra of Kuehne + Nagel (AG & Co.) KG – KN Expo & Event Logistics. Backed by the continued confidence of its members, the IELA Board of Management remains committed to driving excellence in exhibition and event logistics.
I have been to Many IELA Congress over the years, and this one is among Top 5! It had a professional frame and touch and well organised.”
All these years I meet people from exhibitions companies all over the world, now we are friends, I love to meet my friends at IELA... <3”
REFLECTING ON THE PAST. WELCOMING THE FUTURE.
New members were introduced during the Induction Meeting and celebrated at the General Assembly. Each handshake, each conversation reinforced what makes IELA unique: a community where every member is a respected colleague, partner, and friend.
Kuehne + Nagel UK – KN Expo & Event Logistics, Keuhne + Nagel, Singapore – Expo & Event Logistics, SPEDYCARGO TRANSITÁRIOS, SA , Cargo Way Event Logístics ltda, Cross Connect Customs & Event Logistics, Suomen Event Logistics Oy, JKK International Africa LTD, NEW EXPO LOGISTICS OPERATOR, World Cargo Group
STRAIGHT FROM THE FLOOR: VOICES THAT MATTER
Board reflections
Sudhir Dhavan
QWhat was your most important takeaway from this year’s congress?
SD
My most important takeaway is how we can align our operations with forward-looking insights shared by industry leaders. Sebastian Witt’s talk clarified where the industry is headed over the next decade, and as a logistics professional, I see concrete ways to adapt our planning to these trends. By integrating his guidance, we can design more resilient, efficient processes that anticipate future needs and drive sustainable growth for our organizations.
QCan you share one standout moment or memory from the congress that you’ll cherish?
SD
One standout moment was the rebranding of IELA to International Exhibition / Event Logistics Association. Adding “Event” to our name reflects a crucial evolution in our scope and aligns with our articles, benefiting existing members and attracting new ones. This broader focus will foster collaboration and growth within the IELA community. Another cherished moment was the presence of the “Senior Club” and Thierry Demeure’s keynote, which encapsulated IELA’s importance and potential.
Alexandra Erdmann
AE
This year’s congress was especially meaningful for us, as we had the honor as SWISS EXPO LOGISTICS LTD to be one of the hosts for the 40th Anniversary of IELA – 40 years of excellence. It was a true pleasure to welcome the IELA family to Geneva, Switzerland. We deeply appreciated the opportunity to meet and reconnect with our partners and members from around the world. We are truly grateful for the continued
cooperation and trust that make our shared success possible. The congress provided us with valuable insights and inspiration to continue driving excellence together in the years ahead. The sense of unity, the shared history by the Senior’s club during the Gala Dinner, and excitement for the future truly made this congress unforgettable. It reminded us how strong and supportive our global exhibition and event logistics community is.
Dirk Urra
QWhat was your most important takeaway from this year’s congress?
DUStanding in the ceremony hall in Geneva, surrounded by so many familiar faces from around the world, I felt a deep sense of pride and gratitude. The energy, the conversations, the shared memories, they all reminded me why being part of the IELA community is something truly special.
This year’s congress, matching IELA’s 40th anniversary, felt like both a celebration of our history and a vision for our future. From a
small group of passionate logistics experts, we have grown into a strong, global family that defines excellence, trust, and collaboration in exhibition and event logistics.
I am especially proud and thankful for the confidence the members have shown by reelecting me to the IELA Board for another two years. It is an honor that fills me with motivation to keep contributing to this unique network that has shaped so much of my professional journey.
What I take away from Geneva is a strong belief in our spirit — the friendships, openness, and commitment that will continue to drive IELA’s success for the next 40 years and beyond.
Lena Ericson
QCan you share one standout moment or memory from the congress that you’ll cherish?
LE
here are many great memories, but one that stands out is the IELA Senior Club on stage at the Gala Dinner. When Thierry Demeure, former Ziegler Expo and long-time IELA member, gave his heartfelt
speech about how it all began — a few passionate people wanting to raise standards and quality in exhibition logistics — it really struck a chord. Seeing how far we’ve come in 40 years was a powerful reminder of what dedication and collaboration can achieve.
Chiara Rossolimo
QCan you share one standout moment or memory from the congress that you’ll cherish?
CRThe night of the 40th anniversary of our association was such an emotional moment for the memories and stories that came into my mind, shared so far by pillars and mentors over my career. It was a pure milestone of our history and growth as a community, a celebration of efforts, commitment, value, and above all expertise. The heartfelt participation combined with my nomination as board member brought me to feel even more part of this project, in the present and in the next future, with own duties, responsibilities and ideas to foster this association to be more and more widely recognized as a landmark and active player in the international trade.
Ziad Harb
QWhat was your most important takeaway from this year’s congress?
ZH
My most important takeaway from this year’s congress was the inspiring sense of unity, renewal, and forward thinking that defines the IELA community. The 40th IELA Congress in Geneva was more than a celebration—it was a reflection of the resilience and adaptability of our industry. It reminded us how far we’ve come and how critical it is to continue building bridges between legacy and innovation.
Garcia Newell
QCan you share one standout moment or memory from the congress that you’ll cherish?
GN
The main standout moment for me in Geneva was Lena inviting our new secretariat team to stage during our members’ open forum meeting. Changing long-term relationships can be hard, also difficult for the incoming, especially taking the reins and turning around “in my view”, one of the best Congress’s that I can remember, and in shorter than usual period of time. Huge kudus to the team from MCI.
Christoph Rauch
QCan you share one standout moment or memory from the congress that you’ll cherish?
CRThe most significant moment for BTG Messe was undoubtedly the Award Ceremony during the Gala Dinner. Being honored as the second-best logistics provider in the category “Best Export Agent” is a fantastic recognition for the entire BTG Messe team and a reward and affirmation of the hard work the team has put in throughout the year. Since this award comes from partners around the world, it makes it even more valuable. Thank you to all our partners!
Another major reason to celebrate was, of course, the 40th anniversary of the association. BTG, one of the seven founding members of IELA, is especially proud of the association’s development and of being part of it for 40 years. Witnessing how a group of seven members has grown into a unique global network is truly indescribable.
The congress was an opportunity to transform competition between competitors into cooperation.”
Lucien Lawson
LL Geneva 2025 Congress was truly a milestone, showcasing to the entire exhibition and trade show industry the strength of our association, IELA. It combined unforgettable moments of social events, networking, and simply spending time together as members, proud of what IELA has achieved over 40 years.
Returning to our roots, Geneva 2025 was a perfect celebration of our legacy, once again thanking the seven founding companies who had the brilliant idea of creating IELA. I’m personally very proud that Clamageran Foirexpo is one of them.
Geneva 2025 was the best congress ever!
COMMUNITY INSIGHTS
At
this year’s Congress, the 60/60 Member Forum brought the IELA community together in a dynamic, face-to-face setting designed for open dialogue and genuine exchange. In a town-hall format, members were invited to speak freely, sharing ideas, raising concerns, and engaging directly with representatives from the Board of Management. The energy in the room was palpable, and the conversations were insightful and constructive. This session was about connecting to what matters most, reaffirming IELA’s commitment to transparency and member-led collaboration. Most importantly, it honoured that it is our members who are the heart of the association. Your voices helped shape the strategic agenda for the Board and the Working Groups, ensuring that IELA continues to evolve in ways that reflect the needs and aspirations of its global network.
During the Gala Dinner, we celebrated excellence across the IELA network with the Survey Awards, a tradition that honours top-performing agents in the categories of Onsite, Domestic, and Export. Based on peer-reviewed survey results, these awards recognised the outstanding service, dedication, and professionalism within our industry. Congratulations to all the winners who continue to set the standard and inspire us all.
Overall, the complete IELA Congress was a valuable experience for me, and it has become a great platform for delegates like me who have been into the industry for just 2 years. It is a platform, like congress and Partnering Event which provides opportunities to interact, network, and strengthen business relationships. Thank You IELA!”
SPOTLIGHT ON EXCELLENCE:
the awards that wowed
The Congress & Partnering was a truly enjoyable and wellorganised event. It provided a valuable opportunity to meet industry leaders, gain deeper experience, and introduce our association to many new companies.”
AND THE WINNERS ARE...
SMART Award
1st place: R.E. Rogers India
2nd place: Kuehne+Nagel, Germany
3 rd place: Fulstandig Shows e Eventos MC Ltda, Brazil
4th place: Swiss Expo Logistics Ltd
Standards and Customs Survey Awards
Domestic Agent
1st place: Eurotran Expo Service Co., Ltd., Taiwan
2nd place: ELF Shipping LLC, UAE
3 rd place: Masstrans Freight LLC, UAE
Export Agent
1st place: KEMI-LEE CO., Ltd, Korea
2nd place: BTG Messe-Spedition GmbH, Germany
3 rd place: OTIM S.p.A., Italy
Onsite Agent
1st place: ELF Shipping LLC, UAE
2nd place: Curio Pack (Penang) Sdn Bhd., Malaysia
3 rd place: Eurotran Expo Service Co., Ltd., Taiwan
Transition Award
Honouring those who helped guide us through a significant organisational shift with clarity, collaboration, and grace. Our sincere appreciation went out to:
Sandi Trotter
Lena Ericson
Ziad Harb
SNAPSHOTS THAT STOLE THE SHOW
MEET THE HOSTS: PASSION POWERING THE NEXT CHAPTER
We are excited about the potential of Sun City as the host destination for IELA 2026. The professionalism presented by the Sun City staff and the welcoming spirit of Ubuntu truly reflect the unity and cooperation that define our global network. We are excited to offer Sun City as the 2026 Congress destination. With the Pilanesberg Game Reserve bordering on Sun City, the destination will offer delegates a truly African experience.”
Mike Weeks / King Cargo
To host the IELA Congress 2026 in South Africa is such an honour. I love this country, its people, its spirit, its breathtaking beauty and sharing our culture, warmth, and resilience with the world is very special. This congress will be a truly African experience, celebrating people, connection, and sustainable growth with our global IELA family. I believe Sun City will remind us all why people are at the heart of everything we do.”
Jacqui Nel / EF-GSM South Africa
HAKUNA MATATA (means no worries or no problem)”
Leon Roux / Larouxnelle
Hosting the IELA Congress in Sun City is a moment of immense pride for us. This isn’t just a business trip; it’s a chance for the global IELA family to experience something truly unique.
The Congress is a must-visit because it offers that essential mix of high-value networking and an unforgettable setting. Where else can you finalize a crucial partnership and be on safari in the Pilanesberg National Park an hour later? Sun City offers world-class amenities— from golf to thrilling waterparks—all delivered with genuine African hospitality.
We’re proud to welcome everyone to South Africa. We look forward to sharing our vibrant culture and local expertise, ensuring this edition of the IELA Congress is both highly productive and deeply memorable. Prepare to leave feeling inspired and rejuvenated!”
Moses Maboi / Katlego Global Logistics
Q WHAT ARE YOUR WISHES FOR THE NEW YEAR, LOOKING AHEAD TO IELA’S FUTURE?
Chiara Rossolimo
Our industry is reflecting the world around us, heavily affected by instability, fear, growing competition, insane pace to the detriment of service quality, reasonable cost-profit ratio, enough understanding of mutual needs among actors. Although it might not be easy, my personal hope is that our association and its members will be able to keep an open & fighting spirit towards challenges and changes, always coming together as an experienced and critical-mind community with the idea of fostering already-in-place relationships, building new bridges and, why not, setting a communication channel with main global carriers whose logic of thoughts and actions might not be aligned with ours. Confrontation, even if heated, is a crucial tool to widen horizons, create mutual awareness on roles, boost innovative solutions and cohesion. Not an easy path but I am pretty sure we are all equipped with patience, enthusiasm and skills.
Dirk Urra
Looking ahead to 2026, I imagine a year where the spirit of IELA’s community shines brighter than ever. I hope that as our network grows, every member, from newcomers to long-standing colleagues, feels the same warmth, trust, and connection that first attracted me to this remarkable association.
What inspires me the most is the way IELA brings people from different continents together and creates both friendships and professional relationships. The Working Groups play a central role in this, providing a platform for members to share knowledge, drive innovation, and actively shape the future of IELA and the industry. My hope is that many members continue to engage passionately in these groups, contributing their expertise and ideas to strengthen our association.
In a world that turns faster every year, at least that is how I feel, these connections remind us that exhibition logistics is ultimately about people. I hope that our cooperation will be further expanded, that knowledge will be freely exchanged, and that we will innovate and grow together.
My personal wish for 2026 is simple yet meaningful: that IELA remains a community where passion, trust, and every interaction, where members actively contribute to its growth, and where the next 40 years are filled with friendship, inspiration, and shared achievement.
Lena Ericson
For the future, I hope IELA keeps its warm and strong spirit — where we truly help each other and grow together. In our job, no one can make it alone. We rely on trust, teamwork, and pride in what we do.
Let’s keep that spirit alive, support the next generation, and take care of the craft that makes exhibition logistics so special.
Alexandra Erdmann
As our association continues to grow, my hope for IELA in 2026 is that we further strengthen the sense of unity, trust, and collaboration that defines our community. The past 40 years have shown that our greatest achievements come from working together, learning from one another, and sharing the same values and passion the exhibition and event logistics industry. Looking ahead, we are all aware of the challenges posed by the current global landscape — from geopolitical uncertainties and economic fluctuations to changing market dynamics. These factors remind us how vital our collaboration and solidarity are. In times of instability, our association’s strength lies in mutual support, open dialogue, and the ability to adapt together.
Lena Ericson
Sudhir Dhavan
Garcia Newell Christoph Rauch Chiara Rossolimo Dirk Urra Bas Wiendels
Ziad Harb
Lucien Lawson
Alexandra Erdmann
My hope is that, despite these challenges around us, we continue to foster a strong community spirit — one that embraces innovation, inclusivity, and resilience. As we move into 2026, may we keep building bridges across borders, empowering one another, and turning challenges into opportunities. Here’s to another year of cooperation, shared growth, learning together and 40 more years of excellence within the IELA family. Together, we’ve overcome many challenges over the years, showing that adaptability is truly what makes our industry exceptional.
Ziad Harb
Looking ahead to 2026, my personal hope for IELA’s community is to keep on developing while preserving our values of quality and standards.
May 2026 be a year of even greater collaboration, innovation, and impact for us all!
Garcia Newell
My hope for the year ahead is for more member engagement opportunities throughout the year, and also member involvement within our various working groups. We have a great standing in the industry, and with that in mind, I would like that our relationships with other key associations such as UFI, IFES, EXSA, AEO and others, to grow stronger; and most of all that our membership directly benefits from these relationships. On a last and for me an important note, I want to see the advancement of our younger IELA members, as they are the future of our industry, and we should do all we can in the coming year to make this happen.
Christoph Rauch
IELA is not only about taking part in any networking event; IELA is family – we keep on saying this during the congress and I am pretty sure that everybody feels that way. Therefore, unfair business practices must not be allowed there; business ethics should always be upheld. The rules of fair competition should always apply.
IELA once again goes to prove that people from various backgrounds, religions and cultures can all work together successfully on something really big. Associations like this are role models for integration, tolerance, respect and open-mindedness. And IELA is the best example of this.
What we feel cannot be read about in contracts nor is it written down in any list of regulations. This all has to do with the attitude and the manner in which each and every one of us encounters all that is foreign and new with compassion and interest.
I am talking about the IELA SPIRIT!
My wish and hope for 2026 is that we all keep that special IELA SPIRIT!
Lucien Lawson
As a member of the IELA Board and Treasurer, I will continue in 2026 to apply my strengths of passion and hard work to implement positive changes within the industry in order to reach ambitious goals, especially during a period that has brought many challenges to the global exhibition industry, such as climate change and the implementation of carbon footprint measurement, to make our industry sustainable for the decades ahead.
Combining exhibition and event logistics together as IELA’s new identity, let us continue our efforts to unify expertise and knowledge under the same umbrella for the benefit of our global logistics industry.
Wishing all the best to IELA and its members in 2026.
Sudhir Dhavan
IELA is more than a network; it is a growing sentiment that resonates across our community. Geneva stood as a testament to this momentum. I am grateful to my Board of Management for their incredible ideas and hard work in steering IELA in a markedly new direction. Initiatives like Future of IELA and the 60-60 programme show that a strong voice can be heard and ideas can be exchanged to advance IELA more professionally.
For the record, we have strengthened our foundation by appointing a new Secretariat (MCI) that leads with professionalism and fresh perspectives, driving toward higher standards and clearer goals.
As our network grows, what is your personal hope for the association’s community spirit and collaboration for 2026?
As our network grows, my personal hope for the association’s community spirit and collaboration in 2026 is threefold:
• Inclusive engagement: An open, welcoming environment where members of all sizes and regions feel valued and able to contribute.
• Collaborative excellence: A vibrant ecosystem for co-creating solutions—joint initiatives, shared best practices, and measurable outcomes that benefit all members.
• Stronger belonging: A purpose-driven culture built on professionalism, trust, and transparent communication.
In 2026, I envision a more interconnected, innovative, and resilient community where every member derives clear value from participation and collaboration.
LEGACY IN
THOUGHTS FROM IELA SENIORS’ VISIT IN HAMBURG 4.
IELA Seniors’ visit of Tor Zur Welt (Hamburg)
By Nursun Erel
We are so excited for our future visit to Hamburg:
• Wondering about if all the members will be coming? Does Elphie (the modern concert hall) really look like an iceberg?
• Oh yes! But in fact more than anything, I’m looking forward to see Lübeck. Does it really look like as if a page popped up from a fairy tale?
• Should I keep my book on the way there? (Buddenbrooks by famous Lübeck born author Thomas Mann)
So with all those questions in our minds, we arrive to our hotel in Hamburg; Ruby Lotti.
• Waw! What an ultramodern design… Interiors of our temporary home is so unique. Look at those hats on the wall, to whom they belonged once upon a time? Did you notice the guitar on the wall, it says, “play me…”
Come on, hurry up, let’s get ready, at seven PM we have to be at the Library Room.
We are there, everyone arrives one by one, hands are shaken, kisses and compliments are flying, common word is, “you’re not changed at all!” Waiter brings the aperol-spritz first, and than the finger food is served, everything is delicious.
• We have to sleep early, cause next day’s program is full, first we will walk to the old warehouses on the river bank, get in to the Coffee Museum and then visit the Elbphilarmonie by Elbe River.
Next day we meet around the breakfast tables, buffet is rich, it is hard to choose among various flavors. Sipping our coffee, we meet our tour guide Daniela, she is very tall and so sympathetic, no chance to loose her on the streets.
We were looking forward to see the Coffee Museum, and here we are.
• My god, I would never imagine that such a variety of coffee beans were being cultivated all over the world. What is your choice?
• Let’s have different ones, so we can taste
both, would you like a slice of an apple pie too?
A giant roaster is rotating in the back, we get the freshly roasted coffee’s wonderful smell.
Now it’s time to leave, while walking, we have to pass many bridges of Elbe River
• Did you know that there are more bridges over the Elbe River than in Venice? More than two thousand plus some.
Now we arrive to Elphie, the modern concert hall of Hamburg. We have to take the 87 meters long escalator to reach the observation terrace. From air, Elbe River and Hamburg looks so beautiful. The luxury apartments by the river lies in front of us.
• What is that giant orange color crane over there?
Our guide tells us, if we wait in the long line, we can spend the night inside, there is a luxury bedroom. We leave the observation terrace. We have to walk for a while to reach our boat, it is time to see the harbor from inside, our captain is a famous TV personality. We take many pictures. Giant tankers, many many container ships, garbage dumps stored on the river bank, even some luxury yachts once belonged to Russian oligarchs, a private helicopter is ready on one of them. Hamburg Harbor is really the Tor Zur Welt (the gate to the world.)
Our boat tour is ended now and were hungry, so we have to go and have our fish and chips plate at Jetty Bridge. On our way back to the hotel, we pass Elbe, through the famous underground tunnel, I feel a little bit scared but find it very interesting.
We have to take a quick shower and a short nap, and be ready for the dinner, however our transparante bathroom is so strange, according to some it is erotic, thanks to god
there is a curtain too…
Now we are ready for Old Commercial Room (restaurant) which is open since the year 1795. We decided what to eat but must have a draft beer too. The chat around the table is so intense, obviously seniors are happy the time they spend together.
Next day we will take a train for Lübeck. I have Thomas Mann’s famous novel in my hand (Brudenbrooks.) However the Nobel prized author once critisized by his Lübeck fellow countrymen seriously. After a short train journey we arrive to Lübeck and we are stunned in front of The Holsten Gate (Holstentor) marking off the western boundary of the old center of Lübeck. We are so impressed, walking cobblestoned narrow streets, seeing many beautiful old buildings, one iron gate brings Romeo and Juliet together.
• Shall we buy some delicious marzipan of Lübeck?
• Oh yes, we have to buy some chocolates too.
Our guide keeps on telling us:
• During the ancient times this city was the center of salt and grain trade, salt was so precious, if you had a stack of salt you could buy one fine house.
Now we arrive to Schiffergessellschaft, where we will have lunch soon. Once, King Charles ate here too. It’s the best time of the year to have fresh asparagus, so we decide to have schnitzel besides asparagus, mmm it is delicious. We admire the restaurant’s internal decorations which are really charmful.
Time flies and we are back to Hamburg, while walking on the road we come across a very nice bookstore, inside, it looks just like a comfortable sitting room, let’s buy an anthology of Grimm Brothers, it would be a great gift for our grand kids. Weren’t we once lulled to sleep by their fairy tales too?
Tonight it is our last night in Hamburg, we will have a farewell dinner at Strauchs Falko, famous for grill and seafood, the conversation around the table is warm and cheerful. We wish the other members of the club were with us too.
Next morning, before we say goodbye, our group head Edgar Von Der Heydt gives us good news, making us all very happy:
• Now its time to say goodbye but next year we shall meet at Malta Island, is everyone in?
• Yeeeeeeees
Thanks to our sponsors
Without our generous sponsors and supporters, these meetings would hardly be possible.
IELA BOARD
IELA WORKING
GROUPS:
PROGRESS, PLANS AND ACTIONS
Education & Training Working Group: Ute Wiezorrek
Since the IELA Congress in Geneva our Education & Training Working Group has mainly worked on the Operations Summit 2026, which will be held from January 8th to 11th in Dubai. The event is again 100% funded by IELA, which underlines the importance of training for IELA and its members.
After our working group has met personally in Geneva, we already came together online 2 times to discuss possible topics, check availability with speakers and start to prepare a schedule.
The schedule is planned as follows:
Thursday January 8th |
Evening: Welcome cocktail
Friday January 9th |
8.45-17.00h: Seminar program
Saturday January 10th |
Day out
Sunday January 11th |
8:45-17:00h: Seminar program
During the seminar programme the following topics are planned (subject to change):
• Case study: AI in logistics
• Sustainability
• Claim / Insurance
• Venue point of view
• Round table discussion – The world around us
• Standards & Customs
• Defense & Aerospace
• Customer relations
• Role play
We want to take the opportunity to thank the internal and external speakers who volunteered to support with their valuable insights and expertise and are looking forward to welcoming our attendees in January in Dubai.
Industry Relations Working Group: Kim Valdés
We recently hosted our group discussion, “IELA Trend Talk: Focus on the Americas”, where we brought together industry leaders to share their insights on key topics shaping exhibition and event logistics in the region:
• Nearshoring is no longer a contingency plan – it’s becoming the default strategy for resilient exhibition and event logistics in the Americas.
• Technology adoption in logistics is accelerating – but are exhibition organisers keeping pace with the innovation curve?
• Sustainability is shifting from a marketing message to a measurable performance metric in logistics operations.
Among the confirmed panelists, we were proud to have representation from Brazil, Mexico, and the United States, along with UFI, ensuring a dynamic and influential panel. The discussion took place on December 2nd, with a strong focus on the Americas region.
Speakers include:
• UFI – Ana María Arango
• AMPROFEC – Julio César Bojórquez Hernández
• UBRAFE – Paulo Almeida
• IAEE – Jackie Russo
In addition, we are delighted to confirm the in-person participation of our IELA ambassadors at the following upcoming events. These engagements aim to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders and reinforce IELA’s position as a recognised and active association worldwide:
• UFI Global Congress – Hong Kong
• ESCA Winter Celebration & Awards
• IAEE EXPO! EXPO!
While 2025 was a fruitful and successful year, we are very much excited about what’s coming ahead!
Standards & Customs Working Group: Ujjwal Gupta
The Standards and Customs Working Group has presented a series of improvements to the Board, based on both interpersonal and formal feedback. Once these changes are approved and assessed by the Board, we will collaborate with the Secretariat to finalise a release date for the survey. The Working Group is also determining the optimal timeframe for keeping the survey open, balancing participant availability with the need to avoid unnecessary delays.
Discussions have also focused on the development of a Code of Ethics for the survey. However, it was agreed that rather than creating detailed guidelines at this stage, it is more important to raise awareness and, in the meantime, communicate a basic list of Do’s and Don’ts.
During the Congress in Geneva, it became clear that few members actively use the Customs and Venue Files. Consequently, the Board, following discussions with the Working Group, suggested considering the removal of these files. This task remains a work in progress.
The Operational Health & Safety Guidelines, currently posted in IELA’s private zone, have not been updated since their last publication. While it is still under review whether these guidelines require updating, the Working Group has begun assessing their status and will revise relevant sections if necessary. We invite expert input on this task to ensure the guidelines are shaped to the highest standard.
Membership Working Group: Alessandro Conte
It has been an exciting year for membership within our association. So far in 2025, we have proudly welcomed 11 new members, including one from a White Spot Country; a region where IELA previously had no representation. This milestone reflects our commitment to expanding the association’s global footprint.
Thanks to the dedicated efforts of MWG members Udit Gupta and Sara Tavares, supported by the Secretariat, we have launched a proactive outreach programme targeting companies in underrepresented regions. This initiative is a key part of IELA’s strategy to strengthen global networking across the exhibition and events industry.
While growth is important, maintaining the high standards that define IELA membership remains a top priority. Together with the Board, the MWG continues to refine the application process and supporting documents and overseeing a rigorous screening process to ensure that quality and trustworthiness remain at the heart of our community. Encouragingly, recent applicants have shared positive feedback on the enhanced digital application, confirming that these improvements are making the process more efficient and userfriendly.
Looking ahead, one of our ongoing focuses is enhancing the mediation process offered
to members. This ambitious project responds to frequent member requests and will significantly increase the value and security of being part of IELA.
Finally, an exciting challenge on the horizon is interpreting the association’s recent name change to include Exhibition / Events. In the coming months, the MWG will explore how this new direction shapes our recruitment strategy for 2026 and beyond.
Sustainability Working Group: Marta Kupis
Dear Friends, as 2025 unfolds, our commitment to sustainability continues to gain momentum within our association and throughout the global exhibition logistics community. From developing practical tools for our members to strengthening our partnerships across the industry, here is a look at what we have been up to!
Our webinar series “Sharing the Experience in Sustainability” continues with great success! We are thrilled to see increasing interest from our members and industry partners in learning how IELA members are meeting sustainability challenges.
A special thank-you to Mariane Ewbank and Roxanne Pitchelu from Fulstandig Shows e Eventos MC Ltda for inspiring us by sharing their journey toward a more sustainable workplace and the impactful steps they are taking in Brazil.
Our next session is planned for March 2026 and if you have insights or stories to share, we would love to hear from you!
We have decided to discontinue the Green Challenges in order to give more visibility to the members of our community. Through social media, we will be sharing the interviews recorded during the IELA
Congress, highlighting our members as they shine a light on the voices driving sustainability forward.
Between September and October, members of our Sustainability Working Group encouraged onsite agents to use the CO2 Form. We invite you to share how your company calculates CO2 emissions to help all members improve and refine our measurement methods. This is a crucial step toward reducing our environmental impact.
This November, we are excited to launch the 2nd IELA SMART Award! Check the details in this issue of the IELA Magazine and do not miss your chance to apply before March 31st.
Looking ahead to January, we will continue our sustainability discussions at the Operations Summit with a dedicated session. We invite every member to join us in shaping a sustainable future for our industry. Together we can drive impactful change!
HThis award challenges every IELA Member to lead the way in sustainability and social responsibility. It celebrates bold initiatives and innovative solutions that drive meaningful change.
onouring companies that successfully embed sustainable practices into their operations and champion sustainability across the exhibition logistics sector, this award recognises true pioneers. Winners will stand out as industry trailblazers, setting new benchmarks for excellence, inspiring best practices, and fostering a culture of sustainability that benefits the entire exhibition industry.
ELIGIBILITY
Applications are open to all IELA members
Application deadline: March 31st 2026
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
1. Download the IELA MEMBERS SUSTAINABLE PROJECT form and briefly describe your application entry by including the requested data in the form.
2. Prepare a PowerPoint presentation covering the following points:
• Quick background and general objectives, please provide details about the geographical location of your sustainability initiatives and how location-specific factors influenced your sustainability strategy and outcomes (if applicable).
• Description of actions taken, stakeholders involved and results achieved.
• Conclusion: lessons learnt, next steps (if any).
3. Send your completed form and your PowerPoint to the IELA Secretariat at secretariat@iela.org before March 31st 2026.
For any questions, please contact Marta Kupis, Louise Vigliandi and Claudia Leoni from the IELA Sustainability Working Group.
Marta Kupis RESA EXPO LOGISTICS. SPAIN
Louise Vigliandi CLAMAGERAN FOIREXPO FRANCE
Leoni EXPOTRANS S.P.A ITALY
Claudia
IELA BOARD OF MANAGEMENT
Sudhir Dhavan – Chairperson
Alexandra Erdmann – Vice Chairperson
Lucien Lawson – Treasurer
MEMBERS
Lena Ericson
Ziad Hard
Garcia Newell
Christoph Rauch
Chiara Rossolimo
Dirk Urra
Bas Wiendels
IELA SECRETARIAT
Raya van Hugten, Director, Association Solutions
Hannah Pahor, Association Management
Kristin Nordmark, Members Liaison
Sophie Pijl, IELA Events
Irene Koomans, External Relations and Partnerships
Maria Kriva, Marketing Strategy and Communications
