The decision to relocate the ISE exhibition comes after 18 months of research into the viability of remaining at RAI Amsterdam. With ISE exhibitor and attendee growth approaching 10% annually, and the international AV market projected to grow by 5% annually through 2021, it was concluded that ISE was outperforming its popular Amsterdam location.
ISE 2018 attracted 80,923 attendees, 22,000 of whom were first-time visitors, while 1,296 exhibitors filled 53,000 net square meters of space across 15 halls. ISE 2019 is expected to surpass these record numbers.
Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events, states: “RAI and Amsterdam have provided a fantastic location, been excellent partners, and contributed to the success of the event. However, the demand from exhibitors and the continued increase in the number of attendees showed us that the limited space on the floor was in danger of hindering the development of the trade fair. Despite our best efforts, this was not a problem we felt could be solved by remaining at RAI Amsterdam.”.
"We conducted extensive research on exhibitors and attendees and visited many major exhibition centers in Europe before making this important decision. By announcing our move to one of Europe's largest and most prestigious convention complexes, we can now continue to focus on creating a unique experience for everyone and plan with confidence for long-term development. At the same time, we will ensure that the two remaining editions of ISE at RAI Amsterdam are the best in its illustrious history and a fitting way to conclude our 14-year relationship with the venue and the city.".
Fira de Barcelona is one of Europe's most prestigious convention and conference venues. The complex features two exhibition halls and hosts 140 international trade fairs each year, with over 30,000 exhibitors and attracting more than two million attendees. In total, it has over 400,000 square meters of exhibition space and 14 halls.
Gran Via is one of Europe's largest and most modern exhibition halls. It combines outstanding architecture with exceptional functionality across eight halls and 200,000 square meters of exhibition space. It also offers unparalleled visitor flow and state-of-the-art services and logistics. It is conveniently located for easy access to the nearby international airport and public transportation.
The co-owners of ISE AVIXA and CEDIA wish to highlight the positive benefits of the decision to relocate.
David Labuskes, CEO of AVIXA, commented: “Our thinking in making this decision was driven by our desire to serve and deliver value to our members, attendees, and exhibitors at ISE. We can best achieve these goals in a venue that can evolve with us and continue to reflect the market in which we operate. The continued success of ISE and the anticipated growth in the AV business meant we knew this decision also needed to be made for the long term. I am delighted that we were able to make that decision now to take control of the events and ensure a smooth transition.”.
Tabatha O'Connor, president and CEO of CEDIA Global, commented: "Not only is the new location the state-of-the-art home of our show, but the city of Barcelona is one of the most vibrant and exciting in Europe. It is the perfect choice for a growing exhibition industry that fosters creativity and commerce.".
Both ISE editions, 2019 and 2020, will take place at RAI Amsterdam and are predicted to be the biggest and most successful in the series' 16-year history.
