Competition, sustainability, safety: the challenges facing the future of vehicle fit-outs

Fair competition, sustainability, safety, artificial intelligence. The trade fair and events industry in Italia is facing a number of challenges, which risk having an impact on a sector that is strategic for the Italian economy, particularly in terms of business exports.

Asal’s annual general meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the role of stand builders, particularly at a time of growing competition from the exhibition organisers themselves, who are increasingly investing in the development of in-house subsidiaries dedicated specifically to stand construction.

“We have come together to tackle, in a united manner, the challenges facing a sector that is strategic to the success of Italian trade fairs and to the promotion of ‘Made in Italy’ around the world,” said Marco Fogarolo, president of the association. “In particular, the need to ensure fair competition at exhibition centres has emerged, in light of the growing direct involvement of certain exhibition operators in stand-fitting activities – a trend that requires attention to avoid potential market distortions and ensure equal opportunities for independent operators.”

During the meeting, speakers included, amongst others, Marco Morone, Head of Healthcare Professions for the Lombardy Region, and Ivano Bortolo, a health and safety officer, who discussed in detail the issues of health and safety at work and accident prevention – aspects considered a priority for businesses in the sector.

Lawyer Mauro Colantoni analysed the legal and regulatory framework governing the fit-out market, with a particular focus on competitive balance, whilst Filippo Poletti, journalist, author and LinkedIn Top Voice, led the audience in a discussion on digital evolution, explaining how digitalisation, management software and artificial intelligence represent three levels of the same cultural challenge.