2024 Global Sources Hong Kong Shows elevate trade experience and innovate for a greener future

The Global Sources Hong Kong Shows reinforce their status as the leading online-to-offline sourcing event through a seamless blend of innovation and sustainability.

The October 2024 exhibitions enhance the overall trade experience and provide an exceptional one-stop sourcing solution through an array of inventive products, cutting-edge technologies, sustainable practices, and a strategic vision.

“As an established sourcing platform, Global Sources has strategically navigated the post-pandemic global economic landscape and evolved our events. We have proactively explored new markets and manufacturing sites, responding to buyers’ sourcing demands with meaningful changes. One key initiative is our development of the sourcing market in Vietnam,” states Hu Wei, Chief Executive Officer of Global Sources. “Looking ahead, we will continue to focus on digitalization to foster connections among our stakeholders.”

Integrating powerful app functions
Since April, Global Sources has leveraged digital technology to implement several significant upgrades to its Global Sources app,known as Show Genie. Online registration prior to the event not only ensures a smooth entry for buyers but also enables them to plan routes based on their product interests. The app also uses on-site QR codes to help buyers find their way around large exhibitions. With this convenient and accurate feature, buyers won’t get lost.

“The new Show Genie 2.0 in the app successfully transforms the user experience before, during and after the shows. A major enhancement is the facilitation of business conversations and card exchanges between buyers, exhibitors, and even retailers who are not present at the shows,” explains Carol Lau, Global Sources’ Senior Vice President, Client Service, Marketing & Analytic. Another notable feature is the Virtual show, which is live streamed within the app, thereby boosting trade opportunities between buyers and exhibitors.

Championing sustainable business initiatives
Technology is not the only integral value of Global Sources, as one can see in the robust list of sustainable practices adopted by Global Sources. To highlight environmentally conscious exhibitors, Global Sources displays green certifications at relevant booths.

“We are committed to sustainable sourcing and low-carbon production. A case in point is how we reduce our transportation-related carbon footprints by partnering with manufacturers based in the Greater Bay Area. What we aim to achieve is a 50% reduction in carbon emission by 2030,” emphasizes Wendy Lai, Vice President of Global Sources Exhibitions.

Comprehensive guidelines are provided to exhibitors, from an eco-friendly venue layout, to a height limit for booths, to reusable and biodegradable materials. Furthermore, any unsold food and leftover products will be donated to charities.

Committing to Future Growth
John Kao, Vice President of Hong Kong Shows & Overseas Shows at Global Sources states: “Dedicated to innovation, we integrate new elements into our shows while reaching out to partners who share the same view.” He explains that this year, for instance, Global Sources has broadened the scope of artificial intelligence products, moving beyond a single exhibition hall to incorporate AI functionality across a diverse array of products.

Pioneering the sourcing event industry, Global Sources has crafted a three-year plan aimed at enriching their content, increasing efficiency, and expanding their reach to more markets. This strategic vision is evident in the introduction of several immersive experiences in the shows, including a cosplay parade, the traditional Chinese art of face changing, a pet pavilion and a dynamic sports carnival, to name but a few.

The second phase of the Hong Kong Shows at Global Sources, which is upcoming and scheduled to run from October 18 to 21, brings together four major specialized trade exhibitions: Mobile Electronics, Smart Home, Security &Home Appliances, Quality Life, and Home & Kitchen. It will feature nearly 4,000 exhibitor booths showcasing over 150,000 products.