Global Experience Specialists (GES) EMEA has opened a Paris office and facility, part of its strategic expansion across the region. The news underlines the brand’s commitment to provide expertise, talent, and service for organisers that understand the nuances of local markets and follows announcements of new operations in Qatar and India, as well as the continued evolution of the business's Dubai office.
As part of the business's growth, GES has also recruited a team of local French talent based in Paris. Thibault Mervaillie is heading up the new team in France, he said: “This is an exciting time for the French market which has grown consistently since COVID. Our aim is to strengthen our existing customer relationships and develop new partnerships. We want to bring global expertise, delivered locally by French-speaking teams with in-depth knowledge of the national event landscape.”
The arrival of GES in France has already been positively met by the local industry, as well as existing EMEA clients looking to expand their events across the region. As part of the launch, GES have joined UNIMEV, the French industry trade body for event and exhibition organisers, venues and suppliers.
“France welcomes around 1.8 million congress attendees each year, and we’re delighted to see renowned global businesses such as GES investing in the French event market and dedicating resources to our expanding industry,” commented Frédéric Pitrou, Délégué Général of UNIMEV.” As members of UNIMEV, GES can be a real asset to our association, bringing expertise and market knowledge from around the world.”
Commenting on the launch, Dean Linehan, Vice President, Client Relations, GES EMEA, said: “Across the globe, we’re expanding our presence by putting boots on the ground, and hiring highly experienced, highly talented, local people. It means we can continue to offer clients a strengthened team that specialises in these crucial markets. GES already serviced several events in France, including JEC World and Enlit Europe, Paris Packaging Week, and SIFER. Likewise, our joining UNIMEV, combined with our commitment to best practice geo-adaption, underlines that we’re keen to continue to help organisers produce the most authentic and successful event formats that are relevant and engaging to local markets. With our infrastructure, we are well placed to deliver events in France and across the continent”.
"The arrival of GES in France is an exciting step forward for our industry,” added Justine Rabel, President, Women in Exhibitions France. “Their commitment to elevating the exhibitor experience aligns strongly with the values we champion at Women in Exhibitions: innovation, inclusivity, and the continuous professionalisation of our sector. France is home to a vibrant and ambitious exhibitions community, and we welcome partners who bring new energy, global expertise, and a genuine dedication to supporting organisers, suppliers, and exhibitors alike. I look forward to seeing the positive impact GES will have as they join and contribute to our market."