Core Insights - The exhibition industry is evolving from a traditional platform for product display to a crucial hub for optimizing resource allocation and enhancing supply chain resilience globally [1] - Digital technology is the core driving force behind this transformation, enabling a significant enhancement of the exhibition industry's hub value [1][4] Digital Transformation in Exhibitions - Traditional barriers of time and geography in exhibitions are being dismantled by digital technologies such as VR/AR and digital twins, allowing for immersive global participation [1] - The operational efficiency of exhibitions has improved by over 40% due to digital transformation, with average attendee time costs reduced by nearly 30% [3] Data-Driven Insights - Big data analytics allows the exhibition industry to shift from passive aggregation to proactive linking, enabling organizers to predict popular areas and match supply-demand resources effectively [3] - For instance, an international electronics exhibition identified a surge in demand for connections between new energy companies and chip manufacturers, leading to the creation of a dedicated area that facilitated over 30 potential collaborations [3] Cross-Industry Integration - The value of digital exhibitions extends beyond the industry itself, integrating with real estate, cultural tourism, and logistics to form a collaborative ecosystem [4][6] - In the cultural tourism sector, the Chongqing International Expo Center's platform increased hotel occupancy rates by 30% by directing exhibition traffic to nearby attractions [6] Challenges in Digital Transformation - Despite the promising digital landscape, the exhibition industry faces challenges such as high costs, talent shortages, and data security concerns [6] - Small and medium-sized enterprises struggle with the financial burden of full-scale digital upgrades, while there is a notable gap in professionals who understand both exhibition business and digital technology [6] Collaborative Solutions - Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from various stakeholders, including government subsidies and tax reductions to lower transformation costs, and educational institutions developing digital exhibition programs [7] - Industry associations should establish data security standards and platforms for sharing experiences to facilitate a more orderly and efficient transformation process [7] Future Outlook - The transition from traditional exhibition setups to digital hubs represents not only a technological upgrade but also a value enhancement, positioning the exhibition industry as a vital force in driving high-quality economic development [7]