Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Executive, Informa PLC, said: “At Informa, our Subscriptions businesses continue to perform resiliently against a tough market backdrop, whilst our Events businesses - in the absence of physical exhibitions, events and conferences - are working closely with customers to provide alternative digital services, with a focus on long-term relationships ahead of short-term revenue.”
He added: “The prospect of a return for some of our major Events brands in Mainland China from July is now real. Elsewhere, we are deploying AllSecure biosafety measures as permission emerges to operate events, although we expect the pace and shape of recovery to be gradual and phased by market. Despite continued near-term unpredictability, our strengthened balance sheet, continuing cost controls and strong liquidity is enabling us to focus on the other side of COVID-19. This includes how to get the most out of Return and Recovery in 2021, and identifying and evaluating future strategic opportunities.”
Current Trading: a mixed picture
As countries and locations around the world steadily relax pandemic control measures and exit lockdown, it is clear that the return to normal daily and business life will be phased, with enhanced hygiene and social distancing measures likely to remain a feature for some time. For Informa, and the Events-related businesses in particular, this suggests the pace and shape of recovery is also likely to be gradual, varying by region, by customer market and by event format.
