Singex buys ECI, Tyrexpo shows

ECI International is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Singex-ECI International Pte Ltd following the company’s acquisition by Singex Exhibition Ventures (SEV). According to the companies, the Tyrexpo series of events (including Brityrex in the UK) will continue to be marketed as “An ECI International Event” providing all exhibitors, supporters, partners and visitors with a joint commitment to service excellence. Working closely with ECI founders, Paul Farrant and Rowena Suthers, this will include expansion into new market segments. As a result of the investment SEV reports that it will put its “full resources” to work on the organisation of future Tyrexpo events, to assist them reach their full potential.

SEV’s move is being seen as an investment in the activities of UK-based ECI International Ltd (ECI) designed to take the company’s show portfolio to the next level.

Investment supports continuity and development

Tyres & Accessories understands that SEV and ECI already enjoy a professional relationship, forged by a two decade long co-operation on the Tyrexpo Asia exhibition, held at the Singapore Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre, itself managed by Singex. SEV said it has also been looking to “focus on developing collaborative partnerships and investments in specialised events with good growth potential”. According to the companies, this led to the successful conclusion of an investment by Singex that builds on this relationship.

Commenting on the agreement, Aloysius Arlando, chief executive officer of SEV, says: “I am delighted that we were able to successfully conclude our arrangements with ECI International Ltd. This was made possible because of our shared vision about the potential for the Tyrexpo series, which have a positive future with new growth possibilities in multiple markets and emerging regions.  

“I am delighted that Paul Farrant and Rowena Suthers of ECI will continue to remain closely involved in this next phase of growth, which will be backed by a dedicated team of experienced professionals from Singex. Together, I am extremely confident that we will take these important exhibitions forward with the same entrepreneurial spirit and attention to personalised service which has come to be the hallmark of an ECI event.”     

In response, Paul Farrant, managing director of ECI International, said: “Over the last 14 years ECI has strived to achieve a high quality exhibition in each country it operates in, so that all exhibitors receive the highest level of presentation, marketing and customer service. The success of our exhibitions reflects the loyal support and close working relationship established with our exhibitors, who over the years have continuously invested in our shows. In turn this has assisted us in delivering business focussed tyre trade exhibitions which now have a very strong international following of buyers and suppliers. 

“We recognise that ECI has now reached a critical juncture where further investment is needed to grow and bring added value to our events. Having worked closely with us for many years, Singex was the most obvious partner to assist us in taking the business to the next level. Both Rowena and I very much look forward to the future, working with an expanded, highly professional team at SEV.”