These figures represent significant growth compared to pre-pandemic levels, exceeding economic activity by 13.2% and employment by 21.2%. The institution contributes 3.2% of the GDP of the Madrid city and 2% of the GDP of the the Region of Madrid.
The "Report on the socio-economic and fiscal impact of IFEMA MADRID on the region and city of Madrid PwC, based on data from 2024, highlights that for every euro of direct turnover of IFEMA Madrid, 25 euros are generated in Madrid's economic activity. Furthermore, for every direct job linked to the institution, approximately 102 jobs are created and maintained in the regional economy as a whole.
José Vicente de los MozosThe president of the Executive Committee of IFEMA Madrid emphasized that the institution is a "key driver for the Region's economy," reaffirming its commitment to growth and innovation to boost Madrid's global projection. Daniel Martinez, executive vice president of IFEMA Madrid, confirmed the "essential role" of the institution in the Madrid economy and employment.
Jordi Esteve, partner in charge of PwC's Economics Practice, highlighted the magnitude of IFEMA Madrid's contribution, equating it to 2% of the direct production of the commercial sector, 18% of the telecommunications sector, and 23% of the vehicle manufacturing industry in the region.
A Successful Year with Multiplier Impact
The PwC report translates an excellent year for IFEMA Madrid into real-world economic data. During 2024, the organization organized 740 congresses, conventions, meetings, and musical and cultural events, attracting more than 34.400 exhibiting companies and exceeding 4.06 million visitors. Revenue reached €230.2 million, a 30% growth that marks the best balance of its history. Net profit reached €18.6 million, an increase of 166% over the previous year, and EBITDA stood at €48 million, 76% more than in 2023.
This growth translates directly into wealth for the region and the city. Each national visitor generates an economic impact of 809 euros, while the presence of foreign professionals amounts to 1.582 euros. Similarly, each national exhibitor contributes 50.352 euros, a figure that rises to 73.568 euros for international exhibitors.
Broad Benefits for Diverse Sectors and High Tax Contribution
IFEMA Madrid's drive significantly benefits multiple productive sectors. The hospitality industry, manufacturing, and the transport and warehousing sectors account for 43% of the entity's total indirect, driving, and induced contributions to regional economic activity. Specifically, the hospitality industry received €1.029 billion in revenue, the manufacturing industry €784 million, transport and warehousing €556 million, and trade €461 million.
In addition to its direct economic impact, the activity of IFEMA Madrid It made a significant contribution to tax and social security contributions. In 2024, IFEMA Madrid's activities and associated impacts generated a total contribution to public coffers of €1.064 billion, equivalent to 3.9% of the Community of Madrid's budget. Daniel Martinez He highlighted the "high tax return", noting that for every euro collected directly by IFEMA Madrid, 38 euros in taxes and social security contributions were generated in the regional economy as a whole.
Madrid, Trade Fair Leader in Spain
The PwC report also highlights Madrid's leadership in the Spanish trade fair sectorThe region hosts one in five trade fairs held in Spain and accounts for nearly 40% of the sector's turnover and employment, with IFEMA Madrid being the main player. The Community of Madrid not only hosts the largest number of trade fairs and events, but is also one of the most dynamic in the country, having already overcome the impact of COVID-19.
Esteve added that IFEMA Madrid's economic contribution is comparable to that of strategic sectors, equivalent to 57.5% of the direct production of the food industry or 33% of the direct production of the hospitality sector in the region. In terms of employment, the 47.691 jobs are equivalent to 96% of the population of the Barajas District, 91% of the employees in Leganés, 86% of those in Alcalá de Henares, to 77% of the population of Aranjuez or 70% of all employees of the municipality of Getafe.
