Utrecht, 27 May 2025 - The Emigration Expo, Europe’s largest meeting point for the entire emigration industry, has been acquired by Royal Jaarbeurs. It is the exhibition for everyone looking to live, work, study and do business abroad, as Jaarbeurs CCO Herman Mantel, explains: "The Emigration Expo plays a unique role in connecting people with international ambitions to the right knowledge, networks and opportunities. The fair is an indispensable platform for anyone considering a new future abroad, and fits perfectly with our ambition to organise meaningful encounters that connect people and worlds." Having previously been held at Expo Houten, the next edition of the Emigration Expo will take place on 21 and 22 March 2026 at Jaarbeurs.
Familiar face, new location
The takeover marks an important step in the exhibition's growth. Although the location will change, the familiar identity of the Emigration Expo will be retained. "We welcomed over 14,000 visitors to the last edition,” says Sterre van de Kerkhof, who will remain at the helm as producer and public face of the event. “That was the moment we realised we were ready for the next step. Jaarbeurs offers years of expertise and a superb location in the heart of the Netherlands in bustling and historic Utrecht, just under half an hour from Schiphol Airport and next to the central train station."
A larger central location means more space for new international exhibitors and visitors to explore opportunities and take steps to live and work abroad. "The acquisition fits in with our strategic growth plans,” says Royal Jaarbeurs CCO Herman Mantel. “We see lots of potential in the Emigration Expo and are delighted to have Sterre on board. Her infectious enthusiasm and entrepreneurship have developed a close relationship with many exhibitors in recent years and I’m confident we can continue to grow the Emigration Expo together." Van de Kerkhof agrees: "The acquisition by Jaarbeurs marks the start of a new chapter for the Emigration Expo. The combination of a familiar formula and an inspiring new location offers plenty of opportunities for further growth and international expansion. Visitors and exhibitors can count on a familiar event in a renewed setting, where dreams of a future abroad come closer than ever."
Van de Kerkhof: "The acquisition by Jaarbeurs marks the start of a new chapter for the EmigratieBeurs. The combination of a familiar formula and an inspiring new location offers plenty of opportunities for further growth and international expansion. Visitors and exhibitors can count on a familiar event in a renewed setting, where dreams of a future abroad are closer than ever."
Sterre van de Kerkhof
