All key exhibition industry metrics rose in the second quarter, including the biggest gainers, revenue and attendance, according to the Center for Exhibition Industry Research’s CEIR Index.

Revenue from exhibit space sales, sponsorships, registration fees, and other event-related income increased to $2.65 billion in the second quarter, a jump of 11.3 percent over the second quarter of 2006.

Event attendance spiked 13.5 percent in the quarter, while net square feet of exhibition space climbed 3 percent and the number of exhibitors increased 4.5 percent. “The results show that the exhibition industry is healthy, vibrant and growing,” commented CEIR President Doug Ducate in a release. “We have had two great quarters and the trend is expected to continue through 2007.”

In 2006, revenue increased 9.7 percent, followed by 4.6 percent, 3.8 percent and 1.3 percent gains in attendees, net square footage and exhibitors, respectively.