Looking back on an eventful 2024
Growth and strategic evolution
In March 2024, FORUM acquired Spitta GmbH, a renowned provider of information and training in the field of dentistry based in southern Germany, as part of a management buy-out. This acquisition not only strengthens the position in the German market, but also expands the Group’s portfolio in the healthcare sector. A short time later, the US subsidiary TPMG completed the acquisition of Meetings Today, a leading provider of specialist information for the meetings and events industry.
To ensure sustainable success, FORUM has optimized internal processes and integrated new technologies into its day-to-day work. The group also revised its mission statement and placed solutions at the center of its strategic focus as a new business area alongside information and education.
Innovation and product development
Artificial intelligence was a key driver of innovation in 2024, with internal and external training further strengthening employees’ skills in using the technology. Our subsidiaries developed their own AI products and launched them on the market this year, such as BaurechtGPT, a chatbot from FORUM VERLAG HERKERT GMBH for construction law issues, and the AI billing assistant from Spitta in the field of dentistry. FORUM’s subsidiaries also developed numerous new subscription products, which were particularly well received in Poland.
The media group also celebrated significant successes in the events business last year. The “Trainers’ Day” in Austria, a DoldeMedien readers’ trip to Sardinia and a production conference in Poland are particularly noteworthy. AKADEMIE HERKERT has received several awards for its excellent training programs, once again underlining its outstanding position in the market. Our long-standing brands, such as the renowned magazine Der Facility Manager, also successfully asserted themselves on the market.
Team spirit and cooperation
The team spirit within the FORUM MEDIA GROUP was further strengthened in 2024 through various initiatives. The onboarding process for trainees traditionally began with an exciting sailing trip on the Group’s own ship “Eye of the Wind”, which strengthened the sense of community right from the start. International face-to-face events, such as the General Manager Meeting and the international IT meeting, promoted global exchange.
Honoring long-standing employees in Merching
FORUM is very proud of the 20th anniversary of our subsidiaries in Slovenia and the Czech Republic, which was celebrated in 2024. FORUM’s loyal and committed employees make a special contribution to the Group’s success. Eleven employees who have been with FORUM for 10, 20 or even 30 years were honored at the headquarters in Merching.
Social responsibility
In line with its corporate values, FORUM also assumed social responsibility in 2024. One particular highlight was the first-time organization of the FORUM Bookworm Challenge, a reading and writing competition for elementary school children from the region. FORUM is also proud to sponsor a youth soccer team from TSV Merching and the Meringer Marktlauf, a running event in the neighbouring community. FORUM also supports various local campaigns for charitable purposes.
The FORUM MEDIA GROUP is emerging stronger from 2024 and will continue to focus on a sustainable growth strategy in order to continue its success and fulfill its mission: To make people successful through high-quality information, innovative education and customized solutions.