MCH Group Revenue Rises 12% Despite Middle East Impact

MCH Group, the parent company of the Art Basel fair franchise, increased its operating revenue by 12 percent in the first half of 2026. The total reached CHF 248.8 million ($301.6 million). Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) also rose to CHF 34.3 million ($41.6 million). The company's portfolio extends beyond art, including fairs for construction, gardening, and jewelry.

The firm attributed its growth to a successful semester. Key events included the launch of Art Basel Qatar and major construction industry fairs like CONEXPO and Swissbau. "This growth is the result of a semester marked by the successful launch of Art Basel Qatar and delivering important events," the company's announcement stated. The new Doha fair debuted in February with 87 dealers, a smaller scale than its established counterparts.

Handling Geopolitical Turmoil

MCH Group's business was "significantly impacted" by violence in the Middle East, according to its official statement. Clients cancelled all live events from the beginning of March. The situation has since gradually improved, with activities returning to normal in the fourth quarter. This recovery came with a noted focus on local audiences. The Doha fair proceeded despite Israeli airstrikes in the city the previous September, part of the broader regional conflict. Dealers rated the fair a success, though sales were reported as slow.

A Mixed Market Landscape

The revenue increase was achieved against a complex backdrop. The company cited ongoing trade wars, which affected booth building costs, and a general slowing of the art market from its earlier-decade highs. Within this climate, Art Basel Hong Kong in March delivered a successful edition. Reports from participants to ARTnews presented a mixed picture: blue-chip dealers found buyers for seven-figure works, while others lamented slower-than-usual sales.

Expansion and Investment

The first half of the year also saw strategic expansion. Just before the period closed, MCH Group announced a 20 percent stake in a new venture called the Jupiter Festival. The inaugural edition is scheduled for October in Miami. Company leadership framed the results as validation of their strategy. The first half of 2026 has shown that the steps we have taken are delivering results, said CEO and Chairman Andrea Zappia. He highlighted that Art Basel Qatar opened a new growth region and that the business demonstrated strength and resilience.

The performance of MCH Group's various flagship fairs in the first half of 2026 highlights their differing scales and regional focuses.

Zappia's statement concluded by tying the new Middle Eastern foothold to the company's broader financial health. The firm's Exhibitions & Events division, alongside its Live Marketing Solutions (LMS) unit, contributed to the overall positive figures.