AIME
AIME
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1 Angela Sciacca , project manager of AIME . 2 Hosted Buyer program now invitation only . 3 Stay up to date with the latest trends .
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New ways to connect
The Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo ( AIME ) is changing the way buyers can attend , learn and do business at the 2018 show . Angela Sciacca , project manager of AIME , Reed Travel Exhibitions , says they have listened to feedback from exhibitors and buyers , and will be making significant changes to the buyer program as a result .
Q : What are the kinds of changes happening to the buyer program ?
A : We are trying to make a difference this year for both the buyers and exhibitors , from my own experience I know that it ’ s all about having the time to make those vital connections that makes AIME so valuable .
Following the 2017 edition of AIME , we spoke with exhibitors and buyers to find out what worked , what didn ’ t and what they really need to gain more business out of AIME . At the end of the day that is what AIME is all about , creating strong business opportunities and connections in the events industry .
The biggest change to the Hosted Byer Program is the application process , we are taking a targeted approach to finding the right buyers for the exhibitors , by being invitation only . We are utilising the extensive ibtm Global Events portfolio to bring a new freshness to the program ; new faces , new connections and new business opportunities .
We are also excited about initiating a Trade Buyer Program that allows trade to make appointments with exhibitors , without needing to be a part of the extended Hosted Buyer Program . Having worked with exhibitors who attended AIME for many years , this is a massive addition that both buyers and exhibitors will find beneficial – the flexibility that we are trying to offer trade buyers is unprecedented at AIME .
Q : What other changes are we likely to see this year ?
A : We have reinvigorated the design of the show floor with a welcome feature area and new zone for ‘ AIME First Timers ’ and a general repositioning to give the show an overall better flow .
We are also introducing a few other things like extended opening hours , new sponsorship opportunities for exhibitors , and changes to the AIME Knowledge Program . There will be something for everyone at AIME 2018 .
Q : From your experience why do people attend AIME ?
A : AIME really is a meeting point for the Asia-Pacific region to connect and do business . Each year we welcome thousands of people and hundreds of exhibitors to Melbourne . I know the value of networking , meeting new people and staying up-to-date on the latest trends , technologies , venues and knowledge that AIME offers , it ’ s why a show like this appeals to everyone .
This year we can already see returning leading national and international exhibitors , including Japan National Tourism Organization , Hawaii Tourism Oceania , Tourism New Zealand , ICC Sydney , P & O Cruises , TFE Hotels , and Stamford Hotels and Resorts , with lots more still to come .
AIME is where inspiration begins and we are excited to have a really successful 2018 . I hope to see you there !
AIME 2018 is being held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on February 20-21 .
www . cimmagazine . com Convention & Incentive Marketing , Issue 4 , 2017 27