Issue Contents
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Ray Bloom, Chairman, IMEX Group
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Learning at IMEX |
"A great return on investment" The word from the show floor at IMEX in Frankfurt |
The intricacies of international meetings Christie Tarantino, President and CEO, Association Forum of Chicagoland |
JMIC Conference sets news directions Leigh Harry, President JMIC |
Arnaldo Nardonne, President, ICCA |
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Michael Gehrisch, President & CEO, DMAI |
Exhibiting at IMEX America with GES GES |
Education all the way for IAEE IAEE |
IMEX America preparation |
ASAE's association focus in Vegas ASAE |
IMEX America marks an American milestone Faye Beauchine, President, Business Loyalty, Carlson Marketing |
A new business era Mary MacGregor, President, Site |
Informal means serious business for ISES ISES |
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Diana Rogers, Director of Professional Development, MPI |
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IAPCO's success to continue stateside Philippe Fournier, President, IAPCO |
QuickMobile |
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Convention Industry Council (CIC) |
Edgar Hirt, President, AIPC and Managing Director CCH, Congress Center Hamburg |
Planning for the future with Site Faye Bennett, Sales Manager, IMEX Group |
US cities' enormous growth potential ICCA |
Exhibitors show innovative strategies Heather Gough, Sales Director, IMEX Group |
IMEX Awards |
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IMEX Wild Card programme |
IMEX America preparation |
Cvent lines up for IMEX America Cvent |
Matthias Schultze, Managing Director, GCB German Convention Bureau |
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Egypt Travel |
IMEX America's sustainability journey Amy Spatrisano, Principal, MeetGreen |
tmf's Frankfurt mission accomplished Johanna Fischer, Managing Director, tmf dialogue marketing GmbH |
Shaping the future of the industry Terri Breining, Breining Group LLC |
Unparalleled professional education Outline education programme for IMEX America - Smart Monday and more |
Hosted buyers at the core of IMEX Nikki Williams, Director of Hosted Buyer Programmes, IMEX Group |
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Martin Sirk, CEO, ICCA |
Anticipation builds for IMEX America Paul Flackett, Managing Director, IMEX Group |
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Global buyers back IMEX |
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With nearly 3,900 hosted buyers amongst a record of almost 9,000 trade visitors, IMEX in Frankfurt 2011 produced record highs, including over 57,000 appointments across the 3 days of the show. With hosted buyers now travelling from 68 countries both the number and range of business opportunities grew once again. The association market again featured strongly with, for the first time, over 300 association executives attending Association Day and Evening. This is a market which is crucial to our exhibitors and one which we are dedicated to developing and growing. We were also pleased to see more buyers from key growth markets such as Brazil, Russia, India and China. Equally the high quality of business was marked, with exhibitors commenting positively on meeting buyers from corporate companies including McKinsey, Nestle, Merck, Proctor & Gamble and Siemens. The introduction of the IMEX App, produced by MPI and QuickMobile and sponsored by Switzerland, was another hit, with more than 1200 people downloading the App to their smartphones. Looking ahead to IMEX America, business starts for many on “Smart Monday”, October 10, in Las Vegas with a full day of professional education, underpinned by our Strategic Partner, MPI’s MeetDifferent Day of Education & Innovation. The show will deliver the equivalent of 12 full days of professional education across the week, together with the chance to do business with around 1,500 exhibitors. Working with an excellent international network of intermediaries we will be bringing well over 2,000 hosted buyers to the show – and our key partnerships with 18 leading industry associations means the show will offer an unrivalled choice of business, free education, networking and social events. We are especially pleased to see the entire industry getting behind the show with 14 major co-located events, including MPI’s Foundation Rendezvous, PCMA’s International Summit, Site Nite North America and the Site International Conference all happening the same week. With planning already underway for our tenth anniversary edition of IMEX in Frankfurt next year, 2011 is proving a pivotal and tremendously exciting year. I look forward to seeing many of you in Vegas. |
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Ray Bloom, Chairman, IMEX Group |
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"A great return on investment"
“IMEX is more than an exhibition – the seminars are invaluable, the opportunities to network and build new relationships are fantastic, and I have great admiration for the New Vision initiatives such as the green programme, Women’s Leadership Forum and Future Leaders Forum. That so many powerful industry figures take the time to come here is testimony to the global perspective IMEX offers. The face-to-face dimension creates the chemistry that really helps to grow my business and delivers great return-on-investment in terms of my time and effort.” Hosted buyer Manish Shivram, VP – Group Marketing, Kotak Mahindra Bank, India
“IMEX represents an ideal ‘one-stop-shop’ for our needs which involve placing around 3/4m USD of business among 40 international events annually for up to 1,000 delegates. I have enjoyed the seminar programme and love the informative Daily Paper which helps guide me towards the show highlights – and also the out of hours social programme. Imaginative exhibitors make the show floor a businesslike yet entertaining environment.” Hosted buyer Jennifer Kern, Event Marketing Manager, Dynami, Georgia USA
“My first time at IMEX and wow! There is a world of opportunity on the show floor and my visit will go a long way in assisting my company’s meetings and events growth strategy. The pre-show information has been invaluable, the concentrated ‘campfire’ concept is excellent, and the environment thoroughly conducive to doing business. The scale of the show is impressive yet manageable and we will be making IMEX an essential part of the calendar in future. We organise tens of thousands of conferences, meetings and incentives worldwide with a spend of around 22m GBP.” Hosted buyer Ian Robinson, Commercial Sales, Expotel, UK “I love the new App! All the show information and my appointments are in one place, instantly available and up-todate. IMEX is remarkable not only for the quality and quantity of exhibitors but for the massive effort which has clearly gone into its overall, and impressive, production. From an association perspective it also supports our expansion and development as a group. The Association Day provides a wonderful opportunity to learn from others working in a similar environment.” Hosted buyer Simon Pryor, National President, Australian Society of Association Executives, Australia “The value from exhibiting at this year’s show was spectacular! IMEX really is the most important sales event in the calendar year for us.” Leandro Popik, President, Exclusive South America
“‘Both the quality and quantity of buyers is impressive – we’re really happy. Not only have we met European clients but also visitors from further afield, such as South Africa. The online tools such as the IMEX Online Diary are superb. And we’ve used the diary extensively to book meetings with key industry players.” Nina Hilden, Marketing Manager, Visit Finland
“IMEX is a great opportunity to showcase Abu Dhabi - we had 500 pre-scheduled appointments. This year has been one of the best… the buzz… the excitement. We think it is fantastic the way IMEX helps exhibitors prepare with tools like the timeline of key preparation activities and the IMEX Online Diary. IMEX gives everybody everything they need to have a good show. We are going to be thrilled with IMEX America since IMEX does everything very well.” Gillian Taylor, Business Tourism/MICE Manager, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority “The experience of exhibiting here has been excellent. There are so many benefits to the IMEX hosted buyer programme – it’s key to the success of IMEX. We’ve used the Online Diary religiously and it’s enabled the organisation and planning to become significantly smoother. We’re really excited to see the successful format of IMEX come to America and Las Vegas is a fantastic venue. I would definitely recommend exhibiting at IMEX to those who haven’t done so before – it’s attended by quality buyers that want to talk to you and this leads to quality business.” Jonathan Walker, President and CEO, Tuscon Convention and Visitors Bureau “IMEX is a very well put-together, stylish event and an exceptional place to do business. I have had lots of wonderful appointments with eager, knowledgeable exhibitors and am impressed by the solid educational dimension to the show. My first time here and I am definitely coming back! Hosted buyer Julia Chidinova, Branch Director, Nicko Travel Group, Russia
“The IMEX experience is definitely to be recommended – it assists me with long term planning and allows me to evaluate different options and get the measure of potential partners face-to-face. Association Day is superb – the roundtable format encourages dialogue and enables participants to both learn from others and pass on their wisdom.” Hosted buyer Anna Maria Manara, General Manager, European Renal Association “A pioneering exhibition – one which sets trends by showcasing what the future has to offer from sophisticated technology and innovation to the ‘unknown’ Wild Card destinations. Everyone who matters is here and it is a once-a-year opportunity to catch up with colleagues and industry friends and make new ones. Our group as a whole places business typically worth well over 300m Euros globally and it is here that we find the people to work with to make this happen.” Hosted buyer Achim Kuebert, Account Director, MCI Zurich, Switzerland “I’m a very ‘happy hosted’ indeed – my meetings have been superb, the hospitality exceptional and the show floor full of life and energy. The Association Day is a great way to network and share best practice with the emphasis on trends, for example social media, very insightful. Will certainly be coming back next year!” Hosted buyer Uzi Ben Eliezer, Director, Kenes Media, Israel
“It’s huge to be here – it’s our first major activity for the European market since the earthquake and we were ready to combat any myths that visiting Japan is unsafe. We needn’t have worried as the response has been hugely positive. We’ve met with a high quality range of corporate, association and agency buyers, having really engaged with the online appointment system as part of our preparation. I’ve had back-to-back meetings and have been so busy that I’ve barely been able to step aside.” Chad Shiver, Manager, Japan Convention Bureau
“IMEX this year has gone brilliantly, we’ve met an amazing variety of people and types of business and have found fantastic business opportunities. The education programmes are complementary to the show and a real value-add. We use the education programmes ourselves across the corporation to provide further education to our own staff. The beauty of IMEX is its global reach and the variety of businesses that attend.” Andreas Westerburg, Regional Director of Sales Germany, Austria and Switzerland, Hilton “I’ve been coming to IMEX since its inception as my company benefits hugely from exposure at such a huge international exhibition – it really helps to keep us on the radar scope of important buyers and provides a great opportunity to network. I leave every year with many new business leads and simply wouldn’t be here if I couldn’t always justify the return on investment. I’m really excited IMEX are exporting this concept to America – there’s a great buzz everywhere about IMEX coming to America and Las Vegas is the perfect venue.” Sean Mahoney, VP Worldwide Corporate & Incentive, Silversea Cruises
“The diversity and quality of buyers here, in one place, is fantastic. The planning for IMEX is huge but the IMEX team are great and fully understand our approach and know what is needed to get buyers to the stand. In the planning stages we open multiple diaries and they have all been full with appointments. IMEX is the perfect opportunity to make important contacts.” Barbara Jameson, Head of Business Development Europe, London & Partners |
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JMIC Conference sets new directionsRecent years have brought concern around whether the meetings industry is taken seriously as a player in the big league of global economic development and, faced with more urgent priorities relating to economic growth and stability, decision makers have paid a lot less attention to industry sectors that do not seem to directly address these – this industry included. One explanation is that industry performance measures typically used often focus on visitor spend rather than the purpose meetings serve across business, academic and professional development. In response to this, industry leaders met with professional and academic advisors at a conference organised by JMIC (Joint Meetings Industry Council) and supported by IMEX to review the state of industry value measurement. A wide range of participants reviewed both current and potential value estimation models, including economic impact measures and those associated with meetings outcomes. We achieved our aim for this conference, which was to get a broad-based assessment of current value-measurement methods and identify the steps to make them more effective and compelling to our key audiences. We can use this information to move forward in a coordinated way to advance our global value proposition. |
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Leigh Harry President, JMIC
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DMAI members shine
It was a shining moment for official destination marketing organisations (DMOs) around the world at the IMEX award ceremony in Frankfurt when four of our own member destination marketing executives were acknowledged for their contributions to the industry. Rick Taylor, CEO at the Business Tourism Company, South Africa, and former head of the South African Tourism Convention Bureau won the Africa & Middle East Academy Award for “his effervescence in both business and in life [and] a career that has spanned advertising, hotels, destination management and entrepreneurship.”
Rick Antonson, President and CEO of Tourism Vancouver and past chair of the DMAI (Destination Marketing Association International) Board, was presented with the IMEX Academy Award for The Americas for his pivotal role in organising the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. Samuel Koo, President and CEO of the Seoul Tourism Organisation & Seoul Convention Bureau, was the much-acclaimed winner of the Asia-Pacific Academy Award for the integral role he has played in the development of South Korea as an international destination, raising its perceptions both regionally and globally. Additionally, a special Award was included for 2011 to recognise the career of Jon Hutchison, CEO of Business Events Sydney, also a former chair of DMAI, who has worked across airlines, tourism bureaus, and convention bureaus and has been the creator and instigator of many national programmes. “The contributions of these gentlemen have collectively and individually been enormous,” said Michael Gehrisch, President & CEO, DMAI. “It is an ongoing honour to engage with them on the global forefront of the destination marketing industry.” Gehrisch will spearhead an in-depth session at IMEX America, reviewing the new DMO industry standard, DMAI's Event Impact Calculator, which accesses the value of individual events at the local level to demonstrate the ROI of a DMO to its community. |
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Michael Gehrisch, President & CEO, DMAI |
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Education all the way for IAEE |
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IAEE’s participation at IMEX in Frankfurt proved to be extremely beneficial with IAEE (International Association of Exhibitions and Events) hosted buyers impressed by the wide selection of exhibitors to visit and conduct business with. IAEE staff reported a large number of visitors to the stand on all three days of the exhibition, with enormous interest shown by visitors in information about its programmes and initiatives. Staff and buyers also appreciated and applauded the exhibition’s overall level of organisation, the comprehensive hosted buyer services such as the hosted buyer lounge and the Association Day programme. Looking forward to the second half of 2011, IAEE’s professional development calendar is full of opportunities to take Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) course modules, with CEM week being hosted by McCormick Place in Chicago, USA, 15-19 August 2011 and CEM courses scheduled at IMEX America on 9-10 October. |
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ASAE's association focus in Vegas
This year Susan Robertson, CAE, Executive Vice President for ASAE: The Center for Association Leadership, and President of the ASAE Foundation, and Anne Blouin, CAE, Chief Learning Officer for ASAE both participated in Association Day at IMEX in Frankfurt and facilitated successful and popular roundtable discussions. ASAE’s focus now turns to IMEX America and ensuring that the Association Day in Vegas provides an exceptional learning opportunity. Among the sessions that ASAE will be hosting will be a ‘Deep Dive’ into ‘Associations at the Crossroads – The Shifting Landscape of Business Models and Membership in an Uncertain Future'. This will explore what the future holds for associations and how a tendency to seek one ‘answer’ to this question can distract association leaders from the critical analysis and thinking that helps achieve future balance and sustainability. Other sessions will cover ‘Keeping Your Head Above the Weeds: Managing Contractual Risk with Your Association Conferences.’ This workshop will look at how associations assume risk when signing major contracts related to conferences and how association staff and leaders need to understand the most current trends and market influences that impact upon contractual language and resulting risk. This will be led by Gary Schirmacher, CMP, Senior Vice President, Strategic Account Services at Experient and Patricia A. Ekers, Attorney, Client Services, Experient. Finally, ‘Reshaping an Association's Value Proposition in a Transnational World’ will give association leadership a chance to consider essential questions relating to their global aspirations, regardless of status, and will be delivered through an interactive session providing mini-case studies, practical assessment and planning tools.
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A new business era |
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Following recent challenges for the motivational events sector, it has been necessary to re-create and re-invent the business model based on marketplace demands. Cost containment, regulations, multigenerational audiences, new technologies, social media and extensive contracting processes all require new relevancy. Today, participants can be engaged in unique ways. Leading edge programmes are introducing gamification strategies into the qualification phase and custom-designed smartphone applications provide participants’ programme details right at their fingertips. Clever mobile media design communicates news and messaging in real time, whilst pre-loaded iPods with destination music and iPads with video welcome messages personalise and make the experience a reality before arrival. Last decade, city tours and beach destinations still reigned in incentive programmes with golf the number one sporting activity, but as generations change the audience diversifies. Thanks to the internet, upcoming generations know the world more intimately and not only crave authentic and unique cultural experiences but also genuinely care about giving back. I predict that we will soon see CSR activities accomplishing good deeds in ways like we have never seen before. Extraordinary motivational experiences of tomorrow will do more to offer the global workforce a reason to achieve excellence. People will do what their employers ask of them in order to get stamps in their passports and travel the world - this is what makes me excited about what I do. Travel changes people and perceptions. Our job is to deliver unparalleled customer service and exhilarating human experience. Site will be helping participants change their perception of motivational events and incentive travel business at its 2011 International Conference held in conjunction with IMEX America in Las Vegas and designed to offer delegates dialogue with one another like no other conference in Site’s history. |
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Mary MacGregor, President, Site |
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PCMA International Summit co-locates with IMEX America
PCMA’s annual International Summit education programme will take place 13-14 October 2011 in Las Vegas at the Venetian/Palazzo. This is a terrific opportunity to join a select group of meetings industry professionals for high-level discussions on the state of international meetings and the current challenges related to conducting business in the global marketplace. Participants will not want to miss the engaging, interactive education programme with the most knowledgeable global planners in the industry. Space is limited so PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) is urging all meetings industry professionals who are interested to request their invitations today. Email requests to executiveadministration@pcma.org. PCMA has also launched a new award for the industry, the Global Meetings Executive of the Year Award, which will be presented at IMEX in Frankfurt 2012. Nominations are open from 7 February 2012, contact PCMA for more details. |
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IAPCO’s success to continue stateside
IAPCO held its Council and Training Academy meetings just prior to IMEX 2011. At the show IAPCO’s days were filled with appointments and those on the stand were continuously run off their feet. All aspects of the show have proven increasingly successful year on year. IAPCO’s Seminar ‘Insourcing or Outsourcing Conference Management’ was well attended and followed by a lively debate. A press conference launched IAPCO’s annual economic impact survey results and the IAPCO Awards Ceremony saw three Awards presented; the International Client Award to WLPGA, Regional Client Award to ESMO and International Supplier Award to ICC Berlin. The event was outstanding and beyond all expectations. The IMEX America arrangements, programme and facilities look just as exciting and beneficial and IAPCO’s theme will be ‘What is a PCO?’ We will run a major seminar on the topic directed towards outlining the differences between PCOs and US Meeting Planners and providing pointers as to how US associations can work offshore. We are also taking the opportunity of partnering with PCMA for part of its International Summit programme and I am sure that we can continue to lead the way among PCOs. We are very excited! |
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Philippe Fournier, President, IAPCO |
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Cvent lines up for IMEX America |
At this year’s IMEX America, Cvent, the world’s largest provider of online event management, meeting site selection and web survey solutions, will be holding a breakfast for its hosted buyer group. In addition to this, a reception will be held for top industry professionals. With its 90,000 users spanning 40 countries, Cvent plans to showcase upgrades to its meetings management software suite at the US show. Solutions include event management software, the Cvent Supplier Network (CSN), a free web-based venue sourcing and electronic request for proposal (eRFP), a strategic meetings management (SMM) solution and a web survey. Cvent looks forward to meeting all participants at IMEX America to discuss product updates and developments in further detail. |
Egypt - where it all began |
’Egypt – where it all begins’, a source of inspiration for all civilisations, their architecture, music, fashion, science and culture; has been Egypt’s message since 2010. After a trip to Egypt, visitors are full of rich impressions and travel experiences, travel stories that will be told and passed on. All of this is symbolised through the Egypt logo, represented by Egyptian calligraphy on papyrus in reference to the old tradition of telling stories. In the campaign, Egypt is shown via iconic images of the Pyramids, Luxor, Abu Simbel, the Nile, Red Sea and the desert, with impressions from visitors. Egypt’s new campaign builds on the old campaign and attaches new slogans such as ‘7,000 years of history and a new era’ and ‘Tahrir – a square that rocks the world’ to different brand images that refer to the revolution and the sense of elevation, pride and energy, including a postal stamp dated 25 January 2011, when the revolution started. Egypt was always an exciting travel destination. Now, Egypt, in good old Pharaonic tradition, goes into a new era. History changes – the beauty of Egypt remains. |
tmf's Frankfurt mission accomplished |
Whether it was the Marketing Clinic, the presentation of this year’s mmm – MICE market monitor - or the tmf connect event, all of tmf dialogue marketing’s activities at IMEX in Frankfurt attracted a large number of interested participants. Around 30 delegates attended the mini-seminars at the Marketing Clinic, where tmf shared its insight into the business travel market. The seminars focused on achieving positive ROI, marketing best practice and corporate integrity, with a separate track on the emerging Indian meeting and incentive market. At the tmf connect event during the show, tmf and its seven partners met with 20 event organisers for breakfast and very productive conversations. Revealing the results of the mmm – MICE market monitor, attracted a great turnout, with over 40 attending. Since May this year, tmf dialogue marketing GmbH and partner piranha press & pr have been cooperating with a new partner in the US market: the brand communications consultancy Ilan Geva & Friends. This partnership will contribute to further development of globally innovative services. International clients will benefit from the complementary expertise of tmf, piranha and Ilan Geva & Friends - especially in the areas of brand communication and market research.
Johanna Fischer, Managing Director, tmf dialogue marketing Gmbh
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Unparalleled professional education
• MPI’s ‘MeetDifferent Day of Education and Innovation’ will connect attendees to insightful ideas presented in the bold, MeetDifferent style with thought-provoking topics from dynamic experts in innovative formats. • Association Day organised in partnership with ICCA and ASAE: The Center for Association Leadership. Professional education tailored to the work and career progression of association meeting planners. Followed by the flagship Association Evening. • IAEE’s CEM Professional Designation Learning Program. Covering all aspects of Strategic Planning and Management. (This follows their CEM Program focused on Housing and Registration Management on 9 October) • ACTE’s Power Talk is designed to enhance understanding of the corporate travel market, offering the opportunity to openly discuss the future of our industry. • ICCA Association Expert Seminar which runs from Sunday October 9 – Monday October 10, delivering education exclusively for association planners. • Maritz Travel and Carlson Marketing are each holding private Customer Events for senior US buyers. • Site Nite North America, Site’s signature foundation networking event at the Encore Beach Resort. In addition to Smart Monday, MPI will be running keynotes each morning before the show begins; plus Site’s Annual International Conference and the PCMA International Summit are both co-located at the end of the IMEX America week. The LearningCurve Zone and Sustainability Center will also feature workshops and campfires throughout the show. For more information on Smart Monday and education throughout the show go to imexamerica.com/essential
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ICCA - all set for business
Another great IMEX! ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association) experienced another hectic yet enjoyable week in Frankfurt, with more members exhibiting than ever before, lively ICCA Chapter and Sector meetings, packed houses at the Association Evening and the traditional Wednesday afternoon reception, and excellent seminars. The team from Amsterdam head office and regional offices for Asia, Latin and North America had jam-packed diaries throughout the show. ICCA was delighted to collaborate with IMEX on the Association Day programme, which attracted another record attendance of over 300 association buyers. ICCA's 2010 City and Country rankings for international association meetings were also announced - one of the most eagerly awaited news stories in the industry. “Quality buyers” and “very few missed appointments” were the general messages ICCA heard from members - despite the best efforts of another Icelandic volcano to disrupt the smooth flow of the show. There was praise too for IMEX's swift and proactive management and communication about the eruption. With attention now turning to IMEX America in Las Vegas, ICCA will repeat almost all the elements of the extensive Frankfurt programme. An Association Expert Seminar for members and US based international associations will be held, as well as collaborating on a series of seminars and data training. ICCA anticipates that large numbers of its members will attend Vegas and it will provide a great warm-up gathering before the annual Congress in Leipzig, Germany in October. With the USA a genuine engine of growth for the global meetings business, ICCA sees IMEX America as a fantastic annual sales platform and a vehicle for exposing the US buyers and suppliers to a more global way of doing business.
Martin Sirk CEO, ICCA
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IMEX America will offer an unparalleled number of educational opportunities and networking events before, during and after the show. Kicking off with ‘Smart Monday’ on 10 October, a day packed full of professional education, delivered through a series of co-located partner events that include: 
Campfires a roaring success
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New ‘hot topic’ Campfires from the Professional Development and Innovation Pavilion (sponsored by CIC) at IMEX in Frankfurt proved a great success. Topics ranged from managing work-life balance, to the value of in-house PR, in intimate groups of up to 12. Julie Peden, MCI, Toronto gave her feedback “The ‘Campfire’ concept is excellent, with the small group format ensuring that everyone engages properly to get best value from the discussion.” Other highlights from the Pavilion included the latest Convention 2020 findings, Eventsforce Solutions presenting 'Build Your Perfect Events Team’, plus a lively session from Meetings Mindset® founder Jon Bradshaw. Andreas Westerburg, Hilton, commented “the education programmes are a real value-add”. IMEX America’s LearningCurve Zone, also sponsored by CIC will bring this successful blueprint from Frankfurt to Las Vegas. Daily seminars range from Campfires on personal development, cultural profiling and social media to an in-depth guide through the mobile technology revolution. Body language expert Traci L. Brown, will lead a session entitled ‘Mastering Magical Persuasion’, enabling you to use body language to create positive business outcomes. 20-minute Lightning Learning Labs will allow exhibitors to take advantage of valuable education in between appointments. The Labs will include insightful research findings from SPIN (Senior-level Planners Industry Network) including how to deliver winning site inspections and fam trips, trade show dos and don’ts and how to build relationships with planners. Plus Bob Prewitt, President of Dana Communications, IMEX America’s US marketing agency, will lead a session on ‘Marketing Meetings in the Interactive Age’. |
The intricacies of international meetings |
The Association Forum of Chicagoland’s new partnership with IMEX America enables members to meet with exhibitors of their choice for focused one-to-one appointments during this show, offering valuable help to solve challenges and determine business solutions. It is also an opportunity for Association Forum members to become more informed about the state of international meetings and current challenges related to conducting business in the global marketplace. Also, during IMEX America, Association Forum’s booth will help attendees learn more about the latest Association Forum programmes, events and services for professionals in the Chicago area.
Christie Tarantino President and CEO, Association Forum of Chicagoland
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Briefing interview - Q&A with Arnaldo Nardonne, ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association) President |
Briefing: Since being elected last year, how is your presidency going? Great but I sometimes feel as though I'm sleeping on board an aircraft rather than in my own bed! I owe my election to the global support of members and I'm trying to meet as many as possible to understand their concerns and objectives. Every member counts, no matter their size or economic status, and we must ensure that our global products and services are tailored to every need and business objective. It's also vital that the Board of Directors is not seen as a distant, irrelevant group and board members are visiting members to listen to their needs. Briefing: What industry trends have caught your attention recently? The continued resilience of the international association meetings market - this has always been ICCA's main area of expertise and is why we have grown through the economic downturn. There is also a strong growth in regional association meetings and the creation of new association events. We're certain this latter trend is driven by the continued acceleration of scientific and medical advances, and we're keen to conduct serious research to test this hypothesis. With tight budgets, associations with significant membership fees, such as ICCA, should ensure services expand and investment and innovation continues. Thankfully, ICCA's finances have been stable enabling a strong investment in the quality and quantity of our data services and our flagship annual Congress, which is in Leipzig this year, is going from strength to strength. Briefing: As a strong advocate of South America in the meetings industry, what challenges lie ahead? Often misunderstood by outside commentators, the South American meetings business is extremely dynamic and successful with extensive growth, driven by the strong economic success of Brazil. This is also thanks to increasing connections between the region and the Iberian countries and across the Pacific. I've encountered great examples of surprising business connections between South America and countries like China, Japan and Korea and we doubled the commerce with these countries from 9% to 20%. For example, we have Chinese car factories in my home country Uruguay, and Brazil is developing nanotechnology for sustainable agriculture and exporting its knowledge to Asia. However, whilst I'm passionate about my home region, as president of a truly global organisation, I want all members to feel I directly represent them. Briefing: What career advice do you wish someone had given the young Nardone? Pursue your dreams as if there are no limits. Believe in yourself. Get ready for a lifetime of hard work if you want to succeed; study hard and learn every day as if you will live forever; you will find there are always new things in this changing world. And enjoy life, family and friends while you are working! Briefing: Is there still a place for education on issues such as cross-cultural skills or is the market becoming more unified? Absolutely! We need education on all kinds of areas; not only different national business cultures but also on the differences in cultures between PCOs and CVBs, between entrepreneurial organisations and big corporations, between public sector and private sector. We need to understand what really happens at meetings; how we can help delegates learn more effectively, how to design creativity into our programmes and how to design better buildings. Briefing: If you weren't at work right now, what would you like to be doing? I love to be with my family and friends when I’m not working, playing with my grandchildren and enjoying good times at home. My favourite pastimes are reading, cooking and of course practicing sports like running, swimming, cycling and sometimes paddling. Briefing: And finally - social media. Are you a fan or a flop? Social media is becoming an essential tool, especially for a volunteer leader like me. I keep ICCA members up to date on where I am and feedback using Facebook and Twitter. Your readers can follow me on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn too. |
Exhibiting at IMEX America with GES |
As a leading provider of exhibition and event marketing services in the US and abroad, GES is proud to partner with the inaugural IMEX America as the event’s general service provider. Known for creating memorable exhibit experiences for more than 70 years, GES offers a comprehensive range of cutting-edge services for exhibitors from planning, building and logistics to executing complete exhibition programmes. At IMEX America, GES will be responsible for producing the show, providing full exhibit support and helping exhibitors to achieve the most valuable experience possible. Exhibiting in a new country can present unique challenges but GES’s international team can provide a wide-range of support and advice as well as international offices and a network of trusted international service providers to help meet local needs. GES has also created a comprehensive exhibitor services manual specifically for IMEX America exhibitors, which includes general setup information, important dates and contacts, exhibit construction guidelines and forms, shipping information and cost-saving tips. Exhibitors can now login to the IMEX America website to access this resource. In addition, GES is hosting exclusive IMEX America webinars this month with a walk-through including information on laws and legal responsibilities, resources and the logistics of exhibiting in the US and in Nevada in particular. |
Start planning for Vegas!
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Located on the famous Strip, the Venetian/Palazzo is the Headquarters Hotel for IMEX America and is connected to the Sands Expo where IMEX America takes place. For exhibitors and supplier attendees, bookings can be made at an early bird rate of $189 per night, plus resort fee. A limited number of rooms are available at this rate and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Suppliers are encouraged to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment, and by 11 August at the very latest. Registered buyer attendees can book accommodation for only $129 per night. Terms and conditions apply. Travel Registered IMEX America participants can qualify for a discount of up to 20% on travel to Las Vegas with our official airline network Star Alliance plus discounts are available from Delta. Terms and conditions apply. Ground handling Alan Waxler Group (AWG) is the official ground handler, providing key services including transportation; airport meet and greet staff and booth hosts and hostesses. Exhibitors looking to hold their own events during the show can benefit from AWG’s expertise in event planning for onsite or offsite events, including venue finding, custom design, lighting, decoration and entertainment. Timeout Take advantage of great offers available exclusively to IMEX America participants. For a unique and extraordinary theatre experience, a 40% discount is available on Blue Zone seating for the Blue Man Group and a 10% discount at the Blue Man Store. This is a must-see show with explosions of colour, humour, music and technology coming to life every night at The Venetian. IMEX America participants can also make savings of over US$500 on shows, dining, attractions, golf and more during their trip with the Vegas Advantage Card, which provides discounts at over 300 of the best merchants in Las Vegas. For more information on the above offers and services and how to book visit: imexamerica.com/travel |
Accommodation IMEX America marks an American milestone |
Based on its experience at IMEX, Carlson Marketing expects the Vegas show to provide opportunities for great networking, acquiring new knowledge and sound decision making surrounding future programmes, with its clients set to attend and participate in both the education programmes and business meetings. We look forward to developing new relationships and confirming existing relationships with the people who make this industry tick at IMEX America. Fay Beauchine, President, Business Loyalty, Carlson Marketing. |
Informal means serious business for ISES |
At designated exhibitions and conventions, members, associates and society guests meet regularly at the ISES lounge to swap industry news, discuss specific issues or welcome new members personally. No one misses out on the professional aspects either, as members or external speakers aptly reflect current issues with their pithy short presentations. Broad-based subject matter ranges from education and advanced training through industry developments to new technical standards. Those attending Show Tech in Berlin in June, for example, discovered more about concepts of promising educational programmes to promote career development internationally. From 1-3 September 2011 ISES will be inviting guests to Luxembourg. Under the title ‘Adding value to events and measuring it’ the summit will provide a special opportunity to tackle future-oriented issues such as sustainability, return on investment and multi-sensory communication with well-known speakers from the events and communications industries as well as politics. |
‘Meeting partners and customers in a personal environment’ is the theme for ISES Europe, the European chapter of the International Special Events Society North America, as it arranges numerous meetings once again this year. We meet again in America |
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At IMEX in Frankfurt, tech savvy attendees were able to prepare pre-conference due to the IMEX mobile app developed through a partnership with MPI (Meeting Professionals International) and sponsored by Switzerland Convention & Incentive Bureau. MPI’s two educational sessions, ‘We Meet Again - Managing Meetings in the New Normal’, presented by Milton Rivera, VP Global Business Development, AMEX Meetings and ‘The CSR Measurement Tool,’ presented by Roger Simons, MPI Manager, CSR & Sustainable Events, and with Guy Bigwood, MCI Group Sustainability Director and GMIC President 2010-2011, touched on the continued economic and social recovery of meetings and events. MPI also announced the launch of its latest EMEA membership community, the Turkey Club, designed to focus on professional education and networking. At IMEX America, MPI - as the show’s strategic partner and premier education provider - will offer professional development sessions, networking opportunities and meeting technology to enhance and underscore the valuable professional development it provides. The centrepiece of the MPI experience at IMEX America will be the professional development offered at Smart Monday, which reflects MPI’s desire to bring elevated and innovative content to attendees. It will start conversations and reflection to enrich the event experience and post event performance. Each morning MPI will deliver exciting presentations from one of three keynote speakers: Peter Shehan, Dr. Brené Brown and Robin Sieger. Visionary and innovative, the presenters are well respected in their fields and will cover technology, inspiration and success. MPI is currently in the process of developing a rich mobile app and mobile website for IMEX America attendees offering similar features to enhance the pre-conference experience and assist peer connection during the conference. Networking is elevated when combined with philanthropy, which always happens at MPI Foundation Rendezvous. The high-energy event, whose proceeds benefit industry research and scholarship and professional development funding for professionals, will be hosted at the renowned Pure Nightclub at Caesars Palace.
Diana Rogers Director of Professional Development, MPI |
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Leading the revolutionQuickMobile experienced a busy IMEX in Frankfurt this year and took advantage of the global stage to showcase its Venue, Meeting Planner and MobileEventTM applications. David Snell, QuickMobile’s Chief Marketing Officer, delivered a presentation on the ‘Mobile Revolution – Why Should You Care?’, whilst the QuickMobile stand received a flurry of visitors keen to discover more about deploying mobile solutions. The hosted buyer setting produced well-qualified discussions and the diversity of attendees created an interesting networking environment and platform for exchanging new ideas and developing key business relationships. Needless to say, QuickMobile is looking forward to IMEX America where it will again be the developers of the mobile applications being specially designed for the event. The company also plans a repeat performance of its Mobile Revolution talk. Knowledge and innovationThe next few years are going to see a lot of change in the meetings industry, not the least of which will be a real turnover in management. Lots of people who have helped define and sustain the industry for many years are now reaching the stage when they will be looking at moving on and others will take their places, bringing new perspectives but also looking for ways to get many of the insights that have been developed over many years of industry growth and change. Under these conditions, good professional development programmes become not just opportunities for learning but key elements in the process of transition. Like many other industry organisations, AIPC (International Association of Congress Centres) is taking this need and opportunity very seriously. The cornerstone of AIPC professional development is the AIPC Academy, an intense week-long experience that has utilised member experience and expertise to train next-generation managers for the past six years. Now, this successful programme is about to be enhanced with a second level management symposium, which will offer higher level opportunities for strategic problem solving and network development amongst existing managers. What these both have in common is the value of combining existing knowledge with the adaptation and innovation of new ideas and relationships. And the education doesn't end here. Programmes such as the AIPC seminar series and summits at events like IMEX make sure that the opportunities for learning and exchange continue well beyond the more formal courses and into the ongoing engagements.
Edgar Hirt President, AIPC and Managing Director CCH, Congress Center Hamburg. www.aipc.org
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US cities' enormous growth potential |
According to ICCA’s latest rankings, the US is the leading country measured by the number of international association meetings organised per year. However, when looking at individual city rankings, the US has a lot to gain. With 623 association meetings in 2010, the US comes out on top followed by Germany, Spain, the UK and France. In contrast the ICCA city ranking shows that US cities are ranked relatively low in the worldwide charts. The strong national rankings are primarily due to two factors: the sheer size of the US economy, and the large numbers of US volunteer leaders in leadership positions within their associations who are launching successful bids. This means that US cities have an opportunity to make huge progress in the growing market of international association business. Despite economic turbulence the number of international association meetings continues to increase significantly. This year the ICCA Data researchers have identified 9,120 events which took place in 2010, 826 events more than were identified last year and an all-time record! Partly this reflects the strength of the association meetings market despite the recent economic downturn; partly it is thanks to a record number of ICCA members sending us their calendar information to help identify new events. ICCA CEO Martin Sirk says: “Some of this significant increase in numbers of association meetings in 2010 is certainly due to our continued investment in research and the great feedback from ICCA members, but it seems clear to me that we’re in the midst of an extended period of astonishing dynamism: 2009 and 2008 were similarly buoyant in terms of new association event creation. This has been driven by the acceleration of new scientific and technological developments, and the need to discuss these complex changes face-to-face. Anyone who wants to understand what the Information Revolution really looks like just needs to consider how the international association meetings sector is evolving.” The ICCA rankings cover meetings organised by international associations which take place on a regular basis and which rotate between a minimum of three countries. The data represents a ‘snapshot’ of qualifying events in the ICCA Association Database as sampled on 9 May 2011. |
The roll call of excellence |
Outstanding contributions to the meetings industry were recognised at the IMEX Gala Dinner in Frankfurt. The winners were: IMEX Academy Awards Asia Pacific - Samuel Koo, Seoul Convention Bureau The Americas - Rick Antonson, Tourism Vancouver Europe - Trudi Wagner, Marriott Hotels Africa & the Middle East - Rick Taylor, The Business Tourism Company Recognising Service to the Industry at Large - Jon Hutchison, Business Events Sydney JMIC (Joint Meetings Industry Council) Unity Award - Luc Maene, International Fertilizer Industry Association IMEX-MPI Foundation Student Scholarship Award - Michal Maziarczyk, Vistula University, Warsaw IMEX Green Exhibitor Award - Frankfurt Convention Bureau IMEX Green Meetings Award for Large Meetings - International AIDS Society IMEX Green Meetings Award for Small/Medium Meetings - Canada Media Marketplace IMEX Commitment to the Community Award - Connect Travel IMEX AACB (Association of Australian Convention Bureau) Vin Barron Award - Melissa Reilly, Adelaide Convention Bureau IMEX Green Supplier Gold Award - DoubleTree Hotel Portland IMEX Green Supplier Silver Award - Vancouver Convention Centre Site Master Motivator Award - Annamaria Ruffini CMP, President & CEO, Events In & Out
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Dive into Association Day |
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The roundtable sessions organised by MCI were a key feature of the day, giving buyers the opportunity to debate topics of their choice. The hugely popular Association Evening reception saw hundreds of IMEX exhibitors joining the association buyers to network and catch up with friends and colleagues. Elluria Breytenbach, Kenes Media gave her feedback “it was a highly valuable day in terms of knowledge sharing and roundtable discussions, it’s great to see how people from around the world can come together, share, add and gain value.” Association Day at IMEX America will form part of ‘Smart Monday’ on 10 October and is being supported by our Headquarters Hotel – the Venetian/ Palazzo – and PSAV – IMEX America’s AV supplier. The format will follow the successful Frankfurt model with concurrent educational sessions organised with ASAE: The Center for Association Leadership, ICCA, MCI, Experient and Kenes. Highlights include a specialist workshop with Experient on managing contractual risk, a ‘Deep Dive’ session entitled: ‘Associations at the Crossroads – The Shifting Landscape of Business Models & Membership in an Uncertain Future’ and 25 MCI roundtable discussions. The day will conclude with Association Evening at the Venetian/Palazzo providing a superb networking opportunity for association buyers and IMEX America exhibitors before the show gets underway. |
A record number of over 300 association buyers attended the ninth Association Day at IMEX in Frankfurt. The education programme was devised and delivered by ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association) in partnership with other associations including ESAE (European Society of Association Executives) and ASAE: The Center for Association Leadership, plus MCI. The day addressed key issues currently affecting association buyers such as gaining a greater understanding of mobile applications, and the use of social media in promoting and organising meetings as well as the critical issue of how associations can ensure they retain a central role as their members' primary source of specialised knowledge and professional services.Germany number one in Europe |
For the seventh time running Germany is the number one meetings and conventions destination in Europe. Plus it occupies the number two slot worldwide - with only the US boasting more international congresses according to the 2011 ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association) rankings. In the worldwide city rankings Germany is also in the top league with Berlin being number four in the world. Munich and Hamburg were also able to move up the city rankings and - together with Dresden and Leipzig - this puts five German cities in the Top 100 of the worldwide ICCA rankings. “Conventions, meetings and events are a major economic factor with great future prospects. Germany owes its position as market leader above all to its excellent value for money and wide range of high-quality meeting hotels, convention centres and event venues. In addition, German suppliers are very innovative and are trailblazers in the field of green meetings and sustainability. The high standards that Germany has to offer in this field, are a sound argument that will have even more weight in future,” Matthias Schultze, Managing Director of the GCB German Convention Bureau comments on his country’s good results. The GCB markets Germany as a destination for meetings and conventions, incentives and events both on a national and international level, and is the place to contact for all customers who are planning events in Germany. “Meetings and conventions serve as a platform for sharing experiences and ideas. They promote innovation and the transfer of knowledge. One major prerequisite for the large number of meetings and conventions is also that Germany is setting standards worldwide as a science and high-tech destination,” Schultze offers further reasons for Germany’s excellent position in the country rankings. The annual ICCA ‘International Association Meetings Market’ statistics present an in-depth evaluation of trends in the international meetings industry. The association conventions reviewed by ICCA must have at least 50 attendees, be regular events and take place alternately in at least three different countries. |
Matthias Schultze, Managing Director,
GCB
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IMEX America's sustainability journey |
You may have heard the expression ‘what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas’, however, with the debut of IMEX America in October, this is one time an exception should be made. IMEX America is a great place to share experiences of integrating sustainable practices and the overall goal for this first show is to identify the main issues and tackle them in a proactive, measured way. The intention of IMEX America and its sustainability partner, MeetGreen, is to develop a long-term relationship with exhibitors, attendees, venues and vendors to create a successful show and build on sustainability efforts for the future. At the show baseline sustainability performances will be collected from the key venues and vendors and this information will be used to build a solid sustainability strategy for future years. The initial plan identifies a handful of objectives including measuring and establishing a baseline for water and energy usage, emissions, waste and overall event sustainability. Organisers will also concentrate effort and resources on helping all participants to improve their understanding and adoption of green practices. The IMEX Group has also built several legacy projects into the new show. To encourage attendees to return their badges (which saves money and reduces waste), attendees can trigger a donation to one of a choice of local charities by depositing their badges into charity-labelled boxes when they finally leave. |
Amy Spatrisano Principal, MeetGreen |
Shaping the future of the industry
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There is little doubt that the meetings industry continues to undergo profound change. The events of the past decade have created upheaval and uncertainty for people and organisations in every segment of the industry. While these events have generated discomfort, it may well have been necessary to move us forward. The meetings industry as we know it is relatively young, and as a young industry, we are still working to define who we are, what we do, where we fit, how to communicate and articulate the value we bring. When challenging times hit, it forces us to address these questions. When we do identify answers, all of us are served by producing more focused, more valuable meetings that address and support business objectives. IMEX America has recognised this opportunity, and has developed a programme that will act as an environment for these questions to be addressed. The Executive Meeting Forum will be held for the first time at IMEX America. Senior planning executives from corporations throughout the US have been invited. The programme will feature a presentation by renowned futurist Rohit Talwar, who will share research that gives a glimpse of the meetings industry in 2020. This will be followed by in-depth discussion on what planners can do to prepare themselves and their corporations for the future. Additionally, we will explore the state of strategic meeting management programmes. What is working, what isn’t, a review of best practices and what course correction is necessary. The Executive Meeting Forum will serve as a springboard for future discussion, articles will be shared with others not attending, communities will be formed in both the real and virtual worlds and meeting planners will have the opportunity to shape the future of their industry.
Terri Breining, Breining Group LLC |
Hosted buyers at the core of IMEX |
The hosted buyer programme is the foundation of an IMEX show and a unique part of our business model. This year we introduced 20 new hosted buyer groups to IMEX in Frankfurt including a new group of buyers from Merck Global meetings, which has an annual meeting spend of $700 million, and AC Forum who place and plan some of the world's largest pharmaceutical conventions. The launch of the IMEX App together with exclusive wifi access for hosted buyers on the show floor definitely helped buyers to keep track of appointments and to squeeze more in. We also received positive reaction to our new open group appointments, which worked well for buyers and exhibitors alike. Registration for our hosted programme for IMEX America is now open and we expect to welcome well over 2000 hosted buyers to Las Vegas. Uniquely in the US market, we will be bringing together all sectors of the industry – corporate, association and agency – and the demand to attend is enormous. Of the more than 200 groups now confirmed many are through the major international hotel groups, including Marriott, IHG, Starwood, Carlson Hotels, Ritz Carlton, Mandarin Oriental and the Venetian, amongst others. Third party groups and their clients include Carlson Marketing, Maritz Travel, HelmsBriscoe, HPN, Global Cynergies, Experient and Conference Direct. From the association side, MPI, PCMA, ASAE, SPIN, the Association Forum of Chicagoland and ICCA will all be bringing groups of buyers. The fact that the show promises three full days of business, networking and education is tremendously exciting and we are looking forward to welcoming the industry to Las Vegas in October.
Nikki Williams, Director of Hosted Buyer Programmes, IMEX Group |
Anticipation builds for IMEX America |
As we reach the halfway stage of the year the pace of work increases as IMEX America approaches. The ninth edition of IMEX in Frankfurt went very well with record attendances for exhibitors and buyers alike. The show has given us great momentum as we move forward to our new venture in October. In some 30 plus years in the industry I have never known such a sense of anticipation. Every conversation in Frankfurt seemed to include Las Vegas and what was expected there. We are seeing destinations from across the US lining up to take part in what will be the only three day trade show for this market in America. There will be a real chance to do business for both the big cities and smaller destinations, such will be the range of buyers attending. Alongside the home-based organisations will be large numbers of international destinations who are used to the qualities on offer in Frankfurt and now look to achieve the same success in Las Vegas. We are now seeing new destinations emerging from within the US to take part as a result of the huge word of mouth process taking place amongst industry professionals spreading positive messages about what will be on offer and reinforcing the need to be there. This will be the third new show for me in some 25 years and experience has shown that such events take time to develop and evolve into a product that the international industry embraces. No doubt this will apply in some measure for IMEX America but the initial signs are that we will have a steeper growth curve in Las Vegas, thanks to a very supportive industry and its anticipation. See you in Las Vegas!
Paul Flackett, Managing Director, IMEX Group
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