BUILDING on the success of GIBTM 2012, which saw exhibitor satisfaction levels at an all-time high, the Gulf Incentives, Meeting and Business Travel Exhibition (GIBTM), has received an increased number of early rebooking’s for next year’s show, which is set to take place in the ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, from March 25 – 27, 2013, to capitalise on the extensive year round global and regional marketing campaign, valued at over £2.2 million ($3.4 million).
Post show research confirmed that 95 per cent of Exhibiting Partners surveyed, were satisfied that the show delivered the right target audience for them and as a result, exhibitors including Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority, Oman Ministry of Tourism, Hungarian Tourism, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority have already signed up to make the most of the additional exposure opportunities available to them.
“There definitely was a buzz and a greater energy around the show this year, with a lot more regional buyers and walk in visitors which is what we are striving to achieve. GIBTM is always successful for us and gives us a great opportunity to showcase Abu Dhabi to the hosted buyers and the global industry from the news stories that emanate from it. It is definitely the region’s ‘must attend’ business events trade show,” commented Gillian Taylor of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.
Companies signing up early can benefit from year round exposure on the website (www.gibtm.com) and dedicated GIBTM social media channels. They will also gain valuable preshow exposure to buyers who use the online exhibitor directory as a supplier’s guide. All exhibitors participating in GIBTM can also make the most of additional marketing opportunities including press release exposure through their dedicated exhibitor portal.
Lois Hall, Reed Travel Exhibitions, GIBTM Event Director commented; “Our primary aim is to deliver quantifiable return on investment for everyone attending and we conduct extensive post show research each year to ensure all of our attendees are completely satisfied with their experience.
“Last year GIBTM saw Hosted Buyers attend with an average combined spending power of $827,500,000, with a significant 25 per cent increase of buyers originating from the Middle East. GIBTM 2012 witnessed a dramatic 100 per cent increase of senior level corporate decision markers coming from The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, one of the most affluent destinations with immense spending power. These budgets, combined with the opportunities created as a direct result of the pre-scheduled appointment system, allows GIBTM to continue to push both inbound and outbound meetings business in the Gulf region”.