Exhibition space at World Travel Market (WTM) 2002 has increased by just over 10 per cent with more than 5,000 exhibitors and 82 new destinations or companies exhibiting for the first time, say organisers.
The rise to an unparalleled 36,210 sq m of exhibition space at WTM, means this will be the largest ever held. A total of 180 countries will be participating worldwide. The record size coincides with the event's move to the more spacious new riverside location of ExCeL at London Docklands. Virtually all regions have shown growth compared with last year, said organiser Reed Travel Exhibitions. "This is a very important indication of international support for World Travel Market at its new home," said group exhibition director Fiona Jeffery. "We are delighted that for the first time for some years, we have been able to meet exhibitor requests for further space. "Many companies are planning an unprecedented amount of activity during the four days by taking advantage of the 55 event, meetings and function rooms. "Exhibitors are holding additional corporate hospitality events and press conferences. "This will run in tandem with the extensive World Travel Market official programme of free seminars, conferences, debates and major promotions. This includes a free London Eye ticket for everyone who has registered as well as giving away two brand new cars on the Wednesday and Thursday." Among the 16 new countries exhibiting for the first time are Azerbaijan, Algeria, Yemen, Aruba, St Maarten, Monaco, Serbia, Canouan Island and Senegal. "We have staged the largest and most ambitious marketing and communications campaign in the history of WTM to ensure that we attract a quality audience," she said. The WTM will be held from November 11-14.