THE international meetings industry showcase, IMEX, is set to break records afresh in its 2007 edition with growth both from existing and new exhibitors already being registered.
New exhibitors from the region include the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre and Lebanon.
In addition, an expanded hosted buyer programme is the key feature of the event, which runs at Messe Frankfurt’s Hall 8 from April 17 to 19.
Among those companies that have seen a significant increase in space over 2007 are Cox and Kings, Egypt, Germany, Morocco, Paris, Sri Lanka, Tourism Australia, Marriott Hotels & Resorts and Fairmont Hotels. The event also sees a rising Eastern European presence.
The hosted buyer programme is expected to top 3,500, with the strongest ever participation of buyers from the longer-haul markets, specifically from North America, as well as a doubling of buyers from Australia. The programme continues to receive the support of the major international hotel chains, as well as airlines including Air Tahiti Nui, American Airlines, Iceland Air, Lufthansa and Swiss. Airline groups including the Star Alliance and SkyTeam will bring hosted buyer groups to the show for the first time, as well as offering discounts on flights from around the world to IMEX for pre-registered visitors and exhibitors.
An expanded English and German-language seminar programme together with high numbers of new exhibitors means that IMEX has once again succeeded in developing and refreshing its offering for both visitors and exhibitors.
IMEX organisers have focussed on extending and improving the show’s educational programme. The global trade show now offers 35 educational seminars and events, aside from initiatives such as the Future Leaders Forum and the Politicians’ Forum.
The Association Day programme has also been expanded and is forecast to attract over 250 association buyers from around the world to IMEX, with new groups of buyers attending including the AMC Institute, PCMA, Experient and Not-for-Profit.
High on the agenda for 2007 will be the Corporate Responsibility Centre, which will be constructed by Expoforce out of environmentally-friendly materials. This is intended as a live demonstration of what other exhibitors can achieve. ‘Green’ products and services will also be highlighted in the exhibitor manual to make it easier for exhibitors to make more environmentally-friendly choices.