On 23 February 2012 the big event “Regions into the Italian MICE background” will be hold at Palazzo degli Affari of Florence at 2 p.m. to talk about the agreement signed in BIT of Milan between the Italian Government and the involved regions for a MICE Project of improvement and promotion MICE system.

WASHINGTON — Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (RSCVA) has joined ASAE’s group of Alliance Partners in the Strategic Partner category. This program provides the industry partner community with opportunities to align itself with ASAE and the association industry through customized marketing platforms.

“We are excited to have RSCVA as a Strategic partner,” said ASAE President and CEO John H. Graham IV, CAE. “Reno is quickly becoming a popular destination for association meetings and events, and this new partnership gives Reno a great opportunity to raise awareness with the association professionals who are looking for a great place to host their next event.”

“All of us at Reno Tahoe USA are delighted to be joining ASAE as a Strategic Partner in 2012,” according to Christopher Baum, president and CEO of the Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitors Authority. “The Reno/Sparks/North Lake Tahoe region is one of America’s best kept destination secrets, and we look forward to working closely with the ASAE team to help make sure that Reno Tahoe USA starts getting its due as a truly affordable area with incredible natural beauty, top quality convention facilities, world class meeting hotels and almost unlimited activities and attractions.”

- Mandatory Implementation of e-Passports for ICAO Member Countries by 2015 to Boost Adoption of e-Gate Systems

Travel documents are for terrorists just as important as weapons, according to the key finding from the 9/11 Commission Report. This is the reason border control systems based on biometric applications have become the solution of choice in identifying potential threats. There is also considerable emphasis on the identification of immigrants using e-Passports and e-Visas to channel biometric data to destination countries to reduce illegal immigration.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.aerospace.frost.com), Global Border Control Market Assessment, estimates that the market will earn revenues of $8.74 billion by 2019, comparing to $1.97 billion in 2010. As the growing mobility of people necessitates the use of e-Passports, e-Visas, e-Gates and infrastructure to support the systems, the border control market is expected to earn a double digit CAGR of 17.6 per cent from 2011 to 2019.

The universal penetration of e-Passport, e-Visas and e-Gate systems is in response to the efforts of biometrics associations, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, governments and border control application vendors to develop international standards for the adoption of biometric technologies.

“The mandatory implementation of e-Passports for ICAO member countries by 2015 and rising passenger throughput will trigger wider adoption of e-Gate systems,” says Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Dominik Kimla. “The e-Gate system adoption will partially be an outcome of the successful implementation of e-Passports and e-Visas and it is vital for managing passenger flows more efficiently at border check points.”

Although the e-Passport segment is likely to remain the largest in the total border control market, the e-Gate segment will be the fastest growing between 2011 and 2019. While the e-Gate segment’s total share is anticipated to increase from 14.2 per cent in 2010 to 37.7 per cent in 2019, e-Passport’s is expected to decrease from 69.2 per cent to 51.6 per cent during the same period.

With international arrivals expected to reach nearly 1.6 billion by 2020, end users are appreciative of the need for border control. However, the complexity and cost of border control systems implementation and privacy concerns could deter several users from deploying this solution.

The negative association of fingerprint identification with criminal investigations have slowed down the adoption of this form of identification. Further, they have indicated a reluctance to adopt the technology due to privacy and civil liberties concerns regarding data storage, the vulnerability of the data to theft and abuse and the implications of false positives and false negatives.

It is essential for the market participants to not only identify and assuage privacy concerns in the public and private sectors but they should also present attractive return on investment.

“Suppliers must demonstrate how their border control solution can reduce operator costs in the long term,” notes Kimla. “This is an important factor since in the current post downturn environment; operators are looking for ways to maintain a high standard of security at low costs.”

The event specialists of VOK DAMS – one of the leading agencies for Events and Live-Marketing – set up for the E-Plus Partnershop Congress 2012 the 1.FC BASE.

The E-Plus Partnershop Congress was held for the seventh consecutive time. Approximately 500 E-Plus Partnershop owners of the BASE brand travelled from the entire Germany to this one-day event in the VELTINS-Arena in Gelsenkirchen.

The E-Plus Group 2010/2011 played in “the first league of the mobile market”, after having one of the most successful business years thanks to the BASE brand. This year’s Partnershop Congress aimed at communicating the main objective of the Partnershop owners: with their top performance they have managed to win over not only clients but also real fans.

In this analogy to football, the Partnershop owners grouped as a team of the 1. FC BASE and the E-Plus Management to Club-Management, so they could support their team as best as possible, in accordance with the corporate strategy with innovative tariffs and progressive, future strategies. The motto developed for the event “You’ll never walk alone” underlined this idea and permeated all aspects of the event as the main theme.

 Approximately 500 E-Plus Partnershop owners were invited to the team of the 1. FC BASE in advance, through a specially developed online tool. They were requested to register online for the event, to follow the event’s news items and generate relevant themes. The result of this interactive subscriber management tool was a high level of involvement and identification with the 1. FC BASE prior to the event. In addition to the registration, this tool offered the participants the possibility to list themselves and qualify for the “player of the day” title. The participants played a quiz in three online qualification phases with the topics of BASE, mobile market and football in order to enter the semi-finals and finals on the day of the event. The four finalists played then on site for the prize of tickets for the 2012 European championship in Poland and Ukraine.

 But – like in football – one thing especially counts at the end: What happens on the field! The “debut game of the 1. FC BASE” took place in the VELTINS Arena in Gelsenkirchen

As befits an organization with international stature, the participants expected during the event everything their football-heart desired. Upon arrival at the “Fan-BASE”, similar to a club’s museum, the E-Plus Partnershop owners discovered the history and the great moments of the 1. FC BASE. Football, team spirit and passion were there – felt and touched. Uniformly integrated in space, the guests experienced the stands of the E-Plus hardware partners. The theme “football fans” functioned as the unifying element. Additional football activities enriched the exhibition and cleverly facilitated the stimulation of conversation: A Wii – soccer station and the XXL – soccer or football on Playstation were only some elements of the “Fan-BASE”.

 Afterwards the participants arrived in the VIP cabin, in which – in front of the impressive scene of the arena – the formulated in advance themes of the participants were discussed. The guests as well, got to hear a speech of Hermann Scherer on the topic “opportunity intelligence”. The executives of E-Plus agreed with the partners further for 2012. Lou Richter and Mirja Boes led the event. Films livened up the event with the “You’ll never walk alone” message playing continuously: Spontaneous fan-interviews and statements with clients, impressive games, emotional fan moments, legendary goals and situations.

After the official part, a surprise awaited the guests in the Players’ Lounge – the former Fan-BASE: With light-effects and transformed decoration, the familiar space appeared totally different, like a modern Players’ Lounge. Oblique lights and an illuminated bar brought forth other features than before in the exhibition. The highlight of the evening was the appearance of the Atzen sponsored by MTV mobile.

 Altogether, VOK DAMS created for the E-Plus Partnershop Congress a consistent football world where passion and emotion played an essential role. The feeling of the event was experienced even before its beginning and remained beyond the event in the follow-up communication later on. The strict application of the “You’ll never walk alone” theme intensified the “we” feeling and stimulated involvement and integration from the participants.

• 
  Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, welcomes the creation of new jobs in Britain and attends the launch of the IHG Academy in Newham
• IHG Academy to develop talented people through hospitality training, providing the opportunity to work for a global hotel company with world renowned hotel brands 

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), one of the world’s leading hotel companies with brands such as Holiday Inn,todayannounced it is creating nearly 3,000¹ new jobs across its 275 UK hotels over the next three years, including over 1,100² new jobs this year. IHG also announced the launch of its newest hospitality training Academy in London.The announcement was welcomed by the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, who attended the launch of the IHG Academy programme at the soon to open Holiday Inn London Stratford City. The new hotel is one of four IHG hotels in the area that will be creating new jobs, for which students of the IHG Academy programme can apply.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said,”It’s fantastic to see IHG growing its UK business and creating 3,000 new jobs. The British service sector is world-beating, and will soon welcome millions of guests to enjoy London 2012. But reaching this gold standard needs investment in people. IHG are leading the way in their sector through a tailored academy programme. It’s an added investment that means young people can learn the skills for the industry in a local college, and then start their career in a local hotel. This shows real investment in our future workforce, is a huge boost for jobs across the country, but crucially will see local people benefit from training and work.”

Holiday Inn, part of the IHG family of brands, is the official hotel provider to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. As part of its Olympic legacy, IHG has launched a new hospitality training academy in partnership with Newham College in one of the Games’ host boroughs.

With two new hotels to be built in time for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, successful students will be prize candidates for some of the 140 new jobs being created in the local area as the new hotels open.

IHG’s Chief Executive Richard Solomons joined Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and students at the soon to open Holiday Inn London Stratford City to launch the new Academy programme.

Richard Solomons, IHG’s Chief Executive said, “Hospitality is a great business to be in and working in hotels offers people exciting career paths for the future.  We’re pleased to be working with our hotel owners to create jobs and training opportunities in the UK at this time. The IHG Academy programmeallows us to join with local education bodies in the UK and around the world to provide real-life skills and enhance employment prospects for local people.  IHG benefits by having access to talent from the neighbourhoods near our hotels.”

The IHG Academy programme in Newham was developed in partnership with Newham College and will provide talented local people with hospitality training and practical work experience at a hotel from the IHG family of brands. Students take a six-month tailored course that combines the best of the Hospitality Skills Diploma NVQ with four weeks practical work experience in a hotel. Students qualify with a Hospitality Level 2 Diploma and will have the opportunity to apply for jobs at entry level with IHG.

IHG currently employs over 15,000 people in the UK; approximately 24 per cent of employees are between the ages of 18 and 24 years.

The launch of the IHG Academy programme in Newham is part of a global initiative to invest in the recruitment and training of hotel employees to ensure guests at IHG hotels experience consistent, high levels of customer service, no matter where they are in the world. IHG is committed to creating real job opportunities in the communities around its 4,480 hotels worldwide.

There are 42 IHG Academy programmesworldwide and 5,500 students were involved in the hospitality training globally last year.

IAPCO announces one of its truly valued past members is added to its roll of honour.

Vincent C van Wulfen, past president of IAPCO 1995-1998 has been awarded honorary membership in recognition of his many years of dedication and as an important change agent. Vincent commenced in the industry as international Marketing Manager of the Netherlands Convention Bureau when it was a start-up in 1980. Naturally he got some of his first training at Wolfsberg IAPCO Annual Seminar in 1981.

In 1988 Vincent became a PCO. Vincent took over HOC in The Hague and attended his first IAPCO GA in 1988. IAPCO immediately identified his talent and invited him to join the Council in 1990 when he became Treasurer. Under Vincent’s able management the funds of IAPCO were organised efficiently and with vision to ensure the viability of the association building reserves to a healthy level. He assumed the Presidency in 1995 then took up the Treasury responsibility again in 1998 until he retired from IAPCO in 2010.

Vincent was an agent of change; he dared to bring the association into the 21st Century, making radical changes to the way the association functioned and improvements in the Wolfsberg program that lifted the quality to higher and more relevant levels. He was a key proponent for developing the association, conducting many Appraisal Visits for new members and has worked behind the scenes diligently for almost 20 years with a strong commitment to quality and growth.

Tineke, Vincent’s wife is also recognised as a terrific support for Vincent as this had a positive flow on effect to IAPCO. Tineke attended each General Assembly and many Council meetings and accepted that Vincent spent many evenings at home on IAPCO Council business over the years. IAPCO wishes to thank Tineke, and also express how proud the Association is to count upon its eighth Honorary Member for all his achievements.

14-year old Felix Finkbeiner to give keynote speech on the future of mobility – Well-known German PUMA manager Jochen Zeitz presents future sustainability scenarios – ITB Berlin Convention from 7 to 9 March 2012 free for trade visitors

Berlin, 22 February 2012 – Children’s power: this year’s ITB Berlin Convention welcomes a special speaker to the platform in the person of 14-year old Felix Finkbeiner. He was responsible for launching the children’s initiative Plant for the Planet and from 10.50 to 11.15 p.m. on 9 March 2012 he will be delivering the keynote speech in Hall 7.1a on the subject of “The Future of Mobility”. From 7 to 9 March 2012 the leading tourism convention will address the main issues confronting global tourism and will be presenting some solutions and examples of best practice to meet current and future challenges. Two prominent speakers, Felix Finkbeiner and Jochen Zeitz, have been invited to discuss the subject of sustainability at this year’s ITB Berlin Convention.

In a paper to be given on the ITB Mobility Day Felix Finkbeiner will examine how the teenage generation assesses the present mobility system and current efforts to achieve sustainability. The 14-year old has been attracting worldwide attention since 2007 with the initiative Plant for the Planet. At that time, as a nine-year old, he learned during the course of his homework about the Kenyan environmentalist and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, Wangari Maathai, who has planted some 30 million trees over a 30-year period. The Plant for the Planet initiative, which is now active in 193 countries, was inspired by this idea. Children obtain information about sustainability from other children, and learn how every individual can contribute to climate protection by planting trees.

The sort of future sustainability scenarios that are conceivable will be explained by Jochen Zeitz, Executive Chairman PUMA and Chief Sustainability Officer PPR, who was responsible for setting up the Zeitz Foundation. One of the best-known entrepreneurs in Germany, Jochen Zeitz is devoting his efforts to the sustainable management of the eco-system. In his paper, to be delivered on the ITB CSR Day, he investigates the question of how to balance social, ecological and economic sustainability for the benefit of all stakeholders. In his perspective, to be presented from 5 to 5.30 p.m. on 8 March 2012 in Hall 7.1.a, he will offer some visionary insights and useful suggestions for business strategies and sustainability concepts. The “4Cs” – conservation, community, culture, commerce – is a new kind of concept being presented by the Zeitz Foundation as a basic approach that can also be applied by the tourism industry as a means of achieving sustainable growth.

Admission to the ITB Berlin Convention is included in the price of the ITB Berlin trade visitor ticket.

A record number of British tourism businesses(1) are to join VisitBritain in India this week, looking to tap into one of the world’s fastest growing source markets and reap the benefits of the national tourism agency’s £25 million advertising campaign which kicked off in the country earlier this month.

Representatives from tourism, retail and sporting industries will participate in India Mission 2012, encouraged by the emergence of the country as a major player in terms of tourism visits to Britain over the last couple of years, with record highs for both spend and visits being witnessed. Around 250 key Indian buyers are expected to meet with the UK trade delegation at various briefing sessions to be held in New Delhi and Mumbai.

With inbound arrivals from India expected to increase significantly over the remainder of the decade, VisitBritain hopes it will be able to use key events in 2012 to entice a greater number of Indians to choose Britain for their next holiday. While Indians undertook nearly 10 million outbound visits in 2010, Britain received only 371,000 visitors from the country, making the UK the 11th most visited destination by Indian residents(2). Competitors such as France are currently receiving 20% more visitors from India than the UK, so it is vital that VisitBritain increases its activities to motivate Indian travellers to favour Britain instead.

VisitBritain research suggests that the number of annual visits to Britain from this BRIC nation has the potential to almost double by 2020, which could result in nearly 800,000 visits a year. A typical visit to Britain from India generates £980 with visitors tending to stay for longer periods of time due to a dominance of visits to friends and relatives already living in the UK.

As part of VisitBritain’s £25 million GREAT image campaign, Mumbai and Delhi will be submerged in GREAT branding, with huge bill-board posters being seen by over 16 million people. VisitBritain’s 60 second TV advert will be exclusively shown just before Indian movie goers sit down to watch their latest Bollywood blockbusters across 120 cinemas. There will also be 200 taxis with GREAT branding driving around the two major cities in India picking up thousands of commuters each day. As well as the image side of the campaign VisitBritain is working hard with partners on tactical marketing, bringing in the likes of British Airways who offer great deals to turn aspirational travel into visits right now.

Head of the mission and VisitBritain’s Strategy and Communication Director, Patricia Yates said:

“Trade missions such as this are essential for building the foundations for sustained growth of the UK’s inbound tourism economy. Britain accounted for only 3% of all outbound trips from India in 2010, yet while this still generated nearly £363 million for the UK economy, there is clearly scope for us to do more in order to attract a greater share of a market worth £6.5 billion a year.

“We know the Indian market has enormous potential for us, but if we are to achieve our 2020 projections of 80% growth we must be able to capitalise on the strong interest that already exists and do everything we can to encourage a greater number of visitors. To do that, we must be able to take advantage of the positive perceptions that the Indian population has of Britain, particularly those relating to our culture and heritage and sport which we are exploiting by taking Historic Royal Palaces, Marylebone Cricket Club and Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum on this mission.

“Our £25 million GREAT image campaign underway in Delhi and Mumbai will help reinforce these aspects and hopefully inspire Indians to turn their desire to visit us into a reality.”

Over 200 giant eggs have been hidden in secret locations throughout central London (Tuesday 21st February) as part of ‘The Fabergé Big Egg Hunt’, a magical event challenging the public to take on the world’s biggest Easter egg hunt, whilst raising vital funds for charity.

The Fabergé Big Egg Hunt is set to smash Guinness World Records for the Most participants in an Easter egg hunt and the world’s Most expensive non-jewelled chocolate egg sold at auction, as designed by William Curley. The two Guinness World Records attempts are part of “World Record London”, which will see the most exciting capital in the world attempt over 20 Guinness World Records to make London a multi record-breaking city.

To celebrate the magical year as host city of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the London & Partners’ campaign will highlight unique and one off events available to Londoners and everyone visiting the capital between now and July 2012.

Members of the public are racing to find the giant eggs, which have been exclusively designed, embellished and decorated by some of the world’s leading artists, architects, jewellers and designers including Mulberry, Sir Ridley Scott, Zandra Rhodes, Diane Von Furstenberg, Marc Quinn, Bruce Oldfield, the Chapman Brothers, Theo Fennell, William Curley, Candy and Candy, Zaha Hadid, Bompas and Parr and Polly Morgan.

A highlight of The Fabergé Big Egg Hunt, is the chance to win the world’s most extraordinary prize, the Diamond Jubilee Egg, a fabulous creation valued at over £100,000. Crafted from 500 grams of 18 carat rose gold, the design is based on Fabergé’s much loved Matelasse jewellery collection. It features 60 gemstones – one for each year of Her Majesty’s reign – set in a quilted rose gold surface and comprising of diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires.

Gordon Innes, ceo London & Partners, said: “This cracking event is just one of the many that London will be host to over the next few months. There is an egg-cellent array of activities for all ages and budgets across the capital and with events like this London is the best place in the world to visit, study or do business in during this magical year.”

To enter to win the Diamond Jubilee egg prize, and raise money for the charities at the same time, hunters need to locate the unique SMS keyword displayed on each of the eggs and text the keyword to a dedicated text number, 80001  (1). For each keyword participants text in, they will be entered into the prize draw. The more eggs they find, the more chances to win and the winning entry will be drawn at random.

The hand-crafted eggs, which are destined to become highly collectible works of art, are available to bid for online and at auction, with proceeds going to Action for Children and Elephant Family. The jewel in the crown of the auction will be an exclusively designed, stunning 127ct emerald and gold egg pendant ‘Le Collier Plume d’Or’ created by Fabergé.

The Fabergé Big Egg Hunt is seeking to raise up to £2 million for leading children’s charity, Action for Children, and Elephant Family, the UK’s biggest funder for the endangered Asian elephant.
Action for Children’s Chief Executive, Dame Clare Tickell, said: “The Fabergé Big Egg Hunt is an enchanting event, which will capture the hearts, imagination and interest of everyone taking part. It’s particularly heartening to know that money will be raised thanks to an event which will be hugely enjoyable for the thousands of children and families who will be taking part.”

Elephant Family Founder, Mark Shand, said: “The firing gun has sounded! Let the hunt begin – here’s to an Olympic effort to win that Diamond Jubilee Egg!”

Sarah Fabergé, great granddaughter Peter Carl Fabergé said: “Today sees the streets of central London host the world’s most prestigious Easter egg hunt and our Diamond Jubilee design will be the winner’s prize. We are thrilled to be involved in what promises to be a fun-filled, public event celebrating creativity across so many artistic disciplines and most importantly, raising funds for two exceptionally deserving charities. I would personally like to congratulate all the artists involved.”

A one of a kind convention centre, currently under construction at the RNA Showgrounds in Brisbane, has been officially launched to the industry during the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo in Melbourne today.

RNA Chief Executive Jonathan Tunny was joined by Brisbane Marketing Convention Bureau Director Annabel Sullivan to unveil Brisbane’s newest convention centre, which is projected toattract more than 220 events and 30,000 visitors annually.

“The RNA is proud to announce the world-class $59 million Royal International Convention Centre (RICC) will open in March 2013 and bookings are being taken now,” he said.

“It is the only convention and exhibition centre currently under construction in Australia with work set to be completed by December.

“The RICC is part of stage one of our exciting $2.9 billion 15 year RNA Showgrounds Regeneration Project, which will transform the site into a vibrant year-round destination offering a unique lifestyle and cultural hub.”

Mr Tunny said the historic regeneration of the RNA Showgrounds – a famous Queensland social heritage and cultural landmark – will cement its place as a leading national and international events precinct.

“It represents Australia’s largest Brownfield development, is the most significant urban renewal project in Brisbane since South Bank and includes 340,000m² of new residential, commercial and retail precinct development,” he said.

Mr Tunny said the 22,000m² multi-level centre is set to hold international, national and local business events, which in 2010-2011 pumped a total of $212 million* into the Brisbane economy.

“Situated in one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, the new RICC is ideally located just 1.6 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD and 15 minutes from international and domestic airports,” he said.

“It will sit pride of place on the 22 hectare RNA Showgrounds site, which is Brisbane’s biggest indoor/outdoor events venue attracting a million visitors a year.”

Mr Tunny said the RICC offered Australian first features including a custom-built operable ceiling grid system which can cut exhibition set-up time by up to a day.

“It is the only centre nationally to feature this state-of-the-art rigging system which will result in less labour, less time and less set-up costs,” he said.

“The 30, 9m² frames are each capable of a 700kg load, are fitted with power and network ports and able to be lowered by remote control.”

Mr Tunny said the RICC is positioned to stage domestic and international, business and social events and will be supported by a professional team of in-house event planners, an operations team and experienced catering staff.

“Our catering facilities will be world-class and feature 12 of the latest designed self-cooking centres, capable of serving 2,600 plates in 40 minutes,” he said.

“The ovens enable us to produce fresh food on a daily basis for large numbers and feature a computerised system to track and monitor the quality of food being served.”

Mr Tunny said the RNA Showgrounds has a long and close relationship with the Queensland community and this new centre has been specifically designed to cater for Brisbane’s significant growth.

“The RICC will become home to leading events on a year-round basis including banquets, conferences, exhibitions and seminars,” he said.

Across two levels, the centre will house:

• 4,500m2 of exhibition space which fronts 1,800m2 of flexible open space known as Ekka Plaza
• Three flexible halls totalling 3,210m2 plus 1,500m2 of foyer space
• Seven meeting rooms of flexible combination totalling 630m2 plus two board rooms
• A 1,200m2 commercial kitchen
• Approximately 140 car parks

Brisbane Marketing Convention Bureau Director, Annabel Sullivan said Brisbane’s status as a leading destination for national and international business events is strengthened by the planned RNA Showgrounds Regeneration Project, of which the Royal International Convention Centre is a key part.

“Attracting business events to Brisbane Australia’s new world city has a positive effect on the bottom line of the local economy and creates lasting legacies for local businesses and individuals whom benefit from knowledge enrichment and skills transfer for years to come,” she added.

(*Source: Brisbane Marketing – Economic Value of Brisbane’s Events Industry)

Kyoto has been chosen as the venue to close the 40th anniversary celebrations of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention (WHC). The announcement has been welcomed by the Kyoto Convention Bureau.

The three day event, which will be held in November, will incorporate a variety of activities and workshops, as well as studies that will be presented on the future direction of the convention. As James Kent, international marketing manager at the Kyoto Convention Bureau points out: “The mission of the WHC is perfectly reflected in Kyoto’s events and tourism offering. The city, which was capital of Japan from 794–1868, combines modern facilities with history and culture, including 17 UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites, many of which can be used as venues for events.”

James continues: “We are delighted UNESCO has chosen Kyoto to host the closing event of its anniversary celebrations. Kyoto is widely recognised as a centre for culture and heritage in Japan. It has a substantial number of historic buildings as well as the largest concentration of designated cultural properties in the country making it an ideal location for such a momentous occasion. We look forward to welcoming UNESCO and celebrating this special anniversary with them.”

22 February 2012: The award winners for the Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) 2012 were announced last night at a jazzy event, Nightcap Networking, held at the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA) and hosted by the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB) and the Atlantic Group.

The awards, presented by Sally de Swart, recognised excellence in stand design and presentation, as well as acknowledging one individual who has contributed to the success of the meetings and incentives industry.

This year, Leigh Harry, Chief Executive of Tourism Victoria, was recognised as an international leader in the field of business events receiving the Outstanding Contribution Award.

Mr Harry has previously held the position of International President of both the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) and International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) from 2006-2010. In his previous role he was instrumental in the planning process of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) as its Chief Executive.

Three stand awards were also presented for Best Stand 36m² and Under, Best Stand Over 36m² and Best New Exhibitor Stand.

The stands are judged on a list of criteria including originality and creative input by industry specialists Linda Gaunt of Meetings & Events Australia (MEA), Joyce DiMascio of Exhibition & Event Association Australasia (EEAA) and Noor Ahmad Hamid from the International Congress and Conventions Association (ICCA).

The Best Stand 36m² and Under was awarded to Dockside Group for recreating the stylish, outside venue space on the show floor.

Tourism Fiji took out the Best Stand Over 36m² award, recognised for its bright and eye-catching structure which beautifully captured the spirit of Fiji.

American Express Meetings & Events won the award for Best New Exhibitor Stand, with its fresh and functional approach to the space.

AIME also recognised exhibitors who have gone the extra mile to make their stand environmentally friendly. This year the award for Best Environmentally Sustainable Stand was presented to Accor Asia Pacific for their efforts in creating a stand with limited impact on the environment. The materials on the stand are 100% reusable and its flooring system has a lifespan of 10 years or more, with a certified structural base from Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA). This award was judged by Reed Exhibitions Operations Director, Robert McIndoe.

Nightcap Networking, where the awards were presented, is a new event that has been introduced for the 20th anniversary show, providing an additional networking opportunity for exhibitors and buyers. The supper catering by Atlantic Group was a highlight, with various appetising stations including cheese table and dessert stand as well as coffee and tea by T2 and other creative canapes.

For more information about AIME 2012, visit www.aime.com.au

 World Travel Market 2011, the leading global event for the travel industry, will generate a massive £1,653 million in travel and tourism industry deals – an impressive 16% increase on WTM 2010.

Independent research of World Travel Market’s exhibitors shows WTM 2011 will generate £1,653,729,318 million of deals, either through contracts signed at the event or from negotiations with Meridian Club members which will lead to deals before WTM 2012. 

WTM 2010 generated £1,425 million in business deals, either on the exhibition floor or in the 12 months that followed, which was a 25% increase on WTM 2009’s £1,139 million.

The increase in business generated by WTM 2011 can, in part, be accredited to the overhauled Speed Networking session – which allowed exhibitors and buyers even more time to negotiate and conclude deals.

Speed Networking took place as a one hour-long session before the exhibition opened on the first day of WTM 2011 (Monday 7 November). Previously, Speed Networking was in five 45 minute sessions – based around the regions of the exhibition – throughout the first day.

The change increased the amount of time at the event for exhibitors and Meridian Club members could conclude negotiations on the exhibition floor in-turn helping to increase the amount of business generated because of the event

An extra business opportunity was also introduced on the final day of WTM in the shape of the WTM Networking Breakfast, giving exhibitors and Meridian Club members a further event to meet up and discuss business deals.

Furthermore, an impressive 94% of exhibitors are ‘extremely likely’ or ‘likely’ to exhibit at WTM 2012, which takes between Monday 5 – Thursday 8 November. 

While, 96% exhibitors feel it is ‘very important’ or ‘important’ to exhibit at WTM and 96% of exhibitors were ‘completely satisfied’ or ‘satisfied’ about their most recent time at WTM.

Reed Travel Exhibitions Director World Travel Market Simon Press said: “World Travel Market 2011 has seen, and will lead to, a phenomenal amount of travel and tourism industry business being agreed.

“The expanded Speed Networking programme played an important role in the success of WTM 2011 for both exhibitors and Meridian Club members, offering both stakeholders increased opportunities to meet new contacts, sign contracts and conclude deals.”

“The amount of business conducted and the findings from the exhibitor research shows WTM is delivering on its commitment to facilitate business in the travel and tourism industry.”

Press continued: “I am delighted that the amount of business conducted at World Travel Market continues to increase, firmly positioning WTM as a must-attend exhibition for national and regional tourist boards, global brands and technology companies.  

“The amount of business conducted at WTM clearly demonstrated WTM. Means Business.”

21 February 2012: The organisers of the 20th anniversary Asia-Pacific Meetings & Incentives Expo (AIME), which opens today at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), are expecting a successful two-day event with preliminary figures looking positive.

With more than 500 Hosted Buyers set to attend AIME 2012, organisers are expecting at least a 15% increase compared to 2011 and 51% of these buyers will be new to AIME in 2012.

Sally de Swart, Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) Director for AIME, said that this is a good result for the show and great news for exhibitors who regularly attend AIME.

“We have a number of exhibitors who return to AIME year after year and it is important for them to establish new contacts and renew their ongoing relationships. The overall numbers are strong and we are pleased that we have brought so many new Hosted Buyers to AIME 2012,” Ms de Swart said.

Figures released yesterday are positive with 3736 pre-registered visitors set to attend AIME 2012 which will be an increase on last year’s figures.

Ms de Swart said that while the numbers are impressive it is too early to tell what the final results will be and reminded exhibitors to make sure they reach out to visitors and make the most of all opportunities to establish new contacts at AIME.

“These figures are preliminary, but we are expecting a good turnout of quality visitors. AIME is a busy time for all exhibitors but I would recommend remaining open and aware of visitors on the show floor because a valuable contact may drop by your stand at anytime,” she said.

“This year we have added the Exhibitor Networking Drinks to the Tuesday afternoon program and this is another good opportunity for exhibitors to mix with buyers and visitors in a more relaxed atmosphere.”

779 exhibitors are booked to attend AIME 2012 and the show floor will be larger, taking up 5,778 m². There are 206 new exhibitors this year including big brand names such as Marriott Hotels and American Express Meetings and Events.

Sally de Swart said that she is looking forward to a successful event and expects the show floor to be buzzing throughout the two-day show.

AIME, which is owned by the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB) and run by RTE, will take place on the 21 and 22 February 2012 at the MCEC.

For more information about visiting AIME 2012, visit www.aime.com.au

Participants in the 5th IOC World Conference on Women and Sport called on sports leaders to take a more proactive role in advancing the cause of women in and through sport as the event came to a close in Los Angeles, California, on Saturday.

The three-day conference, whose theme was “Together Stronger: the Future of Sport,” ended with over 800 delegates from 135 countries unanimously approving “The Los Angeles Declaration”, a series of recommendations aimed at promoting gender equality in sport and using sport as a tool to improve the lives of women around the world.

The declaration focused on two main themes:

- The need to bring more women into management and leadership roles

- The need to increase collaboration and partnerships, especially with UN organisations, to promote gender equality.

IOC President Jacques Rogge assured the conference delegates that the Olympic Movement would act on the recommendations.

“I can pledge and I can promise that we will do what is needed”, he said in his closing remarks.

The conference declaration acknowledged that the Olympic Movement’s steady progress towards gender equality on the field of play had not been matched in sports leadership positions. It called for more resources to support women in sports leadership roles and urged sports organisations to follow the IOC’s lead by adopting policies to advance gender equality.

On the issue of collaboration, conference delegates urged the IOC to build on its work with the United Nations by establishing closer partnerships with UN Women and the UN Committee on the Status of Women. UN Women was established in 2010 to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.

“The potential for sport to contribute to the social, economic and political empowerment of women and girls is clear and has been recognised by governments, the United Nations system, civil society, the sports movement and others. Now is the time to act on this recognition and bring the benefits of sport to women and girls”, Lakshmi Puri, the Deputy Executive Director of UN Women, told the conference delegates.

Organised jointly by the IOC, the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games, the event covered a range of subjects associated with the efforts to strengthen women’s representation both on the sports field and in leadership positions. The record number of delegates at this year’s conference included well-known figures from the world of sport, as well as representatives of civil society, government and academia.

Other high-profile speakers at the conference included IOC Women and Sport Commission Chairperson Anita DeFrantz; Chairman of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Sebastian Coe; HE Marjon V. Kamara, Chair of the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women; and Geena Davis, Academy Award-winning actress and founder of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media.

The 2012 Women and Sport Awards were presented on the opening day of the conference, with India’s Manisha Malhotra winning the World Trophy for her commitment to helping disadvantaged girls progress through sport. The five continental winners were Peninnah Aligawesa Kabenge (Africa), the Bradesco Sports and Education Progamme and Centre (Americas), Zaiton Othman (Asia), Aikaterini Nafplioti-Panagopoulos (Europe), and Roseline Blake (Oceania).

Held every four years, the aim of the World Conference on Women and Sport is to assess the progress made in advancing the cause of gender equality within the Olympic Movement and to define future priority actions to improve and increase the involvement of girls and women in this framework.

MSC Cruisesis delighted to announce the introduction of the French Antilles as a new destination for the 2012-2013 winter season. Complemented by an extensive array of fascinating shore excursions, this is an unmissable opportunity for guests to experience this idyllic region at first hand.

The inaugural voyage begins on 30 November 2012 when MSC Liricadeparts from Genoa, Italy for a 16-day/15-night cruise, arriving at her new homeport in Martinique just over two weeks later.

MSC Lirica’s course will take her from the Mediterranean through the Atlantic and on to the Caribbean, with scheduled stops in Marseilles, Barcelona, Funchal and, after five full days at sea, Bridgetown in Barbados. Scheduled stops then follow in Saint George in Grenada, Basseterre in Saint Kitts & Nevis and Castries in Saint Lucia, with MSC Lirica arriving in Fort-de-France in Martinique on 15 December 2012.

From 15 December 2012 through to 16 February 2013, MSC Liricahas a full schedule of ten 7-day/8-night cruises, departing every Saturday from Fort-de-France, Martinique, and every Sunday from Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

During these Caribbean experiences, guests will discover not only the breathtaking beauty but also the rich history of the islands, with scheduled stops in St John’s in Antigua & Barbuda; Road Town on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands; Santo Domingo and La Romana in the Dominican Republic and Philipsburg in St Maarten, Netherlands Antilles.

The French Antilles will bid farewell to MSC Liricaon 23 February 2013, when she starts her 16-day/15-night return cruise from Fort-de-France to Genoa. Scheduled stops are Pointe-à-Pitre, Castries, Funchal, Malaga, Barcelona and Marseille.

Excursions meanwhile will range from gentle tours around botanical gardens and plantations through to canopy zip lines high above the rainforest. Those with a thirst for knowledge may prefer a visit to the fishing village where Christopher Columbus landed in 1502 or a Chocolate Tour to the Caribbean’s largest organic cocoa processing plants.

The luxurious 59,000-ton MSC Liricahas capacity for a total of 2069 guests in 780 cabins. The ship boasts numerous swimming pools, a running track, a mini golf course, boutiques, a casino, a state-of-the-art gym, a luxury spa and the 713-seat Broadway theatre. Guests can enjoy the finest Mediterranean and international cuisine in four different restaurants, soak up the atmosphere in the Lord Nelson Pub, enjoy the chilled out musical offering in The Beverly Hills bar or dance the night away in the Blue Club Disco.

Around 10 million participants / 10 percent increase in sales revenues

Berlin, 20 February 2012 After tourism reported new record results for last year, the German capital now also takes positive stock of the meeting and convention year 2011: 115,700 events took place last year (+2 percent). They were attended by 9.7 million participants; this corresponds to 7 percent more than in 2010. The number of room nights rose to 6.05 million (+9 percent). The convention industry hence generates more than a quarter of all hotel room nights in Berlin.

The upwards tendency is reflected in a particularly significant manner by the sales revenues: EUR 1.8 billion were generated last year by meeting and convention participants in Berlin; this corresponds to a 10 percent increase versus prior year. The meeting and convention industry secured 34,000 full-time jobs – a plus of 2,000 compared to 2010.

For visitBerlin CEO Burkhard Kieker the convention industry is an important pillar of Berlin’s business community: “We will continue to do our utmost to further strengthen the convention destination. The BER airport is an important stage on Berlin’s way towards a world metropolis in order to secure more international conventions for the German capital. New air connections will contribute towards turning Berlin into an even more successful meeting and convention venue. In order to be able to continue to grow, the number of possible event locations must likewise be increased. A new demand arises here.”

In 2011 the share of international congress participants amounted to 19 percent. The number of German guests rose to 81 percent (+1 percent). A particularly large number of meetings and conventions took place in Berlin for the pharmaceutical and commerce sectors, each accounting for 10 percent.

The statistics are based on data from Berlin convention hotels, centres and event locations. An independent market research company evaluates the results. All details are available for downloading on convention.visitBerlin.de

For the first time in the region, the 6th Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM), which runs from March 26-28 2012, will hold free-to-attend, interactive Arabic sessions for all attendees at the show; a significant milestone for the growing meetings and events industry in the Middle East.

Recognising the growing strength of business travel across the region, Reed Travel Exhibitions is honoured to welcome Ask Ali.com as an Official Sponsor of GIBTM and welcome Ali Al Saloom. As a well-recognized industry expert and Cultural Tourism Consultant at Embrace Arabia Consultancy, he will deliver a highly anticipated seminar to the local community.
Mr. Al Saloom will discuss how business travel in the region is a modern interpretation of the age-old concept of the Majlis, and how the biggest opportunity in the region is linking business tourism with Arabic traditions and culture.

“This new Arabic addition to the educational programme is groundbreaking for GIBTM. It is the first time that Arabic seminars have been run in the region solely dedicated to the MICE industry and will promote the Middle East as an important business hub of the 21st century,” said Lois Hall, REED Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM.
Given his strong connection to UAE’s history and culture, Mr. Al Saloom will bring his expertise of the local culture to the global audience at GIBTM. He will offer participants a deeper understanding of how to protect, promote and develop the authentic Arabic meeting format of the Majlis, while ensuring compatibility with international trends.

“It is a great honour for me to be chosen to introduce the wonderful world of MICE to my fellow countrymen and to the people of the region’ said Ali Al Saloom.  “The MICE industry has enormous regional significance and great potential. However, I think that many potential local and regional players in the market don’t fully understand that potential. It is in our nature as Arabs, if we don’t know or understand something, to feel embarrassed to ask. So I look forward to explaining why MICE matters and to do so Inshallah in the Arabic language in my native Khaleji dialect.”
This seminar will highlight how businesses can add a local touch to otherwise “business-as-usual” events, to cater to their local clients’ needs. Ali Al Saloom aka ‘Ask Ali’ will inspire participants to become aware of the regional traditions and use them to their advantage and for regional branding.

AskAli.com is the leading regional website for business travellers and tourists alike to ask all kinds of questions regarding Emirati and Arabic culture; travel tips, history, religion, architecture, and even archaeology news.
Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), ADNEC, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the official show daily publication.
More information on the event, exhibitors, hosted buyers’ required qualifications, partners, networking and educational opportunities is available on www.gibtm.com.
GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26th-28th March 2012.
Join GIBTM on Linked in, Twitter and Facebook.

30 members from France, Belgium and the Netherlands participated in the ICCA France- Benelux Chapter Summit held this month at Le Palais des Congrès de Paris (February 6-7, 2012).

This one-day event was a great opportunity to learn about some of the latest industry trends from expert speakers: Ben Hainsworth from the European Society of Cardiology presented the new destination selection process which is going to be implemented for all their congresses, and James Bedford and Deirdre Jarvis from Cisco Systems presented a simultaneous live and virtual session on Hybrid and Virtual Meetings with speakers from their headquarters in San Jose, California.

One of the highlights of the event was a new idea for a session open to abstracts from the different members. On the general theme of “What is your greatest challenge in winning international business and what creative solutions have you found to overcome it?” four different members came forward to share their success story with their peers.

“Feedback from post-event evaluations were extremely positive: all the participants thought that the event met their primary objectives, the speakers were graded at 83% excellent or very good, 92% enjoyed the networking opportunities, and most important of all, 100% of participants say they will come back next year!” concludes Marta Gomes, Congress Department Director of Viparis and Chairperson of the ICCA France-Benelux Chapter.

A feeling shared by the participants: “An interesting and thought provoking session. I look forward to the next one”; “I had time to do some networking and liked the idea to share our ‘success’ stories”; “A great way to, within a small group, exchange ideas and interact”; “It was an inspiring summit!”.

20th February 2012

The activity report published by the Spanish Association of Conference Centres’ (APCE) members reveals that in 2011 its venues held a total of
4,981 events and welcomed 3,918,629 visitors. This generated an economic impact for their cities of around €1,200 million.

The aggregate data provided by APCE members show that last year Spanish venues held a total of 436 congresses which were attended by 446,076
delegates. They also held 393 conventions which were attended by 267,403 participants and 1,324 symposia with a total of 389,348 visitors. The
direct and indirect economic impact generated from these activities reached €1,200 million.

In comparative terms, the report seems to indicate that the number of congresses and visitors, which had remained reasonably stable until 2010,
fell slightly during the year. However, corporate events, which had been harder hit by the difficult economic circumstances, seem to have slowed
their downward trend.

In terms of types of events, 65% of conventions and 80% of congresses were national or international meetings, whilst 75% of congress delegates
and 88% of convention delegates had a national or international profile.

The study highlights an increase in international visitors which rose by 35% in the case of congresses and 8% in the case of conventions
compared to the previous year. This type of participants contributes to reduce the seasonal nature of tourism and generates an economic impact
which is far superior to that of an average holidaymaker, thanks to higher daily average expenditure.

In terms of the conclusions to be drawn from the study figures, José Salinas, the Valencia Conference Centre’s CEO and Chairman of the APCE’s
Board of Directors, stated that “the presence of key factors in boosting our cities’ economies, such as conference centres, is even more
important in difficult times. The adverse economic environment has generated a slowdown in the domestic market which has partly been
balanced out with increased activity on the international stage compared to the previous year. This puts us in a better
position on the international market and makes us more competitive outside Spain”.

Salinas also added that “It is important for Spanish venues to continue to climb the international MICE ladder. In fact, one of our strategic priorities is to promote conference centres using both traditional channels and new online tools”.

In a first for the Australian events industry, the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre has designed an online traffic management system for its exhibition hall loading docks.

The move is part of the Centre’s ongoing program to boost operational efficiency and recognises the high level of demand put on the Centre’s six exhibition halls, which are the busiest in the country.

 The new system enables a central traffic controller to log all truck arrivals online, and advise waiting drivers by SMS when it is their turn to move to the loading dock to offload or collect exhibition material.

The system also allows exhibition organisers to easily review the flow of traffic during their event, while freight companies can access the system to assess waiting times for their vehicles.

Chief Executive Ton van Amerongen said the Centre’s security team had studied venue traffic management methods worldwide before partnering with a company to tailor-make its own system, which breaks new ground.

“No other venue in Australia has an online management system and whilst some international venues use them, we discovered that none of them offered the detail we need so we decided to create our own,” Mr van Amerongen said.

“The new system is premised on the need for efficiency and safety on the loading docks. Not only does it reduce the waiting time for trucks, it keeps all the key players in the loop during the crucial days spent setting up and dismantling an exhibition.”

Mr van Amerongen said the program also provided post-event reports which could be used by organisers to assist planning for future events.

The UK’s biggest five-day consumer electronics event, Gadget Show Live, has today announced an additional 2,000 Super Theatre seats, capacity for 15,000 extra visitors and the biggest variety of interactive on-site features ever seen for 2012.

Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from 11-15 April 2012, the event is based on the popular Channel Five TV show and is widely recognised as the best place to see, try and buy the latest consumer technology. With all Friday, Saturday and Sunday (13-15 April) tickets already sold out, 2012 is set to be the biggest show yet.

Now in its fourth year, the show will still the latest technology from the world’s leading electronics firms, such as LG, O2, HP, Epson, Pioneer, Phillips, Canon and JVC. Visitors can try out the new OLED TVs alongside smart and connected home technology, 3D projectors, 3D and HD camcorders, as well as new tablets, phones, laptops and gaming consoles; manyof which will be on show for the first time in the UK.

In addition, this year’s show will also see brand new technology, including the latest in audio tech from British companies Bowers and Wilkins and Orbitsound, who’ll be presenting the new T12v3 soundbar. Pioneer will also be revealing the recently launched STEEZ, a boom-box audio system that will be put to the test with exclusive performances from a team of b-boy champions including Junior. Other exhibitors include Festo, who’ll be showing the latest automation technology through its Smartbirds – a robotic bird that can fly and land without a driving mechanism – and Leonar3DO, exhibiting its integrated software and hardware platforms, which allow users to design virtual 3D objects in real space.

Gadget Show Live visitors can participate in a range of immersive features to help make it the perfect family day out. The hugely successful International Future Tech Zone returns with demonstrations of the latest brain wave technology from Neurosky, who will demo Necomimi, wearable cat ears that react and move in accordance to their user’s emotions. Aurasma will also be in the International Future Tech Zone presenting its latest augmented reality apps, which now have over 3 million users. spnKIX will show its motorised shoes – battery powered motorized skates that strap onto any shoes and are controlled by a hand-held remote control – a true step into the future for wearers.

Other key features include the HUB Theatre, which returns after a hugely successful first run at last year’s event, to offer six free daily presentations of the best tech on show, gadgets to look out for and tips to get the best out of your gadgets. This year will even include a session on how to create a number one single just through the power of your smartphone, The Hub is presented by Stuff TV’s Lucy Hedges and Radio One’s Aled Hayden Jones.

The Game Zone is also extended for 2012 with games and products from the likes of Kuoda, Codemasters, Alienware, Epic and Leapfrog, as well as retailer GAME and many gaming challenges for everyone to get involved – pro and amateur players alike! Epic and Train to Gain will give visitors the chance to design and build games of their own within its new theatre.

Not forgetting the one hour long, high energy, live theatre version of the TV show which will take place in the expanded Super Theatre three times daily. The show’s presenters will be on stage competing in high-energy tech challenges and inviting the audience to participate in a range of contests to win more gadgets! Each show seats 6,000 people (an increase of 2,000 seats from 2011).

Last year’s event saw 104,759 people in attendance, an increase of 50 per cent on the 2010 event, and organisers anticipate another sell out this year, with 120,000anticipated visitors to the NEC.

Matt Hodgins, Head of Event at Upper Street Events said:

“We’re really pleased about how the event has shaped up for 2012, with a bigger variety of features and some great exhibitors like Philips, Dell, Denon and Canon making their debuts this year. Gadget Show Live has remained THE place to get involved with the latest tech available in the UK. Having won Best Consumer Show at both the Exhibition News and Association of Exhibition Organisers Awards last year, 2012 promises to be the best yet and a hugely entertaining day out for all the family.”

To find out more and to buy tickets, visit www.thenec.co.uk.

The WACS Congress Organizing Committee has prepared homestay families for overseas WACS Congress participants to provide an opportunity to experience Korean culture during the Congress period.

If you would like to apply for the homestay, please check out the attached homestay family list, then send your personal profile (name, age, phone number, address, e-mail address, gender, homestay period, religion and language,) with your preferred host family to info@wacs2012.org by 29 February.

* The charge is 20,000 Korean Won per night and you need to organize your own transportation with your host family as it’s not provided by the Committee.

The Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB) has announced the establishment of a new positioning campaign at this year’s Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME).

Melbourne IQ: The Intelligent Choice for Conferences is aimed at the international associations market and is designed to promote Melbourne’s impressive expertise and track record in a diverse range of academic, scientific and professional endeavours.

Karen Bolinger, Chief Executive Officer of MCVB said the campaign highlights the state’s capabilities as an ‘Intellectual Capital’ and further cements Melbourne’s reputation as a world-class business events destination.

“Whereas we often attribute our success to the first class infrastructure we have in the city and the high level of support we receive from both state and local government, we may overlook that perhaps our greatest assets lie in our intellectual capabilities and industry strengths,” Ms Bolinger said.

“The state’s economy is driven by knowledge-based industries in education, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing and design and the city is also recognised as a centre of excellence for research and development in the medical, science, business and financial industries.

“Having all of this intelligence here, makes Melbourne a natural and attractive choice for international associations who are looking to host their next conference in a city where they can maximise attendance, be close to emerging markets in Asia, and be able to draw delegates from a rich pool of local talent,” Ms Bolinger said.

The first stage of the campaign is the release of a brochure which aims to reach out to MCVB’s key international markets in the form of associations, professional conference organisers (PCO’s), decision makers, board members, chief executive officers and academics, spanning the globe. Ultimately, Melbourne IQ will be a platform for a wide cross section of future marketing initiatives, including events, advertising and targeted publications.

Ms Bolinger said the campaign also acknowledges MCVB’s credentials, as well as its commitment to attracting international conventions to the state.

“MCVB works closely with locally-based associations and the wider academic community, specifically through the Club Melbourne Ambassador Program, when working to attract a business event to Melbourne. Without the ongoing support of these key groups, winning high profile events, such as the XX International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2014), would not be possible.”

In addition to Melbourne’s ‘intelligent’ assets, the city’s superior business events infrastructure, economic stability, excellent accessibility, safety and leisure attractions are also highlighted in the campaign.

“When it comes to conferences, congresses, meetings, incentives and corporate travel, Melbourne has just the right mix of ingredients to ensure that every business event is a resounding success,” said Ms Bolinger.

Melbourne IQ: The Intelligent Choice for Conferences can be downloaded from the MCVB website at www.mcvb.com.au/MelbourneIQ .

London & Dubai, 20 February 2012

World Travel Awards (WTA), the “Oscars of the travel industry”, has announced plans to host its Middle East Ceremony at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa in Dubai on 30th April 2012.

The evening will mark the opening leg of WTA’s 2012 Grand Tour, a global search for the very best travel and tourism organisations in the world, covering five continents with nominees drawn from 162 countries.

WTA’s Middle East Ceremony will be held in Dubai for the fifth year in succession, underscoring how the emirate is driving travel trends not just in the region but throughout the world.

Located close to Dubai Marina, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa is home to a breathtaking range of attractions, including an 800-metre palm-lined private beach, championship golf course, horse-riding stables and diving centre.

The five-star beach resort is also renowned for its unrivalled range of family facilities.

Graham E Cooke, President & Founder, WTA, believes that the selection of hosts is fundamental to the success of the world’s most influential travel awards programme.

He says: “I am delighted that we will be retuning to Dubai for what promises to be the most exciting and competitive Middle East Ceremony yet. The emirate is a hotbed of fresh ideas being put into practice, as exemplified by our host, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa.”

“The resort has remained the market leader for families throughout its illustrious 30-year history by continually reinventing itself and staying ahead of the curve,” he adds.

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa is the flagship resort of Jebel Ali International Hotels, and consists of two five-star properties, Palm Tree Court & Spa, which has recently undergone a full refurbishment, and Jebel Ali Hotel, which offers views over the Arabian Gulf and a championship-standard nine-hole golf course.

David Thomson, Regional General Manager, Jebel Ali Internationals Hotels, says he is delighted to host WTA’s Middle East Ceremony, stating: “World Travel Awards is the highest global recognition in the travel industry and we’re thrilled that the winners will celebrate at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa. After our success earlier in the year, winning ‘World’s Leading Family Resort’, we’re keen to show our Middle East colleagues the changes we’ve made at the resort that justify this prestigious award. At Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa we pride ourselves on being a family resort and are constantly reinventing the offering in order to push the boundaries of travel excellence.”

WTA’s glittering Middle East Ceremony 2012 will attract more than 400 of the most important decision-makers in the region’s travel and tourism sector, as well as a host of international media. The evening coincides with Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (28-30 April) and Arabian Travel Market (30 April – 3 May), which are both taking place in Dubai.

Other regional heats in WTA’s Grand Tour 2012 are set to take place in the Algarve, Thailand and Turks & Caicos. The winners of these regional heats will progress to the Grand Final, which will take place at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, New Delhi, India in December.

20 February 2012: Media personality Ita Buttrose will open the 20^th anniversary Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) tomorrow at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), marking the beginning of the renowned, two-day, meetings and incentives event.

Ms Buttrose, who attended the first AIME back in 1993 where she presented as part of the Education Program, joins Cr Carl Jetter, representing the City of Melbourne, the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MCVB Karen Bolinger and former CEO of MCVB, Sue Calwell, who originally started AIME 20 years ago.

Sally de Swart, Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) Director for AIME, said that it is fitting for the 20^thanniversary to have two personalities that were present from the beginning and also welcomes the presence of Ms Bolinger, the new CEO of MCVB who will be taking the show into the future.

“It’s fantastic to be able to welcome Sue back to the show and to celebrate the 20^th anniversary with someone who was so instrumental in its founding. We are also pleased to have Ita returning again after attending the very first show 20 years ago.

“We’ve worked hard to keep the very essence of what AIME is all about – doing business and providing great networking opportunities, while introducing positive new initiatives to enhance the show each year. It is fitting to have Karen here as she will ensure it continues to go from strength to strength,” Ms de Swart said.

After welcoming attendees to AIME 2012, all representatives will cut a cake to officially open AIME 2012. 

AIME, which is owned by MCVB and managed by RTE, will take place on the 21 and 22 February 2012 at the MCEC.

For more information about visiting AIME 2012, visit www.aime.com.au

As InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) celebrated the InterContinental brand’s return to Russia with an opening ceremony at the InterContinental Moscow Tverskaya, the company also signed a second InterContinental hotel in Russia.

The 173-room InterContinental St Petersburg, in the prestigious Europe Embankment scheme, will mean the InterContinental brand has a presence in Russia’s two capital cities, after a decade away. The management contract with Petersburg City, a subsidiary of VTB Development, sees the new build hotel set to open in 2016.

The striking trapezoid-shaped hotel will have 159 rooms, 13 suites and a presidential suite. The restaurant will seat 140 diners, and the cafes and bars will be on the ground floor and the rooftop. The large spa and gym will include an indoor pool and
the club lounge will be on the top floor of the building with views over the city. There will be indoor and outdoor parking available for guests.

With nearly 1,000 square metres of function space, including seven meeting rooms and a ballroom that spans over 300 square metres, and with its location near the major business centres, the hotel will be ideal for meetings and conferences.

Aron Libinson, IHG’s associate vice president for development in Russia and CIS, said: “This is a seminal moment for InterContinental. To sign a hotel in St Petersburg on the day we officially open the InterContinental Moscow Tverskaya, after a decade away, is testament to the strength of the InterContinental brand. As a luxury hotel brand with 66 years heritage, the InterContinental St Petersburg will provide guests with a memorable experience. We look forward to a successful partnership with VTB Development.”

The hotel will form an important part of the 10 hectare Europe Embankment development. The high profile scheme, in the oldest part of the city between the Tuchkov and Birzhevoi bridges, close to Yubileiny Sports Palace will also house high end residential properties, businesses, shops and restaurants and the Eifman Dance Palace.

The 24,000 square metres Eifman Dance Palace is home to Russia’s foremost choreographer Boris Eifman and the world famous Eifman Ballet. The Eifman Dance Palace will have capacity for an audience of 1,300 theatregoers.

The development is close to the Winter Palace and the Peteropavlovskaya Fortress, five minutes walk from the metro station Sportivnaya, 30 minutes away from Pulkovo airport.

Nadezhda Vinnik, Deputy Director of VTB Development said: “The InterContinental brand is ideally suited to the scheme. People will visit the Europe Embankment complex from other areas of St Petersburg, Russia and from around the world. We chose InterContinental because of their brand, their marketing programmes, and their reputation for operational excellence.”

The Europe Embankment complex will open in 2016 when the developers complete the first building, the Eifman Ballet Theatre. Construction of the hotel is due to begin in 2013.

IHG has made no secret of its commitment to growth in Russia, announcing its plans to have 100 hotels across Russia and the CIS open and in the pipeline by 2020.

IHG is expanding into St Petersburg, regional centres and new fast-growing cities with well-established business communities and tourist attractions such as Samara, Chelyabinsk, Nizhny Novgorod and others.

The company said it would continue to grow in Moscow and St. Petersburg and work with local investors to introduce managed and franchised hotels across the country, where there is a need for internationally branded hotels.

Last year IHG opened the Crowne Plaza St Petersburg Airport and Crowne Plaza St Petersburg Ligovsky. The company has 13 hotels (3,894 rooms) in Russia and five hotels (1,125 rooms) in the CIS and a further five hotels (1,907 rooms) in the development pipeline in Russia, and two hotels (433 rooms) in the pipeline in the CIS.

Gonzalo Perez Constanzó, Managing Director of Kenes Latin America, has been appointed President of the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO), effective February 19, 2012.

Gonzalo brings a wealth of congress organisation experience to his new role. A Buenos Aires native, Gonzalo began his professional career with Congresos Internacionales, where he worked for over a decade. Gonzalo then joined the World Bank in Washington, DC, where he was involved with the Annual Assembly (over 10,000 participants) as well as other World Bank-related meetings around the world.

Next, Gonzalo joined Tilesa OPC in 2008, where he would go on to become Director of Operations of the newly formed Tilesa Kenes Spain (TKS). In 2011, Gonzalo was appointed Managing Director of Kenes Latin America and is currently responsible for the development of this rapidly growing Kenes Group subsidiary company.

Gonzalo’s career highlights include stints as a Board member of the ICCA representing PCOs, President of the ICCA’s Latin American Chapter and Secretary of the Welcome Argentina Foundation. An enthusiast of his profession, Gonzalo is a much sought after speaker at training events, such as the IAPCO Annual Wolfsberg Seminar.

As president of the IAPCO and Managing Director of Kenes Latin America, Gonzalo will be travelling quite a bit and will thus be able to contribute substantially to the continued development of the congress organising industry around the world – with a special focus on Latin America. When not taking trains, planes and automobiles, you’ll find Gonzalo residing at the main office of Kenes Latin America, located in Santiago de Chile.

Please view Gonzalo’s video message, where he outlines his aims and ambitions as incoming IAPCO President. Click here to view video message.

For further information about IAPCO: http://www.iapco.org/

For further information about Kenes Group: www.kenes.com

Venue IT, the permanent infrastructure division of Etherlive, has strengthened its ties to the hotel industry with its appointment by The Cumberland hotel, The Tower and Marble Arch.

The landmark London hotel has chosen Venue IT as its technology provider for meetings & events. The appointment follows discussions looking at the longer term conferencing needs for the award winning hotel.

Following a £95 million refurbishment, The Cumberland is now looking to assert itself in the lucrative corporate events market set to be stimulated by the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London.

Venue IT will provide high-speed Internet connectivity which can be accessed throughout the hotel’s 26 meeting & event spaces, including the ultra modern Ocean Room, which has a capacity of up to 350 people. The enhanced communications infrastructure will support innovations such as dedicated WiFi, custom branded splash pages, real-time video conferencing and social media led interactive events such as tweet-ups.

The system can support multiple independent secure networks and is remotely managed to ensure The Cumberland can quickly react to customer needs. Venue IT provides pre-win sales support to address any technical concern whilst providing engineers for install, support and de-rig as required.

Venue IT continues to partner with leading permanent venues, offering managed high speed internet connected, wireless networking and customer engagement support.  The agreement widens Venue IT’s recent appointments to venues such as Thistle Hotel Glasgow and Malvern Showground.

The Cumberland takes advantage of its prized location between bustling Oxford Street and glamorous Park Lane, having hosted major events regularly.

Paul Hope, Voice Network manager at Guoman Hotels said: “Venue IT has built a reputation for quality and innovation in the permanent installation space, and as such we are delighted to be able to draw on their expertise.  We pride ourselves on being able to meet every requirement our clients ask of us with and this partnership means the technology aspect of our offering is in safe hands. This will be crucial for us as we continue to prepare for 2012.”

Steve Birnage, Senior Account Manager at Venue IT said: “We are thrilled at the opportunity to take on this project, which will see us equip The Cumberland with the latest in event technology. Today’s event organisers are looking for an infrastructure which supports creativity in both communications and content, which we will now be able to facilitate.”

Companies will now be able to take inspiration from the iconic “Home of Cricket” back into the work-place, after it was announced that Lord’s Cricket Ground will offer corporate team building events in 2012.

Following a thorough selection process, four suppliers – Chillisauce, Accomplished Events, Blue Hat, and ESC Events – have been appointed as the official team building specialists for events at Lord’s.

The extensive range of venues and facilities within the world-famous cricket ground will provide a unique setting for the delivery of the wide variety of team building packages offered by the four suppliers.  In particular, access to the newly refurbished MCC Cricket Academy will allow companies to enjoy indoor cricket net sessions in a world-class training environment, as used by international players such as Andrew Strauss, Sachin Tendulkar and Shane Warne.

Nick Kenton, Meetings & Events Sales Manager at Lord’s, said: “Lord’s Cricket Ground is one of the most iconic venues in sport, and over the years some of the best teams in the world have played on the hallowed turf.  The Ground therefore provides an ideal venue for team building events, combining an inspiring history alongside access to world-class facilities.  I am delighted with the four new suppliers that have been appointed to help us take team building to the forefront of our business in 2012.”

Matt Curran, Business Development Manager at Chillisauce, said: “Chillisauce is thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such an esteemed organisation.  We’re very much looking forward to engaging our expertise, energy and enthusiasm so that between us we can offer clients events of a quality and nature that befit such a globally renowned setting.”

Jenny Pink and Nadia Brown, Directors at Accomplished Events, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with such an iconic London venue, made even more special by its prominence in the Olympics this year.  Lord’s Cricket Ground is perfect for so many of our team building products due to the number of unique spaces to suit a whole range of client needs.”

Steve Perkins, Head of Marketing at Blue Hat, said: “Working in partnership with Lord’s, Blue Hat UK is able to offer one of the biggest selections of team building events in the world.  With over 100 products, many award winning, we can advise on the perfect indoor, outdoor or evening event.  Our knowledge and experience of the venue and its amazing facilities allow us to match the right event to your group and objective, be it a Crystal Maze challenge or our amazing Italian Job!”

Paul Burke, Event Services Manager at ESC Events, said: “ESC Events are proud to be a supplier at the Home of Cricket.  We are looking forward to an exciting year exceeding client expectations in incentive and team dynamic events.”

Hampshire’s venue set to put the 2012 event calendar in motion

With fifty vehicles on display, BOND IN MOTION is the largest official collection of original Bond vehicles the world has ever seen. On display for one year only at the National Motor Museum, this could be your only chance to see these vehicles on display together.

Featuring 50 iconic Bond vehicles, event organisers and corporates searching for unique venues and experiences will be able to host drinks receptions, canapé evenings and gala dinners in the National Motor Museum and view the Bond in Motion exhibition, which includes the Aston Martin DBS from Quantum of Solace, villain Zao’s Jaguar XKR from Die Another Day, the Aston Martin DB5 from GoldenEye, Goldfinger’s Phantom lll Rolls-Royce from Goldfinger and the original SFX Cello Case Ski – famously navigated by Timothy Dalton in The Living Daylights.

The drinks, canapé and dinner events include dry vesper Martini’s on arrival, bespoke canapés, a three course menu featuring ‘Martini Sorbet with a Hint of Lime’ as starter, ‘seared duck breast with savoy cabbage, bacon, apples and herb pomme anna with red wine thyme sauce’ for main course and raspberry and Cointreau mousse for dessert. The evenings can be rounded off with bespoke entertainment if clients so wish.

Gemma Moody, sales manager from Beaulieu, said, “We are delighted to be able to offer such a unique experience in what is already a truly unique space for events. Our 2012 offer capitalises on the best of British filmography, food, surroundings and motoring history.”

Richard Kadri-Langford, head of marketing at Lime Venue Portfolio, comments, “Beaulieu can deliver a fantastic package for corporate events. The opportunity of being able to view a unique collection of Bond vehicles at the same time is truly unique and isn’t available anywhere else in world.”

Cheltenham Racecourse is proving to be a popular crowd pleaser as it builds on its non-race day activities with an exciting programme of live events for 2012.

The venue’s South West location has proved invaluable in pulling footfall across the country from Bristol and Birmingham to Cardiff and Oxford. 2012′s line-up includes the Greenbelt and Wychwood festivals and a live performance from Jools Holland, who will once again join his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra on tour. Cheltenham Racecourse launched its ‘LIVE’ division in 2011 and has since hosted well-known faces including John Bishop, Micky Flanagan and Alexandra Burke.

The venue offers a multitude of event spaces including The Centaur, a 2,250 seated auditorium with state-of-the-art lighting and sound capabilities, as well as 300 acres available for outside events. Located only one mile from Cheltenham town centre, the course is accessible from the midlands’ major arterial routes including the M40 and M5, as well as direct train links to London and Bristol. Cheltenham Racecourse also boasts over 10,000 free car parking spaces, making it an ideal choice for concerts and comedy promoters.

Susie Bradshaw, conference and events manager at Cheltenham Racecourse, said: “Cheltenham Racecourse is known for hosting some of the UK’s most prominent racing fixtures; however, through securing an exciting live events line-up we have certainly helped to put us on the map as a popular events destination as well.”

AIBTM Presents “ICCA Global Meetings” Track with Two 90-Minute Roundtable Sessions

The Americas Meetings & Events Exhibition (AIBTM) announced today that the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) will present an educational track at AIBTM 2012, Reed Travel Exhibitions’ premiere provider for the U.S. meetings and events industry. The three-day networking event, held June 19 – 21 in Baltimore will feature a full day of education, followed by two days of exhibitions. 

The ICCA Global Meetings track will feature two 90-minute roundtable sessions on June 19 during AIBTM’s Education Day. The first session will take place in the morning, after the keynote speaker, and the second will take place in the afternoon. The roundtable discussions will be followed by a one-hour clinic, where ICCA members will be available to give personalized advice to planners. 

This year’s ICCA roundtable sessions and clinic topics are: 

• How global destinations can penetrate the U.S. market
• Global meetings: practical advice for North American planners
• Going global one-on-one clinic 

“We are pleased to announce our partnership with ICCA for the ICCA Global meetings track at AIBTM 2012,” said AIBTM Project Director, Steve Knight. “The first roundtable session will be aimed primarily at suppliers, with the second session aimed at planners, as well as suppliers who are interested in meeting internationally focused planners.” 

“We are thrilled to offer an educational track at AIBTM 2012,” added ICCA CEO, Martin Shirk. “We look forward to lively discussions about the industry at both our roundtable sessions and our one-on-one clinic. With approximately eight moderators per session, we expect our roundtables to be very beneficial to advancing the conversation about our industry on a global scale.” 

ICCA joins other AIBTM Association partners for AIBTM Education Day, which is comprised of a series of conferences, forums and workshops. Other partners include the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) and the Society of Incentive Travel Executives (SITE). 

Multiple concurrent events ensure there are tracks for all types and levels of planners, as well as buyers and industry leaders participating in CEO panels and keynote speaker sessions. PCMA will deliver Education Powered by PCMA, Executive Edge and a State of the Industry Panel. ACTE will present an education track dedicated to corporate travel professionals on how to make the most of face time and developing technology to best enhance the corporate travel experience. Additionally, SITE will deliver invigorating education tailored to the incentive market and host the SITE Young Leaders program focusing on the next generation of motivational leaders. AIBTM is also pleased to offer the CEO Summit during the conference.

AIBTM takes place from 19^th June – 21^st June, 2012.

Join AIBTM on Linked in, Facebook, Twitter and Youtube.

Economic impact for 2011 event announced

The 2011 Ricoh Women’s British Open delivered an economic impact of over £4.7m to Scotland, according to figures announced Tuesday(15 Feb). The overall figure for the Championship, which took place at Carnoustie in July 2011, includes a direct impact of £3.97m to the Angus economy.

Taiwan’s Yani Tseng successfully defended her title at Carnoustie, in what is currently the only women’s championship to be classed as a major outside of North America, by both the Ladies’ European Tour and the LPGA. The event previously took place at St Andrews in 2007, and will return to the Fife course in 2013.

The study found that 30.5% of spectators came from outside of Scotland with 3.5% coming from overseas. Visitors from Angus accounted for 27.8% with the remaining 41.7% visiting from elsewhere in Scotland. Spectators were clearly impressed with the event, as 71% of those interviewed said they intend to buy tickets for the 2013 Championship.

The Championship also generated substantial exposure for Carnoustie and Scotland through worldwide TV coverage and media interest. The event was broadcast globally for 1,485 hours, including 729 hours of live coverage by 57 individual broadcasters.

The research was commissioned by EventScotland, event organisers the Ladies’ Golf Union and IMG, Angus Council and Scottish Enterprise; and was conducted by the Sport Industry Research Centre at Sheffield Hallam University. The Carnoustie championship was the first in a ten-year deal brokered by EventScotland to have the event in Scotland, with the report highlighting the economic success for both Angus and Scotland.

Brussels, February 2012 – VISITBRUSSELS and its partners, the STIB/MIVB and Electrolux, are launching ‘Tram Experience’, in the company of star-rated chefs participating in this project. ‘Tram Experience’ is a gastronomic and tourism experience that is truly unique in Brussels.

The Tram’s first official trip is scheduled for Friday 02 March in the evening.

Brusselicious 2012 will clearly be a year given over to the art of living – and above all to gastronomy in Brussels. ‘Tram Experience’ will therefore provide a wonderful opportunity to discover the capital by night, with the focus on gastronomy and just a hint of self-indulgence. Made in the early 1960s, this Tram has been given a complete
makeover and is fitted out by Electrolux as a restaurant. Every evening, it will carry 34 passengers along the city’s most attractive avenues – while allowing them to enjoy a three-course menu that has been put together by a star-rated chef.

A team of ten British Airways cabin crew from Gatwick will walk with the fastest man in the world later this month for a cause that is close to all their hearts.

The crew of BA2263 will operate a flight from London Gatwick to Kingston, Jamaica and then join world champion and current Olympic champion sprinter Usain Bolt for the 5.6km Sigma Walkathon in aid of the Chain of Hope charity.

British Airways has a long-standing partnership with Chain of Hope, a charity set up by the eminent heart surgeon Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub, who plans to establish a brand new cardiac centre at the Bustamante Hospital for Children in Kingston.

The 10 cabin crew champions, Kayti Roberts, Suzi Ball, Christina Smith, Kerryanne Meehan, Camilla Broglia, Michelle Oakes, Emma Oliver, Sarah Hill, Robert Brock and Louise Speakman, also plan to visit the hospital during their three-day stay inKingston.

Some of them have visited previously and have sat in on cardiac surgery procedures on children with life-threatening heart diseases.

The UK charity sends out medical teams to treat children in their own country, setting up training programmes for local surgeons and medical staff. But the number of operations that can be performed is limited by the number of Intensive Care Unit beds available. The new cardiac centre will house 10 new beds, an operating theatre and a catheter laboratory and allow doctors to help many more children in need of life saving surgery.

Kayti Roberts from Haywards Heath is one of the crew members making a return visit to the hospital. She said: “I was fortunate enough to sit in on open heart surgery on a young child and it was a life changing experience.

“Chain of Hope is such a fantastic charity, Magdi Yacoub is an amazing man and everyone is so passionate about what they do and the difference they make to these children’s lives. It is fantastic that British Airways supports the charity and that we are all getting the chance to help by taking part in the walkathon.”

Up to 500 children are born with congenital heart disease in Jamaica every year. Of these, half require medical or surgical intervention or face a premature death. The current waiting list for cardiac surgery at the Bustamante Hospital is at least 150 children, with 100 new patients added to the list annually.

Its not just kids who need a bed time cuddle from their favourite teddy to send them to the land of nod. Over a third of British adults also rely on a bear hug, to send them to slumber; new research has revealed.

The survey conducted with 6,000 Britons by Travelodge revealed 35% of adults admitted they sleep with their teddy because they found cuddling their bear comforting. Also the calming feeling of a bear hug also helps them to de-stress after a hard day – which aids sleep.

The survey was conducted to investigate the nation’s fascination with sleeping with a teddy bear. As in the last 12 months, the hotel chain has had to reunite over 75,000 forgotten cuddly bears that have been left in its 452 hotels with their owners.

Research findings also revealed 25% of male respondents reported they take their teddy bear away with them when going away on business. As it reminds them of home and a bear cuddle helps them to nod off as they miss a bedtime cuddle from their partner.

Corrine Sweet, Psychologist, said: “cuddling a teddy bear is an important part of our national psyche as it evokes a sense of peace, security and comfort. It’s human nature to crave these feelings from childhood to adult life, which is why 35% of British adults sleep with their teddy bear. It’s not surprising, then, that taking a cuddly bear on a business trip is so popular, even among men (25%). As a bedtime bear evokes the secure feelings of home and warmth which can aid sleep – just like in childhood.

Further findings from the research revealed that over half of British adults (51%) still have a teddy bear from their childhood and Britons average teddy bear is 27 years old.

One in ten single men surveyed admitted they hide their teddy bear when their girlfriend stays over. Fourteen per cent of married men reported they hide their teddy bear in the wardrobe or under bed when any family and friends come to visit.

Interestingly more men at 15% compared to 10% of women reported they treat their teddy as their best friend and will share their intimate secrets with their bear.

Also over a quarter (26%) of male respondents stated it is quite acceptable to have a bear regardless of your age.

‘Dawn James, Arctophile and editor of Teddy Bear Times said: “Teddy Bears represent happiness and security in childhood. They are the best friend that always listens and never criticises. This is why so many adults hang on to their childhood bears, because they see them as a lifelong friend.”

“The popularity of teddy bears is going from strength to strength. There are collectors across the UK who have thousands of bears in their houses.”

The research also looked into which bear has the ‘Zzz ‘factor and is the nation’s favourite bedtime bear. Topping the ‘Zzz’ factor bear poll was the traditional teddy bear – which has also appeared in cult TV programmes such as: Playschool (Big Little Ted), Andy Pandy (Teddy) and Brideshead Revisted (Aloysius.)

Listed below is the nations all time top ten favourite cuddly bears:

- The classic teddy bear

- Winnie the Pooh

- Paddington Bear

- Tatty Bear

- Sooty

- Care Bears

- Yogi Bear

- Fozzie Bear

- Rupert the Bear

- Super Ted Baloo

Dawn James, Arctophile and editor of Teddy Bear Times said: “Im not surprised that the traditional teddy is the nation’s favourite bear. It’s a design that has lasted for well over a hundred years and most people have had a traditional teddy bear as part of their toy collection whilst growing up. The movie industry has recognised the importance of teddy bears and has included a new character in Toy Story III a beautiful big pink teddy bear called Lotso.”

Shakila Ahmed, Travelodge Spokeswoman said: “We are definitely a nation obsessed with teddy bears. We have never had as many as 75,000 cuddly bears left behind in Travelodge hotels before. Our hotel staff have worked extremely hard in reuniting the bears with their owners. Interestingly the owners have not just been children, we have had a large number of frantic businessmen and women call us regarding their forgotten teddy bear.”

Other key findings from the research were:

- Over a quarter of adults 26% use a teddy bear hot water bottle so that they can have a warm bear hug to help them nod off.

- Fourteen per cent of parents surveyed said they had passed down their favourite teddy bear to their children as a keepsake.

- Eight out of ten parents reported the first toy they brought their child was a teddy bear

- 62% of parents said it is important for a child to grow up owning and loving a teddy bear as it helps them to develop a more caring nature.

Demand for space at IMEX America 2012 continues to grow following a successful launch show in October 2011. Ray Bloom, Chairman of the IMEX Group, announced today that he expects the trade show to fill both Halls C  and D of the Sands Expo in Las Vegas this year – a full two years ahead of schedule.

As at its sister show in Frankfurt, IMEX America, saw a particularly strong representation from the major hotel groups – including their widespread participation in the hosted buyer program. Demand from this sector continues to grow strongly with Fairmont, Four Seasons, Hyatt, IHG, Loews, Mandarin Oriental, NH Hotels, Starwood and Wyndham amongst those who have already booked more space.

Demand from a variety of new exhibitors is also strong. New exhibitors already confirmed for 2012 range from Abu Dhabi to Hawaii and Long Beach to Dave & Busters.

Hosted buyer program set to expand in 2012
In line with the increase in the number of exhibitors attending in 2012, IMEX America will also be significantly expanding the size of its hosted buyer program – already the largest to take place in the United States. Last year 2,000 hosted buyers attended the show – 80% from North America with the balance originating from 34 world markets.  Existing partners, including Strategic Partner, Meeting Professionals International (MPI), and the show’s Headquarters Hotel, The Venetian®|The Palazzo®, are set to bring bigger groups of their key customers to the show this fall, along with a number of other new intermediaries already confirmed.

Industry enthusiasm for the 2012 show is a direct reflection of positive feedback received immediately following IMEX America’s debut, with exhibitors achieving strong levels of interest and follow-up business as a result of taking a booth.

Bloom explains: “We’ve been pleasantly surprised to see such a high demand for booth space with eight months still to go before the next show. Of those exhibitors who have contracted since the start of the year, just over a third have doubled the size of their booth. It’s a very positive start to the year and augurs well for the months ahead.”

17 February 2012: The 20^th anniversary Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) will take place next week and is expected to be bigger than ever, with a huge turnout by exhibitors and strong support from existing and new sponsors, allowing for exciting initiatives both on and off the show floor.

Joined again by big name, major sponsors such as the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), Crown, Qantas, Australian Hotels Association (AHA) and Saxton Speakers Bureau, as well as new sponsors including Corporate Traveller, Air New Zealand, ShowGizmo and three new industry associations, AIME has been able to draw on their support to introduce new additions such as the Association Lounge, a new look Education Program and an additional dining area on the show floor.

Sally de Swart, Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) Director for AIME, said she is looking forward to seeing the response to the show’s range of new initiatives.

“The show floor is going to be really buzzing and I am particularly looking forward to our new networking opportunities such as the Exhibitor Networking Drinks on the Tuesday afternoon. This gives exhibitors the chance to run promotions and competitions as well as host casual drinks on their stands and mix with buyers and visitors in a more relaxed atmosphere,” Ms de Swart said.

“We’ve also enhanced the culinary offering at the show this year as the Globe Restaurant and Bar sponsored by South African Tourism, is offering table service and bookings for the first time, which is ideal for lunch meetings.”

“We want to offer something for everyone and the formal dining option at Globe will be complemented with the Singapore Tourism Board’s SingaporeXpress, a dining area, which is offering a quick and tasty, hawker-style menu for attendees short on time.”

New sponsor ShowGizmo is offering a free mobile phone app to AIME visitors and exhibitors which provides up-to-date information on everything taking place at the show, by allowing them to plan their time, access AIME’s program, exchange information and collect brochures, make connections, receive real time alerts and news, before, during and after the event, all in the palm of their hand. Attendees will also now be able to charge their mobile phones at the show’s new Chargebar, located in the Relaxation Zone and close to the Globe Restaurant.

New partnerships established with associations have led to the introduction of the Association Lounge, where attendees can meet with members of AIME’s new association partners: The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE); the Professional Conference Organisers Association Inc (PCO); and International Special Events Society (ISES). The new look Education Program has also been developed in conjunction with these partners, as well as International Convention and Congress Association (ICCA) and Meetings and Events Australia (MEA), ensuring the content addresses real issues faced by the industry.

This year AIME has also introduced the new, online travel booking tool that allows AIME attendees to compare preferable flight and accommodation prices for their trip to AIME and book all through the one site thanks to new sponsor Ozzacom Plus.

A “Keeping it Green” campaign has also been introduced in an effort to make AIME a sustainable, low carbon event by encouraging exhibitors to donate their surplus merchandise and gifts, such as bags and pens, to charities. AIME will provide Green Deposit Depots at the show for these donations and then will distribute these on behalf of exhibitors.

AIME, which is owned by the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau and run by RTE, will take place on the 21 and 22 February 2012 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).

For more information about visiting AIME 2012, visit www.aime.com.au

To attend as a visitor, pre-register for free online by Monday 20 February by 5pm or pay $22 at the door.

Ifo president Hans-Werner Sinn on global economic developments – topics include tourism, technology, marketing, health at the world’s largest tourism convention – admission to the ITB Berlin Convention from 7 to 9 March 2012 free of charge for visitors to ITB Berlin

Berlin, 16 February 2012 – Once again, topics including tourism, marketing, technology, politics, the economy, sustainability and health await visitors to this year’s ITB Berlin Convention. From 7 to 9 March 2012, for the seventh time, experts, scientists and practitioners will meet at the world’s largest tourism convention to discuss innovative solutions and best practices in the travel industry and related sectors.The agenda focuses on the latest topics, including the Arab Spring, the challenges facing the cruise industry, as well as problems such as oversubscribed tourism destinations, human rights in tourism and the shortfall in qualified employees and management staff in the hotel industry.

In his keynote speech on 7 March 2012 Prof. Dr. Dres. H.c. Hans-Werner Sinn, president of the ifo Institute in Munich, will talk about “global economic developments and the situation in Germany and Europe“. A leading economist, he will discuss the problems surrounding the EU bailout plan and highlight the consequences for future economic developments in Europe and the world. Matthias Hartmann, CEO, GfK Group, will examine consumer behaviour and travel patterns in times of financial crisis and analyse the effects of a recession on spending. The discussion round entitled “The Arab rebellion: an Arab Spring or tourism ice age?“ will focus on the impact of the political upheavals in Tunisia and Algeria. The boom in the cruise industry raises questions concerning safety on board and protection of the environment. Taking part in the Executive Cruise Panel will be leading figures from the cruise industry: Michael Bayley, Executive Vice President International, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Larry Pimentel, President & CEO, Azamara Club Cruises, Peter Shanks, President & Managing Director, Cunard Line, Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO, MSC Crociere S.A., Enzo Visone, CEO, Silversea Cruises, and Richard J. Vogel, CEO, TUI Cruises.

Technical progress as the travel industry’s driving force

The example of a new trend, collaborative consumption, shows how greater involvement in e-commerce and online networking can result in the emergence of new business models. Arne Bleckwenn, CEO of Wimdu.de, explains how, based on his web portal for private accommodation, the internet facilitates sharing one’s possessions.

Markus Barnikel, CEO, carpooling.com, pursues a similar concept. In his session entitled “Ride Sharing – the smart transport alternative of the future“, he will be showing how the combination of sharing transport over the web and smartphone use has triggered a mass phenomenon and also benefits the environment. The tsunami in Japan in 2011 once again showed how dramatic the consequences of natural disasters can be on this country and on tourism demand. On 9 March 2012, together with other panel members, Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Reinhard F. J. Hüttl, science chair and board spokesman of Deutsches GeoForschungsZentrum GFZ, will discuss what lessons can be learned from the example of Indonesia’s tsunami early warning system.

At the ITB Berlin Convention a wide range of discussion rounds awaits visitors interested in sustainability. Koen Olthuis, Chief Creative Officer, and Paul H.T.M. van de Camp, CEO, Dutch Docklands will present a far-reaching innovation. The Dutch company is the market leader for floating facilities – a solution for destinations threatened by rising sea levels. Its representatives will talk about the floating hotels currently under construction on the Maldives. This year’s Studiosus discussion round will debate “human rights in tourism“. Panel members will include Jürgen Büchy, president of the German Travel Association (DRV) and Markus Löning, Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Aid.

Thought-provoking ideas for marketing heads

On 9 March 2012 at the ITB Marketing and Distribution Day, a paper entitled ”New Trends in Luxury Travel“ will address the fact that for many travellers luxury no longer means extravagant wealth. Marc Aeberhard, President & Managing Director, Luxury Hotel and Spa Management Ltd., will show how hotel owners and destinations can satisfy their guests by successfully exploiting a current trend that embraces self-discovery, simplicity and slow movement ideals. The award-winning travel journalist Doug Lansky will raise some laughs when he presents ”the biggest mistakes in travel marketing“, including the worst tourism slogans and hotel names. In order to prevent these pitfalls he will be offering some thought-provoking ideas for innovative marketing strategies and measures. By contrast, the question Dirk Beckmann, managing director of artundweise GmbH and author of the eponymous book, will ask is “What would Apple do?“. What is Apple’s recipe for success and can lessons be drawn for the tourism industry?On 7 March 2012 another market giant will address the revolutions in global tourism. Dr. Bernd Fauser, Head of Travel Top Accounts, Google, will talk about the Google products impacting on the travel industry and what other innovations lie in store.

The topical issue of health also concerns the ITB Berlin Convention.On 9 March 2012, at the ITB Health Tourism Panel, the focus will be on the health tourism market. Among those taking part in the discussion will be Ralf Baumbach, proprietor and managing director of the MediPlus Group and Dr. Andreas Gent, chairman of HanseMerkur Krankenversicherung AG. Afterwards, at the push of a button, audience members can decide on the winner and losers of the first ITB Health Tourism Battle. Nine panel members will have an opportunity to make their point and the winner’s prize is an air fare to Berlin.

A trade visitor pass to ITB Berlin is valid for admission to the ITB Berlin Convention.

Event to also deliver high in educational and networking content made possible by influential strategic alliances

Shanghai, 16 February 2012 – Booth sales for IT&CM China 2012 have concluded with the event boasting a 30% larger MICE exhibition showcase. More than 300 international and Chinese exhibiting companies will fill exhibition space amounting to over 6,000 sqm.

The larger exhibition showcase has been attributed primarily to new participants. Some 50 new international and domestic exhibiting companies, covering over 25% of the total IT&CM China 2012 showcase, will offer buyers fresh procurement opportunities. First-time exhibitors include:

• 10 corporate brands: Esplanade Hotel Fremantle, Nagaworld Hotel, ClubMed, HNA Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels Group, Shangri-La Hotels, Xiamen C&D International Travel Service, The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas, Bali, Taipei World Trade Centre and Dusit International.

• Five destinations: Ningbo Tourism Administration, Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Jeju Convention & Visitor Bureau, Switzerland Tourism and Geneva Convention Bureau and Turkish Embassy Culture and Information Section.

Making its debut at IT&CM China 2012 in a big way is global hotel brand InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). In addition to its 120 sqm space – the largest corporate booth at the event, the chain is also offering its InterContinental Shanghai Expo property as one of the Official Hotels of IT&CM China 2012. The luxury hotel will also be the host venue for 2 networking events for buyers and media – a luncheon hosted by Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong – a division of Hong Kong Tourism Boardand a dinner hosted by Seoul Tourism Organisation.

IHG’s significant investment at IT&CM China 2012 is testimony to the business prowess of the event to further the group’s foray into the Chinese market. “IHG is honoured to partner IT&CM China to ‘Promote China to the World and the World to China’, as the event’s vision fits perfectly with our long-term commitment to the China market. China is our second largest and fastest growing market globally with nearly 150 hotels – that is over 50,000 rooms – in the pipeline. In the next three to five years, one out of every four hotel rooms that we will open in the world will be in China.” said Mr. Nick Barton, Vice President – Sales & Marketing of IHG, Greater China.

Meanwhile, the event also sees an increase in returning exhibitors’ booth sizes on both, the domestic and international front. While China’s own Sanya Tourism Bureau have affirmed their confidence in the event with a 20% increase in their destination pavilion, other returning destinations such as Seoul are also seeing the value of investing in a dedicated pavilion of their own. For the first time, Seoul is participating at IT&CM China 2012 with a dedicated 84sqm pavilion. They have previously exhibited within the Korea pavilion.

In addition, other returning exhibitors include Anantara Resorts and Spa, Asian Trail, China Eastern, CITS & American Express, Furama Hotel Dalian, Gloria Hotels & Resorts, Grand Metro Park Hotels, Hangzhou Tourism Promotion Center, Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong – a division of Hong Kong Tourism Board, Info Salons, Japan National Tourism Organisation, JinJiang International Hotel Management, Kempinski Hotels, Korea Tourism Organisation, Langham Hotels International, Marco Polo Hotels, Macau Government Tourist Office, Master Card Asia Pacific, Melia Hotels International, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels, Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Silversea Cruises, Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau and Wuzhen Tourism.

The confidence of both new and returning exhibitors to IT&CM China 2012 reaffirms IT&CM China as the leading international MICE event in China – a choice business platform for both international and Chinese industry players to seek outbound, inbound and domestic opportunities. CITS’ coming on board as co-organiser has been a big draw for local and international participation alike.

The show’s expansion in terms of numbers and its global footprint is mirrored in its buyer delegation, as IT&CM China 2012 draws participating interest from a host of new countries. International Buyer registrations have crossed the 400 mark, with representation from first-time participating countries, Czech Republic, Denmark and Morocco. First-time buyer Mr. Michael Packford, CEO of The Packfords Group – EVENTWORLD shared, “The one aspect of IT&CM China 2012 I am most looking forward to is acquiring product knowledge and business contacts to further develop into the China MICE market. I believe that IT&CM China has clearly established itself as China’s premier exhibition for the MICE industry and is dedicated to promoting the best of China to the world market.”

Remarked Mr. Darren Ng, Managing Director of TTG Asia Media, “IT&CM China 2012 marks a lot of firsts for us. It is the first year of our strategic alliance with CITS, a partnership we are very excited about. We look forward to working with them and long-time partners MP International to make this event truly world class. This is also the first year that the event will be held at Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center. We are confident that these new elements will go a long way to elevate the event for all participants and stakeholders.”

With a new venue, IT&CM China 2012 will be supported by a fresh line-up of 4 official hotels, namely Gran Melia Shanghai, InterContinental Shanghai Expo, Marriott Shanghai Luwan and Sheraton Shanghai Hotel and Residences, Pudong, all conveniently located at close proximity to the exhibition venue and will serve as the accommodation for all hosted buyers and media.

In addition, IT&CM China’s strategic alliances with leading international and local MICE organisations – such as Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration (SMTA), Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE), Australian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE), Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) and International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) – to deliver educational and networking content, will contribute to a compelling programme. IT&CM China is proud to once again be a part of the Shanghai Business Events Week’s stellar line-up of industry business, education and networking events that will take place from 16 to 19 April 2012.

IT&CM China 2012 can also count on its international and domestic affiliation with 36 reputed MICE publications that promote the event for a whole year including pre-, on-site and post-event publicity, thus providing the show’s participants with invaluable exposure. Media affiliates for IT&CM China 2012 are: Asian Traveller, BBT Online, Business Travel, China BT MICE, China Hospitality News, CIM Australia, CIM Unity, EMICE, Exhibition & MICE, Focus On Travel News, Grand Hotels, Groupo Evento Plus, Headquarters Asia-Pacific, InventMe, Kongres Magazine, Korea Tourism News, Masexpos, Congresos and Convenciones, Meet Turkey, MICE 2, MICE BTN, MICE China, MICE in Asia, MICE Japan, MICE Magazine, MICE Poland, MICE Talk, MICE-Contact.com, micenet Asia, Mix Magazine, The Event, Tourism Insider, Travel News Weekly, Travel Trade China, Travel World China, TravelMole and World Travel Online.

In addition to these media affiliates, more than 100 international and local media are expected to attend, providing coverage on IT&CM China 2012 as it happens. For more information about IT&CM China 2012, visit www.itcmchina.com

Some of the worlds most influential industry leaders are preparing to converge in less than six weeks time at the highly anticipated 6^th edition of GIBTM, the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition from 26-28 March. Experts will deliver a robust educational programme designed to stimulate interactive, focused delegate discussions and examine the industry’s key trends and topics for global MICE industry professionals.

Speakers from the world’s leading industry associations such as the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) and Meeting Professionals International (MPI) in addition to an impressive line-up of the industry’s most senior executives and global authorities from the MICE sector, together will lead sessions around best practices, current and future trends, emerging technology, social media and professional development.

A major highlight at this year’s show will once again be the highly acclaimed annual IBTM Middle East Meeting Industry Report, undertaken by Reed Travel Exhibitions and meetme magazine, presented by Sally Greenhill, The Right Solution, and Rob Nicholas, meetme. The report will provide an invaluable insight into the regional and global outlook on today’s meetings and events industry and identify future trends.

For the first time in the history of the show, GIBTM has partnered with the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), who will launch a series of daily seminars providing discussions focused on the convergence of meetings and travel management. Cutting edge topics include; how to deliver savings in an upbeat Middle Eastern market, optimising travel payment systems in the region, and the Do’s and Don’ts in building and implementing travel policies.

GIBTM is also proud to announce yet another “first” for the show, with a groundbreaking development for its educational programme. GIBTM will deliver the very first Arabic session presented by the respected Ali Al Saloom of Ask Ali.com.

‘We at Reed Travel Exhibitions are honoured to welcome Ask Ali.com to GIBTM as a valued sponsor and partner of the show this year. This is a very exciting addition to the extensive educational programme at GIBTM that will celebrate and embrace local culture. Delegates can discover how the lucrative business opportunities in the region are linked to business tourism with Arabic traditions and culture. Launching the first ever Arabic Seminar in the region dedicated to the meetings and events industry is groundbreaking news for all involved in this sector,” adds Lois Hall.

Other leading experts to present at the show include Dr. Edith M Szivas, Director of Research and Consultancy at Jumeirah Group, Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management, who will explore evolution and growth of sustainable tourism globally and in the Gulf region with a special focus on the meetings industry. Established ‘Presentologist’ at Satellite Visual Communication, John Quinn, will discuss how to create effective and interactive presentations that will stand out. Camil El Khoury, Chief Vision Officer of the ideas group, will present a powerful session on how successful leaders grow at the speed of change and how professionals can turn challenges into growth opportunities.

A panel discussion, hosted by Bicky Carlra, Global President at TraVision and Founder of 7Deals Travel, will highlight how increasing accessibility to information through technology is influencing corporate travel procurement strategies and processes. Lee Mancini, Manager of Dubai-based Sekari, will uncover strategies on how companies of all sizes can take advantage of search engine optimisation to expand their business.

“As the largest gathering of meetings and events industry professionals in the Middle East, we must encourage learning and development not only to enhance participants’ knowledge and development but so that meetings professionals can apply what they learn to grow the industry. Education is one of the show’s core elements that will drive the development of the meetings industry forward,” explains Lois Hall, REED Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), ADNEC, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the Official Show Daily publication.

More information on the event, exhibitors, hosted buyers’ required qualifications, partners, networking and educational opportunities is available on www.gibtm.com.

GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26^th-28^th March 2012.  

Having ended 2011 with strong results across its events, Reed Exhibitions Greater China has identified talent development as one of the key means of replicating these outcomes in 2012, and the way to sustain its competitive advantage in the long term.

In a country currently facing a dearth of exhibition industry talent, Reed China has made skills building a priority. As the strengthening RMB affects the value of exports, the ability to produce industry–defining events that attract investment into China is taking on a new significance. The leading organiser of trade events, Reed Exhibitions sees developing talent for the local exhibition industry as an opportunity to promote the advantages of the country and boost inbound trade. It is also a responsibility the company bears to the industries in which it operates. “More than ever, we are focused on driving training and activities forward. We really want to make the most of China’s growth and the fact that we operate in one of the few optimistic global economies today”, said the President of Reed Exhibitions Greater China, Preecha S. Chen. 

The Reed Exhibitions China University, established six years ago, aims to inspire learning and teach exhibition industry professionals how to achieve greater effectiveness in their work. Today, the university has four learning platforms: the annual Reed Exhibitions China Summit, Reed’s yearly Knowledge Day, Talent Day and regular professional training programs. 

Reed Exhibitions also launched its inaugural RMAP (Reed Management Associates Program) in 2010. The program was open to highly competitive, recent graduates. After several rounds of selection tests and interviews, offers were made for shortlisted candidates to undergo extensive training staggered over stages. The most outstanding recruits from 2010 are now enjoying accelerated career advancement within the Reed ranks, thus ensuring that the company’s talent pipeline remains robust. 

As the year progresses, the training program will be explored through a number of development initiatives, a selection of which include sales & marketing effectiveness activities; shared service effectiveness initiatives; talent assessment programs; performance improvement courses; career development and growth seminars; the second installment of the RMAP and various informal activities designed to cater for the personal wellbeing of staff. 

Reed Exhibitions Greater China hopes that its commitment to their professional development will encourage its 437 employees to strive for ambitious goals in 2012. This is sure to keep the company well placed to attract bright talent from across the event management industry.

February 23, 2012 at 2:00 PM – February 25, 2012 at 4:00 PM

Entrepreneur Week Greece is organized in Athens by the Hellenic Start-up Association and the Entrepreneur Week, with the active support of YES – European Confederation of Young Entrepreneurs.

The 3-days events includes start-up presentation to angel investors and VC funds, B2B match-making event between Greek entrepreneurs and missions from US, Russia and other countrier as well as a top-level conference addressing both horizontal and sectorial issues for effectively promoting entrepreneurship in Greece