TWIN WIN FOR OCEC AS IT ANNOUNCES SUCCESSFUL BIDS

TWIN WIN FOR OCEC AS IT ANNOUNCES SUCCESSFUL BIDS AND MAIDEN CONFERENCE FOR PHASE TWO OF THE LANDMARK VENUE

Muscat, November 26th, 2015 – The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) has scooped a twin win, being awarded the bid to host the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) Regionals – Fourth Middle East & Africa Osteoporosis Meeting in 2017 and the Sixth IOF Regionals in 2021.

Announcing the successful win of the conference and noting its importance for the OCEC, Trevor McCartney, the OCEC General Manager commented, “With the completion of Phase Two, comprising two tiered auditoriums, 13 meeting rooms and the Grand and Junior Ballrooms, the OCEC will be able to host conferences, as well as exhibitions, meetings, gala dinners and live events. This will launch a new and exciting phase in Oman’s business events industry, creating wide-ranging contributions towards the economic diversification and development of the Sultanate.”

The OCEC has attracted enormous interest and currently has 22 international, regional and national exhibitions and conventions in its forward calendar. In its seven year forecast, the OCEC expects to host almost 450 events by 2022 and welcome thousands of visitors a year.

According to Judy Stenmark, IOF CEO, the OCEC had been a stand out choice for the IOF for a number of reasons, “The IOF Regionals Middle East and Africa Osteoporosis Meeting is a key event in the calendar for the bone, muscle and joint community. It is the leading educational and research forum for osteoporosis and related diseases in the region and we are committed to delivering the highest quality scientific content, as well as optimising the overall delegate experience. The venue plays a central role in the success of the meeting and the OCEC provides exceptional facilities. What is more, it is backed by an expert and experienced team of professionals who understand the specific needs of congresses such as ours. Oman itself was a factor in our decision – it is a central and well-connected location for our delegates, has a growing reputation as a medical hub and, of course, it is a wonderful country to visit.”

IOF Regionals Fourth Middle East & Africa Osteoporosis Meeting will be held 7-9 December 2017. Expected to attract more than 1,000 delegates, the IOF Congress is a leading bone event in the Middle East and Africa and the leading educational and research forum for osteoporosis and related diseases. Dedicated to motivating people to take action to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease, it attracts regional and international experts and promotes an increasing awareness and understanding of osteoporosis.

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Press Release: 24th November 2015

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF THAILAND CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU (Public Organization) http://www.tceb.or.th

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER DELIVERS POLICIES TO TCEB’S NEW BOARD MEMBERS, EMPHASISING 4 KEY ELEMENTS TO MOBILISE “THAI MICE” TOWARD “REGIONAL MICE”

Deputy Prime Minister General Tanasak Patimapragorn delivers policies on the promotion and mobilisation of Thai MICE to new board members of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau. Active from now on, the newly appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat, will lead the operation of TCEB, emphasising the achievement of Thai MICE based on the integrated approach to draw collaboration from domestic and ASEAN’s authorities. Good governance and budget allocation will beconducted considering optimum advantages of the country.

Deputy Prime Minister General Tanasak Patimapragorn, as the supervisor to Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) – the bureau with primary mission to drive the industry of meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions or MICE, disclosed that, “MICE is an essential business segment as it tremendously moves national economy forward. MICE has the growth rate of 5-10 percent each year. In the fiscal year 2015, Thailand had welcomed 1,086,229 MICE travellers which increased from the fiscal year 2014 by 18.8 percent with 17.53 percent growth in revenue or equal to 94,966 million baht of revenue earning by Thailand. This could well prove the growth potential of Thai MICE for which the government has fully provided support both in terms of the enhancement of transportation system, the infrastructure necessary for MICE travellers and the integration of collaboration between TCEB and public and private sectors in Thailand and abroad. All of which have enabled us to succeed the mission.”

Operation toward the mobilisation of Thai MICE is set to have more strength and progress as the Cabinet agreed on 20 October 2015 to approve the proposal by Deputy Prime Minister General Tanasak Patimapragorn for the designation of 6 new board members of TCEB, including the Chairman of the Board of Directors and board members, due to the expiration of terms of office.

“New Chairman of the Board of Directors and board members of TCEB are considered professionals with rich experiences in tourism business and MICE. As the supervisor, I have delivered key policies to the new board members focusing on 4 elements. Policy 1 will require the Chairman of the Board of Directors to stipulate the Free Play operation policy and conduct brainstorming between board members in a similar direction. Policy 2 will require the transparency of budget operations with good governance. Allocation of budget for the mobilisation of MICE must be conducted using unambiguous KPIs by which could optimise the country’s advantages. Policy 3 will require the integration of collaboration between public and private sectors, particularly the coordination with ASEAN member countries to form a strong foundation for the entire ASEAN along side with the strength of Thailand in terms of destinations, the readiness of MICE facilities and services. All of which will enable Thailand and ASEAN member countries to serve MICE travellers better to achieve the ‘Regional MICE’ vision. Policy 4 will require relevant authorities to educate people on MICE industry and the role of TCEB in a successive manner in order to create awareness and understanding in the importance of businesses that drive national economy forward,” Deputy Prime Minister added.

The fiscal year 2016 is bringing delightful news as Thailand was granted the honour to host MICE events of global scale continually. For example, Organo Gold Asia Convention 2015 with 10,000 attendees, One Young World 2015 with 2,000 attendees, Special Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses 2015 with 2,000 attendees, TBEX Asia 2015 with 900 attendees, the 14th CNBC Asia Business Leaders Awards 2015 with 300 attendees and the Bloomberg ASEAN Business Summit 2015 with 300 attendees.

“There is a strong confidence that the promotion of overall Thai economy in the fiscal year 2016 will concentrate immensely on MICE as it is the business sector that could enhance Thailand’s economic expansion consecutively, as well as strengthen domestic and international confidence. It is expected that the fiscal year 2016 will see the number of MICE travellers increase by 5 percent to 1,060,000 for which could generate 92,000 million baht revenue into Thailand,” concluded Deputy Prime Minister.

Names of TCEB Chairman of the Board of Directors and board members designated by the agreement of the Cabinet comprise:
1. Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat, Chairman of the Board of Directors
2. Mr. Thongchai Sridama, Board of Directors
3. Dr. Ratchaneeporn P. Phukkamarn, Board of Directors
4. Mrs.Pornthip Hirunkate, Board of Directors representing Thailand Incentive and Convention Association
5. Mrs. Prapee Buri, Board of Directors representing Thai Exhibition Association
6. Ms. Supawan Tanomkieatipume, Board of Directors representing Thai Hotel Association

Sharing Ideas That Matter – IACC Americas Reinvents Its Annual Meeting

Sharing Ideas That Matter – IACC Americas Reinvents Its Annual Meeting

IACC-Americas Connect is First of Innovative Multi-Venue Conferences That Are Shorter, More Affordable and Designed to Drive Meaningful Change

New York, November 2015 – In its 35th year, the International Association of Conference Centres (IACC) is reinventing its annual meeting with an array of new learning formats and a theme of “Sharing Ideas That Matter.” Renamed IACC-Americas Connect, the former IACC Americas Annual Meeting will be held in New York City from April 19-20, 2016. The event will feature multiple venues, top speakers, a shorter timeframe and a wide choice of lodging accommodations in the city. Networking events and highly focused workshops have been designed to attract new attendees, share global meetings experiences and address issues facing the industry. The event will be held at different New York City locations, including Convene Midtown East, Pier 60 and locations around Chelsea Market.

IACC-Americas Connect is the first of a new breed of IACC conferences purpose-designed to drive real and meaningful change in the meetings industry, according to IACC CEO Mark Cooper. “IACC’s mission is to connect people, sharing meaningful ideas and enabling positive change,” Cooper says. “We have created an event that is educational, affordable and focused on the most innovative and effective trends in the industry.” IACC tested this model with great success at its European-members event in Milan, Italy, this past October.

“New York is the perfect place to launch this revolutionary project,” Cooper asserts. A goal of the event is to offer different venue experiences, as these are one of the most important take-aways for our members who attend. We are delighted to include Convene Midtown East in our venue line up.”

IACC Members have indicated a preference for shorter, more impactful conferences with good accessibility, affordable registration and dynamic collaborative learning opportunities. To make the conference effective and affordable, the time has been shortened to two days and IACC members can attend for one day or for the entire event.

In another break from tradition, members can stay at the accommodation of their choice. “There is no obligation to stay at recommended hotels.” TJ Fimmano, IACC-Americas president says. “New York offers a wide choice of accommodations and price points.” Pre-conference tours and culinary experiences in the Big Apple will also be part of the line-up.

IACC expects many delegates to combine IACC-Americas Connect with business meetings and client contacts, adding further value to their conference investment. “We want our members to make the most from their attendance next year, including coming together and exploring ways to shape the industry and deliver innovative meetings experiences,” says Jason MacEachen, chair of the planning committee, noting that IACC created this new paradigm to encourage junior managers to attend.

The introduction of new exciting meeting environments and embracing the changing way people want to meet is one of the main themes, which April’s event will carry. “Our members come together to address challenges and create opportunities in a very open way. The mantra, ‘Together we are Stronger’ describes IACC’s members perfectly!” Cooper points out. “Today’s conferences should not only deliver education but also encourage exchanges that produce real workable solutions.”

IACC will also continue its successful partnership with host-city universities. Working with NYU School of Professional Studies, Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism, IACC will give scholarships that enable students to attend as well as contribute to the Conference Planning Committee.

“If you are passionate about meetings and want to be surrounded by the best in the meetings business, don’t miss this event!” says Alex Cabañas, recently-elected president of IACC and the CEO of Benchmark Hospitality International. “IACC-Americas Connect will break the mold this year introducing new concepts and innovations while remaining true to the benefits of networking and education which have been a part of IACC since inception. The industry is changing at a rapid pace – you must ask yourself, are you changing fast enough to stay relevant? At IACC, we are, so come join us!”

OMAN CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE LAUNCHES “OMAN – AN OASIS OF OPPORTUNITY” AT IBTM 2015

OMAN CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE LAUNCHES “OMAN – AN OASIS OF OPPORTUNITY” AT IBTM 2015

Muscat, November 2015 – With the lead up to the opening in 2016, the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) Team strengthened the Sultanate’s reputation as an emerging global economy and an oasis of opportunity at IBTM World in Barcelona.

Oman is an exciting place to be. The Omani travel and tourism sector is a vital contributor to the economy with visitor numbers increasing by 23.8 per recent over the last few years and, this will grow further and faster with significant new projects such as the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre coming on line.

OCEC’s Director of Business Development Gillian Taylor unveiled the latest collaborative initiative to more than 30 world media and met with 80 potential decision makers, on the importance of the business events industry to the nation’s economy in line with the Sultanate’s Vision 2020. Launching “Oman – an Oasis of Opportunity” as one of the world’s Intellectual Capitals showcased the government approach and why the Sultanate has led the Arabian Gulf countries in terms of the strongest worldwide growth rates in 2014.

“Oman has a thriving business community with a flourishing culture of entrepreneurship that benefits from strong government support and encouragement. The Sultanate’s competitive edge is further strengthened by its burgeoning reputation for academic excellence and leadership in research and innovation, as well as its future-forward approach to knowledge exchange,” Ms Taylor said.

In support of this collaborative initiative, Salim Al Maamari, Director General of Tourism Promotion for the Ministry of Tourism said, “The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre is a very important investment for Oman. We have believed for a long-time that the new Centre can develop tourism and, through conventions, we can diversify our economy and help it grow.”

The OCEC participated at IBTM World 2015 with the Ministry of Tourism, Oman Air, UBAR Conferences & Events, plus other partners to meet with potential clients, international associations and professional conference organisers to discuss future business opportunities. Bringing together over 15,000 decision makers and industry professionals, the event is a key fixture in the global events industry calendar.

IMEX in Frankfurt hosts inaugural PCMA Business School in Europe

IMEX in Frankfurt hosts inaugural PCMA Business School in Europe

Developing the mindset of an ‘outthinker’ will be the focus of the first ever PCMA Business School Session at IMEX in Frankfurt next April.

Taking place on Monday 18 April 2016, the day before IMEX in Frankfurt, PCMA is bringing its prestigious Business School to Europe for the first time.

As part of the show’s comprehensive education programme, PCMA Business School is aimed at those in executive positions and offers insight for both buyers and suppliers in the market.

Dr. Kaihan Krippendorff, renowned business strategist, consultant and best-selling author, will lead an interactive session on ‘The Outthinker Playbook – Devising Disruptive Strategies’.

This will explore how to cultivate new approaches to business thinking and how to adopt a fresh “outthinkers” approach in response to changes in business. Kaihan will help delegates to develop new strategic thinking habits for solving real challenges and reach “strategic clarity”. The innovative class is also CMP certified.

“In our industry it is important that we seek provoking outside perspectives, so we don’t fall into the trap of developing our strategies with the same myopic lens,” says Deborah Sexton, PCMA President and CEO. “The goal of each PCMA Business School session is to challenge our participants to consider different perspectives that will ultimately enhance their business acumen.”

Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, explains: “Following the success of PCMA Business School at IMEX America, bringing it to Europe enables us to bring a high level of powerful industry education to a wide audience. The programme is part of our comprehensive education programme and focuses on innovation and strategic thinking, enabling professionals – both buyers and suppliers – to develop core business skills which are crucial across many sectors”.

Dr. Kaihan Krippendorff is a recognised expert on innovation, business strategy, and creativity and works with organisations including Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, Citibank, L’Oreal, Kraft, and Experian. He regularly conducts programs as a faculty member of Wharton Executive Education and is an Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy at Florida International University.

PCMA Business School is being provided free of charge to all participants, although pre-registration is required due to the anticipated demand for the programme. Registration will be available via the PCMA website – www.pcma.org – in the New Year.

IMEX in Frankfurt takes place at Messe Frankfurt from 19 – 21 April 2016.

SOUTH AFRICA – “IT’S THE PLACE TO BE”

SOUTH AFRICA – “IT’S THE PLACE TO BE”
MINISTER OF TOURISM IN SOUTH AFRICA, OUTLINES NEXT DECADE OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE MICE INDUSTRY

Derek Hanekom, Minister of Tourism for South Africa outlined how South Africa, as a world-class business events destination, will respond to the next decade in the face of rising interest in the African continent.

Speaking at ibtm world in Barcelona, Minister Hanekom outlined how South Africa hosted 124 international association conferences in 2014 alone which attracted just under 70 000 industry professionals. Of these 124 conferences, 81% were international rotating events. He also reminded all that the South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) has only been in existence for three years.

Looking to the future, SANCB has secured 163 bids for South Africa between 2016 and 2020, from industry sectors as diverse as mining, health and agriculture. Collectively they are expected to bring over 150,000 delegates to South Africa and contribute approximately R3.1billion to the economy.

“The potential of Africa for the MICE industry is exponential. The tide has turned, we can see that our growth opportunities are now also within the African market. There are 770 registered African Associations on the ICCA database. 178 of these are based in South Africa and 592 on the rest of the continent and 218 regional conferences were registered on the continent in 2014 resulting in 610 events over the last five years. South Africa only hosted 63 of these events in the past 5 years,” said Minister Hanekom.

The first African Association Society of Executives, which was formed this year, will hold its first AGM at Meetings Africa 2016, SANCB’s signature business events trade shows held annually in February at the Sandton convention Centre in Johannesburg. Other new developments include identifying and collaborating with a key strategic partner to oversee the management of the tradeshow going forward.

The Minister also announced the SANCB is most excited that the European Cities Marketing (ECM) programme is coming to South Africa. This will be the first time that this initiative takes place in South Africa just ahead of the 2016 edition of Meetings Africa.

Speaking at the press conference, alongside Minister Hanekom, ECM President Ignasi de Delàs, said, “We are really thrilled to have our first ECM Academy organised in South Africa. It’s a new landmark in ECM development to host the derived version of our successful ECM Summer School. The ECM Academy is a tailor-made course for partner organisations outside Europe. We will do our maximum to guarantee the success of the ECM Academy in Johannesburg by maintaining the highest standard of course content, recruiting the best speakers, and giving the latest examples showcasing the most up-to-date trends in the Meetings Industry.”

Hanekom also outlined how the Government is helping small businesses in the tourism sector by including them in shows like ibtm world.

“We have invited 4 of these enterprises with us here to exhibit at ibtm world this year – it’s an important trade show and gives them access to an international business platform,” added Minister Hanekom.

The South African National Government supports over 1.4 million jobs and investment continues in its climate change research and management of ocean resources as well as science and technology, minerals and gas exploration.

Summing up, Minister Hanekom said: “South Africa offer the business events industry excellent value for money, deliver authentic, memorable and enriching experiences in one of the most captivating, safest and beautiful countries that I am proud to call my home.”

London sees growth in hotel development, as new properties open across capital for 2016

London sees growth in hotel development, as new properties open across capital for 2016
Increase driven by uplift in budget and five star accommodation

PRESS RELEASE: Wednesday, 18 November 2015

The number of hotel rooms in London is expected to grow by 12 per cent over the next three years according to new data compiled by London & Partners and AM:PM, with the increase being driven by an uplift in budget and five star hotel accommodation across the capital. These new properties and hotel extensions will add 17,769 more rooms across the capital over the same period, up from the current figure of 138,769.

The data released to coincide with IBTM World in Barcelona this week, shows that 43 budget properties are expected to open by the end of 2018, with low-cost accommodation in the city predicted to increase by 29 per cent over the next three years. Over the coming three years, 19 five star properties will also open in the capital, increasing the hotel stock in this category by 22 per cent.

Tracy Halliwell MBE, Director of Business Tourism and Major Events at London & Partners, said: “With the rising number of business and leisure visitors to London and strong occupancy levels across the city, it is great to see that a range of hotel companies are investing in new properties, catering for the demand for both low-cost and high-end hotels. With properties right next to many tourist attractions, these investments will help to attract more visitors to London as well as provide new facilities for both local and international businesses to host meetings and conferences across the city.”

Rising business and leisure visitor numbers for London have been reflected in record occupancy levels across the city’s hotels. London occupancies have averaged 80 per cent or above since 2006, according to PwC and their UK hotels forecast 2016 predicts a decade high of 84 per cent this year, with the Rugby World Cup having provided a further boost. PwC projects a further increase to 85 per cent occupancy for London’s hotels in 2016.

Alan Gordon, Director of AM:PM said: “London has absorbed significant new hotel supply in recent years and continues to attract serious attention from UK and international hotel groups looking to enter or extend their presence. Alongside wider infrastructure and real estate investment in the capital, the footprint of the hotel market in London continues to expand and this has opened up new opportunities in many locations. Aldgate, Shoreditch, Vauxhall and Whitechapel are just a few areas that are witnessing exciting change that includes new hotels, many of which are from brands making their UK debut.”

Between 2010 and 2014 there was a 18.9 per cent increase in room supply in London and the city continues to see increasing hotel openings to cater for this strong demand. New luxury hotels opening their doors in 2016 will include the InterContinental London – The O2, the Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square and The Curtain Hotel and Members Club Shoreditch.

Featuring 453 bedrooms, a dedicated conference centre with 20 multifunctional meeting rooms and a 3,000sqm ballroom, which will hold up to 3,000 delegates the InterContinental London – The O2 is due to officially open its doors in January. The hotel will be on the doorstep of The O2 in east London and will include a spa, an indoor pool, two restaurants, a hotel bar and an 18th-floor Sky Bar, offering panoramic views across the Thames to Canary Wharf and beyond.

Also in east London, the Curtain Hotel and Members Club Shoreditch, which will feature 120 warm and spacious guest rooms including six suites, each with natural light, hardwood floors, steam showers, and bespoke and original artwork from some of London and New York City’s leading contemporary artists. Nobu’s first London hotel will house 143 bedrooms and a statement restaurant: a dramatic five metre high space in the basement. The five storey hotel includes its own garden, while rooms are clustered around a central bathroom screened off by a full-height curved unit.

Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts, an exhibitor on London & Partners stand at IBTM World, will open two London properties in 2016. Park Plaza London Waterloo will have 494 rooms and offer a swimming pool, spa, restaurant and bar. Opening in early 2016, the Park Plaza Park Royal hotel in west London will offer four star accommodation over six storeys, with a bar, restaurant, gym and conference facilities on the ground floor.

“Our development pipeline continues to focus on opening contemporary hotels in vibrant destinations.” comments Greg Hegarty, Regional General Manager UK, PPHE Hotel Group. “As London remains extremely popular with business and leisure guests, we have directed investment in to the capital so that we can continue to offer a greater choice, excellent service and value to our guests in key locations throughout the city. In addition we have just confirmed the signing of a hotel management agreement with Battersea Power Station Development Company to open a new hotel under the art’otel brand; so the new openings come at a very positive time for PPHE Hotel Group and our ongoing development pipeline.”

On the doorstep of the Tower of London will be the new Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square. The existing structure of Ten Trinity Square, a grand Parisian beaux-arts building, is being meticulously restored and upgraded. The hotel will occupy the lower ground to the third floors of the building, with 100 guest rooms and suites, two gourmet restaurants, a grand lobby bar, and a spa and fitness centre.

New budget accommodation for the city will include eight new Travelodge hotels including London Richmond Central and London Finsbury Park. Premier Inn is also expected to open three properties during 2016, including London Sidcup, London Archway and the hub by Premier Inn at London Spitalfields, Brick Lane Hotel.

Visit London & Partners on stand G10 at IBTM World in Barcelona to learn more about new openings in 2016 and hosting an event in London.

www.conventionbureau.london

TCEB CAPTIVATES BUSINESS EVENTS MARKET

TCEB CAPTIVATES BUSINESS EVENTS MARKET WITH THREE PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGNS FOR EU MICE TRAVELLERS

Barcelona, November 2015 – Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB today announced the latest developments of Thailand’s business events industry, with the 2015 fiscal year delivering double-digit growth for both business events traveller numbers and earnings, helped by a strong performance in the European MICE market. Reaffirming the success of the Thailand brand in the global arena at ibtm world 2015, TCEB also introduced a range of promotional packages designed especially for EU MICE travellers, as part of the ‘Thailand CONNECT…Our Heart Your World’ communications campaign for the 2016 fiscal year.

Outlining the industry’s latest milestones, TCEB reported that from October 2014 – September 2015, Thailand welcomed a total of 1,086,229 business events travellers, generating more than EUR 2.4 billion for the country’s economy, reflecting 18.18 per cent and 17.53 per cent year-on-year growth respectively. As a major contributor to the Thai business events sector, the EU market contributed 93,226 business events travellers, earning the Thai economy more than EUR 221 million during the first three quarters of the fiscal year (October 2014-June 2015). The top five contributing countries from Europe during the period included France, Germany, UK, the Netherlands, and Italy.

To build on this strong performance, TCEB introduced several exciting promotional packages for EU MICE travellers. The first is the Thailand Connect Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA) Welcome Package, providing recipients with special hotel and retail discounts, as well as other benefits, right in the heart of Bangkok’s vibrant downtown district. Complementing this is the CONNECT Beyond The Capital Package, presenting international corporate clients the opportunity to discover the diversity of Thailand with promotions from domestic partner airlines, and thirdly the CONNECT Business package, which offers exclusive promotions for trade visitors who achieve business matching at exhibitions in Thailand. All three packages offer special privileges for overseas organizers and delegates alike.
The promotional campaigns form part of ‘Thailand CONNECT…Our Heart, Your World’, TCEB’s innovative brand communications umbrella campaign in 2016.

Mr Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, president of TCEB said that, “Contributing to our achievements in 2015 were our ongoing efforts to strengthen international confidence in Thailand, as well as the strong legacy of our ‘Thailand CONNECT’, and ‘Thailand CONNECT The World’ brand campaigns that highlighted Thailand as a ‘Top of Mind’ destination in Asia that can truly connect business events to visitor success. Spearheading our refreshed and renewed strategy in 2016 are a range of promotional packages for EU MICE travellers, forming part of the ‘Thailand CONNECT…Our Heart, Your World’ campaign highlights Thailand’s role not only as a unique destination at the HEART of ASEAN and an unparalleled business hub at the HEART of both the emerging Asian region and the global marketplace, but also a thriving hub, where passionate people offer seamless service from the HEART, and with an unforgettable smile.”

‘Thailand CONNECT…Our Heart, Your World’ builds on a strong legacy of the three fundamental pillars of Thailand’s MICE industry including (1) Destinations (2) Business and (3) People.

1. Destinations of Thailand: ‘Destinations of Desire’. ‘Endless Opportunities to Experience’ Thailand’s unique culture are highlighted, ranging from unique history and culture, beautiful beaches and wild jungles, team-building playgrounds, lavish luxury, CSR and green meetings. Also highlighted are Thailand’s 5 Dynamic MICE cities and how the country’s world-class infrastructure makes Thailand a key hub for connecting business in the fast-growing ASEAN Economic Community, as well as free WiFi at Thailand’s international airports and state-of-the-art facilities at MICE venues.

2. Business in Thailand: ‘Thailand…The Hub of ASEAN’. The campaign’s ‘business’ element emphasises how Thailand’s strategic location at the heart of South-East Asia means it is an expanding hub of trade, manufacturing and industry, acting as a gateway into ASEAN and the AEC. As a ‘Market of High Potential’, Thailand has been ranked the world’s fifth best emerging market, with world-leading export industries. Also highlighted is Thailand’s position at the ‘Beating Heart of Asia’ and role as the ‘AEC’s Driving Force’.

3. People of Thailand: ‘Passionate Hearts, Seamless Excellence’. The third element focuses on Thailand’s ‘People’, highlighting how excellence is shown through the Thailand MICE Venue Standard, which is being used as a model for the ASEAN MICE Venue Standard. Next is ‘Professional Partnerships’, with MICE professionals nurtured by a strong business events curriculum, internationally recognized business event courses, and teacher training, and thirdly, ‘Welcomes Made in Thailand’, emphasizes the essence of ‘Thainess’, serving from the heart and with a smile.
The 2016 fiscal year also sees Thailand’s thriving MICE industry play host of a range of the world’s most important events. Highlights from Europe include the International Banking Security Association (IBSA) 69th Conference, Masseurs du Monde, Gyproc Belgium (Thailand 2015), Orange Microsoft Group, and the NK Trans Russian Incentive group. In addition, Thailand will host premier events including the F6 Global Convention 2015, the Organo Gold Asia Convention 2015, the 28th World Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) Council 2015, the 2015 Special Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses, One Young World 2015, The 54th OSEAL Forum Program, the 3rd Asia Pacific Glaucoma Congress 2016, the Asia Fitness Conference and Expo 2015, Cosmex 2015, Exporail South East Asia 2016, TBEX Asia, in addition to Thailand’s inaugural world-class lighting festival, and others.
“There is no better platform for TCEB to launch the ‘Thailand CONNECT The World…Our Heart, Your World’ than the ibtm world 2015, as we mark the beginning of our collaborative synergy to further boost confidence in Thailand among European and international business communities. An initiative such as this, along with other market development and outreach programmes will help enable us to achieve our goal of welcoming 1,060,000 business events travellers, earning more than EUR 2.32 billion in the 2016 fiscal year.” Mr Nopparat added.

Visitors to ibtm world 2015 can learn more about TCEB’s three special promotions at pavilion number H50, while meeting a range of Thailand’s leading business events entrepreneurs – from hotels to venues, destination management companies to airlines. TCEB will also prepare a country presentation and Thailand’s activities demonstration at the pavilion. More details about TCEB’s involvement in ibtm world 2015 can be found at http://www.ibtmworld.com/tceb

FINAL FIGURES CONFIRM NEW RECORDS AT IMEX AMERICA 2015

Press Release
November 16 2016

FINAL FIGURES CONFIRM NEW RECORDS AT IMEX AMERICA 2015
Final figures just published for the fifth IMEX America confirm that the trade show broke many significant records.

According to statistics now available on the event’s website, IMEX America 2015, which took place in Las Vegas from 13 to 15 October, attracted a total of 10,732 industry professionals. These included 3,030 hosted buyers, an increase of 4 per cent on 2014. They represented 54 countries with 26 per cent from outside the US and Canada, notably 5 per cent from Brazil, 3.5 per cent from the UK, 3 per cent from China, 2.5% from Mexico and 1.5 per cent from each of Germany, India, Argentina and Australia.

9 per cent of them represented associations, 21 per cent were corporate buyers, 62 per cent were from incentive houses and agencies and 8 per cent were independent planners.

The show also attracted 2,053 trade attendees from 69 countries, an increase of 7 per cent year on year.

The data also confirms that the number of prescheduled one-to-one appointments and booth presentations had risen by 7 per cent to a record 57,000 while there were also 9,700 buyers at group appointments. 51 per cent of meetings had profiles attached, another new high.

Michael Friend from Superior Meeting Services in the USA explains:
“Having the opportunity to meet everyone in one location is great. It allows me to maintain relationships and take things to a whole new level. IMEX is also an excellent opportunity to experience first-hand what’s going on and what’s new on the horizon. When it’s all here, under one roof, I can really take care of business. The global presence at IMEX America really shows how far the industry has come in bringing everyone together.”

Figures also confirm that this was the biggest ever IMEX America. Overall booth space grew by 5 per cent compared with last year’s previous record. There were 3,100 exhibiting companies representing 150 countries and 80 new booths.

Paul McDonagh from the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority adds:
“The quality of buyers has been good and we’ve met decision makers for both incentive and meetings business. This is one of our key events each year and always proves to be a good investment.”

The IMEX America 2015 at a Glance Fact Sheet can be downloaded at http://www.imexamerica.com/about-us/show-statistics/

50 Jahre ITB Berlin: Wie alles begann

50 Jahre ITB Berlin: Wie alles begann

Weltweit führende Reisemesse feiert Jubiläum mit Reisen um die Welt – Heutiger Leiter David Ruetz trifft Professor Dr. Manfred Busche, den Gründer der ITB Berlin

Die internationale Leitmesse der Reiseindustrie wird 50 Jahre alt. Gefeiert wird mit einer großen Jubiläumskampagne nach dem Motto „From Berlin with Love“. 50 ITB-Botschafter aus Berlin statten in Kooperation mit der Fluggesellschaft airberlin 50 Ländern einen Besuch ab und treffen 50 Repräsentanten. Sie alle haben interessante, spannende und ungewöhnliche Geschichten zu erzählen. Die verschiedenen Begegnungen rund um die Welt können auf der Website www.itb50.com mitverfolgt werden. Jede Woche sind dort neue Geschichten nachzulesen. Während der ITB Berlin 2016 werden dann alle Begegnungen gesammelt in einem Buch vorgestellt.

Um den Visionär zu besuchen, ohne den es die ITB Berlin gar nicht geben würde, musste der Leiter der ITB Berlin, David Ruetz, nicht um die halbe Welt fliegen, sondern konnte im Land bleiben. Professor Dr. Manfred Busche, ehemaliger Vorsitzender der Geschäftsführung der Messe Berlin (1987-1999) lebt in Ketzin in der Nähe von Berlin. Im Jahr 1966 ebnete er mit der ersten internationalen Tourismus-Börse den Weg für eine 50-jährige Erfolgsgeschichte „Made in Berlin“. Was damals mit neun Ausstellern aus fünf Ländern und nur 250 Fachbesucher begann, wuchs schnell zur führenden Fachmesse der internationalen Reiseindustrie heran. Die Zahlen sprechen für sich: Im Jahr 2015 stellten mehr als 10.000 Aussteller aus 186 Ländern ihre Produkte und Dienstleistungen rund 175.000 Besucher vor. Ein Interview mit den Machern der ITB Berlin.

Professor Dr. Busche: „Wie kamen Sie auf die Idee, eine Reisemesse zu gründen?“
„Wir waren der Meinung, dass uns etwas auf der Messe Berlin fehlte und dachten über die Erweiterung des Ausstellungsprogramms nach. Zuerst war eine Jagdausstellung im Gespräch. Allerdings schien uns in Anbetracht des Viermächte-Status Berlins die Umsetzung illusorisch, da diese Branche ja mit Waffen zu tun hat. Danach kamen wir auf die Idee einer Reisemesse – was viel sinnvoller war.“

Professor Dr. Busche: „Wie viel Kritik gab es am Anfang der Idee einer ITB Berlin?“
„Der Start der ITB Berlin war schwierig, weil sie scheinbar die Interessen vieler bedrohte. Leistungsstarke Reisebüros glaubten, dass die Reisemesse ihnen schaden würde, weil sie eine Verschiebung ihres Geschäfts verursache. Auch die Meinungen der Hoteliers waren geteilt. Sie nahmen eine kritische Haltung gegenüber der ITB Berlin ein und befürchteten eine Expansion der Hotelkapazität in Berlin. Andererseits schätzten die Hoteliers auch die Idee, anderen aus der Branche zu begegnen und mit ihnen zu diskutieren.“

Professor Dr. Busche: „Was war der größte Erfolg der ITB Berlin in der Vergangenheit?“
„Die Gespräche mit den Ausstellern über die nächste ITB Berlin, das war der größte Erfolg. „Wir wollen zusätzliche Quadratmeter im nächsten Jahr. Oder wir möchten in dieser oder jener Ausstellungshalle präsent sein.“ Diese und ähnliche Aussagen bestätigten uns, dass die laufende Messe gut war, aber dass die nächste noch besser werden würde.“

Herr Ruetz: „Was war der größte Erfolg Ihre Karriere auf der ITB Berlin?“
„Die Gründung des ITB Berlin Kongresses war ein großer Meilenstein. Der weltgrößte Tourismus-Kongress, der parallel zur Messe läuft, wird von internationalen Experten aus fast allen Tourismusbereichen besucht. Die steigenden Besucherzahlen sind ein deutliches Signal für seinen Erfolg als „Think Tank“. Hier werden relevante Zukunftsthemen der Tourismusbranche diskutiert und brandaktuelle Trends erörtert.“

Herr Ruetz: „Wie sehen Sie die Entwicklung der ITB Berlin in den kommenden Jahren?“
„Im digitalen Zeitalter steigt die Sehnsucht nach persönlicher Begegnung. Deshalb ist das jährliche Familientreffen auf der ITB Berlin, wo Menschen sich in die Augen sehen und die Hände schütteln, ein absolutes Muss. Darüber hinaus glaube ich, dass die ITB Berlin auch in anderen Märkten aufgrund der Stärke der Marke wachsen wird. Da braucht man nur einen Blick auf die ITB Asia zu werfen. Auch mit zusätzlichen Dienstleistungen, wie Beratung und Schulung, hat die ITB Berlin Vielfaches zu bieten. Außerdem habe ich die Vision, den kollektiven Think Tank, bestehend aus Kongress und Studien, zu erweitern. Idealerweise wird die ITB Berlin das ganze Jahr über ein wichtiger Partner für die Tourismusbranche rund um den Globus sein und nicht nur während der fünf Messetage im März.“

Mehr Informationen und Interviews finden Interessierte online auf www.itb50.com

Für Interviewanfragen an die Berliner Botschafter der ITB Berlin wenden Sie sich bitte an Astrid Zand, zand@messe-berlin.de