MEETINGS COMMUNITY WILL ENJOY ENHANCED EXPERIENCE AT AIBTM SHOW IN CHICAGO

This year’s AIBTM, The Americas Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition scheduled for June 11-13, in Chicago, is planning a considerably higher level of networking platforms to enhance the attendee experience.

“We asked attendees, suppliers and industry stakeholders to provide their reactions to their past AIBTM experience and current needs,” said Michael Lyons, Reed Travel Exhibitions, Exhibition Director, AIBTM. “Several common themes emerged from their input. They told us they wanted additional opportunities to meet, share ideas and solve problems with colleagues.”

As a result, AIBTM’s theme this year, “Defining the Future of Meetings… Together,” has had significant influence on the program planning and scheduled events for the show.

On June 10th, the evening prior to Education Day, AIBTM will take early arrival Hosted Buyers, media and exhibitors ‘out to the ball game’ where the Chicago Cubs will take on the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field.

On June 11th, AIBTM kicks off with a world-class CEU-accredited education program featuring topics on globalisation, technology, and business management. The opening luncheon keynote will feature J. Walker Smith, principal of The Futures Company. The day concludes with a Networking Party at Navy Pier, featuring the “Best of Chicago” – a culinary and musical experience showcasing Chicago’s finest eateries and music.

Beginning on Wednesday, on the trade show floor at McCormick, there will be one-on-one networking opportunities with other meeting professionals facilitated through a number of special events and affinity group lounges on the show floor. These include:

• Market Focus sessions that have been expanded to include new regional spotlights on Latin America and Asia as well as the return of the Market Focus on Europe.
• The new Lecture Theatre on the show floor will feature fast track, intense educational sessions to expand learning in a timely and convenient way.
• A new feature this year is a “Speakers Showcase” which will take place in the Lecture Theatre. Professional speakers will have an opportunity to present samples of their talks in a 20-25 minute time frame, giving audience members a chance to see multiple speakers over the two days of the show.
• The return of the Future Events Experience showcasing the latest and most advanced technology, products and services that help meeting professionals plan more efficient meetings.
• The Refresh Zone will be an area where exhibitors and buyers can relax, recharge, rejuvenate, network and have a little fun in between appointments and walking the show floor. Diversions will include games and other fun activities.
• There will also be an Executive Chef Food Tasting from some of Chicago’s leading hotels.

On Wednesday evening, PCMA will host “Party with a Purpose @ AIBTM.” Beginning at 9:00 pm to Midnight, at the hottest nightclub in Chicago, The Underground, the party supports PCMA’s Education Foundation offering new scholarships through AIBTM and Choose Chicago.

Connection is key this year, as AIBTM has joined with i-Meet, a social network for meeting and event planners. All AIBTM exhibitors, attendees and stakeholders will be encouraged to participate in this active online community to engage with their peers, suppliers, and colleagues to facilitate meaningful conversations before, during and after the show.

“We are eagerly anticipating this year’s AIBTM because there are so many opportunities for professional development and relationship building,” said Lyons. “If you’re not in Chicago to be a part of the dialogue, then you will be missing an outstanding business opportunity to propel your future growth and success.”