AIME Crowned Best Event and Best Trade Show of 2025

Stephen Malbourne, Finance Director (Talk2 Media & Events)

Silke Calder, Event Director

Szilvia Horkai, Senior Sales Manager

Claire Graham, Operations Director

Matt Pearce, CEO (Talk2 Media & Events)

A Landmark Win for Asia Pacific’s Premier Meetings and Incentives Gathering

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has achieved a milestone moment, securing both Best Event in 2025 and Best Trade Show in 2025 at the prestigious Australian Business Events Association Awards. The double accolade reinforces AIME’s reputation as the leading force in business events across the Asia Pacific region, as anticipation builds for its largest-ever showcase in 2026.

 

A Year of Growth, Innovation and Influence

AIME’s dual recognition caps an extraordinary year marked by strategic expansion, stronger international engagement and innovative program development. With the next edition set to take place from 9–11 February 2026 at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), the event is gearing up for record-breaking attendance and unprecedented global impact.

AIME continues to serve as the essential meeting point for international and local buyers seeking to connect with premier exhibitors from Asia Pacific and beyond. Its role as a catalyst for business, knowledge sharing and industry advancement has never been more evident.

 

Recognition That Reflects an Entire Industry

AIME Event Director Silke Calder expressed deep pride in the awards, highlighting the collaborative spirit that drives the event’s success.

“To be recognised as Best Event of the Year is a remarkable honour for AIME. It reflects the strength of our industry and the collaboration that underpins everything we do,” she says. She credits partners, participants and her dedicated team for consistently elevating AIME to new heights.

The Australian Business Events Awards ceremony, held on Thursday 4 December in Melbourne during the ABEA Conference at MCEC, celebrated the achievements, leadership and partnerships shaping Australia’s vibrant business events sector. Across exhibitions, conferences, incentives, venues, teams and sustainability, the awards highlighted the expanding depth and diversity of innovation within the industry.

 

AIME 2026 Set to Break Records

The 2026 event, delivered by Silke Calder and the Talk2 Media & Events team on behalf of Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), is forecast to be AIME’s biggest instalment yet.

Talk2 Media & Events CEO Matt Pearce says the recognition reflects the heart of AIME’s mission.
“AIME has always been driven by the industry it serves, and its success comes from that shared ownership. The event has become a place where ideas take shape and new connections fuel professional growth. It is an honour to have that work acknowledged.”

AIME 2026 is expected to host more than 4,500 attendees, including 700 exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers and over 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments. These numbers not only signal the continued expansion of the event but also underscore Melbourne’s position as a global hub for business events.

 

AIME’s Momentum Shows No Sign of Slowing

With global interest rising and industry confidence surging, AIME's reputation as the Asia Pacific’s most influential business events marketplace continues to strengthen. The 2026 edition promises unmatched networking opportunities, innovative education sessions and a platform where ideas and partnerships flourish.

For more information, visit: aime.com.au

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