AIME 2026: Where the Future of Business Events Takes Shape

Inspiration, Innovation and Industry Leadership at AIME 2026

AIME 2026 is set to be the must-attend event for professionals shaping the future of meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. Held as the leading trade show for the Asia Pacific business events industry, AIME brings together the people, ideas and tools that drive smarter, more impactful events. With a powerful speaker panel and a forward-thinking education program, AIME 2026 offers fresh perspectives designed to elevate every stage of event planning and delivery.

For event planners, incentive specialists and corporate decision-makers, AIME is more than a trade show. It is a strategic platform to discover new ideas, explore global trends and build meaningful connections that translate into real business outcomes.

Knowledge Monday: Strategic Insights for Tomorrow’s Events

Knowledge Monday at AIME 2026 delivers a deep dive into the strategies and trends reshaping the business events landscape. Curated exclusively for qualified visitor buyers, these sessions focus on future-focused thinking, innovation and leadership. Attendees gain practical insights into evolving audience expectations, sustainability, technology integration and experience design, all essential for creating standout conferences and incentive programs.

This premium learning experience equips buyers with the knowledge needed to stay competitive in a rapidly changing global events market.

Ideas Academy on the Floor: Practical Learning for Everyone

Running on 10–11 February, the Ideas Academy on the Floor presented by Spice magazine offers complimentary access to inspiring and actionable sessions for all AIME attendees. Located within the trade show floor, this dynamic learning space blends education with real-world application, making it easy to step from insight to action.

Sessions are designed to spark creativity, encourage innovation and provide practical takeaways that can be implemented immediately. From event trends and creative concepts to audience engagement and storytelling, the Ideas Academy ensures every attendee leaves with ideas that add value to their next event.

Connect with 700+ Global Suppliers at the AIME Trade Show

At the heart of AIME 2026 is its expansive trade show, bringing together more than 700 global suppliers from across the business events industry. Attendees can connect with destinations, venues, event technology providers and specialist services, all under one roof.

This is a rare opportunity to compare offerings, build partnerships and discover new solutions that enhance efficiency, creativity and return on investment. Whether sourcing unique venues, cutting-edge event tech or destination expertise, AIME delivers access to the best the global industry has to offer.

Why AIME 2026 Belongs on Your Travel and Events Calendar

AIME 2026 combines education, networking and sourcing into one powerful experience. For those planning conferences, incentive travel programs or bespoke business events, it provides the inspiration and insight needed to deliver exceptional results. With its strong focus on ideas, connections and innovation, AIME continues to set the benchmark for business events trade shows in the Asia Pacific region.

Register now and be part of the conversations shaping the future of business events.

Web contact details:
Official website: https://aime.com.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

ABEA Conference 2025: Australia’s Premier Business Events Gathering

Network and Connect at the ABEA Welcome Reception

Start your business events journey at the Australian Business Events Association Welcome Reception, held in partnership with AIME 2026. Taking place at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC), this exclusive evening brings together venues, bureaux, organisers, and suppliers from across Australia. Designed to foster meaningful business events networking, the Welcome Reception is a must-attend pre-conference event for industry professionals. Tickets are limited: https://conferenceandawards.abea.org.au/

Discover Cutting-Edge Insights at the ABEA Conference 2025

From December 3 to 5, 2025, the ABEA Conference in Melbourne will unite Australian business events professionals for two days of industry-leading education, collaboration, and innovation. Explore how AI is transforming event operations, learn strategies to manage multi-generational workforces, and gain actionable insights into sustainable business events practices. This conference is your gateway to smarter, more effective business events planning and execution.

Build Stronger Partnerships and Collaborations

The ABEA Conference is more than just a learning platform—it is an opportunity to strengthen connections across the business events sector. Attendees will meet like-minded professionals, share experiences, and uncover new partnership opportunities. From interactive workshops to networking sessions, the event fosters collaboration, inspiration, and shared purpose for the future of Australian business events.

Celebrate Excellence at the Australian Business Events Awards

Highlighting the conference is the Australian Business Events Awards, recognising outstanding achievement, leadership, and innovation within the industry. Celebrate those who have demonstrated true Impact and Excellence, and gain inspiration to elevate your own business events strategies.

Experience Melbourne’s Premier Business Events Venue

The MCEC provides a world-class setting for Australia’s leading business events conference. Conveniently located in Melbourne’s vibrant business district, the venue offers easy access to hotels, dining, and city attractions. Whether you’re attending sessions, networking, or celebrating at the awards, the ABEA Conference 2025 is designed to provide an exceptional business events experience.

Join the Australian business events community for an unforgettable conference where education, networking, and recognition converge. Secure your spot and be part of the future of business events in Australia.

Tickets and more information: https://conferenceandawards.abea.org.au/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

AIME 2024 - Have You Secured Your Place?

If you haven't already, it's time to lock AIME 2024 into your event calendar. We can’t wait to see you in Melbourne.

Hello AIME community!

Can you believe we're less than 5 months away from AIME 2024? Time truly flies when you're immersed in the dynamic world of events.

Whether you're an exhibitor, buyer, or visitor, the AIME team is meticulously crafting a programme to inspire and enrich every attendee. Dive into our latest newsletter to catch a glimpse of what we've been up to and what awaits you.

AIME Wins Best Tradeshow or Exhibition

We are thrilled to announce that for the second year in a row, AIME has been awarded Best Exhibition or Trade Show at the Australian Event Awards and Symposium.

We are especially delighted to receive this prestigious recognition after also taking home Australian Event of the Year in 2022.

Congratulations to all the incredible nominees, and to the Australian Event Awards for a fantastic evening at The Highline Venue. A heartfelt acknowledgment to all our partners, sponsors and exhibitors who continually rally behind AIME. Your unwavering support and collaboration play a pivotal role in our shared successes.

TALK2 MEDIA & EVENTS

Central House, 101 Moray Street, South Melbourne, VIC 3205 Australia
*Silke Calder, Event Director +61 492 021 412 e: silke.calder@talk2.media
*Katrina Dawson ,Event Sales Manager +61 449 510 961 e: katrina.dawson@talk2.media

AIME 2022 Officially Opens

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), the leading meetings and conventions event in the Asia Pacific region, has today opened its much-anticipated 2022 show.

Kicking off the three-day event, the Knowledge Exchange connected delegates from all over the world for a day of innovative education and community building. Speakers included Australia’s leading futurist, tech entrepreneur and growth hacker, Steve Sammartino, as well as Simon Griffiths co-founder and CEO of Who Gives A Crap and Australian broadcast journalist and former news anchor Mimi Kwa.

 

Furthermore, as part of the show opening, AIME has launched new research revealing how the industry intends to spearhead recovery, as well as revive and thrive. 

 

The global survey, conducted with over 450 business events professionals, revealed 1-in-2 cite face-to-face meetings as the leading factor to boost business growth for the industry – with the lead reason being that it cements vital relationships (67%). 

 

Interestingly, when it came to the most exciting opportunities for business events, over half of respondents (54%) cited creative events, followed by innovative technology (38%). 

 

Silke Calder, Event Director at AIME shares, “We are beyond thrilled to finally kick-off the 2022 event, after what has been one of the most challenging times ever for many industries around the world. 

 

“This year, we are looking forward to driving more meaningful moments as we focus on our recovery and revival. We were also delighted to receive industry feedback from our survey that revealed 96% cite AIME as an important event for the industry’s recovery, with 68% of respondents citing it as critical. 

 

“After listening to our community, we also found that over half of those attending AIME were most excited about networking and reconnecting. We cannot wait to catch-up with so many of you on the show floor, in what is sure to be one of our best events yet.”  

 

The 2022 show floor has already confirmed over 225 exhibitors from all over the Asia Pacific and abroad, with over 1,500 industry visitors expected to connect and conduct business over the next two days.   

 

An opportunity not to be missed, registrations to attend for Tuesday 22 – Wednesday 23 are still open. For more details or to register to attend AIME in 2022, visit aime.com.au. To follow AIME’s journey on social media, visit Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

CENTREPIECE welcomes AIME 2022, showcasing their flair for events and hospitality

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has returned for the first time since 2020, launching last night at Melbourne’s newest premier conferences and events venue, CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park.

With 300 hosted buyers and a rush of over 200 new exhibitors confirmed for the two-day tradeshow, CENTREPIECE treated 800 guests to a dazzling night of entertainment and gourmet hospitality at the Welcome Event, giving attendees a taste of what the venue has to offer.

AIME’s event director, Silke Calder says, “AIME is finally here, and we’re looking forward to delivering an extraordinary show that’s set to propel the revitalisation of business events! As Melbourne’s newest venue, CENTREPIECE was the ideal host for the 2022 conference's Welcome Event, as we reunited our AIME community both domestically and abroad for the first time since the pandemic began.”

CENTREPIECE Sales Manager, Laura Reddaway said “We were thrilled to host the AIME 2022 Welcome Event, showing our world-class events and conference venue CENTREPIECE in full flight and herald in the return of live international events. It has been a bumpy couple of years for our industry, but it was a special moment seeing our suppliers, partners, and industry peers celebrate last night with CENTREPIECE the stage for what was a truly spectacular evening.”

Guests arrived by boat on the banks of the Yarra River at Birrarung Marr, greeted and guided by roving acrobats and stilt walkers as they made their way to the central terrace of Melbourne Park, flanked by the precinct’s world-class sporting and entertainment arenas.

The Welcome Event kicked off to the sounds of Melbourne brass band, Horns of Leroy as delegates delighted in a range of canapes from steak tartare to freshly shucked oysters, while taking in incredible views of the city skyline.

Moving into CENTREPIECE’s impressive Grand Hall to commence the evening’s main acts, guests were treated to aerial performances and ten live food stations, all composed of locally-sourced fare true to CENTREPIECE’s Victorian-first philosophy.

The menu consisted of, but was certainly not limited to, a Harvest Bar featuring cured and smoked meat, truffle honey, Victorian olives, grilled seasonal vegetables, house-made dips and Victorian cheeses, as well as a BBQ bar boasting Victorian lamb, beef brisket, BBQ pork ribs and whole free-range chicken, accompanied by fresh Victorian produce and condiments. And at the bar, beverages from Victoria’s renowned wine regions and quintessentially Melbourne craft breweries were on offer.

Rounding out a very intentional moment for both national and international guests to reconnect for the time since the pandemic, acrobat artists performed an aerial synchronized hoop spectacle before guests were ushered through large LED screen doors. Awaiting them on the other side, a stage and dance floor ready to take the night to the next level, ripe with photo-friendly opportunities including a floral mesh photo wall, AIME light up letters, a shimmer wall and GIF booth.

With show stopping performances by the Melbourne Gospel Choir, belting out an inspiring rendition of “Sky Full of Stars”, and Australian singer-songwriter Mia Wray, CENTREPIECE transformed their Grand Hall to reflect their aspiration of reviving the events industry. Putting on a stunning dessert activation, featuring an edible CENTREPIECE artwork designed by Executive Chef, Asif Mamun, the venue came alive with a sense of anticipation as guests revelled in the excitement and sounds of Midnight Mix.

With a focus on global industry recovery and creating meaningful connections, AIME will once again welcome international exhibitors to Australian shores – the first national event to do so since the pandemic began.

International exhibitors include New Zealand, Japan, the Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and more.

SongDivision’s CEO to attend AIME; team to deliver a unique bonding experience for delegates

Andy Sharpe CEO and Founder of global sensation SongDivision will attend AIME this week for the first time in 10 years.

Andy has led the transformation of SongDivision through the pandemic to deliver hybrid and digital team bonding events. Since 2020, SongDivision have hosted over 2,000 team bonding events globally, making them one of the most successful corporate event companies of the COVID era.

The affable Andy Sharpe is available for interviews at AIME on Tuesday 22 March and Wednesday 23 March.

Andy welcomes interviews on:

• Leading an events company through the pandemic globally
• His quest to inspire teams to bond through music
• The new direction of SongDivision to include Leadership and Development programs
• The future of SongDivision

SongDivision will be located in the Hosted Buyer Lounge

SongDivision is bringing the vibes, the songs, and the action to AIME’s Hosted Buyer Lounge and main exhibition floor – you won’t be hearing a bell signaling appointments, you’ll be hearing SongDivision live! Groove to the musical talents of acclaimed Aussie pop star Brihony Dawson and let the science of music help you to have a great day.

Meet the SongDivision team at AIME:

• Andy Sharpe, CEO and Founder
• El Kwang, Chief Marketing Officer
• Katy Aldrich, Client Executive Australia

To organise an interview, please contact ZADRO:
Jessica Kauffman | jessica@zadroagency.com.au | +61 400 433 182
Oakley Grioli | oakley@zadroagency.com.au | +61 434 295 302

About SongDivision
We are a people engagement company, who since 2003 have helped thousands of organisations from around the world, and their people strengthen connections with each other through interactive programs that work.

The bond we feel with our work colleagues can transcend the office, your home, and even your country; these relationships are precious and need tendering.

We do this through the science of music, and the art of engagement.

Our secret? Professional musicians, a heavy dose of creativity, evidence-based programs, all mixed with the power of music that unites.

www.songdivision.com

MCEC takes AIME with return of Australia’s biggest conference for the $36 billion business events sector

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is excited to welcome the return of APAC’s largest business events gathering for the Asia Pacific Incentive and Meetings Event (AIME) this week (March 21-23).  

Pre COVID-19, business events contributed around $36 billion to Australia’s economy, and the leading industry bodies put that figure globally at $2.5 trillion.  

AIME is the first national tradeshow to welcome international delegates since the pandemic hit, MCEC will welcome international visitors from our key trading partners across APAC including New Zealand, Japan, the Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, Hong Kong, and South Africa.  

This flagship event showcases MCEC’s unique ability to host international events of this scale as we host 225 exhibitors and as well as 342 hosted buyers. 

MCEC has hosted the event since inception and is proud to facilitate the key stakeholders in the industry to network, transfer knowledge, foster learning and realise the power of connection and community. 

Over the three days, AIME will facilitate over 14,000 meetings, matching buyers needs with the destinations and services on offer.  1,500+ visitor buyers and visitor suppliers are expected to attend the tradeshow next week where MCEC will host a zero waste cafe, and an immersive experience to illuminate blue sky thinking, with botanical cocktails and sweet treats developed by Executive Pastry chef, Alessandro Bartesaghi.  

Pre COVID-19, the business events sector was a strong performer for Australia with 1.04 million arrivals, spending $4.5 billion, making international business events visitors the second largest yielding market for Australia. 

According to the Tourism Australia’s International Visitor Survey 2019, business events visitors spend on average 74% more per night compared to leisure visitors.    

MCEC Chief Executive, Peter King said MCEC is thrilled to welcome back its largest business industry event and all it has to offer. 

"With international borders now open, AIME will be a celebration of the resilience of our industry and a wonderful opportunity to reconnect and welcome people back to Melbourne and MCEC," he said. 

“In Australia, an average of 440,000 business events are delivered annually, making a direct contribution to the economy and supporting 230,000 jobs, AIME is a chance to ensure this continues and expands” he said. 

The show includes two options: a 3-day in-person event and a 5-day virtual platform called AIME Online for those unable to attend in person.  

For more information click here.  

ABOUT AIME 
AIME brings together the right buyers with the right exhibitors from across the world and delivers the forum for connecting with a wide range of buyers and exhibitors, brought together with a common spirit of curiosity and desire to do great business together. 

ABOUT MCEC
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is the home of unconventional. At MCEC we do things a little differently. We bring fresh ideas and imagination to every event. We happily turn concepts on their head to make each experience momentous. We welcome events of all shapes and sizes, from meetings and conferences to exhibitions, concerts and galas, whether in-person, virtual or hybrid. And our city is our inspiration. Melbourne is on show at MCEC – in the architecture and design, food and hospitality, location and views. Discover the difference at MCEC.

AUSTRALIAN TURF CLUB AT AIME

The Australian Turf Club (ATC) will showcase the recently unveiled $46.6 million WINX Stand at Royal Randwick, at AIME in Melbourne this week.

Named after the legendary Australian racehorse Winx, the two-storey state-of-the-art WINX Stand will cement Royal Randwick’s reputation as the pre-eminent venue for Sydney’s meetings and events.

ATC reports strong interest in the new facility which is expected to play host to Sydney’s top local events and attract domestic and international meetings and events, including conferences, gala dinners, exhibitions, and other boutique to large-scale celebrations – making Royal Randwick a 364-day-a-year meetings and events destination.

INTERVIEWS AT AIME
Interviews are available with the below ATC team members. Please make an appointment via the AIME app. You may also be able to walk up on the day however, to avoid disappointment it is recommended to book a time.

Jimmy Busteed – General Manager, Sales
Louise White – Senior Business Development Manager
Samantha Lough – Business Development Manager

Alternatively, the below media contacts can arrange interviews or provide more information before or after AIME.

MEDIA FAMIL
ATC invites M&E media to tour the WINX Stand at Royal Randwick, please contact the below media contacts to organise a tour.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Marlise Beasley½General Manager/Account Director½ZADRO
marlise@zadroagency.com.au
0423 624 013
Or
Jessica Kauffman½Senior Account Manager½ZADRO
jessica@zadroagency.com.au
0400 433 182

Discover how Melbourne can transform your event at AIME 2022 – register now!

Are you thinking about hosting your next business event in Melbourne? Well don’t miss out on the chance to see in-person how Melbourne can help bring your business event to life at AIME 2022 from 21-23 March at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

At AIME make sure to visit the Melbourne Stand on the tradeshow floor where you’ll meet MCB and its’ industry partners showcasing the very best of what Melbourne has to offer to make your next event one to remember.

At the Melbourne Stand, you’ll also have the chance to chat with the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) who take the hassle out of planning meetings and events in Melbourne and connect you with the right people, places and products to ensure your event is planned and executed with ease.

With less than one week to go till the leading trade event for the meetings and event industry in the Asia Pacific region – AIME, make sure you don’t miss out and register today - it's free!

Register now

Discover the Uncover Melbourne program

AIME Confirms Australian Convention Bureaux for 2022 Event

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), the leading meetings and conventions event in the Asia Pacific region, has today revealed that almost all of Australia’s Convention Bureaux will be participating in AIME 2022, taking place on 21–23 March in person and 28 March–1 April online.

With 17 Convention Bureaux confirmed, sights are set on connecting with quality buyers and the AIME community to help drive business for their local regions, as well as showcasing their unique destinations on the world stage.

Owners of AIME, the Melbourne Convention Bureau is looking forward to spearheading business for both state and country in 2022 and beyond.

Julia Swanson CEO MCB said, “AIME 2022 is set to be the next big ticket trade show to drive confidence right across the Asia Pacific region and importantly where key decision makers connect, exchange ideas, and create business opportunities.

“The show will be one of the first international trade shows to be held in Melbourne and now in its 29th year, AIME 2022 will be a significant recovery platform for the business events industry right across region, creating and re-establishing valuable connections to drive commerce.

“It’s an excellent time for the sector to come back together and show the world that Melbourne is back.”

Representing some 1,800 tourism and events operators, Andrew Hiebl, CEO at the Association of Australian Convention Bureaux and an AIMEbassador, is looking to use the 2022 event as a launch pad for the industry’s recovery. He says, “AIME’s role in our business events’ recovery is pivotal for reigniting rich business connections between organisers and suppliers. All our mainland members will be exhibiting at AIME 2022, and that’s a great sign of business confidence, human spirit, and commitment to industry.

“The event will embody the spirit of resilience and add a much-needed boost to future confidence which will flow on to buyers and sellers alike. Through these positive conversations, on and off the show floor, new opportunities, innovations, and collaborations will be born – that is what excites me.”

Showcasing in 2022 and sponsor of AIME’s much-anticipated Knowledge Program, Destination Gold Coast will be using the event to unveil its new brand and connect with valued partners and quality buyers.

“It’s been a while since Gold Coast has attended AIME as a collective and we’re delighted to be back. At AIME we will be launching our new brand and sharing with our customers what they can expect from us as a destination. We look forward to seeing you there,” says Patricia O’Callaghan, CEO of Destination Gold Coast.

AIME will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 21–23 March in-person and 28 March–1 April online. For more details or to register to attend AIME in 2022, visit aime.com.au. To follow AIME’s journey on social media, visit Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

AIME announces new tech partner to connect meetings for 2022 event

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), the leading meetings and conventions event in the Asia Pacific region, has today announced tech-leader Grip as the official partner to connect quality buyers and exhibitors at the 2022 event.

Taking place on 21–23 March in-person in Melbourne and 28 March–1 April online, AIME is the first event to kick-off the APAC Business Events calendar, with the new tech appointment set to help supercharge business opportunities through its matchmaking capabilities.

As part of the new partnership, the world-class tech-event company will launch its innovative meetings algorithm in an APAC in-person event first – matching connections between AIME attendees using over a billion AI data points to unite preferences.

Through its custom functionality, the AI Scoring Matrix, meetings will match through a series of criteria, including meeting preferences, profiled data from buyers and exhibitors, preferences against similar delegates at the event, and meeting ratings between similar users.

Endorsing the new partnership, Silke Calder, AIME Event Director, is excited to launch AIME’s new format of in-person and online, and she’s confident that the advanced technology will help revolutionise the way domestic and international delegates conduct business.

“AIME’s delighted to announce this new partnership with Grip, which brings to the table extensive experience in delivering successful outcomes at major business events across the globe. This really feels like a natural partnership with both our organisations committed to excellence in all that we do.

“As the world looks forward to a more open post-COVID environment, AIME 2022 is set to hypercharge real demand for important business events in the years to come. We can’t wait to reconnect with you all.”

With capabilities to an unlimited number of meetings, the new platform will give delegates and exhibitors more predictive and accurate leads when it comes to potential business partners.

CEO of Grip, Tim Groot stated, “After so much change in the business events industry, organisers are being pressured to get ahead of the curve. The best way to do that is by networking with people in your community, fully understanding the challenges ahead and becoming aware of the solutions available. AIME provides the perfect space to do exactly that.

“Our platform will allow participants to have a seamless experience in making connections and building new relationships that will move the business events industry forward. We can’t wait to see the amazing business opportunities created at AIME 2022.”

AIME will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 21–23 March in-person and 28 March–1 April online. For more details or to register to attend AIME in 2022, visit aime.com.au. To register as a Hosted Buyer and learn more on the updated program, visit aime.com.au/visit/hosted-buyers. To follow AIME’s journey on social media, visit Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

For AIME sales, sponsorship or hosted buyer enquiries please contact:

• Sales and Sponsorship: aime@talk2.media
• Hosted Buyers: jackie.caldwell@talk2.media

Talk2 Media & Events Pty Ltd. 

Lvl 12, 60 City Road, Southbank, VIC 3006 Australia Phone +61 3 7000 0500
ABN 54 844 087 Email: info@talk2.media Web talk2.media

• facebook.com/AIMEMelbourne
• twitter/AIMEMelbourne
• Instagram/AIMEMelbourne
• LinkedIn - AIME

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

AIME Cancels 2021 Event Due COVID-19 Implications

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has announced the cancellation of the 2021 event, which was scheduled to be hosted at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and online in March, due to concerns brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Event organisers Talk2 Media & Events have shared that like many other event organisers, the event faced challenges brought about by international and domestic travel restrictions despite healthy interest for the event from exhibitors and buyers.

“As the past year has shown, it’s difficult to predict if border closures will be required to slow the spread of future outbreaks. As difficult as it is to cancel, we cannot in good conscience stage an event that devalues the quality of experience or accessibility of AIME in delivering meaningful interactions for exhibitors and visitors, alongside subsequent appointments with our international networks.

“The Business Events industry is facing many challenges and the entire Talk 2 Media & Events team will be there to support our community, until we meet again at AIME 2022,” said Matt Pearce, CEO of Talk2 Media & Events.

AIME 2022 will play a significant role in the business events industry’s recovery and create and re-establish valuable connections to drive commerce for the wider region.

With support from the Melbourne Convention Bureau, AIME has begun contacting attendees, including those who have already registered, to manage existing bookings and arrangements, as well as event refunds.

“The feedback so far has been overwhelmingly supportive of our difficult decision, as the team at Talk2 Media make their way through contacting every single one of AIME’s buyers and exhibitors to update the latest developments and provide support in managing arrangements. It’s a real testament to our industry and we’re looking forward to delivering an even bigger and better show in 2022” said Julia Swanson, CEO, Melbourne Convention Bureau.

“As we navigate through these trying times, we remain optimistic that business events will adapt, innovate and emerge stronger than ever. We cannot wait to see you all next year – to connect and reunite as a community,” added Mr Pearce.

AIME’s upcoming event will take place on 21–23 March 2022, with full details to follow in the coming months. For those with existing bookings and registrations, a Talk2 Media representative will contact you directly, however for any immediate queries you can email info@talk2.media or visit aime.com.au.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

AIME 2021 has been cancelled

It is with great sadness we announce the cancellation of AIME 2021 due the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic.

The event was due to take place from 15 to 17 March 2021.

We know this news is disappointing for our global business events community, especially the many exhibitors, buyers, industry professionals due to attend the show.

Several options were explored to get this global event happening in 2021, but unfortunately the difficult decision has been made to cancel the event.

Like many other event organisers, we face the challenges brought about by international and domestic travel restrictions despite healthy interest for the event from exhibitors and buyers. As the past year has shown, it’s difficult to predict if border closures will be required to slow the spread of future outbreaks.

We wholeheartedly supported the move to a hybrid format to ensure AIME continued to offer international and local buyers access to the best exhibitors from around the globe. Yet we believe a fully virtual event would remove the live, in-person element – which is the essence of AIME.

Along with our partners and suppliers, we have poured our hearts into this year’s event. But we are resilient, we are adaptable and we will bounce back with AIME2022 to be bigger and better. The event will play a significant role in the business events industry’s recovery, and create and re-establish valuable connections to drive commerce for the wider region.

As host of AIME for almost three decades in Melbourne, we’re proud of its status on the global business events calendar. We thank you for your support and look forward to meeting again at AIME, 21-23 March 2022.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Australia is the place to be

Things are looking up in Australia/NZ with restrictions easing, borders reopening and everyone coming together once again! AIME has felt the contagious buzz of excitement and hope for the new year by welcoming many new Australian exhibitors to our 2021 event.

New exhibitors, we must mention, that are ready to connect with YOU. AIME 2021 is set to inspire you to rediscover the wonders in our own backyard and hold your next event in Australia.

It's time to start making up for those missed events in 2020 and kickstart our industry back into action with domestic business events. But first, we must reconnect and secure those future business leads... What better way is there to do that than AIME 2021!

All you need to do is apply for the AIME 2021 Hosted Buyer program and take advantage of the opportunities to do business, network and learn. 

APPLY NOW

SAY A BIG HELLO TO QUEENSLAND

Celebrating the opening of the Queensland borders, we want to show off the incredible destinations that you could connect with at AIME 2021. Don't just dream about holding your next event in Queensland... DO IT!

BUSINESS EVENTS CAIRNS & GREAT BARRIER REEF
Cairns & Great Barrier Reef is the only place with two World Heritage areas side by side. Easy access, year-round tropical weather, an international airport, sophisticated business tourism infrastructure and expertise in key innovation industries make Cairns & Great Barrier Reef the natural place to meet.
READ MORE

DAYDREAM ISLAND
There’s nothing like a change of scenery to help people think differently. And the scenery on Daydream Island is second to none. Whether you’re planning a conference, workshop, or annual work trip away, Daydream Island has modern facilities, unforgettable Whitsunday experiences, and personalised event planning services to make it a success.
READ MORE

MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL
Mackay is one of Australia’s fastest growing, yet most idyllic regions that offers a fresh and stimulating Business Events destination with a small- town charm. Mackay boasts affordable world-class facilities and accommodation from the City Centre convention centre through to hotels, boutique beach resorts and mountain retreats.
READ MORE

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Maastricht to host first tradefair on social distancing themes

The MECC Maastricht will be hosting their first socially distanced trade fair... With the theme of social distance. The organisers are keen to demonstrate and share their solutions and innovations pertaining to the 1.5m society.

On 26-27 August 2020, the first one-and-a half-metre social distance tradefair in the Netherlands will take place in MECC Maastricht. The ‘Anderhalve meter Expo’ is a Dutch national tradefair launch designed to cater for all types of solutions pertaining to the one-and-a-half-metre society.

Organisers are keen to demonstrate that a tradefair can be realised in conditions of the one-and-a half-metre society.

As from 1 July, the government of the Netherlands permitted business events to be held with no restrictions on the number of people, provided necessary Covid-19 precautions were taken and protocols followed.

Now organisers of this first expo post-Covid-19 in MECC, Buro 10 and Brandt + Fernhout, are seizing the opportunity to put on a show that, they say, will advance the events industry in the Netherlands.

The project is not-for-profit, with the common goal being to share cross-sector solutions and to help Dutch entrepreneurs continue their business in a new era.

The Anderhalve meter Expo will see exhibitors from various branches of industry and the economy show their creative social distancing solutions. Visitors, organisers anticipate, will be made up of entrepreneurs and decision-makers from local and regional authorities, recreation, events, catering, retail and facilities departments. A wide range of solutions will be presented that can be applied within their own business operations.

In addition, there will be content and guest speakers to discuss current topics, ideas and innovations.

 

See you all at AIME in March 2021 and discover why it's #NOTJUSTANOTHERTRADESHOW

TALK2 MEDIA & EVENTS
Level 7, 60 City Road, Southbank, Victoria 3006 Australia
phone +61 3 7000 0500
email info@talk2.media
web talk2.media

SOCIAL DISTANCING TECHNOLOGY TRIAL IN CANBERRA FIRST OF ITS KIND FOR INDUSTRY

The National Convention Centre Canberra (NCCC) led the trial of Harry the Hirer's new social distance technology. The smart e-badge attaches to event lanyards and will subtly notify attendees when they are closer than 1.5m.

The smart e-badge consists of a small disc attached to an event lanyard and alerts users through discrete vibration when social distancing is less than 1.5 metres. It then resets once delegates apply the 1.5 metres distancing guideline.

The successful trial at the National Convention Centre Canberra (NCCC) was the first of its kind for the industry. The technology was tested during a Canberra Region Tourism Advisory Forum briefing attended by ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr, Canberra Airport Chief Executive Officer Stephen Byron, Australian Hotels Association ACT General Manager Anthony Brierley, and 90 tourism industry representatives.

“As one of the largest purpose-built meetings and events venues in Canberra, we’re thrilled to be trialling this technology for the first time in Australia. There is great potential for this technology to assist in reinstating confidence for meeting planners and attendees looking to organise and attend events in Canberra,” said Stephen Wood, General Manager at the National Convention Centre Canberra (NCCC).

Used in conjunction with other safety measures such as thorough sanitising, extensive hand washing and clear signage outlining COVID-safe practices, the e-badge provides an additional tool to ensure delegates feel safe when attending in-person events and public gatherings.

“The initiative will help individuals control their own environment and personal space, and presents another tangible, practical measure to help people feel comfortable in participating in events. I see application for venues, institutions, and galleries to use the platform to assist with gatherings, tours and staff,” said Michael Matthews, Chief Executive Officer at Canberra Convention Bureau.

“Canberra is a modern city with many open spaces that are congestion free and offer highly controllable environments to plan events and delegate movement,” concluded Mr Matthews.

The technology is available in lanyard disc and wrist band format through Harry The Hirer.

See you all at AIME in March 2021 and discover why it's #NOTJUSTANOTHERTRADESHOW

TALK2 MEDIA & EVENTS
Level 7, 60 City Road, Southbank, Victoria 3006 Australia
phone +61 3 7000 0500
email info@talk2.media
web talk2.media

INDIA WELCOMES A NEW VENUE - Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre in December 2020

The Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre is all set to open for the first time in December 2020 and harvest the benefits of business events. Can you believe it... not COVID related news!

The 25-crore 650-seater Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre is all set to commence operations by December 2020. The development would boost the MICE infrastructure in the state and further will add to already well-established leisure tourism in the state

The ever-prospering religious, spiritual and leisure tourism of the state of Himachal Pradesh needs no introduction. The state is rich in tourism product offerings, serving travelers from all walks of life and for all age groups. The banks of river Beas in Mandi attract travelers for colorful festivities and aartis. The Dushera of Kullu is world-famous. The hot springs dips in Manali are famous for getting rid of all skin ailments. A large ski destination facility is underway in the Chanshal district of Shimla. The small-line toy-train ride between Kalka and Shimla offers breathtaking views of the Himachal valleys; glimpses of the flora and fauna are eye-popping; the passing underneath the heritage tunnels along the way is jaw-dropping; there is more to Himachal than meets the eye.

Himachal MICE Tourism Opportunities
In a bid to further boost leisure and spiritual tourism, new opportunities were being experienced in the Indian MICE sector. To become ready as a MICE destination, the government in 2012-13 envisioned the development of Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre, in Kiarighat in Solan (Shimla, HP). Simultaneously, the state also worked out a comprehensive plan to identify, develop the unexplored and untapped tourism potential and expand its tourism bouquet.

Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre
Though the Convention Centre infrastructural project took a long time to break-ground, finally in 2017, the stone was laid. The Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre is now ready to open doors in December’20 and harvest the MICE benefits.

The destination being closest and favorite hill-city near Delhi, serving all of Punjab and Haryana, this 25-crore 650-seater Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre will have ready business from Corporates. Specially in summers, when almost all the destinations within Himachal are packed, many corporates would like to mix business and pleasure, with a Convention in Solan.

The tourism and the income multiplier-effect of MICE Industry will flow down to several operators in the value chain. Large employment generator, the MICE India industry, will promote development of more partners in the eco-system, as soon as the Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre opens in December. The government will be a large consumer of the Convention Centre.

The state of Himachal is among the foremost drivers of tourism in North India and is a 12-months destination. With peaks in summer against the heat of northern plains and with a peak in winters for winter sports. Other tourism offerings being developed alongside include rope-ways, hotels and resorts, amusement parks, adventure sports and more. A helipad will be ready by September’20. Several branded hotel chains have long been in existence in all cities of Himachal, like the Oberoi and the Taj. So world-class accommodation, food and dining are well in place. The hotel infrastructure will further boom as the Himachal Pradesh Convention Centre starts attracting new business. #miceindia

New Delhi Exhibition Centre
MICE Meetings & Leisure Tourism in Himachal Pradesh

MICE Meetings in Himachal Pradesh,
Connect with Luxxury MICE Travel at (+91) 9811993383

See you all at AIME in March 2021 and discover why it's #NOTJUSTANOTHERTRADESHOW

TALK2 MEDIA & EVENTS
Level 7, 60 City Road, Southbank, Victoria 3006 Australia
phone +61 3 7000 0500
email info@talk2.media
web talk2.media

Dubai marks business events reopening with AI conference

On 16 July, Dubai hosted the emirate's first major live in-person business event. Dubai has already started welcoming international tourists and is well on its way to recovery.

Business events are set to restart in Dubai, with 16 July seeing the start of the emirate’s first major live in-person leadership business event organised by Dubai World Trade Centre.

The AI Everything x Restart Dubai Summer Conference, hosted by the National Program of Artificial Intelligence, will celebrate the United Arab Emirate’s AI efforts during this time of pandemic.

The event promises exclusive face-to-face conversations with government and private sector leaders from healthcare, education, retail, e-commerce, tourism and hospitality.

“The support and enthusiasm from our speakers, exhibitors, partners, the wider business community and our very own team have been so exceptional,” said executive vice-president, Dubai World Trade Centre, Trixie LohMirmand.

Dubai has started to welcome again international tourists, complete with comprehensive precautionary measures and protocols to ensure the highest international standards of health and safety.

Crown Prince of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited Dubai Airport to review the preparations and preventive protocols in place to welcome tourists back, starting from 7 July.

Ahead of the reopening, Dubai had received the Safe Travels Stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which validates the stringent global hygiene and safety protocols the city has put in place.

Ranked one of the world’s five most visited cities for the fifth year in a row by Mastercard’s Global Destination Cities Index (GDCI) 2019, Dubai welcomed 15.93m international overnight visitors last year.

#DubaiWorldTradeCenter, #GDCI,  #Mastercard,  #WTTC

See you all at AIME in March 2021 and discover why it's #NOTJUSTANOTHERTRADESHOW

TALK2 MEDIA & EVENTS
Level 7, 60 City Road, Southbank, Victoria 3006 Australia
phone +61 3 7000 0500
email info@talk2.media
web talk2.media

BCEC GETS THE GREEN LIGHT

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) announced it would be opening its doors again in August under the new Site Specific COVID Safe Plan.

Queensland Treasurer, the Hon. Cameron Dick has formally announced that the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) would be reopening in August 2020 following the approval by Queensland Health of its Site Specific COVID Safe Plan.

The Treasurer stated that the reopening of BCEC is a significant milestone for Queensland.

“As we unite and recover from the pandemic, it’s cause for celebration that we can welcome staff and visitors back to this outstanding venue”, the Treasurer said.

BCEC’s Plan is integrated with VenueShield, a new environmental hygiene protocol developed by BCEC’s parent group, ASM Global and rolled out at ASM Global’s 325 venues worldwide. VenueShield provides the most advanced hygiene safeguards and exceeds current regulations.

To develop the comprehensive new protocols, ASM Global engaged its in-house executive teams including BCEC and distilled the expertise from across its global network of venues spanning stadia, arenas, theatres, convention and exhibition centres, including the Asia Pacific region.

The Centre is planning to host its first events from August 2020, with the health and wellbeing of our clients, patrons and staff a top priority.

A newly developed BCEC Safe Event Guideline has been prepared and will assist clients in planning their events at the Centre and encompasses all the necessary health and hygiene safeguards, food safety measures and social distancing required under the current opening conditions. The Guideline is designed to ensure the safe hosting of events, providing reassurance and confidence for the Centre’s patrons and staff.

With a total of 44 meeting rooms and event spaces, as a venue BCEC is able to provide the additional space that is required to accommodate current social distancing regulations for events of all sizes. The Centre has flexible and adaptable spaces, floor plans and capacities to satisfy all required protocols.

BCEC General Manager, Bob O’Keeffe AM said: it is yet another sign of green shoots in the recovery of the Business Events industry. “BCEC drives almost 70% of Brisbane’s business events room nights and we are looking forward to welcoming events back to the Centre and doing what we do best, attracting much sought-after and high yield business events to Brisbane and Queensland.”

See you all at AIME in March 2021 and discover why it's #NOTJUSTANOTHERTRADESHOW

TALK2 MEDIA & EVENTS
Level 7, 60 City Road, Southbank, Victoria 3006 Australia
phone +61 3 7000 0500
email info@talk2.media
web talk2.media

AIME SAYS HELLO TO A NEW HYBRID MODEL

To provide certainty in these 'uncertain' times, AIME has embraced a new show model that combines virtual and live event components, to ensure the industry can still meet, exchange knowledge and do much-needed business, wherever they are in the world.

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), the leading meetings and incentives event in the region, has announced the 2021 show will now take place from 15-17 March at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, incorporating a virtual format. In an AIME first, the show is going hybrid!

With uncertainty around international travel as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the AIME team have developed a show model that combines virtual and live event components, to ensure the industry can still meet, exchange knowledge and do much needed business, wherever they are in the world.

A poll conducted during the APAC webinar on the Joint Meeting Industry Council Manifesto for Economic Recovery using Business Events, revealed that 89 per cent of attendees expected to see hybrid events in 2021, further validating the move to the new show model.

“We understand that we all have a role to play in driving business events to help rebuild global economies and the new hybrid AIME is being designed to quickly help kickstart our industry in 2021. By moving the show to March, we are giving the industry some extra time to adjust to post-COVID conditions as well as providing them with a road to new business opportunity,” said Matt Pearce, CEO, Talk2 Media & Events.

The AIME hybrid model will see exhibitors, hosted buyers and visitors attend either in person in Melbourne and virtually via the AIME online event portal.

As we explore how to maximise the hybrid nature of the event, the virtual component means that meetings will no longer be restricted to the physical show dates. International virtual exhibitors and visitors will have the freedom to schedule meetings best suited to individual time zone schedules. In addition the Knowledge program content will be accessible at any time.

All exhibitors will form part of the virtual exhibition, with those able to travel still taking part in the vibrant live show floor in Melbourne. They will also benefit from an increased number of buyers, particularly buyers who have previously been unable to attend and can now do so from the comfort of their own office.

All buyers that form part of the AIME Hosted Buyer program, whether they be virtual or hosted in Melbourne, will continue to be vetted to ensure that they have business to place. The AIME team has commenced buyer recruitment and anticipate a large increase of buyers attending AIME virtually or in person in 2021.

“The recovery of Australia’s business events industry will depend on careful planning, unity, and the industry coming together. Engaging with businesses across Australia on the importance and value of events will also play a role in ensuring they are ready and willing to meet and do business when the time is right. If all things go as planned, AIME 2021 will be an early opportunity to renew business relationships, to be inspired and to start planning the events which will put the industry back on its feet.” Said Penny Lion, Executive General Manager Events, Tourism Australia.

Further improvements are also in the works across the show, including an updated meeting matching process, which will adopt a more enhanced filtered approach designed to deliver better meeting outcomes for exhibitors and buyers, virtual networking opportunities and new activations on the show floor.

AIME kicks off the 2021 Global Business Events calendar and is held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 15-17 March. For more details or to submit interest in exhibiting or attending AIME in 2021, visit aime.com.au. To follow AIME’s journey on social media visit Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

See you all at AIME in March 2021 and discover why it's #NOTJUSTANOTHERTRADESHOW

TALK2 MEDIA & EVENTS
Level 7, 60 City Road, Southbank, Victoria 3006 Australia
phone +61 3 7000 0500
email info@talk2.media
web talk2.media