Organisers have seemingly come to the conclusion, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it?” going back to basics for next year’s AIME programme.
The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) and Reed Travel Exhibitions (Reed) have rejigged the forthcoming 2016 Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) after acknowledging delegate feedback for some key events missed this year.
Returning “due to high demand” will be a “new-look” welcome reception hosted by MCB on the Monday evening (Feb 22) before the AIME show floor kicks off on Tuesday Feb 23 2016, and will altogether scrap the gala event on the Wednesday evening.
Also back is the popular networking hour on Tuesday on the show floor, with the evening free from official obligations to allow for exhibitors to host private functions for delegates.
Popular Saxton Showcase makes a comeback on the Wednesday morning and AIME Knowledge will make a move off the floor to inside the lecture theatres.
The changes signify a return to a pre-2015 AIME programming, which resulted in largely unsatisfactory buyer and exhibitor feedback, made public by some media outlets, post show.
Sallie Coventry, ibtm events Portfolio Director, Reed said in its 24th year the show has “evolved to ensure it remains invaluable” to the business events community.
“The changes to the program reflect the needs of the industry, feedback from exhibitors and buyers, and are a direct result of the productive sessions involving the new Advisory Board and a customer roadshow, which took place in June this year,” Coventry said.
The Hosted Buyer appointment system has also been given an overhaul after a number of complaints at this year’s show, and will move to a new platform along with webinairs and manuals for exhibitors to maximise the use of the appointment system.
AIME have yet to appoint a regional Events Director after the sudden resignation of Jacqui Timmins earlier this year.
AIME 2016 in Melbourne will open on Tuesday 23 February 2016, 10:00am to 6:00pm and Wednesday 24 February, 10:00am to 5:00pm.
