AIME 2023 will see the famed Melbourne incentive and meetings trade show mark its 30th anniversary when it takes place in February.
Some 400 buyers, 2,000 visitor buyers and more than 300 exhibitors have already signed up for the Asia-Pacific Incentive and Meetings Event (AIME) at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).
Representatives from Asia, the Middle East, the Untied States and Europe will also be at the event.
“Five months out from the show and AIME has already sold over 80 per cent of its showfloor,” said Silke Calder, AIME event director.
“We’re thrilled with the support we’ve received from international destinations along with Australia’s convention bureaus – every state in Australia will be represented at AIME next year. It sets the scene for a wonderful 30-year celebration.”
With nearly 60 per cent of the world’s population located in the Asia Pacific region, AIME organisers say the show is an ideal platform for capitalising on the region’s growing business events industry.
“There is no other show in the APAC region that guarantees introductions with such highly qualified and vetted buyers, and this was reinforced by the A$120 million [in business] written at AIME 2022,” Calder said.
A “reimagined showfloor” including dedicated zones for tech suppliers, hotel chains and international pavilions is being planned to enhance the show experience and facilitate networking.
A Knowledge Program Advisory Committee has been set up consisting of eight leaders from the Asia Pacific meetings and events industry who will guide the curation of the Knowledge Program to be held on February 13, when the three-day show opens. The programme promises to “spark interest, stir debate and engage all areas of the events sector”.
Julia Swanson, CEO of Melbourne Convention Bureau, which owns the show, said: “AIME is undoubtedly the most trusted and significant business event held in the region.
“Each year we see our offering adapt to the changing times and this year is no different. AIME’s home – the MCEC, is the first convention centre in the world to have a six Green Star rating and this commitment to sustainability has underpinned AIME’s 30-year legacy.”
Exhibitor sales and hosted buyer registration are open. For details or to register to attend AIME 2023, visit aime.com.au
