MOSCOW Russia's business events sector is anticipating growth in excess of 17 percent in 2013.
According to a survey of 1,300 event professionals conducted at the annual Moscow International MICE Forum, 37 per cent organise between 10 and 12 events annually with more than half of these events having between 40 and 100 participants. Incentives and seminars comprise 66 per cent of Russia's events industry.
"The market is primarily dominated by the larger tour operators with specialised MICE department. A growing number of companies offering targeted MICE services exist in Russia and a great deal of business is also conducted by smaller agencies," said Kim Waddoup, leading Russian business events expert and organiser of the Moscow International Forum. "In addition, many domestic event organisers are now also using their contacts and experience to arrange events abroad."
Based on the survey, while Turkey remains the main destination for outbound groups from Russia because of its no-visa policy and good price points, other countries are now being eyed as alternative destinations. These are Cyprus, Spain, Italy, Croatia, Austria, the UK, Ireland, UAE and Portugal. In Asia-Pacific, this would include Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand.
About 63 per cent of the respondents said they expect corporate clients to increase their event budget by more than 35 per cent this year. Furthermore, more than half of those surveyed expect Russian events sector to reach a turnover of between €100,000 (US$126, 428) and€500,000 (US$632,140) in 2013.
"Most Russian MICE groups want the best facilities, memorable events and are prepared to pay for this," Waddoup said. "Suppliers will often find themselves compeeting with other destinations rather than local competitors, so ensure that offers are clear and indicate exactly what is and what is not included. They don't like unpleasant surprises."
For more information on the report, contact Kim Waddoup at kim@aigroup.ru
Randall Sim
