Small and inexperienced start-ups will have the chance to exhibit in a technology-focused environment at The Meetings Show this June, thanks to the return of the Future of Meetings initiative.
The concept, launched by the Meeting Design Institute in 2016, targets start-up businesses with less than ten staff and less than three years’ experience in the meetings and events industry.
MDI’s Maarten Vanneste (right) said: “Those participating in the initiative get the chance to exhibit at a world-class exhibition to boost their profile – an opportunity smaller, start-up companies don’t usually get.
“It gives event planners the chance to meet with organisations who are providing the latest technological solutions,” she adds.
The Future of Meetings is a competitive programme, with hosted buyers and visitors encouraged to vote for an overall winner at the end of the show.
More from the show
New this year is a focused Agency Day on June 15, with content created in partnership with the HBAA, the trade association for the hotel booking agency, and senior management teams from several agencies.
Over 700 exhibitors are expected; making this year’s show the biggest to date.
Those attending include Dubai Convention & Events Bureau, Croatia National Tourist Board, London & Partners, VisitScotland, Hilton Worldwide, Kempinski Hotels and Hyatt Hotels.
The education programme is expected to exceed that of previous years with more than 80 sessions. Topics range from the current state of the industry and the impact of Brexit to best practice, negotiation and engagement. Education streams will include technology, marketing and branding, meeting design, healthcare and leadership and management.
Organised by Centaur Live, The Meetings Show serves the UK inbound and outbound meetings industry, taking place June 13-15, at Olympia, London.
