Monday, January 25, 2021
The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Events (AIME) recently announced that it has decided to cancel 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. The event organisers have shared that like many other events, this event has also faced the challenges brought about by international and domestic travel restrictions despite healthy interest for the event from exhibitors and buyers.
Matt Pearce, CEO, Talk2 Media & Events said in his statement that the past year has shown, that it is difficult to predict if border closures will be required to slow the spread of future outbreaks. He mentioned that as difficult as it is to cancel the event, organisers 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 international networks. He shared that the Business Events industry is facing many challenges and the entire Talk 2 Media & Events team will be there to support the community, until they meet again at AIME 2022.
Julia Swanson, CEO, Melbourne Convention Bureau added that the feedback so far has been overwhelmingly supportive of the difficult decision, as the team at Talk2 Media is making their way through contacting every single one of AIME’s buyers and exhibitors to update the latest developments and provide support in managing arrangements. She stated that it is a real testament to the industry and shared that the team is looking forward to deliver an even bigger and better show in 2022. Mr Pearce continued and mentioned that organisers continue to remain optimistic that business events will adapt, innovate and emerge stronger than ever.
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. AIME’s upcoming event will take place on March 21-23, 2022, with full details to follow in the coming months.
Saturday, December 30, 2023
