Research conducted during ibtm america in Chicago and post show concludes that the new meeting pod format, held for the first time in June this past year, provided the connections and business that led to 95 percent of exhibitors agreeing that the new pod format signified the ever changing needs of the industry and that following their 2015 experience, they were likely to exhibit at ibtm america 2016.
ibtm america delivered over 5,200 pre-scheduled appointments over the course of the three-day show. As a new style, closed door event for the meetings industry in the U.S., for the first time, both exhibitors and Hosted Buyers took part in a pre-show mutual match system where each selected who they wanted to meet and do business with. 96 percent of requested appointment slots were filled on an average number of appointments per exhibitor of 29.
Jaime McAuley, event director, ibtm america commented “This was the first edition of ibtm america with the new meeting pod format and we are delighted with the feedback that we have received.
“Within weeks of ibtm america 2015 closing we have had more than 57 meeting pods confirmed for 2016 at our new destination of Nashville including British Virgin Island Tourism, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, Jamaica Tourist Board, Station Casinos, Long Island CVB/Westchester Country Tourism, Experience Grand Rapids, and Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.
We’re very much looking forward to welcoming our exhibitors and Hosted Buyers to Nashville next year.”
Tina Gerson, Director of National Accounts at The Diplomat Hotel Florida summed up her experience as an exhibitor at this year’s event: “First experience of an ibtm event. I love the meeting pod concept, it takes it to another level compared to other shows. I loved the appointment system—everyone matched and I didn’t need to even ask. I probably have a dozen solid leads from ibtm america and if just one books its paid for my meeting pod! I would say 90 percent of hosted buyers who met with me had specific business for the future. I am looking forward to coming to Nashville in 2016!”
Bianca Caia, National Events Manager, MYOB Australia Pty Ltd commented: “I recently attended the ibtm Chicago event, as a hosted buyer. I thought the program was fantastic. The staff were super friendly, helpful and really attentive. The appointments were in line with our business needs and requirements and there was enough time allocated so that it was not rushed. I loved the app too, instead of having to lug around a piece of paper with my appointments on it, I could simply jump into the app and they were there. It made the process easy, efficient and cool.”
Gigi Gleason, Manager, Global Strategic Meetings Auto Desk, commented: “I had great appointments and think I made some excellent connections which will help me grow our program internationally. I’m already working with some of the people I met.”
ibtm america 2016 will take place in Nashville from June 15-17.
For further information about exhibiting or applying as a Hosted Buyer, please visit www.ibtmamerica.com
