The international business events community has reunited at IMEX in Frankfurt in a powerful sign of confidence for the sector.
IMEX in Frankfurt, which kicked off today (Tuesday 31 May) at Messe Frankfurt and runs until Thursday 2 June, marks a milestone moment for the industry: its biggest international gathering since the pandemic. The next three days will see the community reunite – many for the first time in three years – to reconnect and do business, providing a global snapshot of the sector.
Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, said: “This week’s IMEX in Frankfurt represents a microcosm of the global marketplace and is at the heart of the industry’s restart. We’re in the early stages of rebuilding our sector but have every reason to be confident.
"Over the next few days the show floor will play host to partners, buyers and suppliers from across the globe, and the deals discussed here will lead directly to job creation, professional development and industry advancement, in turn helping to generate positive economic impact the world over.”
With exhibitors representing more than 100 countries, the show floor reflects the international business events market. There are more than 40 new stands and many returning suppliers who have expanded their presence at the show.
Many exhibitors have a strong story to tell that reflects recent and significant investment in the sector, such as ExCeL London’s expansion, Ethiopia’s new convention bureau, the launch of Transcend Cruises and St Louis who are marking the start of direct flights to Frankfurt by bringing a high-level delegation to the show. Destinations are also using IMEX in Frankfurt as the stage to launch new venues, these include Uzbekistan, New Zealand, Austria, Heidelberg, Bahrain and Bangkok.
With more than 2,800 buyers registered and thousands of appointments made, the next three days effectively hold up a mirror to the international business events and meetings community as it reignites, showcasing its state of business readiness and its short and long-term growth prospects.
M&IT editor Paul Harvey is a journalist with more than 15 years of experience. He began his career in the local press, working for various titles across the north. Since joining M&IT in 2013, he has become a trusted and respected voice in the sector, championing event professionals and reporting on all aspects of the events industry for the brand.
