With less than three months to go before the events industry connects at AIME 2023, we sat down with Hosted Buyer Manager Jackie Caldwell to get the inside scoop on what’s new for the #AIME2023 show.
What can Hosted Buyers expect from AIME 2023?
Our Hosted Buyers will find a redesigned showfloor centred around face-to-face connection and networking. A lot has changed within the industry over the last two years especially contacts. AIME 2023 is the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded Hosted Buyers and build great networks – there are lots of new faces in the industry and more cross-pollination than ever before, with companies having to share limited resources when events are in different places.
Hosted Buyers will be wowed by new ideas in the Ideas Academy and will be inspired by the reimagined Knowledge Program. The theme: ‘Your Industry. Your Opportunity’ will see presenters tackle the challenges, opportunities and future of the events industry.
In other exciting news, post-show famils are back. This means Hosted Buyers can extend their AIME journey and dive into the best that regional New South Wales (Australian buyers only) and New Zealand (International buyers only) has to offer.
How will AIME be celebrating its 30th anniversary?
The Welcome Event will be the key moment in the show program that celebrates AIME’s 30-year anniversary. This not-to-be-missed event will be co-hosted by AIME and show owners Melbourne Convention Bureau.
To make AIME’s 30th year extra special, we are keeping the location of the Welcome Event secret until the day of the event.
What are some new features Hosted Buyers will experience at AIME 2023?
The ‘Activate’ area introduced at AIME 2022 returns and will be three times the size; showcasing even more new boutique event suppliers to meet and do business with.
The recently named Accor Hosted Buyers Lounge sees AIME take on a naming rights partner for the first time. We cannot wait to see how Accor puts their own unique touch on the space.
Who are some of the stand-out exhibitors Hosted Buyers should not miss?
There are so many to choose from! The return of international travel means international destinations like Abu Dhabi and Japan will be on-show. Hosted Buyers will be spoilt for choice when deciding on who to meet with!
The Activate area will also have a number of new exhibitors including The Jackson – a luxurious new superyacht; Sydney Sea Planes; Sydney Oyster Farm and space booking platform Airplacer.
With the cruise industry bouncing back, we have some great new operators to check out. We’re also excited to have every state in Australia represented, supported by the Bureaus who always brings an incredible mix of co-exhibitors with them.
It’s going to be a show you just simply cannot miss!
What are some of the key trends you’re currently seeing within the industry and how will they be showcased at AIME 2023?
The boom in technology! Following the pandemic, we are seeing event planners tap into technology more and more to support event experiences. At AIME 2023, Hosted Buyers will be pleased to find a ‘Tech Zone’ on the showfloor for the first time.
Another key trend is wellness. With the events industry moving at a record pace, it is more important than ever to ensure we’re taking time out from planning to rejuvenate. AIME 2023 will introduce a new Wellness Café to provide delegates with a space to nourish their minds and bodies.
What is your advice to Hosted Buyers to get the most out of AIME 2023?
My go-to points of advice for surviving AIME are:
- Come prepared with printed event specifications to distribute at your meetings. It might be old-fashioned, but it works – you only get 15 minutes with each exhibitor.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing – it’s a no-brainer.
- Hydrate! With lots of talking, make sure to drink plenty of water to avoid a sore throat.
- Get lots of rest before the show. AIME is a wild ride of talking, eating and drinking, so pace yourself.
- Balance the serious side of business with the fun and energetic atmosphere of being part of such a terrific and inspiring industry event.
Why should someone register as a Hosted Buyer for AIME 2023?
AIME is the first event on the global events calendar, and it is the best way to connect with the industry and kick off the year strong. All great event planners know the value of keeping their pipelines full and attending AIME really sets you up for success.
Hosted Buyer Registrations are now open and close on 13 December 2022. Register here. All Australian buyers will go into the running to win a five-day New Zealand experience for two including flights and accommodation.
Connect with Jackie Caldwell, Hosted Buyer Manager on email.
