Reed Exhibitions, the organisers behind the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME), has this week announced the addition of a new invitation only application process for Hosted Buyers interested in attending the show.

The new process is being introduced to “increase the quality of new and existing buyers” at the annual expo in Melbourne, organisers say.

In addition, it is hoped that the new invitation process will enable a more efficient and fast-tracked registration process.

Kerry Prince, ibtm Events Portfolio Director said recruiting quality, high-value Hosted Buyers is a key focus for AIME in 2018.

“This is a big year for AIME – the show itself will see a number of changes, but the Hosted Buyer Program will see the most significant change. We want to entice quality meeting, event and incentive planners to become Hosted Buyers, having revised the program to be more time-efficient and having taken on board feedback from last year’s participants.

“Initially, we want to encourage industry buyers to express their interest in being a part of AIME 2018.The changes we have made reflect the evolution of the Hosted Buyer Programs we deliver across the ibtm events portfolio and reflect the changing needs of meeting planners across the globe,” Ms Prince said.

Changes to the program also include extended appointment times and more time between appointments.

Reed Exhibitions have also introduced the Trade Buyer Program for 2018, inviting local event planners to apply, giving them access to the full range of exhibitors and to make pre-scheduled appointments.

AIME 2018 will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre 20 to 21 February.