In a world of increasing technical and digital capability, the power of imagination is regarded as a uniquely human attribute, and it’s particularly crucial in the events industry.
That’s why IMEX Group has chosen ‘imagination’ as its talking point for 2019.
IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America, taking place in May and September respectively, will explore this theme and encourage attendees to embrace imagination.
“Our annual Talking Point shines a spotlight on an emerging or important trend – one that’s making waves around the world and in our industry,” said Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group.
“Imagination is the glue that holds our events together – sparking creativity throughout the planning process in order to attract attendees time and time again.
“We’re celebrating and encouraging one of the core aspects of our humanity – imagination – urging everyone in the global meetings and events industry to get creative, exercise more curiosity and challenge assumptions in light of the period of change we’re currently living in.”
The IMEX team will focus on the following three core aspects of imagination in 2019:
1. Transformation and collaboration
IMEX is encouraging meeting and event professionals to consider how they can collaborate – not compete – with other organisations and the benefits this can bring. Within the event and incentive travel industry, airlines, hotel groups, designers, supply chain businesses, universities, software developers, architects and even countries are forming alliances and in doing so they’re transforming business models, customer service and events experiences.
2. Diversity and inclusion
IMEX aims to unite and advance the meetings industry by connecting all kinds of people together in order to generate powerful relationships. The talking point will prompt professionals to imagine a more inclusive event from the outset and keep diversity front of mind throughout the planning process.
3. Sustainability
Through this year’s talking point, the IMEX team seeks to prompt a fresh approach to greener meetings and events, encouraging planners to demand change. Green materials, food choices, suppliers and more are now not only viable but also distinctly desirable. The IMEX team believes that there really are no excuses anymore and younger generations in particular will vote with their feet, their attention and their money to prove how much they want to protect the planet.
IMEX Frankfurt will take place at Messe Frankfurt on 21-23 May 2019, while IMEX America will take place on 10-12 September 2019 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center.
