The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has released new research insights into the success of AIME 2022, revealing that more $120 million in business is expected to be placed as a result of the event.

This result comes at a 20 percent increase on AIME 2020, which was held before the COVID-19 pandemic and signals a strong recovery across the business events industry.

Further insights from the post-event report show that 95 percent of exhibitors cited AIME 2022 as an important event for their business, with more than 94 percent stating they were impressed with their return on investment. Furthermore, 95 percent of delegates agree AIME is the place to make important business connections, namely due to its great atmosphere (83 percent) and strong reputation (81 percent).

“This year AIME defied all expectations,” AIME event director Silke Calder said.

“We’ve received incredible feedback from exhibitors and buyers from all over the world, many of whom have revived their business activities as a result of attending AIME.

“It was most rewarding to see the industry back in its natural element – networking and building relationships face-to-face – these are the things that build success and enrich us on a personal level.”

The Asia Pacific region’s leading trade convention for the meetings and events industry was held in-person at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) 21-23 March, and online 28 March – 1 April.

The three-day event welcomed more than 1,660 visitor buyers and suppliers, over 230 exhibitors, and a further 320 hosted buyers.

Celebrating 30 years, AIME 2023 will once again return to MCEC, on 13–15 February 2023.