More than 35 sessions on topics from careers and communication to security and sustainability took place on the Impact and Inform and Innovate and Inspire stages with the Blank Canvas offering a more hands-on approach to learning.
There was a wealth of topics discussed in the Power of Events Hub and on Isla’s, The Meetings Industry Association’s and MESA’s stands to help inform, inspire, and empower visitors to think, connect, plan, and live differently. Buyers flocked to stands to meet with almost 700 exhibitors – from convention bureaux and DMCs to hotels and conference centres – from the UK and around the globe.
“The Meetings Show is one of the best shows we do. It’s important to generate new business but still great to check in with agents and corporate clients we know already.”
Thousands of meetings were held over the two days with exhibitors rekindling existing contacts and making new ones as they showcased their MICE facilities and services to buyers in the corporate and associations sectors. Visitors also took a moment to explore the world’s first zero-waste, reusable exhibition stand made from event waste carpet. Making its global debut at the show, the stand, created by Paradigm in collaboration with partners Isla, The Bulb, Informa and The Meetings Show, set a precedent for future exhibitions with a sustainable focus.
Exhibitor Daniel McDonald of Carden Park Hotel & Spa in Chester, said: “The Meetings Show is one of the best shows we do. We love seeing a mixture of new clients and existing ones. It’s important to generate new business but still great to check in with agents and corporate clients we know already.”
Lee Scott of The Hoxton, Edinburgh added: “The Meetings Show has been valuable for positioning our hotel and making new, and strengthening old, connections. This is my third time at The Meetings Show and it always attracts a good mix of people and it’s a great chance to build a network, as you meet those you see at events through the year and also some new people.“
Hosted buyers also reported a successful two days and were grateful to be able to #TakeTheTime to attend. There were multiple chances for networking with on-stand receptions with exhibitors including The Delegate Wranglers, VisitScotland and Venues of Excellence providing a relaxing chance to catch up over a drink or two at the end of day one.
Jack Marczewski, portfolio event director, Northstar Meetings Group, said: “What a show! We are thrilled to have once again inspired and connected thousands of buyers with MICE suppliers from around the globe as they took time out from their busy schedules to attend. It was fantastic to see the show floor absolutely buzzing with energy and to hear about so many tangible results.“
