IMEX jockeys for support against new EIBTM Barcelona placement

Frankfurt The battle for the hearts and wallets of exhibitors to the two leading world showcases for the conference and business event industry looks set to be decided this year. In Frankfurt, IMEX had its second outing in May, performing well after its Sars tainted debut last year. In late November, Reed Exhibitions takes EIBTM to Barcelona after over 15 years in Geneva. For many of the Asia Pacific exhibitors, 2004 is a crunch year when they decide which show they will support long-term as exhibiting at these major trade fairs in Europe is extremely costly. Many Asian exhibitors had mixed feelings at IMEX, with destinations reporting varied levels of happiness about the quality and quantity of buyers. What was obvious, however, was that exhibiting companies who had sent CEOs or senior management were drawing in buyers through recognition and reputation. Events manager for Asian Overland Services in Kuala Lumpur, Richard Kuan, said the company was on track to secure two solid pieces of business from the show, which would be enough to justify its presence. "We've seen clients from Turkey and Saudi Arabia and are confident we'll secure incentive travel business from them into Malaysia. There is good business coming out of the Middle East, especially in pharmaceuticals and financial services, despite the difficulties in some places." From Sri Lanka, Dhammika Gunasekara, senior manager Jet Asia, said IMEX had been a "bit slow" but it was important that the country and his company participate as Sri Lanka was reaping the benefits of a cessation in hostilities in the long-running civic war with the Tamil Tigers.