Meeting Newz January / February 2021

I NDUSTRY NEWS ] Meet somewhere different – we make planning your next West Coast Event a breeze westcoast.co.nz/meet/ NEW YEAR, NEW PLACES, NEW IDEAS The 2021 Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has been cancelled due to concerns brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was scheduled to be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and online in March. Event organisers Talk2 Media & Events says that like many other events, AIME faced challenges with international and domestic travel restrictions despite healthy interest for the event from AIME Cancels 2021 event exhibitors and buyers. “As the past year has shown, it’s difficult to predict if border closures will be required to slow the spread of future outbreaks,” says Matt Pearce, CEO of Talk2 Media & Events. “As difficult as it is to cancel, we cannot in good conscience stage an event that devalues the quality of experience or accessibility of AIME in delivering meaningful interactions for exhibitors and visitors, alongside subsequent appointments with our international networks. “The business events industry is facing many challenges and the entire Talk 2 Media & Events team will be there to support our community, until we meet again at AIME 2022.” AIME 2022 will play a significant role in the business events industry’s recovery and create and re-establish valuable connections to drive commerce for the wider region. With support from the Melbourne Convention Bureau, AIME has begun contacting attendees, including those who have already registered, to manage existing bookings and arrangements, as well as event refunds. “The feedback so far has been overwhelmingly supportive of our difficult decision, as the team at Talk2 Media make their way through contacting every one of AIME’s buyers and exhibitors to update them on the latest developments and provide support in managing arrangements,” says Julia Swanson, CEO, Melbourne Convention Bureau. “It’s a real testament to our industry and we’re looking forward to delivering an even bigger and better show in 2022.” meeting newz [january february] 2021 [9]