ITB Asia to stay at Marina Bay

SINGAPORE Messe Berlin Singapore, the organisers of ITB Asia, has extended its venue contract with Marina Bay Sands for another three years from 2017 to 2019.
The company first signed an agreement with the integrated resort from 2014 to 2016, but there were rumours that it would return to Suntec City in 2017 now that it has completed renovations. The first four editions of the trade show were held there.
The next four editions of ITB Asia will continue to take place at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, from 19 to 21 October 2016, 25 to 27 October 2017, 17 to 19 October 2018, and 16 to 18 October 2019.
“We will continue to harness the expertise and synergies to create an optimal business environment for our delegates and lift the overall offering of our show to exhibitors, buyers and attendees,” said Messe Berlin (Singapore) executive director Katrina Leung.

inside no 7 with caption
ITB Asia extends agreement with Marina Bay Sands for another three years from 2017 to 2019. (From L to R) Katrina Leung, Executive Director, Messe Berlin (Singapore); Benny Zin, Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Conventions and Exhibitions, Marina Bay Sands; Christian Göke, CEO, Messe Berlin; Martin Buck, Senior Vice President, Messe Berlin and Mike Lee, Vice President of Sales, Marina Bay Sands.
Messe Berlin claimed there were 760 exhibitors from 73 countries, with close to 880 buyers and attracted more than 10,300 attendees over the three days. Figures cannot be independently confirmed and the definition of buyers was not stated (companies or individuals). Some buyer companies had two or three buyers registered based at the same office address.
Like most commercially operated trade shows, the organisers came in for criticism concerning the quality of hosted buyers.
Despite the criticism ITB Asia continues to concentrate on other areas such as conference content rather than address seller concerns.
Organisers say they expand the show in 2016 and will continue successful elements such as the on-floor Travel & Technology Showcase. ITB Asia will also introduce new features such as a Destination Showcase where destinations can highlight their unique offerings to attendees.
The organisers defend the hybrid nature of the show.
“ITB Asia attracts delegates from across all sectors of the travel industry, including MICE, corporate and leisure companies. It acts as a platform for delegates to network and identify new business opportunities.”
“The show’s powerful line up of conference programme also helps to provide a holistic and comprehensive view of the latest trends, issues and opportunities in the sector.”

sourced:ttrweeklyl.com