789 EXHIBITING COMPANIES AT FIRST AIBTM
OVER 11,000 PRE-SCHEDULED APPOINTMENTS
60 INTERNATIONAL & US CEO’S JOIN FIRST SUMMIT
The first AIBTM was opened officially today by the Mayor of Baltimore, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake who toured the show meeting Ambassadors from several countries, and speaking about the positive economic impact of AIBTM on the city.
Following on from the AIBTM Education Day that kicked off America Meetings Week on Tuesday, today saw the expo open and the first of 11,000 pre-scheduled appointments begin between US and International Hosted Buyers and suppliers.
Early signs from the show floor indicated that the event was exceeding everyone’s expectations. “The format is excellent for a first year show. It’s truly awesome. We have seen a lot of new faces and that’s the biggest deal. The industry needed a new format and this is it. We couldn’t be more pleased, we have done enough business in the first few hours that means I could actually go home right now!” Said Gary Musich, Vice President Sales & Service Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority.
With 789 exhibitors from 52 countries the show has increased by 40% over the original floor plan. Hosted Buyers from Asia, Europe, South and North America will also be able to join 5 early morning education sessions before the show floor opens.
The total number of participants registered to attend is approximately 3,872 and whilst the total number of buyers is not available until the end of the show, there have been 1533 registered today, Wednesday 22nd June.
America Meetings Week includes a number of co-located events including the CIC Hall of Leaders Gala, PCMA Education Conference, Launch of MPI Value of Meetings research and several networking functions of which the highlight will be for those attending the U2 live concert tonight in Baltimore.
Photos of AIBTM 2011 are available online at http://www.aibtm.com/live and will be updated daily.
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