Johannesburg – A warm evening on the deck of the Sandton Sun was the scene for a large gathering of many of the industry’s top meetings and conferencing stakeholders. Carol Weaving, Managing Director of Thebe Reed Exhibitions and IBTM Africa Project Manager, Shinu Pillai, from Reed Travel Exhibitions, addressed a large crowd on Monday evening about the merits of being involved in Africa’s inaugural IBTM (Incentives Business and Travel Meetings). They explained that IBTM Africa, part of Africa Travel Week, is a by invitation only table top event where exhibitors will meet with pre-qualified Hosted Buyers through a pre-scheduled appointment system during three days of business, education and networking. “Exhibitors are guaranteed productive meetings with people who really matter to your business.” Confirmed Pillai.
The impressive array of guests included many companies who are excited about having signed up to take part in the inaugural IBTM Africa, and some who were, until tonight looking for more information before signing up. Pillai advised that there are still a limited number of places available and that they are expected to be snapped up very quickly.
Erica Gardiner, Group Sales Manager for Three Cities Hotels who will be exhibiting at IBTM Africa and WTM Africa said “Reed Exhibitions are known to have a global presence, with a history of successful shows and a huge buyer contact base. We are excited about the opportunity to engage with new hosted buyers through the appointment scheduling and formats that Reed Travel Exhibitions bring to the table with their shows.”
Charles Drewe, Operations Manager at the Indaba Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre who is participating in IBTM Africa, and WTM Africa commented on the people present and said “It’s wonderful to see so many captains of industry all in one place. I have been exhibiting at many of the Reed Travel Exhibitions shows around the world for a long time and it is an absolute privilege to welcome the IBTM brand to South Africa. It is exciting that it brings the concept to South African companies who will now have access to the business opportunities IBTM provides, right here in Cape Town!”
Thebe Reed Exhibitions generously donated a prize for 4 to enjoy the Disney on Ice spectacular that will be held at the Coca Cola Dome in July. The lucky winner of this prize was Moses Magiri, Market Manager for DMC Private Safaris.
The inaugural IBTM Africa will be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 28-30 April 2014.
For further information, please see www.ibtmevents.com/ibtmafrica. For further Africa Travel Week information, please see www.africatravelweek.com.
