LAS VEGAS- The Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas was the scene of a joyous reunion at the world’s largest trade show for the meetings and conventions industry, hosted by IMEX America. After last year’s show was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s show was highly anticipated, as evidenced by the hugs on the show floor.
This year, the event was in its 10th edition and attracted 3,300 buyers and more than 2,200 exhibiting companies representing more than 200 countries.
The show welcomed a wide range of international exhibitors and the lifting of travel restrictions for international travelers arriving in the United States the day before the show began was a plus. On November 8, international flights began landing at U.S. airports for the first time since the lockdown was put in place.
Unsurprisingly, the number of buyers was down from the 2019 edition, with 4,000 buyers and 3,400 exhibitors. As is often the case in the trade show industry, exhibitors indicated that attendees were there to do business.
“Appointments numbered approximately 50,000 and feedback shows that they generated good business for exhibitors. The quality of business and RFPs from appointments booked by participating buyers was also remarkable,” said Ray Bloom, IMEX President and CEO.
The mood at the show was upbeat. “It’s heartening and joyful to hear so many comeback stories. London & Partners, the LVCVA and dozens of others, including hotel groups like Mandarin Oriental, have all reported strong business pipelines through to Q3 next year and into 2025. This IMEX week has given us all reason to believe that the future of the sector is bright,” said Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX.
This year, IMEX America was the largest show ever held in Canada, with more than 70 partners in attendance, representing the diversity of the country and the largest display area of the conference. “Our message is that Canada is open for business,” said Chantal Sturk-Nadeau, Managing Director of Business Events at Destination Canada.
“We’re back doing what we love,” said Michael Massari, Caesars Entertainment’s chief sales officer. “Our schedule for the next 15 months is extremely busy.”
Health and safety were at the forefront of the gathering. All IMEX America attendees were required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination to gain access to the show floor. CLEAR’s Health Pass was used, and upon presentation of vaccination certification, each attendee was provided with an IMEX wristband that allowed them access to the show floor.
IMEX America 2022 dates have been confirmed for October 11-13, with Smart Monday powered by MPI on October 10.
Contact Ray Bloom at ray.bloom@imexexhibitions.com; Carina Bauer at carina.bauer@imexexhibitions.com; Chantal Sturk-Nadeau at (204) 255-1784 or sturk-nadeau.chantal@destinationcanada.com; Michael Massari at mmassari@caesars.com.