AIME research says face to face meetings ‘critical’ to success

Industry tradeshow Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has unveiled a new report that shows 48% of business event delegates declaring face-to-face meetings to be ‘critical’ and 93% find human interaction and connections ‘important’ across business events. The new study, conducted by AIME organiser Talk2 Media & Events in the lead-up to the 2020 show (which takes place in Melbourne 17-19 February), surveyed 200 buyers and exhibitors from across the Asia Pacific region (87%) and wider world (13%) – looking at industry challenges and the most valued attributes. The study revealed that the biggest barriers to business when attending an industry tradeshow were lack of quality buyers and exhibitors (33%), followed by insufficient networking opportunities (24%), poorly organised appointments and meetings (20%), lack of educational opportunities (13%) and poor timing of the industry event (10%). The study also found that over 60% of buyers and exhibitors continue to find face-to-face connections the most effective way to conduct business, followed by email (32%) and phone call (4%). Interestingly, when asked about the rise of digital in the industry, the two biggest concerns lay in losing touch with human relationships (48%), followed by online communities replacing physical communities (26%). Matt Pearce, CEO of Talk2 Media & Events said: “This industry report provides real insight into what makes delegates tick – and is another way we’re continuing to listen to the community. “At AIME 2020, expect to be challenged both professionally and personally. We have sharpened our focus on creating more meaningful and human moments, with greater opportunities to drive positive business results.” Furthermore, the research revealed that the Asia Pacific region was critical (34%) to driving business growth, with 42% stating that the region had significant influence and only 16% stating it had partial influence. When it came to the best time to place business, 37% of buyers and exhibitors stated the first quarter (January–March) was most important. Visit aime.com.au for final registration details.