New-look AIME opens in Melbourne

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) opened its doors 18 February 2019 for the first show under its new management. Jay Martens, Event Director, Talk2 Media & Events, commented: “AIME has been at the heart of the business events industry in the Asia Pacific region. For many, the event was the start of their careers, in a transformative industry that touches so many of us. AIME 2019 is the start of a new journey, and we’re looking forward to welcoming business event communities from all over the world, in what is sure to be a prosperous year ahead.” Evolution of the AIME Knowledge Programme, sponsored by the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), now sees it be the largest and most comprehensive Business Events education programme on any single day in Australia. Five hundred participants are expected to engage in a variety of sessions specifically curated in partnership with AIME’s strategic education partner, PCMA. Karen Bolinger, CEO, MCB, said: “The planning and reshaping of AIME 2019 has been a momentous journey with Talk2Media over the last 12 months. The business events industry has been vocal about what they’d like to see at AIME and Talk2Media have worked with us closely to build an event that will be significantly different than previous editions. I’m looking forward to seeing it all come to life.” Organisers say over 2,000 visitors are registered to attend AIME over the three days. Buyers and exhibitors from 38 countries are in attendance and a welcome press conference was addressed by Matt Pearce, CEO, Talk2 Media & Events; Karen Bolinger, CEO, Melbourne Convention Bureau, and Parliamentary Secretly for Jobs, The Honourable Jane Garrett. The 2019 event has attracted 50% more quality buyers than previous years, 65% originating from outside of Australia – with 70% from Asia, organisers said.