Mice Affairs Sep Oct 2020

MICE AFFAIRS SEP - OCT 2020

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FOCUSED MAGAZINE ON MEETING INCENTIVE CONFERENCE EXHIBITION INDUSTRY

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202 O P X E LIFE

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3 DAY VIRTUAL EXPO AND CONFERENCE BRINGS BRILLIANT MINDS AND GLOBAL LEADERSHIP TO DISCUSS DELIBERATE AND DECIDE ON MICE | TRAVEL | EXHIBITION LIFESTYLE | AYURVEDA MICE Affairs

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EDITORS NOTE

NAMASTE Hope all of you're safe and healthy during this new makeover.

Businesses are gradually back to operations worldwide with their aligned SOP;s. therefore that is the case with travel businesses too. India specific, a number of the states have opened the borders, relaxed the norms for travelers. initial credit to state for that reason. BUT? is that enough to bring travel back......A Big ????

It's currently the duty of everyone involved within the trade sector to reconstruct confidence and contribute towards Restart.. we tend to see a lot of travel entrepreneurs traveling to destinations and sharing pics of location, properties, and so on. an honest move...On the opposite hand, loads of individuals have taken the route of silent protest via social media and urging the government to start out touristry.

Appreciated all efforts.

On the global front, mostly all shows going virtual, be it any trade.

Regarding the travel business, September is the month of Virtual travel shows. we might rate it as Virtual 2.0, within the initial section individuals were fascinated towards virtual conferences via Zoom, Meet, and then on and currently the sport of virtual expos is on the ground. Best wishes to all the playerrs.

We at Mice Affairs Media Group conjointly executed one virtual expo and conference along with Life Expo 2020. The Mice Conference 2.0 and Travel o Manthan were co-located with this show. A bit off the road however we tend to got an honest response and that is what matters. because of all those that supported us.

This issue carries a story around Life Expo, Travel o Manthan and the Mice Conference 2.o Have a glance and stay connected.

Yours..

Sachin Manocha facebook@miceaffairs Instagram@miceaffairs

CONTENTS 5

Editorial Sachin Manocha Publisher & Editor Associate Editorial Ms.Anjali Publisher & Editor Marketing Team Mr.Raj Kumar Web Support Mr.B Pandey Published and Owned By: Avighna Business Promotion Experts, LGF 51 Wave Silver Tower Sec 18, Noida INDIA ,www.miceaffairs. com ; Periodicity Quarterly Mice Affairs is printed and published by sachin Manocha on behalf of Avighna Business Promotion Experts and printed at D 86 sector 10 Noida 201301 and published at Lgf 51 wave silver tower sec 18 Noida. Editor Sachin Manocha

8 THINGSCLUB MED IS DOING TO REASSURE GUESTS INTO A SAFE AND MEMORABLE HOLIDAY

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HOW SEOUL’S MICE INDUSTRY RECOVERS ITS BUSINESS: SLOW BUT STEADY WINS THE RACE

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A UNIQUE AND INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO DRIVE SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH COMPETITION’

10 LIFE EXPO 2020 VIRTUAL EXHIBITION,

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CRUISE WITH CONFIDENCE ON JALESH CRUISES FROM 6TH NOVEMBER 2020

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REDEFINING THE PARAMETERS FOR REGISTRATION FOR MSME ON UDYAM REGISTRATION

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SAFE AND GRADUAL RESUMPTION OF MICE EVENTS

MAIDEN EDITION

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MORE THAN 30,000 EVENT AND HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONALS HAVE BEEN TRAINED OR CVENT CERTIFIED ACROSS MORE THAN 70,000

SEOUL TOURISM ORGANIZATION (STO) 26 INAUGURAL EVENT LIFEEXPO 2020 TO RELEASE 7 COUNTDOWN VIDEOS OF THE PERSONAL APPROACH: IMEX GLOBAL SUPERSTAR BTS IN THE 2020 HARNESSES TECHNOLOGY TO DELIVER SEOUL CITY TVC 30 RICHER EXPERIENCE AND SMOOTHER JOURNEY THROUGH PLANETIMEX AZERBAIJAN INVITES HOSTED BUYERS TO CONCLUDED SUCCESSFULLY TRAVEL BUSINESS AZERBAIJAN ONLINE 2020 PRINTING WORLD’S MASTER NEW FINDINGS OF THE GLOBAL 36 PROF. KAMAL CHOPRA HONOURED WITH A BOOK ON HIS LIFE RECOVERY PROJECT REVEALED THREE WOMEN LEADERS ELECTED THIS YEAR TO HEAD UP IELA STRATEGY IN THE NEW NOW URGENT NEED TO TAKE IMMEDIATE MEASURES TO BOLSTER DEMAND IN THE ECONOMY- PRESIDENT FICCI

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AVANI HOTELS STRENGTHENS LEADERSHIP TEAM WITH NEW GENERAL MANAGER APPOINTMENTS IN ASIA

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VENUEDIRECTORY.COM SEES A 35% GROWTH IN ENQUIRY VOLUMES FOR MEETING SPACE

Disclaimer : The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and forum participants in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions,beliefs and viewpoints of Mice Affairs Team Members.

The publisher does not accept any responsibility for any errors of translation. Publisher disclaims liability for incidental or consequential damages and assumes no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person as a result of use of the information provided in the magazine. The publisher reserves the rights to accept or decline any editorial/advertising material. Acceptance of any material whether editorial or advertising does not imply any endorsements from our side. We welcome letters to editor. All rights reserved .

HOTEL NEWS

8 THINGS

Club Med is doing to reassure guests into a safe and memorable holiday

Club Med, the pioneer in premium all-inclusive holidays prides itself in offering comfortable and carefree holidays with customer happiness at its core. Health and safety of the staff at Club Med (G.Os & G.Es) and of its guests (G.Ms) has always been a priority and the resort teams have stepped up hygiene and safety measures in line with the guidelines issued by the World Health Organization (WHO). While there are no affected cases in any Club Med resort or offices, the teams remain cautious and continue to adhere to strict hygiene precautions while welcoming travellers who are looking to enjoy a well-deserved, peaceful holiday. In addition to the launch of Club Med Cocoon and Safe Together guest assurance program developed with the support of Ecolab, the brand has adopted the following measures to provide a safe environment for its guests while experiencing the resort.

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1.Temperature checks Daily

temperatures

checks

have

been

implemented for all guests and visitors upon arrival, and before meals twice a day. Kids enrolled into the Mini Club will have to take their temperature upon arrival to the Kids Clubs.

Temperature checks are also ongoing for all staff at least twice a day, as well as suppliers which adhere to the hygiene protocols. Club Med will assist with guests, visitors or staff who are found to be unwell with any symptoms of high fever, flu, or respiratory problems and ensure they consult a doctor immediately.

2.Compulsory health & travel declarations 5

HOTEL NEWS All guests and staff have to declare their country of origin and latest travel history. Cases that are considered to be a risk will be referred to the relevant authorities.

3.Staff training Club Med staff have been thoroughly trained on hospitality cleaning measures and biowaste disposal based on the World Health Organization guidelines. Masks are worn by all housekeeping, kitchen and Kids’ Club staff. Additionally, hydro-alcohol hand sanitizers are provided for guests’ and staff usage, placed around the resort premises.

4. Cleaning & Sanitization procedures At Club Med, the rooms, public areas, main entrance, carpets, lobby, lift panels, door handles, counter tops, tables and handrails are sanitized and disinfected frequently each day.

High touch point areas including elevator panels, public area door handles, sports materials & mats are sanitized hourly. Guest rooms are deep cleaned and disinfected after each check-out.

In addition to these, all air-conditioning runs in fresh air mode, ensuring constant airflow in the rooms and public spaces.

5.Feel-safe dining Club Med has taken steps to ensure that the culinary teams follow the Food Safety Management systems. Masks are worn by all frontline food & beverage staff, and food utensils go through a high temperature dishwasher before being additionally sanitized. All serving cutleries are replaced with clean ones every 30 minutes. Bar and dining areas are also sanitized frequently throughout the day. Baby chairs are disinfected after each use and wrapped after each disinfection. In Club Med Sahoro and Tomamu, we have replaced all our self-service provisions & counters to plated service as a precautionary measure.

6.Emergency Response Plan & Coordination with Authorities 6

Club Med maintains close connection with local authorities to ensure close monitoring of the situation and its evolution. Additionally, in the event of a suspected COVID-19 case, the resorts have an Emergency Response Plan in place.

There is a disinfection protocol and a stock of masks, hand sanitizers and disinfectants, with a Hygiene & Safety Department dedicated to the coordination and support of corporate hygiene and safety. Club Med has daily monitoring in Asia Pacific, with contacts for i)Emergency evacuation of guests and staff ii)A dedicated hospital for all suspected cases iii)A laboratory for detection of COVID-19 iv)And local authorities to ensure that appropriate actions are taken should an emergency occur

7.Staff Quarantines and Movement Staff who have recently been to high-risk countries undergo a 14 days strict quarantine and resume work only thereafter.

8.Using different platforms to disseminate information Club Med is committed to delivering a memorable vacation with an emphasis on precaution and safety-enhancing procedures. Posters and notices are placed around the resort to remind guests and staff to adopt good personal hygiene while guests are also encouraged to follow the resort’s Facebook page, check the website, Club Med app, or in-room television to receive the latest updates and essential information.

Surrounded by nature across beachfronts, forests and mountains, Club Med’s low-density resorts in idyllic landscapes provide a safe haven for families who are looking for a peaceful vacation with enough space to practice social distancing. With 70 years of hospitality experience, self-sufficient resort facilities and in-resort activities within the ‘Club Med Cocoon’, travelers can be ensured of a relaxed holiday with Club Med. MICE Affairs

GLOBAL NEWS

HOW SEOUL’S MICE INDUSTRY RECOVERS ITS BUSINESS:

SLOW BUT STEADY WINS THE RACE

Seoul cautiously resumed on-site MICE events starting with exhibition and congress in June.

Though few conventions were on the event calendar of COEX, the most well-known venue of Seoul, it started to have large-scaled exhibitions and more on each month from June. From July to December, COEX has about 8 international exhibitions and conventions listed on the event calendar even though it is very vulnerable to abrupt changes.

Other convention centers in Seoul such as SETEC, aT Center, Sejong University Conference Center also started holding events under thorough quarantine measures around the same time and on.

The Korea Landscape and Garden Expo 2020 held from June 3 to 6 was the first exhibition in 3 months since the industry was put on a halt followed by

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Seoul International Dental Exhibition and Scientific Congress 2020 (SIDEX 2020). SIDEX 2020 was the first large-scaled event which had 4,860 attendees in two days, 6-7 June. Enforcing the event had stirred some worrisome between the stakeholders in regards to handling the safety measures for COVID-19 considering the probability of having too big of crowd from its known popularity. However, organizing body of the SIDEX 2020 had a spotless success in providing the quarantine measureskeeping the attendees safe and well and disinfecting the venues and equipment often. The success led to a notification on the official website two weeks later announcing that there were no infected cases occurred from the event or anyone in relation.

The Central Disease Control Headquarters and the

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GLOBAL NEWS

Central Disaster management Headquarters released Disinfection Guidelines to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 at Public and Multi-purpose Facilities on April 2, 2020 and convention centers also have their own procedures and measures in supporting the document. Taking this further, each organizer goes through the necessary measures themselves and announce specific measures considering the character of their events-for example, plastic gloves were given on top of checking on other personal protection equipment (PPE) at the Seoul International Wines & Spirits Expo 2020 considering much grabbing would take place on-site.

The first step of quarantine for each attendee is to be registered with a QR code. With the precise tracking system of the country, it’s much faster to find anyone with potential exposure to the virus. Wearing a mask is mandatory to enter any public gatherings including MICE events. Body temperature measuring at entries, providing applicable PPE, disinfecting the venues and sometimes the attendees at entries, and frequent reminders and changing of the indoor air. To apply the current climate of the industry, the PLUS SEOUL support program added more options

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including Personal Hygiene Kit support, Rentals of Thermal Imaging Cameras, Venue Disinfecting Services on the revised version.

Even though the gatherings seem risky, more people practice the safety measures at personal levels on regular bases that gatherings are slowly stepping back into the comfort zone for some people. The 10th Korea Smart Device Trade Show 2020 (KITAS), which was held from July 23 to 25, welcomed 19,862 in 3 days. KITAS was one of 7 international MICE events happened at COEX in July. There will be 25 including the events inviting locals only. It is almost unfair to compare the current situation to the time before the outbreak. The difficult situation has been prolonged for more than half a year now and there has not been many positive prospective for the near futures of global MICE industry or tourism. However, Seoul is keeping its place on the top for recovery and on the bottom for severity according to the Global COVID-19 Index released. The MICE industry of Seoul is showing an increase in catching up like a tortoise in the classic story-Slow but steady wins the race, the race with invisible but not invincible.

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EXPO NEWS

A UNIQUE AND INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO DRIVE SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH COMPETITION’ Winner of IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award announced “A unique and innovative approach to driving sustainability through competition – and with potential beyond the industry.”

This is what judges had to say about the winning entry to the IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award.

The Award was given to GDS-Index, the world’s leading benchmarking and performance improvement programme for business tourism and events destinations. The judges scored the programme highly for collaboration and commitment to continuous improvement. The GDS-Index produces a performance improvement report for each destination it surveys as well as sharing best practice through whitepapers. The vision of the GDS-Index is to engage, inspire and enable destinations to become more regenerative and sustainable places to visit, meet and thrive in, and it has grown - now implemented in 58 cities around the world.

The IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award is presented annually by IMEX Group and the Events Industry Council. It was independently judged by Amy Spatrisano, President, AZano; Chance Thompson, ASM Global, Salt Palace Convention Center - Senior Manager, Sustainability and Public Relations / Green Team Committee Chairperson; Courtney Lohmann, CMP, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at PRA Business Events; Jan Peter Bergkvist from sustainable business advisors SleepWell and Roger Simons, Associate Director of Sustainability at Marina Bay Sands Pte Ltd. Guy Bigwood, Managing Director of GDS-Movement, was scheduled to receive the Award at IMEX in Frankfurt earlier this year, but he will now be honoured at the Gala dinner at next MICE Affairs

year’s show in May 2021.

"The IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Awards are the Oscars of the Sustainable Event world,” Guy says. “It’s a real honour to receive this recognition for all the amazing work that the team, the partners and all the destinations have been doing over the last four years. Together we have catalysed change and are extremely proud of the work we are doing inspiring and enabling DMOs to create more resilient, sustainable and regenerative destinations to visit, meet in and live in.”

Guy is an expert in the circular economy and is leading IMEX’s current ‘NATURE’ research project, which is exclusively sponsored by Marriott International. He is set to discuss his findings as part of a panel session on PlanetIMEX during its October edition, taking place 12 – 16 October.

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EXPO NEWS

LIFE EXPO 2020 VIRTUAL EXHIBITION, MAIDEN EDITION CROWNED WITH SUCCESS

Fernando - Chairperson Sri Lanka Tourism, Mr. S. Bala Subramanian - President IEIA, MR Phil Cheung, CEO KInexin Convention Management Pvt Ltd -IICC India Operating Company, Mr. Mark Cochrane Regional Manager Asia Pacific UFI, and Matthias (Tesi) Baur- Founder, MBB Consulting Group UK.

The three-day virtual expo and conference, Live Expo, came to a successful conclusion on 29 August 2020 with lively discussions, networking and contributors from around the world.

The inaugural event, which was dedicated to New Normal of LIFE and showcasing the New Trends of Sectors including Travel and MICE, Ayurveda and Health, Corporate and Associations, was organized

by Delhi-based Exhibition Experts. The show was co-located with The Mice Conference 2.0 and Travel O Manthan, an initiative of Mice Affairs Media Group.

40+ global speakers joined the event virtually over the three days and discussed the new normal of doing business, living wisely and adapting the new trends.

Day One of the event was dedicated to Travel & Mice Industry. And first day was inaugurated by none other than Swami Paramtej Ji, who shared his invaluable thoughts with the audience. Live Breathing exercise demonstration was a real highlight, which involved 10,000 + viewers learning the technique virtually across social media platforms. An extraordinary beginning of the event!

Second session named Travel O Manthan, revealed the current status of Travel & Hospitality Business and Restart Business Model, with presence of Travel Industry Leaders Ms Jyoti Mayal - President TAAI, Mr. Ankush Nijhawan - Co-Founder TBO Group, Mr. Vachirachai Sirisumpan-Director Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mr. Rajeev Kale-President & Country Head-Thomas Cook India, Mr Ruden Dias-Taiwan Tourism, Mr Ajay Seth-CEO-Delmos World.

Day 2, dedicated to Ayurveda, Yoga, Health and Lifestyle, started with a power packed session by Dr Sunil Vasishth, MD Dr Vasishth AyuRemedies. Dr Vasishth stressed on the Ayurveda and its role in current times. "It’s time to focus on strengthening the Ayurveda Industry and Government as well as Private sectors shall join forces for the cause.

Pandemic has already proved the same, when everyone amongst the Hoi Polloi is giving the due importance to adapt Ayurvedic Lives." Dr Vasishth added.

Focused sessions like Emotional Well-being by Ms Shruti Varma, Counseling Psychologist unfolded the lesser known facts on Emotional Wellness.

Day One also hosted “The Mice Conference 2.0” where Global Leaders discussed the MICE Industry, challenges in the current situation and the way forward. Key panelists included Mrs. Kimarli

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MICE Affairs

HEALTHY INAUGURAL EDITION OF INDIA’S LIFE EXPO A VIRTUAL SUCCESS Ayuverda and wellness were to the fore of the three-day virtual expo and conference, Live Expo, which came to a successful conclusion on 29 August 2020. The Expo involved lively discussions, networking and contributors from around the world.

The inaugural event was dedicated to the new normal of life and new trends in the travel and MICE sectors, and incorporated issues and speakers related to Ayurveda and health. The event was organised by Delhi-based Exhibition Experts.

The show was co-located with The Mice Conference 2.0 and Travel O Manthan, an initiative of Mice Affairs Media Group.

EW’s editor joined a list of 40+ global speakers for panel discussions on the new normal of doing business, living wisely and adapting the new trends.

Day One focused on the travel and MICE industry and the audience hear from Swami Paramtej Ji and 10,000 vieweres took part in breathing exercise demonstration.

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The Mice Conference 2.0 involved Mrs Kimarli Fernando - chairperson Sri Lanka Tourism, Bala Subramanian - president IEIA, Mr Phil Chung, CEO Kinexin Convention Management Pvt Ltd -IICC India Operating Company, Mark Cochrane regional manager Asia Pacific UFI, and Matthias (Tesi) Baur - founder, MBB Consulting Group UK. Senior vice-president – business at the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Burea (TCEB), Ms Nichapa Yoswee gave an update of developments in her country and a Corporate Think Tank, brought together key buyers from industry, including from Adobe System, Tushar Maheshwari-Max Life Insurance and Bangur Cement.

Speakers at the Mapping Business Health session explored various aspects of the process model and panellists included Paul Colston, Balvinder Singh Sawhney, Kamal Chopra and Dalip Sharma from Mash Exhibition World UK, FICCI. PAMEX and PCCI respectively.

The Life Expo featured a digital exhibition Deutsche Hospitality, Gagana Consultants, RGF, NumeroZindagi, AIPIA, EHTTOA, Mayfair Group of Hotels, BHT Hotel Group, G Cube, Visa Alliance, Travel Master, Sri Sri Tattva and Dr Vsishth Ayu Remedies.

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NTB NEWS

SEOUL TOURISM ORGANIZATION (STO) TO RELEASE 7 COUNTDOWN VIDEOS OF GLOBAL SUPERSTAR BTS IN THE 2020 SEOUL CITY TVC

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STO to release seven countdown videos each day for the 2020 Seoul Global Marketing Campaign starting September 4

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Expectations that STO will attract the public’s attention with its advertising concept of unlocking screens by drawing the slogan of I•SEOUL•U together with BTS, Seoul’s Honorary Tourism Ambassador

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STO to hold a special YouTube event for those who comment about their anticipation for the 2020 Seoul City Official TVC.

• The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) and the Seoul Tourism Organization (STO) (CEO Lee Jae-sung) have joined together to launch countdown promotion prior to the release of 2020 Seoul City Official TVC on September 11. The project will start on September 4, one week before the official release of the TVC. One video for each member of BTS will be released every day, totaling seven countdown videos on September 10.

• The seven countdown videos will share each BTS members’ anticipation of 2020 Seoul City Official TVC. 12

• This is the 4th year of global artist BTS serving as Seoul’s Honorary Tourism Ambassador.

• The countdown videos were produced based on the idea of unlocking screens by drawing letters of I•SEOUL•U, the brand of Seoul city, together with BTS. •

The videos include the new slogan for the 2020 Seoul Global Marketing Campaign, “See you in Seoul” as well as the number of days left before the release of the 2020 Seoul City Official TVC.

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NTB NEWS

AZERBAIJAN INVITES HOSTED BUYERS TO TRAVEL BUSINESS AZERBAIJAN ONLINE 2020 AZERBAIJAN TOURISM BOARD (ATB) TO SHOWCASE ITS OFFERINGS TO TOURISM AND BUSINESS EVENTS PROFESSIONALS AT ITS BIGGEST VIRTUAL TRAVEL TRADE EVENT Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB), the national promotion body designed to support the growth of Azerbaijan’s tourism and business events industries, will host its biggest virtual travel trade event “Travel Business Azerbaijan Online” (TBA Online) on October 14, 2020.

The online event will bring together local and international professionals in the mentioned fields with high hopes to forgepartnerships and profitable business deals. Organized by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board and supported by the State Tourism Agency, the event aims to bring together more than 300 buyers from China and South-East Asia, Russia and CIS countries, India and South Asia, Europe, and GCC countries to establish direct communication while also serving as a platform to showcase Azerbaijan’s potential in tourism and business events industries. Buyers and exhibitors both will have an opportunity to appoint meetings with each other as well as to sort exhibitors based on their target markets and products thanks to AI-powered matchmaking tools that will suggest leads to participants.

Due to the current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, when the tourism, hospitality and business events sectors have been hit the most given border closures, travel restrictions and the need to stay home and self-isolate, ATB has prepared a 4-phased recovery plan to ensure a smooth transition into the post-pandemic era. As part of the actions taken within the first phase of recovery, ATB is exploring new paths to overcome these obstacles, find innovative solutions by focusing on virtual communication

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and online tools to promote the destination.

"

In these challenging times it is more than ever important to reconnect and keep in contact with our partners and industry stakeholders globally and accelerate our proposition with Travel Business Azerbaijan Online. It will be mutually beneficial for local industry and representatives from key source markets to connect with the local tourism and hospitality sector as well as business events industry on this large scale, to build fruitful partnerships, said Florian Sengstschmid, Chief Executive of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board.

In addition to B2B meetings, TBA Online will host webinars hosted by regional managers, DMO representatives and exhibitors.

“As we continue to cater to incentives and provide unique and authentic experiences, we encourage industry professionals from around the world to join us at Travel Business Azerbaijan and discover the extraordinary opportunities

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RESEARCH

NEW FINDINGS OF THE GLOBAL RECOVERY PROJECT REVEALED LATEST DATA FROM GLOBAL STUDY HINTS AT THE ROLE DIGITAL AND HYBRID EVENTS MIGHT PLAY IN THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS EVENTS

UFI and Explori are today releasing new findings from the ongoing“Global Recovery Project” research. The study programme is conducted by live events research specialists, Explori in partnership with UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry and supported by SISO, the Society for Independent Show Organizers.

The findings, comprising over 9,000 responses from 30 countries, have shown that whilst visitors and exhibitors overwhelmingly prefer live events, digital event elements (often called “virtual”) have a role to play in serving segments of the audience going forward.

Around half of respondents have now experienced an online-only event in some format, with two thirds of exhibitors having spoken at a third- party event, or run their own online event. As of early August, only 13% of exhibitors had paid to sponsor a third-party online event. Both visitors and exhibitors rate live events more highly across almost all aspects. Networking is seen as a particular strength of live events, with 77% of exhibitors and 83% of visitors stating that face-to-face events were much better than online in this respect. However, visitors do already recognise that online-only events offer a reduced cost of attending and are beginning to compete with face-to-face events in the quality of the content they can offer. 52% of visitors felt online-only events were as good as, if not better than live events in their content offering. 79% of visitors have at least some interest in attending a hybrid

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event as an online-only delegate.

When asked to consider an event they had never attended before, they had a much higher interest in attending remotely compared to an event they were familiar with.

“This global survey delivers key insights to organizers as they plan ahead. It underlines the clear preference that people want to meet in person to do business. At the same time, it gives a clear roadmap for areas where digital events need to evolve to become a permanent fixture in a hybrid future for the business events industry,” said Kai Hattendorf, UFI CEO. Sophie Holt, Global Strategy Director, Explori added: “Online and hybrid seem to have a complimentary role to play alongside live events. Not only will they give reassurance to visitors who are concerned about safety in the short term, but still want to connect with their community, but they may also have an important role to play in bringing new audiences to established events. This could form part of the customer journey, with online-only events acting as qualification and conversion tools for a flagship live event, or giving sponsors access to a totally new audience whose needs are better met by the virtual setting. We will be conducting a further phase of research in the near future to further understand the sentiments of visitors and exhibitors, including their views on different aspects of the digital event formats.”

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RESEARCH UFI RESEARCH SHOWS:

COVID-19 TO CAUSE NET SPACE SOLD IN ASIA TO PLUMMET BY 75% IN 2020

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Latest UFI/BSG report on the trade fair industry in Asia tracks regional developments before and during COVID-19 pandemic

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Net space sold is expected to fall from the 24.5 million m2recorded in 2019 down to 6.8 million m2 in 2020

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2019 saw continuous growth in the region, with close to 5% growth of the exhibition space sold by exhibition organisers to clients

UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has released the 16th edition of its annual report on the Trade Fair Industry in Asia, capturing an industry in the midst of an unprecedented global crisis. The report, compiled in Hong Kong by BSG, covers actual performance of the industry in 2019, as well as forecasts for the years 2020 and 2021.

Overall, BSG estimates that Asia will record an unprecedented 75% drop in net space sold in 2020 compared to 2019 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This means net space sold is expected to fall from the 24.5 million m2 recorded in 2019 down to just 6.8 million m2 in 2020.

According to BSG, achieving this result depends on the market in China – which accounts for nearly 60% of net space sold in Asia. If China avoids a significant second or third wave of infections, 6.8 million m2 sold across the region in 2020 is achievable. If China experiences another outbreak and returns to lockdown, the actual results in 2020 will be significantly lower. Of the large markets in Asia, China is expected to record the strongest performance in 2020 with a drop in net space sold of 65%. Japan, the second largest trade fair market in the region, is expected to see a decline of 75%. Markets with highly international trade fairs, including Hong Kong and Singapore, will post a 90%+ decline in net space sold in 2020.

In 2021, BSG’s forecast for the Asia Pacific region is net space sold in the range of 50% to 60% of 2019 levels - with China expected to outperform all other markets. In 2021, China is expected to achieve 70% to 75% of net space sold in 2019 – barring a significant new outbreak of COVID-19.

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In 2021, Asia’s second largest trade fair market, Japan is forecast to record 40% to 50% of space sold in 2019, hampered by the on-going closure of key venues needed for the postponed Olympic games.

UFI Asia/Pacific Regional Manager and BSG managing director, Mark Cochrane notes that “the forecast for 2021 is particularly challenging due to the long list of potential unknowns, including possible waves of new infections in any market, the timing and severity of government restrictions in each market, travel restrictions, and a number of other factors”. The report also provides a detailed summary of the industry’s performance in Asia last year. In 2019, across the region, net space sold at Asian trade fairs reached 24.5 million m2, representing an average growth rate of 4.8% across 17 Asian trade fair markets – up from 23.4 million m2 in 2018.

On the positive side, investment in venue capacity continues. By the end of 2021, venue capacity in Asia will be 11.8 million m2 , and the number of purpose-built exhibition venues operating in Asia will be over 280. Key markets including India, Korea and China will add capacity. Kai Hattendorf, UFI CEO and Managing Director, commented, “Our industry is currently navigating the most challenging crisis in its history. In 2020, net space sold will fall by more than 90% in some markets and a full recovery will not be realised until 2022 or 2023. With that in mind, the data and analysis in this report are more valuable than ever for UFI’s members as they advocate for government support and plan their recovery strategy.”

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

THREE WOMEN LEADERS ELECTED

THIS YEAR TO HEAD UP IELA STRATEGY IN THE NEW NOW

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2020 IELA General Assembly election results: 4 new exhibition Logistics leaders join the IELA Board of Management, Lena Widman joins the IELA Committee and Guido Fornelli has been elected as 2020-2022 IELA Chairman.

In its efforts to be well equipped for the NEW NOW, IELA welcomes new leaders joining top decision-making positions. The Association greets new members on the IELA Board of Management (BOM) and IELA Committee and announces the appointment of the new IELA Chairman.

IELA 2020-2021 BOARD OF MANAGEMENT: The newly-formed IELA 2020-2021 BOM welcomes 4 new faces this year for a 2-year term. The following individuals are all recognised leaders in the exhibition logistics industry and already involved in the association’s activities: Matthias Dornscheidt, Vice President Global Fairs & Exhibitions Schenker Deutschland AG,Germany Alexandra Erdmann, CEO Swiss Expo Logistics Ltd., Switzerland Daniel Mithran, Director - JIM Project & Expo Logistics (M) Sdn.Bhd, Malaysia Jacqui Nel, Director - EF-GSM South Africa, South Africa As newly-elected members, their longstanding industry experience and innovative visions are anticipated with enthusiasm as IELA steers towards the future.

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Insight and support will also be provided by the following two members who have been re-elected for a two-year term: Guido Fornelli, Managing Director -Expotrans S.p.A., Italy Christoph Rauch, Managing Director - BTG Messe-Spedition GmbH, Germany

BOM MEMBERS REMAINING FOR ONE MORE YEAR ARE: Mariane Ewbanks, Director of Fulstandig Shows e Eventos MC Ltda, Brazil Jim Kelty, Airways Freight Corporation, USA Emmanuel Pitchelu, Director of E.S.I. Expo Services International, France Sandi Trotter, Director of TWI Group Inc. (Canada), Canada

MICE Affairs

ASSOCIATION NEWS 2020-2022 IELA CHAIRMAN: Guido Fornelli was elected as the new Chairman for a period of two years. Guido has been involved with the Association since 1992 and joined the IELA BOM for the first time in 2003.

After the announcement of the results, the new Chairman Guido Fornelli stated: “I’m honoured to be the Chairman of our Association and look forward to starting work with the new elected Board. It is amazing to see that distance didn’t dampen, but even increased, our enthusiasm for involvement and participation in IELA life during the last months.

The Digital Assembly and e-mail vote are definitely an experience of a new kind this year. I strongly hope we’ll not need to repeat it in the future!!!

It is indeed so sad that we did not get the chance to meet in person as usual and have to shift to our interesting Zoom meetings. Let’s hope we can step into a “New Now” next year and resume the work we love and which we are used to handling so successfully.

I can assure you that myself, the IELA Board and Elizabeth’s Team are restless to continue on project development and to deliver the value we all need to overcome the Pandemic with new ideas, new tools and new platforms for the new era! ”

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THE 2020-2021 IELA COMMITTEE: During the General Assembly, Lena Widman, Managing Director - On-Site Exhibitions AB, Sweden, was elected as new Committee Member, joining Greg Keh, COO of TWI Group Inc., USA and Ravinder Sethi, Managing Director of R.E. Rogers India Pvt. Ltd., India., to form the 2020-2021 IELA Committee.

Elizabeth Niehaus, Executive Officer of IELA confirmed: “The NEW NOW poses new challenges to the event value chain. The exhibition and event industry is a truly global industry made of resilient, creative and strong people. It’s the factor People which is the answer to all new threats. A great example is the new IELA Board of Management, ready to take decisive actions and launch a formal transformation programme for the association.

We are particularly proud that women leaders make up 40% of Management. They will be a source of inspiration to ignite IELA activities from another perspective, bringing their fresh input, ideas and initiatives to drive IELA into the future.

The IELA trademark stands for excellence and cohesion in the industry. IELA is committed to the industry and to its members and is determined to actively promote the paramount role of events and exhibitions for all economies worldwide more than ever.”

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

URGENT NEED TO TAKE IMMEDIATE MEASURES TO BOLSTER DEMAND IN THE ECONOMYPRESIDENT FICCI Commenting on

the GDP numbers, Dr Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI said,

announcements for hospitality, tourism, retail, and healthcare sector are eagerly awaited as well. Greater impetus to housing, infrastructure and auto sectors and support to state governments for purchase of buses for city transportation must also be considered.

The sharp plunge in quarter-1 GDP growth numbers was anticipated.

However, the magnitude of the contraction has indeed come as a surprise. This only highlights the urgent need to take immediate measures to bolster demand in the economy and we hope government and RBI will plan for the next set of fiscal and monetary measures and make these announcements soon."

"The Indian market is intrinsically strong and the option to raise money through international markets must be explored," added Dr Reddy.

The Government through Atmanirbhar package has given significant impetus.

There is a need to have enhanced focus on execution. In addition to this, the Government may consider further measures like putting more money in hands of the vulnerable and weaker sections of the society. Government could also consider a temporary reduction in GST rates especially in consumer durables segment. In fact, the festive season has already begun and some positive signaling by government might give a push to consumption activity. Specific

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"Private sector of course stands with the Government in building self-reliant India through continuous innovation, better management and greater resilience, " she said.

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EDUCATION NEWS MORE THAN 30,000 EVENT AND HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONALS HAVE BEEN TRAINED OR CVENT CERTIFIED ACROSS MORE THAN 70,000 EDUCATIONAL COURSES SINCE MARCH 2020 • •

Cvent extends its free training and certification offer through December 31, 2020 to give industry professionals the tools they need to adapt to the current environment and prepare for the future

Cvent, a market-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider, today announced that it has trained and certified more than 30,000 marketers, event planners, and hospitality professionals through its robust training and certification program that has been free to anyone since March 2020. The comprehensive training program provides industry professionals with the critical knowledge, skills, and insights they need to adapt to the changing environment, enhance their resume, and prepare their organizations for future success. The company has extended its offer of free Cvent Certifications and free training programs to anyone in the industry through the end of this year. The company is also offering free registration to its annual user conference Cvent CONNECT, which offers additional Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credits for more accreditation opportunities. The conference was on Aug. 25 and 26.

Cvent has trained or certified thousands of hospitality professionals at all levels from more than 3,000 hotel chains such as Hilton, Marriott, IHG, and Meliá, and 200 Convention & Visitors Bureaus. Cvent’s free training and certification offerings have also been embraced by marketing and event professionals from more than 3,000 corporations such as Workday, Cisco, AstraZeneca, and Oracle, nearly 1,300 non-profits and associations, and 500 education and government organizations.

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Since March, the company has continued to expand its program by adding new courses and certification opportunities. One of those new offerings is a Cvent Event Diagramming (formerly Social Tables) Certification for hoteliers to learn how to design meeting space layouts to match current safety guidelines. New training opportunities for meeting and event professionals include virtual and hybrid event courses, with Cvent Certifications for both virtual events and hybrid events coming in October.

“When we first announced our free training and certification program in March, our goal was to train and certify tens of thousands of industry professionals, and to have reached the 30,000 milestone faster than we ever imagined – across all organization types – is a testament to the value of this program,” said Cvent CMO Patrick Smith. “As the post-pandemic recovery continues, we’re committed to expanding the program to deliver training courses and certifications on the topics that are top of mind, including virtual, hybrid, and safe meeting best practices. Our goal now is to ensure industry professionals have all the tools and skills they need to bounce-back. We’re investing in these individuals because they are the future, and when they are well-positioned to handle the current environment, they will help propel their organizations, and our industry, forward.”

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EDUCATION NEWS

THE COMPLIMENTARY CERTIFICATION AND TRAINING PROGRAM OFFERS: • Hundreds of virtual live and pre-recorded training sessions that deep dive into the Cvent platform, giving participants the flexibility to learn at their own pace.

• Free Cvent Certifications which provide industry professionals the unique opportunity to enhance their technology skills and expand their Cvent expertise to accelerate their careers. In addition to offering the Cvent Certification exams, the company offers live virtual certification preparation sessions hosted by Cvent experts and provides complimentary access to the Cvent event management platform during the exam period. The certifications offered include: • For marketers and event planners • Event Management Certification

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• Event Management Advanced Certification • Mobile Event App Certification • Venue Sourcing Certification • Coming soon: Virtual Events Certification • Coming soon: Hybrid Events Certification • Coming soon: Event Marketing Certification • Coming soon: Cvent Event Diagramming Certification (formerly Social Tables) • For hoteliers and destinations • Cvent Supplier Network Certification • Cvent Event Diagramming Certification (formerly Social Tables

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CRUISE NEWS

CRUISE WITH CONFIDENCE ON JALESH CRUISES FROM 6TH NOVEMBER 2020 INDIAN GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES COMMENCEMENT OF CRUISES FROM OCTOBER 2020 JALESH CRUISES OFFERS FREE COVID19 RAPID TESTING TO ALL ITS PASSENGERS After four months of the country experiencing lockdown, home confinement, restricted movements and no summer vacations, it is now time for some unbelievably good news! As part of its Mission Begin Again, the Indian Government has announced that it

MICE Affairs

will permit cruise ships to commence sailing from 1st October. In the light of this major development, Jalesh Cruises announces the commencement of its cruise MV Karnika from Friday 6th November 2020.

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MSME NEWS

REDEFINING THE PARAMETERS FOR REGISTRATION FOR MSME ON UDYAM REGISTRATION: MR AK SHARMA, MSME SECRETARY A complete process re-engineering is being done for the registration of MSMEs as per the new definition, said the Secretary, Ministry of MSME, Mr A K Sharma while inaugurating a week long initiative of CII for liquidity infusion in the MSME Sector and a Month long loan mela . . He highlighted on digitization of the process of registration on the Ministry of MSME’s newly launched Portal of Udyam Registration which integrates the auto capturing of data through inputs of Adhaar Number, Pan Number and GSTIN number for registration on the said Portal. He mentioned, that more than 3 lakh registrations have already happened in the month of July and August and it is further picking up well. He urged the MSMEs, to register under the new definition on the

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Udyam Portal.

Mr Sharma , while reassuring on the effective implementation of the schemes under the Aatma Nirbhar bharat, highlighted that over Rs 1 lakh cr of loans have already been disbursed and with the change in the scope of the scheme , it is further expected to pace up.

He also mentioned about the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Subordinated Debt and invited CII and other stakeholders for sharing their feedback if any to make it more effective along with the urge to populate the other schemes for benefitting MSMEs and bridging the credit gaps. . He also alluded to Fund of funds scheme where the Ministry is

MICE Affairs

MSME NEWS targeting to bring on board the Venture Capital Firms and Private Equity Firms to participate and help MSMEs for the equity infusion.

pending dues almost 75% have already been cleared. The Ministry further aims to replicate this mechanism at the state level as well.

Mr Sharma emphasized on the relevance of Credit Rating of the MSMEs for the Venture Capital and other lending institutions tor ease of lending along with the push for the Listing of MSMEs on the Stock Exchanges for exploring the alternate channels of financing.

Lastly, the Secretary mentioned about the encouragement to the MSMEs to on board the TReDS platform through the waiver of the registration charges worth Rs 10,000.the waiver was earlier applicable till Sep 2020 and now it is decided to be extended till March 2021

While highlighting the relevance of finance for MSMEs, Mr Sanjiv Bajaj, Vice President, CII, stressed that for building the Competitiveness of MSMEs and helping them tap the immense amount of opportunities existing to participate in the global supply chains, there needs to be increase in the number of lending institutions that provide alternate channels of financing through the access of equity and hybrid structures to NBFCs for further lending to MSMEs.

Also, as part of the registration on the Udyam Portal and backend integration, there has been a seamless mechanism of on boarding both the TReDS as well as GeM Portal with a few clicks.

Pertaining to the issue of delayed payments which was raised as a grave concern by Mr Sanjiv Bajaj, Vice President CII, Mr Sharma talked about the new online reporting mechanism for the clearance of the pending dues by the Government, CPSEs and PSUs. He also shared that through this mechanism, in the month of July, out of the total

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Director General CII, Shri Chandrajit Banerjee, emphasized on the role of MSMEs in nation building. He highlighted on the Month-Long Loan Mela Campaign under the Money Mobility initiative for MSMEs has progressed well so far with more than 7000 applications received from Pan India level.

Mr Shreekant Somany, Chairman, CII National MSME Council, concluded the session with a strong message to the MSMEs to stay resilient and take this challenging time as an opportunity to innovate and integrate with the world.

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NTB NEWS

SAFE AND GRADUAL RESUMPTION OF MICE EVENTS Applications to pilot MICE events of up to 250 attendees to begin in October; launch of prototype for larger tradeshows and safe visitor experiences In line with the safe and gradual resumption of economic activities in Singapore, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) will start accepting applications for organisers to pilot Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE)[1] events of up to 250 attendees from 1 October 2020. STB and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) will review all MICE event proposals, and event organisers may proceed only upon obtaining MTI’s approval.

There will be pilot events taking place under this arrangement, such as the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) Conference, in October 2020.

Organisers who apply to pilot events with up to 250 attendees must demonstrate their ability to implement Safe Management Measures to meet a set of health and safety outcomes[2].

More details will be released at a later stage.

The decision to accept applications to pilot MICE events of up to 250 attendees comes on the back of STB’s Safe Business Events Framework[3] for business events of up to 50 attendees, which was first announced in July 2020. STB operationalised the framework with two pilots – the first concluded successfully in August 2020, while plans for the second pilot, which will take place in late September 2020, are underway.

As more insights and data are obtained through these pilot events, STB will work with the MICE industry to adapt and adjust our protocols for safe business events.

This move to start accepting applications to pilot events of up to 250 attendees also takes into account the importance of the MICE

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industry as well as the strong industry interest in and demand for business events. According to a MICE Economic Impact Assessment commissioned by STB in 2019, the industry supported more than 34,000 jobs with an economic value-add of $3.8 billion, or nearly one percent of Singapore’s GDP. Business travellers also spend almost double that of leisure travellers, making them high-yield visitors.

The gradual resumption of business events will help maintain Singapore’s position as a leading MICE hub and retain critical capabilities, while safeguarding jobs and livelihoods in the industry and other related sectors.

To guide the MICE industry in developing its agility and building resilience post-COVID-19, the Singapore Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS) is collaborating with STB and Enterprise Singapore (ESG) to formulate an Event Industry Resilience Roadmap (IRR)[4]. The roadmap will be launched later this month and provides timely guidance on safety measures and best practices in line with the gradual resumption of business events.

Resuming MICE events in partnership with the private sector The safe resumption of MICE events requires close partnership and coordination between public and private sector stakeholders. Given

MICE Affairs

NTB NEWS the need to act quickly and decisively in order for our economy to emerge stronger from the COVID-19 crisis, the Emerging Stronger Taskforce[5] (EST) under the Future Economy Council (FEC) has convened the Singapore Together Alliances for Action (“Alliances”)[6], which are industry-led, government-supported coalitions that will act quickly by prototyping ideas on key strategic areas for Singapore.

The Alliance for Action on Enabling Safe and Innovative Visitor Experiences is one of them.

Co-led by Mr Lee Seow Hiang of Changi Airport Group and Ms Kwee Wei-Lin of Singapore Hotel Association, the Alliance has worked closely with a diverse range of industry stakeholders such as SACEOS and National Association of Travel Agents (NATAS), and government agencies such as STB and the Ministry of Health (MOH) to explore and pioneer new ways to facilitate safe and innovative visitor experiences in a COVID-19 environment.

Enabling Safe and Innovative Visitor Experiences Recognising health and safety as key imperatives, the Alliance for Action on Enabling Safe and Innovative Visitor Experiences has developed a prototype for safe tradeshows and exhibitions – these are larger events which would not have been permitted to resume in their pre-COVID-19 format. The prototype has been developed in partnership with the private sector, and will provide delegates with the degree of interaction they would be accustomed to in a regular tradeshow setting – but in a far safer way which minimises infection risks.

This will be tested at a few tradeshows,

MICE Affairs

starting with a new event in November called TravelRevive – powered by ITB Asia & STB. Messe Berlin (Singapore), which also organises the annual ITB Asia travel tradeshow, will bring international delegates and businesses together to exchange ideas, bridge knowledge gaps, and reimagine the future of travel.

To prepare Singapore for the eventual resumption of leisure travel, the Alliance has also designed safe itineraries, which will be trialled with the MICE delegates of TravelRevive.

These itineraries comprise a selection of leisure activities that not only comply with prevailing safe management guidelines, but also provide high quality bespoke experiences supported by ground handlers and tourist guides, who will assist with visitor movement management.

In preparation for TravelRevive, the Alliance is working with relevant Government agencies and industry stakeholders to deploy digital enablers to facilitate a seamless and safe visitor experience from arrival to departure.

Foreign delegates of the pilot events will also be required to use TraceTogether to facilitate contact tracing. To give inbound travellers further peace of mind, the industry is working with government agencies to develop a travel insurance product for inbound travellers by Q42020, to cover critical COVID-19-related expenses.

Mr Keith Tan, Chief Executive, Singapore Tourism Board, said: “The MICE sector is a strategic one for the Singapore economy, and its safe and gradual resumption will safeguard jobs and core capabilities. It will also help those in related sectors such as hospitality and aviation. Public health and safety remain our utmost priority, and we have worked closely with the industry to create strict protocols and develop new ways of organising events. These pilot events and solutions will help Singapore lead the way as a safe, trusted and innovative destination for MICE events.”

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EXPO NEWS

INAUGURAL EVENT

LIFEEXPO 2020

CONCLUDED SUCCESSFULLY

The three days of virtual expo and conference held in Delhi, India, ended on August 28 with lively discussions, networking and contributions from around the world on the new normal in life; showcasing latest trends in the travel and MICE sectors and the importance of adapting to Ayurveda for health and lifestyle.

Organised by Delhi based exhibition experts, forty over global speakers joined the event virtually over the three days and debated on the new norms of doing business, living wisely and adapting to new trends.

Among the topics during the conference, were challenges in the current MICE situation, the status of the travel and hospitality business and on restart business models.

There was also the power packed Ayurveda, Yoga, Health and Lifestyle with the second session dedicated to Ayurveda and its role in the current new normal. Together with focused sessions on emotional wellness.

Corporate think tanks brought together key corporate buyers from the industry aimed at safety and hygiene this presented a positive outlook on their future plans.

While Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau shared with the participants updates in Thailand MICE.

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MICE Affairs

EXPO NEWS The three-day virtual expo and conference came to an end on 29 August 2020. The first event which was dedicated to the New Normal of LIFE and showcasing the New Trends of Sectors including Travel and MICE, Ayurveda and Health, Corporate and Associations, was organized by Exhibition Experts. The show was co-located with The Mice Conference 2.0 and Travel O Manthan, an initiative of Mice Affairs Media Group.

40+ Global Speakers joined the event virtually over these three days and discussed the new normal of doing business, living wisely, and adapting the new trends.

Event!

Day One also hosted “The Mice Conference 2.0� where Global Leaders discussed MICE Industry, Challenges in the current situation, and the way forward. Key Panelists included Mrs. Kimarli Fernando -Chairperson Sri Lanka Tourism, Mr. S. Bala Subramnian - President IEIA, MR Phil Cung, CEO KInexin Convention Management Pvt Ltd -IICC India Operating Company, Mr. Mark Cochrane-Regional Manager Asia Pacific UFI, and Matthias (Tesi) Baur- Founder, MBB Consulting Group UK. The second session named Travel O Manthan, revealed the current status of Travel & Hospitality Business and Restart Business Model, with the presence of Travel Industry Leaders Ms. Jyoti Mayal -President TAAI, Mr. Ankush Nijhawan - Co-Founder TBO Group, Mr. Vachirachai Sirisumpan-Director Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mr. Rajeev Kale-President & Country Head-Thomas Cook India, Mr. Ruden Dias-Taiwan Tourism, Mr. Ajay Seth-CEO-Delmos World.

Day 2, dedicated to Ayurveda, Yoga, Health, and Lifestyle started with a power-packed session by Dr. Sunil Vasishth, MD Dr. Vasishth AyuRemedies. Dr. Vasishth stressed on the Ayurveda and its role in current times. "Its time to focus on strengthening the Ayurveda Industry and Government, as well as Private sectors, shall join forces for the cause.

Pandemic has already proved the same when everyone amongst the Hoi Polloi is giving the due importance to adapt Ayurvedic Lives." Dr. Vasishth added.

Day One of the event was dedicated to Travel & Mice Industry. And the first day was inaugurated by none other than Swami Paramtej Ji, and he shared his invaluable thoughts with the entire audience. Live Breathing exercise demonstration was really an icing on the cake, where 10000 + viewers were learning it virtually across social media platforms. Extraordinary beginning of the

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Focused sessions like Emotional Well-being

by Ms. Shruti Varma, Counseling Psychologist unfolded the lesser-known facts on Emotional Wellness. The session was moderated by Sapna Gujral and Founder Mice Affairs Media Group, Saachin Mannocha Ayurveda The New Normal session By Dr. Manoj Virmani, CEO Ayurvedguru, and Neera

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EXPO NEWS Nath was an eye-opener towards the lifestyle of past vs present.

Thailand MICE Update was well conversated to the audience by Sr Vice President Business, TCEB, Ms. Nicapa Yoswee during Thailand MICE Update.

The Last Day of the exhibition was inaugurated by Sh Gurmeet Singh Kular, President FICO, IAMSME of India. And Mr Kular focused on adapting Technology by MSME Industry to survive and thrive in New Normal. Mr Kular also touched upon the cycle industry of Ludhiana as people are turning health-centric and opting for cycling.

Corporate Think Tank, brought together key corporate Buyers from Industry, Adobe System-Mr Mritunjay C Mohan, Tushar Maheshwari-Max Life Insurance, Harish Gahlot - Bangur Cement. Corporate Leaders focused on safety and hygiene and presented a positive outlook of their future plans.

Mapping Business Health session with key presenters shared business situations and precautions with the process model. The session included Paul Colston, Balvinder Singh Sawhney, Kamal Chopra, and Dalip Sharma from Exhibition World UK, FICCI.

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PAMEX and PCCI respectively.

MSME joined Life Expo through ATMANIRBHAR Session disclosing various schemes offered by the Government of India. Sh, S V Sharma-Director MSME DI Delhi graced the occasion accompanied

by Sh. Karun Kumar-Asst Director, Sh KK Goyal-Asst Director, Sh Neeraj Sharma-Asst Director.

The Expo closing ceremony included Lucky Draw announcing Freebies, Hotel Stay Vouchers, Complimentary services to top most attendees of the forum.

"

Life Expo 2020, our dream mission on the new Normal of Life has proved the significance of Technology and ayurvedic life. The Mice Conference and Travel O Manthan conferences by Mice Affairs Media Group presented the most effective and worthy discussions. We are thankful to all Exhibitors Deutsche Hospitality, Gagana Consultants, RGF, NumeroZindagi, AIPIA, EHTTOA, Mayfair Group of Hotels, BHT Hotel Group, G Cube, Visa Alliance, Travel Master, Sri Sri Tattva, Dr. Vsishth Ayu Remedies and all other participants" quoted Exhibitions Experts Management

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N E WS

AT

E AS E

WE ARE LIVE

Check out www.travbuzznews.com news@travbuzznews.com

travbuzznews

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EXPO NEWS

IMEX HARNESSES TECHNOLOGY TO DELIVER RICHER EXPERIENCE AND SMOOTHER JOURNEY THROUGH PLANETIMEX

THE PERSONAL APPROACH:

Meeting and events industry professionals diving into PlanetIMEX, returning 12 – 16 October, will enjoy an enriched experience and smoother user journey.. The IMEX Group, which launched PlanetIMEX in May, is working with new providers GRIP and Event.Video and also continuing its partnership with Cvent to deliver a high-level programme of education and community engagement next month.

Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, explains: “We’ve evolved PlanetIMEX following its launch in May by simplifying the user journey, making it easier for visitors to explore and source the content and the speakers that are right for them. Working with GRIP enables us to provide a single user experience with learning, polls, discussions and networking all on one platform. GRIP uses AI to match users with one another and also provides recommendations of which learning sessions best suit their interests - this delivers a highly personalised experience for each visitor, one that better reflects our company values and strategic priorities.

“It’s in our DNA to use our own shows and digital experiences to experiment on behalf of the industry, trialling a variety of different technology providers and sharing what we learn. GRIP has long been on our radar. They’re also a past winner of the #IMEXPitch, our event tech competition, as are Sli.do, who are also one of our PlanetIMEX tech supporters.”

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Tim Groot, CEO and Co-Founder at GRIP, says: "After winning the IMEXpitch competition in 2016 with our leading AI-powered event matchmaking solution I honestly could not have imagined that four years later we would be working with the IMEX team in this unprecedented situation.

“PlanetIMEX is a bold and exciting concept for virtual experiences, the goal of engaging the community through content and connection perfectly aligns with our own vision of the industry. We’re now seeing event organisers increasingly establishing themselves as community owners bringing people together virtually and of course through in-person events."

Alongside a new partnership with production company Event.Video, the IMEX Group also continues its long-running partnership with Cvent to power registration.

Jamie Vaughan, Vice President, European Sales at Cvent: “Working alongside Carina and the IMEX team to help produce the first-ever PlanetIMEX earlier this year was an incredible experience, and we are delighted to extend this partnership as we come together once again to support the October edition of PlanetIMEX. It has undoubtedly been a difficult year for all of us, but we are deeply committed to supporting the IMEX mission to

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EXPO NEWS

Tim Groot, CEO and Co-Founder at GRIP - and former winner of the #IMEXPitch. unite and advance the meetings industry. Together, we can support the successful transition to virtual and hybrid events and secure an even brighter future for the global meetings and events industry.”

Carina concludes: “Following feedback from our audience we developed a detailed brief of our requirements. Of course, everyone running a virtual event will have different needs and it’s important to match those needs with one of the many excellent solutions and services in our market.

"

We’re confident that all of these providers are a strong fit for our current needs, delivering new functionality and features, and helping us make a big, new and exciting splash with our fresh look PlanetIMEX this October.

PlanetIMEX returns 12 – 16 October. Registration is free of charge.

MICE Affairs

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THE MICE CONFERENC 2.0 TRAVELO MANTHAN LIFE EXPO 2020

Coverage

THE MICE CONFERENC 2.0 TRAVELO MANTHAN LIFE EXPO 2020

Coverage

THE MICE CONFERENC 2.0 TRAVELO MANTHAN LIFE EXPO 2020

Coverage

ASSOCIATION NEWS PRINTING WORLD’S MASTER

PROF. KAMAL CHOPRA HONOURED WITH A BOOK ON HIS LIFE

T

he biographical book “Life in Print” depicting life and times of Ludhiana based, Professor Kamal Mohan Chopra, the legend of Indian Printing industry is penned by Dr Anjan Kumar Baral, Professor, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hisar. The book was released at online virtual platform by the legend of Mass Communication in India, Professor Brij Kishore Kuthiala, Chairman, Haryana State Higher Education Council (HSHEC)during finale of Print Olympiad – North Zone on Sunday, September 6, 2020.

While releasing the book, Prof. Kuthiala reminisced the past and said, “Incidentally I took upthe challenge of starting the print education stream at GJUS&T in 1990 with the help ofKamal.” The biography by Anjan Kumar Baral was prompted due to the relentless efforts of Kamal Chopra and his contribution in developing Indian printing technology to highest echelons in the present time of technology and social media. Congratulating both the

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author and protagonist of the book Brij Kishore Kuthiala described Kamal Chopra as a, “Beautifully coordinated persona of ethics and aesthetics of printing in addition to his passion for the industry.”

Speaking on the occasion Prof. Baral said, “Within a short period Prof. Kamal Chopra has laid his network both in the country and abroad as his commitment to bring the printing of India in the global map. It is an acknowledgement of an individual to an institution-printing.

Prof. Chopra is an ordinary person, yet he is an extraordinary printer. Coming from a middle-class family, though he made a humble beginning, but accelerated and rose to prominence by receiving rare honours like ‘President of India Award’ and ‘Hon. Professor at world’s leading printing institute in China.’

He also become president of world’s largest printers association, All India Federation of Master Printers (AIFMP). It is a thrilling story and I was unable to restrict myself from writing about such a personality.”

MICE Affairs

APPOINTMENTS AVANI HOTELS

STRENGTHENS LEADERSHIP TEAM WITH NEW GENERAL MANAGER APPOINTMENTS IN ASIA Avani Hotels & Resorts (www.avanihotels.com) is pleased to announce the appointment of new General Managers for six of its properties in Asia and the Middle East – Avani Doc Let Resort and Avani Hai Phong Harbour View in Vietnam, FCC Angkor by Avani in Cambodia, Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort in Malaysia and Avani Central Busan in South Korea, as well as the upcoming Avani Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites in the UAE.

AVANI DOC LET RESORT, VIETNAM Slated to open early 2021, Avani Doc Let Resort in Vietnam (www.avanihotels.com/en/doc-let) has announced the appointment of Dennis Gordienko to the role of General Manager.

Dennis is a passionate hotelier with international experience across Europe, the Middle East, Indian Ocean, and Asia. Dennis has previously worked at Vistana Penang Bukit Jambul, YTL Hotels, Malaysia, where he held a General Manager position. Before Vistana Penang, he was at Gaya Island Resort, YTL Hotels - Small Luxury Hotels, where he held his first General Manager role.

Dennis’ hospitality career started as a Food & Beverage intern in Antalya, Turkey, with Sheraton Hotels & Resorts in 2003. Since then he has worked in London and also his native Ukraine within F&B and Rooms departments with international brands such as Radisson, IHG, and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

Dennis is not new to Minor Hotels, he first joined the group in 2015 as Cluster Resident

MICE Affairs

Dennis Gordienko - General Manager at Avani Doc Let Resort Vietnam

Manager at Anantara Maldives, prior to this, he was Executive Assistant Manager leading the pre-opening of Amari Dhaka in Bangladesh.

In 2019, he took the pre-opening helm at FCC Angkor by Avani prior to being reassigned to Avani Doc Let Resort.

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APPOINTMENTS

AVANI HAI PHONG HARBOUR VIEW, VIETNAM

Beatrice Ellis - General Manager at Avani Hai Phong Hotel Vietnam

In another Vietnam appointment, Beatrice Ellis has taken the helm at Avani Hai Phong Harbour View Hotel (www.avanihotels.com/ en/hai-phong). Beatrice joins the hotel in a newly-promoted role from Anantara Hoi An Resort, where she has been based since 2017, starting as Executive Assistant Manager and, for the last year, as the Resort Manager. A South African national, Ellis brings more than 18 years of international experience in the hospitality industry spending the previous six years with Minor Hotels in both in The Maldives and Vietnam. In her new role, Ellis takes on overall responsibility for hotel operations, revenue strategies and the future success of the property as part of Hai Phong’s growing hospitality industry.

FCC ANGKOR BY AVANI, CAMBODIA Michael Robinson is the new General Manager of FCC Angkor by Avani in Cambodia (www. avanihotels.com/en/angkor-siem-reap).

Michael’s decade-long career in hospitality has seen him work across USA, Middle East and Asia, starting with a trainee role with Hyatt Regency La Jolla, San Diego, USA. In 2009, he moved to the Middle East as pre-opening Assistant Manager - Front Office with Grand Hyatt Doha in Qatar.

In 2011, the New Zealand national joined Park Hyatt Dubai as Assistant Front Office Manager, followed by a promotion to the role of Front Office Manager a couple of years later. Michael relocated to Vietnam in 2016 to work as Director of Rooms for Caravelle Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City. Later in the year, he was promoted to his first time General Manager role for the same property – his last assignment prior to joining Minor Hotels.

Michael James Robinson - General Manager at FCC Angkor by Avani Cambodia

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MICE Affairs

APPOINTMENTS

AVANI SEPANG GOLDCOAST RESORT, MALAYSIA seasoned hotelier with a strong background in F&B, he began his hospitality career in 1996 at The Raffles Hotel Singapore. Between 1999 and 2008 he held various F&B leadership roles working for The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; The Fullerton Hotel, Singapore; The Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; The Hilton, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; The Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives; Swissotel Grand Shanghai, China; and The Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor, Cambodia.

Yogeswaran Veerasamy - General Manager at Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort Malaysia

Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort (www.avanihotels.com/en/sepang) welcomed Yogeswaran Veerasamy as the new General Manager. A Malaysian national, Yogeswaran brings over two decades of hospitality experience across Asia and the Middle East. A

Yogeswaran’s professional development continued when he was promoted to EAM/ F&B at The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace, India, in 2008. Between 2012-2017 he held Hotel Manager roles at W Singapore Sentosa Cove and The Grand Copthorne Waterfront Singapore. He became first time General Manager in 2017 at The Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast. Before joining Minor Hotels, Yogeswaran was General Manager for M Social Hotel Singapore.

AVANI CENTRAL BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA Avani Central Busan in South Korea (www.avanihotels.com/en/central-busan) has welcomed BK Kwon as the property’s new General Manager. A South Korean national, BK has worked across Europe, Asia and Australia over a career spanning 15 years. Starting as a trainee with Conrad Hotel Bangkok, Thailand, he was promoted to Assistant F&B Manager in 2006.

Between 2008 and 2011, he was based at Parmelia Hilton Perth Hotel, Australia working as Conference & Banqueting Operations Manager, then promoted to Executive Housekeeper and finally Hotel Operations Manager.

In 2011, BK relocated back to South Korea to join Hilton Namhae Golf & Spa Resort as Director of Operations, followed by a stint at Haevichi Hotel and Resort Jeju as General Manager from 2014.

Prior to joining Minor Hotels, he was Executive Director - Hotel Business Division for Haevichi Hotel & Resort Corporation.

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BK Kwon - General Manager at Avani Central Busan Hotel Korea

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APPOINTMENTS

AVANI PALM VIEW DUBAI HOTEL & SUITES, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Georges Farhat has been appointed as General Manager for the Avani Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites (www.avanihotels.com/ en/suites-residences-dubai) that is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2020. With more than 25 years of hospitality experience and a strong background in operations, Georges brings a wealth of knowledge to this role from his previous positions with InterContinental Hotel Group.

Georges’ first foray into hospitality was in 1994 with the Crown Plaza Dubai Hotel as a management trainee and he rose through the ranks in both commercial and rooms division. In 2007 he was appointed the property’s Hotel Manager, followed in 2014 by his first General Manager assignment.

Most recently, Georges was the opening General Manager for the Crown Plaza Dubai Marina.

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Georges Farhat - General Manager at Avani Palm View Dubai

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MEETING NEWS VENUEDIRECTORY.COM SEES A 35% GROWTH IN ENQUIRY VOLUMES FOR MEETING SPACE Leading online venue resource, venuedirectory.com, has ananounced a 35% growth in enquiry volumes for meeting space for the last week of August.

Managing Director Michael Begley explains: August is always a quieter month for meetings and events enquires, but we’re in unusual times and to see a 35% growth is really positive news for the industry. This data comes from our 100+ booking channels that we serve and should be seen as a sign of growing confidence.

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“Although we’re working from a lower base than before lockdown, enquiry volumes have been steadily growing since the beginning of July. The last week of August - traditionally see as ‘softer’ compared to other times of the year – delivered unexpected but very welcome growth.”

According to Michael, the numbers are likely to rise over the next few weeks as schools re-open and people return to offices. He continues: “We are all concerned about

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the possible impact of local lockdowns and changes to travel restrictions. That said, the success of the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’scheme has shown that consumer confidence is growing. Likewise, we want to see business confidence continue to grow. After all, our sector already has a well-established track and trace system for delegates, so attending meetings is arguably safer than dining out at a restaurant!” venuedirectory.com is a UK-based business established in 1993 and has a database of over 400,000 meeting and event spaces in 300 countries. It provides venue data, websites and venue sourcing software to the meetings and events industry and in 2019 over £300m of business was confirmed through its platforms and distribution channels.

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EVENT NEWS COLLABORATION AND UNITY AS THE INDUSTRY CAME TOGETHER NATIONWIDE TO HIGHLIGHT AND EXPERIENCE WHAT EVERYONE HAS MISSED WITHOUT LIVE MEETINGS AND EVENTS "THE EVENTS INDUSTRY MAY HAVE BEEN UNDERVALUED IN THE PAST BUT THAT IS NOT THE CASE NOW; THE INDUSTRY HAS A REAL VOICE IN GOVERNMENT." NIGEL HUDDLESTON, PARLIAMENTARY UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR SPORT, TOURISM AND HERITAGE

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Collaboration and unity throughout the meetings and events industry shone through as 1419 event professionals, including 305 in person at twelve venues, came together nationwide for UKickstart, a major industry event initiated by Adam Simpson, director of marketing at etc.venues and supported by twelve industry associations.

Secretary of State for Sport, Tourism and Heritage at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS); Nick de Bois, Chair of the VisitEngland Advisory Board; Tracy Halliwell MBE, Director of Tourism, Conventions and Major Events at London and Partners and Simon Hughes, Chairman of BVEP.

There was great encouragement for the industry and a positive outlook from the keynote panel which featured Nigel Huddleston MP, Parliamentary Under

Questioned by Calum Di Lieto, editor of C&IT, Nigel Huddleston said; "The events industry may have been undervalued in the past but that is not the case MICE Affairs

EVENT NEWS now; the industry has a real voice in government." Later he also recognised the professionalism of the industry and the safety procedures that venues have implemented when he commented that “The pilot events have shown that you know exactly how many people are coming in and venues are equipped to deal with new safety measures. The industry has done a great job on developing the guidance for reopening.”

Michael Hirst, Chair of the Events Industry Board tweeted “Really positive vibes from #UKickstart live event today. #eventprofs confidently raring to go.”

In an audience poll by Glisser asking what positive legacy to the industry has come from the last few months, ‘collaboration, together, unity, community and supportive’ were the most popular answers, a view backed by the panel.

Adam Simpson, leader of the UKickstart event and director of marketing at etc.venues said: The joy of those who came to the many venues showed how much live meetings and events have been missed, and the commitment of the whole united industry and DCMS recognising that we are ready to run safe live events as soon as possible was clearly evident.”

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Earlier a panel including Rick Stainton, founder and group executive director of Smyle; David Watt, CEO of CI Group and Chetan Shah, founder of micebook.com with a video contribution from Lex Butler, founder of Wolf & White and chair of HBAA gave an agency perspective on the impact of the pandemic experience and on how to kickstart events. Responding to questions from moderator Martin Fullard, editor of Conference News, the agency leaders explained how they had adapted their businesses to the financial realities and what they offer to clients to use digital and broadcasting technology to create first class virtual communications and now hybrid events.

After Rick Stainton provided a clear insight into the aims and development of the One Industry One Voice campaign behind which he has united many agencies and associations, Rick and David Watt both highlighted the need to instil greater confidence in the safety of events at the C-suite level of clients so that events, even in the UK only, can start to take place.

For many participants this event was their first opportunity to meet face to face and enjoy the irreplaceable experience of attend the first major meetings industry event since before lockdown.

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MCL NEWS

MESSAGE FROM MICECLUB ADVISORY BOARD

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ndia’s tradeshow, exhibition, convention and event industry is becoming robust ever with all global industry growth index mentioning that India’s one of the fastest growing champion in the world tradeshow and convention industry. I have a deep sense of confidence in India MICE sectors for its highest growth potential on a global scale for the next century, and it is needless to mention that IICC venue will play a pivotal role in nurturing the sector under our great support in our various and continuous endeavors to multiply its future growth opportunities with numerous India’s passionate, young and global-minded talents of our industry.

Phil Chung

Chief Executive Officer KINEXIN Convention Management(IICC venue operating company) www.iiccnewdelhi.com

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STUDY

MICE AFFAIRS MEDIA GROUP

CREATES NEW RECORD OF HIGHEST ENGAGEMENT THROUGH VIRTUAL EVENTS GROUP ORGANIZED 50+ QUALITY SESSIONS SINCE MARCH 2020 AND SET NEW BENCHMARK WITH FIRST-EVER TRIO VIRTUAL EXPO & CONFERENCE "THE MICE CONFERENCE 2.0" "TRAVELOMANTHAN" AND LIFE EXPO 2020.

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ince Lockdown, Mice Affairs Media Group took the initiative of hosting various sessions on different subjects, starting from MICE, Exhibitions, Travel, Conference, MSME, Hospitality, Corporate Buyers, Association Buyers, and even on education. Also the first and foremost quality virtual expo and conference, THE MICE CONFERENCE 2.0 and TRAVELOMANTHAN was organized, which was attended by delegates from 51 countries. Cumulative engagement of sessions since starts stands tall at 25K plus.

International Speakers and Leaders have marked their presence and lent support to the initiative. Organizations starting from IEIA, UFI, IEML, KINTEX, IICC, CII, PHD CHAMBER, FICCI, TCEB, BRUSSELS EXPO, EXHIBITION WORLD UK, MBB CONSULTING

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GROUP, SLCB, EXHIBITION THINK TANK, FICO, PAMEX, TAAI, TAIWAN TOURISM, NIJHAWAN GROUP, EXHICON, THOMAS COOK INDIA, DELMOS WORLD, IN ORBIT and FIEO have extended wholeheartedly support for all brainstorming sessions.

Top-quality media organizations have also welcomed the initiative by arranging due coverage of all events like Mash Media Group UK, TheAssociationNews, Trav Buzz News, Mice in Asia, and Global Prime News.

All sessions brought together key expertise and invaluable content with power-packed sessions from Day one.

THE MICE CONFERENCE 2.0, which was backed by the most renowned global leadership starting from Chairperson -Sri Lanka Tourism (Mrs. Kimarli Fernando), President - IEIA (Mr. S Balasubramanin), Regional Manager Asia Pacific UFI (Mark

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STUDY

Cochrane), CEO Kintex (IICC India operating Company) Phil Chung & Founder - MBB Consulting Group UK (Matthias (Tesi) Baur, discussed and deliberated on the future of MICE Business from a global perspective.

Starting from the recent updates from various regions to initiatives at the regional level, to hybrid events to bringing business back to shape, all were discussed at length.

TRAVELOMANTHAN was supported by key leadership from the travel industry starting from the Tourism Authority of ThailandDirector Delhi Office (Mr. Vachirachai Sirisumpan), Ms. Jyoti Mayal -President TAAI, Mr. Ankush Nijhawan - CO-Founder, TBO Group & MD. Nijhawan Group, Mr. Rajeev Kale-President, and Country Head - Thomas Cook India, Ruden Dias-Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Mr. Ajay Seth-CEO, Delmos World & Ms. Birgit Albicker-Rimpel-Director Intl Sales-Deutsche Hospitality. Esteemed panelist discussed the steps to bring back travel confidence with the road to restart,

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"We are thankful to all our friends, subscribers and community members from MICE, Exhibition, Travel and Hospitality Industry for the trust and belief of delivering quality content and heartfelt thanks to all organizations worldwide for the support extended and help us making it large. Present conditions are unpredictable and we really wish business is back to normalcy soon.

We at Mice Affairs Media Group are thankful to all our well-wishers who supported us in achieving this milestone " - Saachin Mannocha, Group CEO of MICE AFFAIRS MEDIA GROUP

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THE ONE & ONLY DEDICATED NEWS PORTAL FOR TRADE ASSOCIATION FEDERATION AND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORLDWIDE

WE COVER NEWS. STORIES AND KEY INSIGHTS OF ASSOCIATION BUSINESS. MICE Affairs

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NTB NEWS BTS TO SHOW THE BEAUTY OF SEOUL IN

WORLDWIDE RELEASE OF 2020 SEOUL CITY TVC

• No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for two consecutive weeks, global superstar group BTS shows the beauty of Seoul in seven themes • BTS to spread sentiments of comfort and hope to worldwide “Hallyu” fans by promoting Seoul as Honorary Tourism Ambassador for the fourth year • BTS to send the message “See you in Seoul on your next trip” • Official worldwide release on Friday, September 11 via STO’s VisitSeoul website (visitseoul.net) and social media BTS, as the face of K-pop and the first act in Korea to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for two consecutive weeks, will show the beauty of Seoul in a worldwide release of the 2020 Seoul City TVC. The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) and Seoul Tourism Organization (STO) (CEO Lee Jae-sung) unveiled that they will release the video “See you in Seoul” for the 2020 Seoul City TVC starring BTS worldwide on Friday, September 11 via STO’s VisitSeoul website (www.visitseoul.net).

SMG and STO co-produce new videos of various themes every year that promote to the world 49

the beauty of Seoul to vitalize Seoul tourism.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s halting of travel worldwide, this year’s promotional video has been designed with a different concept from that of all the previous videos, focusing mainly on major tourist attractions.

The focus of this year’s video is “recovery marketing” with aims to attract tourists to visit Seoul in the future and to convey the message of hope to those waiting for eased travel restrictions all the while gaining ground for Seoul tourism. Despite the halt in global travel, the international love for Seoul and “Hallyu” MICE Affairs

NTB NEWS (Korean Wave) still continues, and this video will allow Seoul to establish itself as a must-visit destination for worldwide fans. STO’s message of “we hope you begin your journey in Seoul [when COVID-19 subsides]” is embodied in the slogan “See you in Seoul.”

Moreover, this year’s video was produced to make viewers feel like they are on a journey visiting Seoul with BTS while watching via the web due to the current situation of global travel restrictions.

The video stars all seven members of BTS, each of them giving a thematic tour guide of Seoul from start to finish, capturing the eyes and ears of Hallyu fans and effectively depicting the colorful beauty of Seoul.

The seven themes have been selected after analyzing the interests and preferences of Seoul tourists, and are presented as follows: “Old But New” by RM; “Recharge” by Suga; “Getaway” by V; “Exciting Moments” by J-Hope; “City Break” by Jin; “Scenic Nature” by Jungkook; and “Local Life”

by Jimin.

This marks BTS’s fourth year starring in STO’s videos to promote Seoul tourism; BTS has long continued its relationship with Seoul, having served as Seoul’s Honorary Tourism Ambassador since 2017. Following its previous appearances in “Seoul Life” in 2017, “My Seoul Playlist” in 2018 and “Live Seoul Like I Do” in 2019, BTS makes its appearance again in 2020 for the STO’s promotional videos for Seoul tourism, playing a major role in promoting Seoul tourism.

SMG and STO had previously released seven countdown videos starting on Friday, September 4 starring each BTS member introducing their theme as prelude teasers for the main worldwide release on Friday, September 11. The countdown videos have been gaining hot interest and responses from potential tourists around the world. The videos featuring BTS members in the order of RM, Suga, V, J-Hope, Jin, Jungkook and Jimin, have so far garnered a total of 21 million views and 23,700 comments (as of 3PM, September 9), showing the scale of BTS’s ripple effect.

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The TVC will be released worldwide on STO’s VisitSeoul website (www.visitseoul.net), YouTube (www.youtube.com/visitseoul), Facebook, Instagram and other social media channels on Friday, September 11 at 5PM (GMT+9). Posters of BTS showing the beauty of Seoul will also be unveiled.

There will be promotional video quiz events held on STO’s VisitSeoul Facebook (www.facebook. com/VisitSeoul/) and Instagram (www.instagram. com/visitseoul_official/) for participants to win various prizes. For more information, visit the STO’s VisitSeoul website (www.visitseoul.net).

Hong Jae-sun, head of the Global Marketing Team at STO, said, “We hope that viewers will enjoy their journey of Seoul through the seven doors that BTS will guide them through and enjoy the experience of seeing the charm of Seoul in seven different ways”, “Also, we hope that this video can serve as a way to send greetings from Seoul and alleviate the anxious minds of everyone waiting for global travel restrictions to ease.” he added.

Starting with this 2020 Seoul City TVC, SMG and STO are working on various global marketing projects. Despite tourists not being able to visit Seoul due to COVID-19, the two are continuing its efforts to make a mark for Seoul as a tourist-friendly city by holding a comment participation event, a countdown video download event, and a Seoul-themed photo contest to attract prospective international tourists.

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Joo Yong-tae, Director-General of SMG’s Tourism & Sports Bureau, said, “Seeing the passionate love that BTS has for Seoul, we hope that this video can serve as a gift to those eagerly waiting to travel to Seoul as well as a way to offer comfort and hope to Hallyu fans around the world who are affected

by COVID-19.” “Although it is unfortunate that global travel has halted for the most part, we sincerely hope that Seoul will be the first destination of choice for international tourists when COVID-19 subsides and travel restrictions ease,” he added.

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MICE AFFAIRS MEDIA GROUP JOINS EXHIBITION THINK

TANK AS MEDIA PARTNER

Mice Affairs Media has joined hands with Exhibition Think Tank, The Exhibition Think Tank Club, which is a global platform for Exhibition Industry professionals to network, debate & continue helping the industry to move on and upwards.

The Exhibition Think Tank Club is a worldwide e-platform for Exhibition Industry professional to network, debate & continue helping the industry to move on and upwards.

Members are industry peers from different sectors and countries gathering together and sharing their expertise, vision and insights (individual, team or company membership options).

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MICE CLUB'S SECOND CONVERSATION DRAWS MIXED REACTIONS

FROM PESSIMISTIC TO BEING POSITIVE TO BEING PRACTICAL Key Takeaways: • Considering the rise in no of cases, India needs to wait.

• “It's not easy to be positive but it needs guts to be practical” • The situation is Grim. MICE will take time to bounce back.

• A vaccine is the only hope to rebuild confidence and to get the ball rolling • Virtual Space is good enough to keep in touch with clients but not the final solution.

The silver lining amid the situation is to shake hands with new prospective clients and start a conversation with them, hoping to conclude business in the coming times.

Meeting Attendees: Rajat Saran, Amit Chaudhary, Siddharth Gautam, Vicky Soin, Bindeshwari Prasad, Shiv Charan, Rajesh Raghavan, Ravinder Singh, Om Prakash Sahgal, Rajeshwar Yadav & Saachin Mannocha The meeting started with a review of the present situation across cities. Rajat from Traaexplore Bangalore updated on the initiatives taken by his organization and put forth the positive aspect.

They are working with corporate offering virtual solutions for now and the response is great so as to be in touch and cover some expenses. Moreover, some of the clients have started submitting queries for travel and MICE projects too. Amit Chaudhary, shared a few examples of a recent project where they tried delivering food to all attendees of virtual events so as to get the feel of attending the event from the comfort of their home. Ravinder Singh expressed concern about rising cases. Bindeshwari and Rajesh advocated the fact of being Practical as travelers will take time until being fully secured.

Vicky Soin also shared his views and observations on the current situation.

One of the contributors expressed concern over countries banning Indian visitor's basis increase in no of cases. So we need to keep a close eye on the situation and no of cases has to come down so to keep ourselves eligible for international travel.

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Moreover, there were healthy discussions around opting for other means of business meanwhile.

One of the well-renowned organization from Mice have stepped into the Grocery business and they were advocating the fact of being practical for the meantime. MICE is our main business and we can resume back to the same once the situation is promising.

On the major point of discussion was on Safe Mice- but right now the end consumer is not even thinking about the same. “Who is going to ring the bell” is the question. As corporate are not ready to take the risky. Hence rebuilding confidence in MICE/Travel or Events is totally related to safety and security which can be established through a definite cure.

Contributors also brainstormed on some of the future situations which might occur in the form of more easy supply hence denting the business.

One of the examples quoted was of a recent event where the client opted to do it directly with end suppliers, skipping the supply chain. So we might have to see more such situations and we all shall be ready with our new strategies on case to case basis.

“The New Game shall be a Test Match with 20-20 format” quoted by another contributor.

Although no one can predict when the situation will be back to normal, still most of the attendees agreed to the fact 2020 is gone and they might expect some business to start from March 2021. But a lot of factors will need to support this statement, factors well known to all, need not mention.

An example of a physical event in a nearby country was also discussed at length and there were a lot of mixed reactions to this case study. Executing one single event amid 100 days of Zero infection was not a big deal, as quoted by many.

Conclusion: Road is not easy to Restart. Contributing Factors will play a big role in taking this route.

Virtual is not New and not widely accepted.

Experimentation is the Key. Let’s move from Positive to being Practical.

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EXPO NEWS CARAVAN SALON 2020:

PASSIONATE EVENT CHARTED FOR SUCCESS 107,000 PEOPLE VISITED THE FIRST MAJOR TRADE FAIR AFTER THE LOCKDOWN / HIGHLY SATISFIED EXHIBITORS WITH VERY GOOD SALES RESULTS This year’s CARAVAN SALON DÜSSELDORF has provided impressive proof that caravanning as a way of holidaymaking inspires people and that trade fairs can be held successfully even in Corona times. Messe Düsseldorf and the Caravaning Industrie Verband e. V. (CIVD) can look back on very positive results. "With 107,000 visitors the CARAVAN SALON sends an important signal for the entire trade fair industry in Germany and Europe. The world's most important trade fair for caravanning convinced with its well thought-out hygiene and infection protection concept", rejoices Erhard Wienkamp, Managing Director Messe Düsseldorf.

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The whole team at Messe Düsseldorf and CIVD as well as all employees of our exhibitors turned this trade fair into a fantastic experience with great commitment and lots of passion – this passion for mobile leisure was omnipresent over the past ten days, says Wienkamp.

The mood at the fairground has been excellent. Just as positive, he adds, is the fact that more and more newbies as well as many young families have visited the caravanning trade fair.

Hermann Pfaff, President of the Caravaning Industrie Verband, was also thrilled with how the CARAVAN SALON went: “These visitor numbers are a very good result under the circumstances.

The fact that they include many newcomers and that the average age has come down markedly shows that we are currently experiencing an inflow of completely new customers. The success of the event, however, is not only measured by the attendance figures but above all by the sales deals concluded – and those were even higher than in the record year across the board. Add to this, the customers’ very useful direct feedback that manufacturers can only get in this way at a trade fair. Furthermore, the expert exchange on the biggest B-2-B platform of our industry is extremely valuable for exhibitors.”

The exhibitors of CARAVAN SALON were also 53

exuberant about the results of the trade fair and reported very good sales closed.

“After initial scepticism we are overall very happy to have presented our products at this year’s CARAVAN SALON in Düsseldorf. Although the number of visitors was limited our Hobby sales team were kept very busy. Our customers – also including many young people – were highly interested and very patient and relaxed at the same time. Apart from our vehicles the well thought-out hygiene concept was also received very well by visitors and distancing measures were observed. To sum up, the CARAVAN SALON – even under these special circumstances – proved a really nice trade fair,” says Holger Schulz, Managing Director at Hobby.

Dr. Holger Siebert, Managing Director at Eura Mobil GmbH and Trigano Deutschland KG, says: “This Caravan Salon was special – we have held the first major trade fair in Germany in precarious times. The atmosphere was relaxed and positive, and the parties involved highly satisfied with the results at the end of the day. Our thanks as exhibitors go to Messe Düsseldorf that has done a perfect job in the run-up to and during the trade fair. Occupying 15,000 square metres of exhibition space with 20 brands in the segments motor caravan, caravan, accessories and rentals the Trigano Group showed trust the trade fair and our decision proved right. All brands succeeded in increasing their sales. Our premium brand Eura Mobil saw the new Contura on a Mercedes chassis celebrate its debut. The modern entry-level brand Forster proved particularly popular among the noticeably younger trade fair visitors this year, especially the starter vans priced below EUR 35,000. The tradition-rich Karmann-Mobil brand exhibited on a substantially enlarged exhibition stand and benefited from the trend towards camper vans /buses. Finally, the Spanish MICE Affairs

EXPO NEWS brand Benimar, which was represented in Düsseldorf but we saw visitors with an increased and concrete for the first time, staged an impressive market entry interest in camper vans and buses. The positive result on a 900 m² stand. is that direct sales to end users clearly exceeded those posted in the previous year. In our opinion the trade “This year’s CARAVAN SALON was a resounding fair company has put the detailed hygiene concept success despite all the special circumstances. As one into practice very well. Visitors were very disciplined, of the most beautiful and currently safest forms of wearing face masks and waiting at a distance to inspect vacationing, caravanning boasts enormous potential the vehicles. These were placed further apart on our – as the trade fair clearly demonstrated,” said Gerd markedly enlarged stand space, thereby easing visitor Adamietzki, CSO at Knaus Tabbert AG, and added: routing and allowing for sufficient waiting areas by “We are so delighted the trade fair could be held in the vehicles. Conversations on the stand and in the Düsseldorf. It provides us with the perfect setting guest area were very relaxed, safe and at ease thanks for staging our products; and the growth rates we to the partition screens we had installed between the posted yet again show that the innovations by Knaus tables.”

Tabbert inspire customers – caravanning has really become mainstream now. In a nutshell: CARAVAN The trade fair also went well for the suppliers in SALON 2020 has exceeded our expectations. This is the “Technik-Order” segment featuring technical also attributable to the exemplary implementation of equipment, detachable parts and installations Messe Düsseldorf’s hygiene and safety concept.” for order. Commenting on this John-David Pozzi, Managing Director at Fiamma S.p.A., said: “We are Bernd Wuschack, Manager Sales, Marketing satisfied and can look back on a very successful trade fair. Customers need to see the innovations and and After-Sales Service at the Carthago Group: novelties on the market hands on – which is why I “CARAVAN SALON 2020 called for a lot of courage in am happy about returning to normal. For the many these times of the pandemic. Courage on the part newcomers in the caravanning sector the CARAVAN of Messe Düsseldorf, on the part of exhibitors and SALON is the ideal opportunity to gather information dealers as well as on the part of visitors. This courage and gain a comprehensive overview. Needless to has paid off for all parties involved: the audience say, there were much fewer people in total but behaved in a very disciplined and mindful manner, our instead the quality of the leads with in-depth and specially developed exhibition concept with separate probing conversations was very high. We welcomed meeting islands met with a very positive response a surprisingly large number of well-informed visitors and the hygiene concept of Messe Düsseldorf was to our stand.” successful. Be it Carthago or Malibu – the numerous innovations presented for our motor caravan brands “The decision to join the fray as an exhibitor here in went down extremely well with the avidly interested Düsseldorf proved absolutely right. The CARAVAN visitors. They were just as pleased with the relaxed SALON gives us ideal opportunities to obtain atmosphere at our trade fair stand. In view of the direct feedback from our end users. We found the unique circumstances this year’s CARAVAN SALON conversations very helpful and the audience very was truly a very successful trade fair for the Carthago focused and satisfied with the sales deals concluded.

Group. Now our retail partners and we ourselves The exhibitors representing the upstream supply expect equally successful follow-up business after the industries here rate the results of the trade fair as fair.” positive – even though there were fewer B-2-B leads

generated as was to be expected. Both manufacturers Mike Reuer, Managing Director at Westfalia and visitors felt at home and safe; the considerate Mobil GmbH, also echoes this positive verdict: and mindful attitude towards fellow attendees was “We are pleased we opted to participate at the particularly striking and pleasant to note,” sums up CARAVAN SALON and display our products here. In Nicolaus Hirsch, Managing Director at Linnepe GmbH. line with the hygiene concept there were fewer trade The 60th CARAVAN SALON Düsseldorf will be held fair visitors touring the halls than in previous years – from 27 August to 5 September 2021.

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