ITB Asia to move in 2012

Messe Berlin (Singapore) organiser of ITB Asia, has said it will increase the overall exhibition floor space by 15 per cent in 2012 and move to level four of Suntec Singapore from level 6 after a record performance this year.

The fourth edition of ITB Asia came to a close last week, after attracting 7,511 trade visitors, an increase of around 14 per cent from last year, representing 91 countries, 50 per cent more than in 2010.

A large number of high level management and key decision makers to the show this year including Taleb Rifai, Secretary-General of the UNWTO, and David Scowsill, President and CEO of WTTC, demonstrated the event’s growing importance and international appeal.

Exhibitors from over 70 countries were represented from as far as Botswana, Finland, Croatia, Ecuador, Iraq and the Seychelles as well as partner country Japan who reported an increase in business activity at ITB Asia 2011, reiterating the strength of the regional travel industry despite economic uncertainties.

Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Hiroshi Mizohata said that ITB Asia has served a good platform to spur on Japan’s recovery from the aftermath of the March earthquake and tsunami.

First time exhibitor and ‘Official Partner Hotel’ Hilton Worldwide, has also pledged to return next year after a successful show, with Philippe Garnier, Vice President, Sales and Regional Marketing - Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide commenting that ITB Asia provided effective platforms in helping Hilton Worldwide capitalise on genuine business leads and enhancing long-lasting trade relationships.

Several changes and enhancements were also made to ITB Asia 2011.

The organisers introduced a new category of partially hosted buyers to the show this year, targeted at those with tight travelling schedules.

In all, there were about 600 buyers at the event.

ITB Asia 2012 will be held at Suntec Singapore in the first week October, from 3-5 October.