IMEX strengthens its marketing focus with the appointment of Kelly Grant as marketing director, and the creation of a brand ambassador role filled by Natalie Gestetner, reflecting the increasing integration of events within marketing strategies.
Grant brings over 15 years of experience in the global events industry. She now heads up the 16-strong marketing, content, social media and digital team, and will lead the rollout of a programme of year-round content that’s underpinned by strategic use of data to enable a measurable and highly targeted audience reach and attendee conversion.
From left: Kelly Grant, Natalie Gestetner
Based on the west coast of the US, Gestetner will work within the new Impact team. She will work closely with brand-side executives and senior level marketers to introduce them to IMEX and explore how the shows can support their strategic objectives and KPIs.
Significant strides have already been made with the introduction of a dedicated event for chief marketing officers (CMOs) and senior marketing professionals at IMEX America 2024, with plans to develop this further in the year ahead.
IMEX’s CEO Carina Bauer explained: “We’ve invested in our team and business so that we’re equipped to respond and flex to changes in the industry. Looking at research and speaking to our colleagues and friends around the world, there are many instances now where the event planning role sits within the marketing function and these new roles help us respond to that shift.
“We want to welcome this new audience of marketers and use our shows to demonstrate the true value of live events. These two senior level appointments signal our intention to advocate for live events as an important and measurable part of the marketing mix.”
IMEX’s next show, IMEX Frankfurt, takes place May 20-22, 2025.
From left: IHRA's Haryadi Sukamdani; and IECA's Hosea Andreas Runkat at the MoU signing
The Indonesian Exhibition Companies Association (IECA) and the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (IHRA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen industry collaboration and shift from government-events focus to private sector-driven events.
Under the agreement, hotels will offer competitive rates to IECA members, ensuring continued use of venues while allowing exhibition organisers to secure cost-effective spaces. The partnership aims to bridge the gap left by declining government-backed gatherings, which once formed a significant portion of large-scale events.
From left: IHRA’s Haryadi Sukamdani; and IECA’s Hosea Andreas Runkat at the MoU signing
The MoU was recently signed during the IECA Afternoon Tea event in Jakarta.
Haryadi Sukamdani, IHRA Chairman said: “This is a necessary shift. Hotels have long depended on government events to fill ballrooms, but we need to be more adaptable. By working with IECA, we’re opening doors for more private sector collaborations.”
The partnership is particularly aimed at IECA members in regional areas, especially those outside Jakarta, where event infrastructure is less developed, and many organisers struggle to find venues that are both accessible and budget-friendly.
“By securing preferential rates, our members in these areas gain viable alternatives that enable them to continue hosting events,” said Hosea Andreas Runkat, IECA Chairman.
For IECA, the agreement is part of a broader effort to ensure its members to continue holding events despite financial constraints. “Our industry depends on consistency. Reliable access to venues gives organisers confidence to plan, keeping the sector active,” he pointed out.
While exhibition organisers face fewer direct consequences from government budget cuts, Hosea highlighted that the sustained activity of venues is crucial for the well-being of the entire event ecosystem – from hotels and suppliers to contractors, and other reliant stakeholders.
“Keeping event spaces in use helps sustain the entire ecosystem. This is not just about exhibitions, it’s about ensuring the entire value chain, from logistics to production, remains strong,” he elaborated.
Extreme weather is no longer an anomaly, and with rising risks to travelling employees, businesses must proactively "climate-proof" their travel strategies
The devastating January 2025 wildfires in California serve as a stark reminder of the intensifying impact of extreme climate events, which are becoming a global concern.
These fires came on the heels of 2024, the hottest year on record, with global temperatures exceeding 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This unprecedented warming has driven flash floods, heatwaves, and storms worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for action.
Extreme weather is no longer an anomaly, and with rising risks to travelling employees, businesses must proactively “climate-proof” their travel strategies
Asia-Pacific has not been spared from these disruptions. Late 2024 brought six tropical cyclones to the Philippines within just two months, forcing mass evacuations and causing significant loss of life. South Korea recorded its heaviest November snowfall in over a century, grounding travel and creating widespread chaos.
As climate change accelerates, organisations across the region are increasingly grappling with their duty of care obligations. Robust travel risk management strategies are essential to protect employees and ensure operational resilience in this unpredictable landscape.
According to International SOS’ Risk Outlook 2025, 49 per cent of organisations expect significant health and operational risks from extreme weather this year. Some analysts have noted that the frequency of such incidents is increasing by 30 per cent annually, business travel plans must be robust enough to withstand these disruptions and adaptable enough to support employee wellbeing during crises.
Extreme weather events can leave employees stranded in unfamiliar locations, facing communication breakdowns, limited medical access, and supply shortages. These conditions can cause anxiety, fatigue, and impaired decision-making. Adaptable travel plans supported by risk monitoring tools and early warning systems help organisations adjust itineraries proactively, avoiding the greater costs of stranded employees and disrupted operations.
These challenges highlight the need for proactive travel risk management. While not all disruptions are predictable, pre-emptive measures reduce vulnerabilities and ensure employee health and safety during travel.
Strategies to climate-proof business travel Pre-travel risk assessments: A tailored approach is crucial, considering factors like regional climate patterns, healthcare infrastructure, and transport networks. For instance, during typhoon season in South-east Asia, proximity to medical facilities and safe zones is vital. Equipping employees with practical information – such as emergency contacts and nearby shelters – boosts their confidence and ability to respond calmly to unexpected events.
Real-time monitoring and communication: Extreme weather can escalate quickly, but some events, like typhoons in South-east Asia, are more predictable due to advancements in meteorology and predictive modelling. Real-time monitoring systems tracking storms or flash floods enable organisations to adjust travel plans early. Reliable two-way communication channels provide employees with clear instructions, support, and a sense of connection during challenging situations.
Health and security contingency plans: Comprehensive contingency plans should address scenarios like emergency medical assistance, evacuation logistics, and secure accommodation. The Risk Outlook 2025 notes that organisations with integrated health and security protocols respond more effectively to crises. Plans must consider local complexities, such as limited transport or geopolitical factors, and be regularly updated to stay relevant in a changing climate landscape.
Mental health and wellbeing support: Travel disruptions are both logistical and emotional challenges. Employees stranded outside their home countries may face heightened anxiety or isolation, impacting their mental health. Organisations should provide mental health support, such as virtual counselling and post-travel wellness check-ins. Clear information on available resources normalises their use and shows a commitment to employees’ well-being.
Partnering with experts: In high-risk regions, accredited local expertise is vital for managing crises. Partnering with health and security experts like International SOS enables timely medical assistance, secure evacuation plans, and real-time intelligence, even in the most challenging environments. Such partnerships also aid in creating customised travel policies and training, enhancing organisational resilience.
Bridging technology and human oversight
While technological tools enhance risk monitoring and horizon scanning, data alone cannot manage a crisis. Effective travel risk management combines predictive tools with skilled professionals who deliver actionable insights. Experts provide the context technology lacks, ensuring accurate and rapid responses. This synergy is essential – neither data nor expertise works alone.
Crisis response teams are vital for organisational adaptability during emergencies. Regular training and scenario-based planning build their confidence and adaptability, enabling faster and more effective responses when crises arise.
A proactive approach to business travel
Travel disruptions are increasing as climate change reshapes the risk landscape. Extreme weather events are no longer anomalies but persistent challenges for global organisations. To navigate this complexity, businesses must prioritise the safety and well-being of their travelling workforce. Equipping employees with the right tools, information, and support embeds resilience into a robust travel risk management programme.
Safeguarding business travellers demonstrates an organisation’s commitment to sustainability. A proactive approach – integrating risk assessments, real-time monitoring, mental health support, and expert partnerships – protects employees, builds resilience, and enables businesses to achieve strategic goals despite climate-related disruptions.
Bala Selvam is a regional security manager at International SOS
Chittick: Brisbane's push into the incentives market has resulted in more wins; photo by Adelaine Ng
Brisbane is reaping the benefits of its sharpened focus on the incentives market, recording significant gains from Asia alongside recent infrastructure developments that align with its tourism ambitions.
The city saw a 180 per cent increase in incentive wins in FY24 compared to the previous year, with Greater China leading market interest. Event value also surged by 113 per cent, with incentives accounting for 23 per cent of all bid wins.
Chittick: Brisbane’s push into the incentives market has resulted in more wins; photo by Adelaine Ng
The momentum shows no signs of slowing, with incentives already representing 16 per cent of overall bid wins this year, pointing to a sustained upward trajectory.
“Brisbane has always been strong in attracting the associations market, but our focus has evolved,” said Lorelle Chittick, general manager of tourism, business and major events at Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA).
“We’ve been hearing more about incentives from clients, and we can trace the catalyst for that back to our hosting of Tourism Australia’s 2017 Dreamtime event (now Australia Next). That was the first real opportunity to bring key buyers into our destination.”
Since then, Brisbane’s hotel landscape has expanded with the introduction of luxury brands such as W, Westin, and Rosewood, alongside the Queen’s Wharf project, which has helped position the city as an attractive destination for high-value incentive groups from Asia.
The city welcomed some of its largest international incentive groups last year, including NuSkin China and Cathay Life Insurance, which brought 1,500 and 2,000 delegates, respectively.
Greater China remains Brisbane’s top source market, with the incentive lead pipeline tripling in FY25 from FY24 following investment in dedicated in-market resources. South-east Asia is also a growing focus, with rising interest from Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.
To support this growth, BEDA launched the Incentive Trade Ready Program in November 2024 in collaboration with incentive specialists Clockwise Consulting Australia, mentoring 12 local tourism businesses to tailor their offerings for the sector.
The first participants included Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Eat Street Northshore, and the Museum of Brisbane.
“This initiative underpins our commitment to the incentive market, identifying potential gaps in our destination and elevating hero precincts,” Chittick told TTGmice on the sidelines of AIME25.
Brisbane’s air connectivity has also expanded. Since the pandemic, Singapore Airlines now operates four daily flights, while Cathay Pacific and VietJet have also increased capacity.
“We are the closest capital city to Asia on the Eastern Seaboard,” Chittick noted, emphasising Brisbane’s geographical advantage.
Northern International Audio & Visual Show 2025 press conference
The third edition of the Northern International Audio & Visual Show (NIAVS 2025), organised by Gryphon Production, will take place at Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Penang from April 25-27.
This year’s edition will feature approximately 50 local and international exhibitors showcasing over 125 world-class brands related to high-end audio and visual technology.
Northern International Audio & Visual Show 2025 press conference
Wilson Teoh, director of Gryphon Production, shared: “A highlight this year is the Sound Cabin which is a dedicated space built to provide an ideal listening environment, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the quality and depth of sound.
“Beyond the exhibition, NIAVS 2025 will offer an engaging programme of expert-led talks, hands-on workshops and product demonstrations, thus providing valuable insights into the latest industry trends and advancements. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to explore groundbreaking technologies that push the boundaries of sound and visual entertainment.”
NIAVS 2025 is supported by the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau and the state government of Penang.
Its CEO, Ashwin Gunasekeran, shared at a recent press conference held in Selangor: “Our vision is to elevate NIAVS into one of Asia’s premier showcases for audio and visual excellence.
“With the increasing interest from international brands, we aim to expand its reach beyond the region and establish NIAVS as a globally recognised event in the audiovisual industry. The continuous growth of NIAVS will not only bring in more opportunities for exhibitors and attendees but it will also contribute significantly to the development of the exhibition industry in Penang.”
Around 6,000 business event delegates will arrive on the Gold Coast this week as the city prepares to welcome the 2025 Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference and Trade Exhibition (APP2025), the largest pharmacy conference in the Southern Hemisphere.
Taking place at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre from March 20-22, APP2025 will bring together pharmacy professionals, industry leaders, and exhibitors from across Australia.
Gold Coast pictured
APP2025 conference convenor, Kos Sclavos, said: “… This year’s conference will be one of the most significant in APP history. With the largest gathering of pharmacy students ever attending and following a year of significant impact in our industry, the future of community pharmacy is brighter than ever.”
Returning to the Gold Coast for its third consecutive year, APP2025 comes as the region begins its recovery from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the first to impact the city in over 70 years.
Experience Gold Coast executive director of events, Avril Harris, said she is thrilled to see APP2025 go ahead as planned, highlighting the city is getting back to business.
“The Gold Coast remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming destination, offering hundreds of world-class experiences, and our industry partners are ready to welcome delegates,” Harris said.
This event is supported by Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, which is expected to inject more than A$14.5 million (US$9.2 million) and 25,000 direct visitor nights into the Gold Coast economy.
The Queenstown Convention Bureau will offer free advice to support event execution; Queenstown pictured
Destination Queenstown has launched a suite of online tools and resources to facilitate business event planning in the region.
The initiative includes a dedicated business events microsite and a comprehensive guide designed to simplify the organisation of incentive trips, conferences, and retreats.
The Queenstown Convention Bureau will offer free advice to support event execution; Queenstown pictured
The new resources provide event planners with tools such as accommodation capacity charts, suggested itineraries, and up-to-date airline connectivity schedules from New Zealand’s main airports, and direct daily flights from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Gold Coast.
Other useful resources include a forward outlook of potential accommodation occupancy to guide decisions around when to visit, and local accommodation maps with travel times to ensure a seamless experience on the ground.
These tools aim to showcase Queenstown’s venues, event services, and local suppliers, and to support the creation of immersive experiences for delegates.
Queenstown Convention Bureau’s manager, Sarah McDonald, emphasised that the new online tools, along with access to local experts, will assist event planners, particularly those organising from remote locations. The Queenstown Convention Bureau will offer free advice to support event execution.
Michael Wieser returns to Lily Hotels as CEO, having previously held the role before the Covid-19 pandemic.
With 35 years of international hospitality experience, he has held leadership positions with some of the world’s most prestigious hotel brands, with a proven track record in operations, guest satisfaction, and strategic growth.
Wieser will oversee the development and expansion of the two resorts in the Lily portfolio: Lily Beach Resort & Spa and Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa.
CBRE is bolstering its hotels and hospitality team in Asia-Pacific with the appointments of Andrew Hunter as senior director, and Mark Hahm as associate director.
Hunter, based in Singapore, will collaborate with CBRE’s global, Asia-Pacific, and local hotels teams to enhance cross-border hotel investment opportunities. He will focus on client engagement to drive deal distribution and provide essential hotel market intelligence to empower clients in their real estate investment strategies.
From left: Andrew Hunter and Mark Hahm
Hahm, based in Seoul, joins CBRE from JLL where he held a senior role managing hotel transactions. He will enhance transaction execution in South Korea, leveraging his experience with hotel owners and investors.
Sydney (pictured) can showcase its vibrant ecosystem across the fields of AI, quantum computing, and robotics
Australia’s reputation as a global leader in intelligent robotics research has received a boost with the announcement today that Sydney will host the IEEE/Robotics Society of Japan (RSJ) International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS) in 2028.
This landmark decision marks the first time in the conference’s 30-year history that it will be held in the Southern Hemisphere.
Sydney (pictured) can showcase its vibrant ecosystem across the fields of AI, quantum computing, and robotics
The conference is anticipated to attract between 7,000 and 10,000 international delegates, injecting an estimated A$31 million directly into the local economy. IROS Sydney will take place at the state-of-the-art International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) from October 2-6, 2028.
Established in 1988 and held annually, IROS serves as a crucial platform for the international robotics research community to converge and explore the cutting edge of science and technology in intelligent robots and smart machines. The groundbreaking research showcased at these conferences is pivotal in fostering the growth of new industries and laying the groundwork for future innovation.
BESydney’s CEO Lyn Lewis Smith highlighted: “Events such as IROS allow us to build vital global connectivity for our robust local research ecosystem, while simultaneously showcasing Australia’s exceptional capabilities, collaborative spirit, and investment opportunities,” she stated.
Smith further emphasised the strength of New South Wales’ research infrastructure, pointing to advanced facilities such as the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) ARC Research Hub for Human-Robot Teaming for Sustainable and Resilient Construction and Robotics Institute, as well as the University of Sydney’s Australian Centre for Field Robotics and the ARC Australian Robotic Inspection and Asset Management Hub. These institutions have been at the forefront of innovation in critical areas including space robotics, infrastructure maintenance, and sustainable mining applications.
“Initiatives like the Sydney Quantum Academy and Tech Central’s innovation hubs further underpin Sydney’s vibrant ecosystem,” Ms. Lewis Smith added, “creating fertile ground for collaboration across disciplines such as AI, quantum computing, and robotics. These advancements are significantly bolstering NSW’s competitive edge and attracting international conferences and investment that shine a spotlight on its leadership in digital and intelligent technologies.”
IROS is sponsored by the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society, the Robotics Society of Japan, the Society of Instrument and Control Engineers, the New Technology Foundation, and the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society.
The successful bid to bring IROS to Sydney was a collaborative effort spearheaded by BESydney, working in close partnership with leading robotics researchers from across Australia.
The newly-opened Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok anchors the One Bangkok development with cosmopolitan elegance. Featuring the city's largest ballroom and a spectacular new penthouse suite, it delivers exceptional hardware and deeply authentic, soulful service for business and leisure travellers alike
Behind the imposing, Brutalist concrete that defines Zurich’s Oerlikon district lies a surprising secret. While its exterior honours the neighbourhood’s industrial roots, stepping inside Mama Shelter reveals a vibrant, neon-soaked world that is a far cry from its rigid shell
A polished urban retreat designed for business travellers, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown combines thoughtful design, seamless service, and exceptional facilities.
Bala Selvam is a regional security manager at International SOS
Wieser will oversee the development and expansion of the two resorts in the Lily portfolio: Lily Beach Resort & Spa and Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa.
