Wellington’s brand-new convention centre, Tākina, is currently working with local AV design and installation specialists Futureworks and Lighthaus Limited to install state-of-the-art audio and visual technology.
The internal technical fit-out of the building has already begun, and a variety of soft-launch events have been scheduled. This provides the opportunity to thoroughly test, tune and focus the AV and lighting systems in real-world situations, well before the first official events in early June 2023.
Tākina’s main plenary hall
The proposed installation includes hi-spec 20,000-lumens laser projectors for impactful onscreen visual display, energy efficient long-life LED stage, room lighting fixtures, and mounted pre-tuned PA systems.
A highly specialised hearing assistance system has also been factored in, allowing attendees to connect their personal devices to the Wi-Fi and easily select an appropriate channel and volume level. This installation will cover the main and peripheral function spaces without the time, cost, and labour associated with installing and removing such systems on a per-event basis, making for a highly cost-effective model for clients.
Soon-to-open Tākina will offer over 10,000m2 of flexible meeting and events space over two floors that can cater for up to 1,600 in its main plenary space.
Corporate travel momentum will continue to grow in 2023
Today’s best practices help to anticipate trends in the upcoming year. The industry is expected to not only grow consistently but also metamorphose into being a vanguard of technology advancements with one thing at the core: customer experience.
The year 2022 has been a year of optimism and rejuvenation for the travel industry, which once grew uninterruptedly, but came to a complete halt due to the pandemic. The initial rebuild was slow, but today, travel momentum is continuing to grow strongly.
Corporate travel momentum will continue to grow in 2023
The UNTWO’s latest World Tourism Barometer showed an increase of 182 per cent for international tourism in the first three months of 2022 compared to the previous year, with destinations worldwide welcoming an estimated 117 million international arrivals compared to 41 million in 1Q2021.
However, reaching the pre-pandemic levels may take a while, given the lasting impacts of Covid, or other macroeconomic factors that can interfere with a full recovery.
Corporate travel bounces back
A resurgence in the market, especially in the hospitality and corporate travel industry, is clearly visible from where we stand today. Travel for business, leisure or bleisure (combining work with leisure) around the world is gaining momentum but with a whole new set of expectations and preemptions.
This offers an opportunity for hospitality professionals to tap into these prospects, win more MICE and Corporate Travel business and improve profitability. Hoteliers are going the extra mile to adapt to these changing demands of the travel managers who, in fact, are key contributors to their business.
The recent Travel Managers report from Cvent delves deeper into these newly emerged corporate traveller sentiments across the globe and ways in which the hotels can prepare themselves for a rebound.
Travel managers and their requisites The report revealed that 90 per cent* of corporate travel managers are currently sourcing hotels for their organisation’s travel programmes and most of them projected their organisations’ travel spend to increase significantly in 2022. The trend is expected to continue for a long time. To win this business, however, hotels must be aware of travel managers’ preferences and requirements.
Health and safety remain a priority: Fearful of being stranded at another location, or contracting a new virus, business travellers are cautious while making travel decisions. Most are comfortable planning itineraries with the least exposure. Travel managers are booking properties that follow stringent Covid protocols and implement high standards of sanitisation and hygiene.
Budget accommodations are top of mind: Inflation has made everything expensive, including travel. However, currently travel managers are searching for hotels offering lucrative deals on stays. The willingness to pay a price is influenced by factors such as safety protocols, room size and work-supporting facilities, customer loyalty, discounts, and additional complimentary amenities.
No/low contact check-ins: Travellers are looking to minimise physical contact with people or equipment. Check-ins at hotels or registrations at events or meetings through mobile apps or face recognition technology, QR code, and such has become a new ask by travel managers. Keyless entry to hotel rooms is another new technology keeping anxious travellers satisfied.
Hotels need to make a strategic shift The report also revealed that 50 per cent* of travel managers state their organisations’ programme considerations have somewhat changed since 2019.
Know what the travellers want: Hotels and venues that quickly understand the changed preferences of customers and implement measures facilitating those will get an edge over those who continue to rely on old practices. The time is to bring back existing customers and create opportunities for new customers by offering them what they are looking for.
Innovate using technology: Technology is set to bring a positive change to the travel industry. Its potential is limitless and those who know how to leverage it are sure to succeed. Imagining robots receiving guests at hotel lobbies and escorting them to the rooms or meeting venues is not a farfetched thought now. Several properties are investing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) guided technology to make the guest experience safer and more efficient.
Prosper with dynamic pricing: The preference of travel managers has shifted towards receiving dual or dynamic pricing from the properties. Around 62 per cent* of respondents across all markets surveyed say they’re requesting dual or dynamic prices during their 2023 RFP negotiations. These strategies could open new doors for hotels, giving them the opportunity to vary pricing based on factors such as demand, availability, and customer loyalty.
Closing thoughts The travel landscape has undergone a massive shift and is evolving every day, pushing the need for hoteliers to stay relevant to attract corporate travellers and event planners. There is a need to find the perfect balance between technology, cost containment and sustainability to deliver an experience that is safe for customers who are regaining faith in travelling and for organisations that are concerned for their employees to rebuild their customer connections by meeting face-to-face.
*All figures above are a consolidated representation of findings from Cvent’s Travel Manages Report covering markets across Asia/ANZ/MEA regions
Graham Pope is the vice president of international sales, Cvent. He has more than 15 years of experience in the events and software-as-a-service (SaaS) space. Prior to joining Cvent, he spent five years as EMEA group commercial director at Global Experience Specialists.
This survey ties into IAPCO's ongoing support for talent in the global meetings industry
IAPCO (International Association of Professional Congress Organizers) and the 14 National PCO Association members of the IAPCO Strategic Association Task Force have combined forces to gather data on employee and team member wellbeing and feelings towards work, connections to others and perceived belonging to the meetings industry.
This is the first such initiative in the global congress and events industry, and the team is backed by academics at Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK and expert social scientists from across the globe. Their experience spans specialised experience and training in adult mental health, team dynamics and academic research.
This survey ties into IAPCO’s ongoing support for talent in the global meetings industry
Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO, stated: “We have heard how workplace and team dynamics have shifted over the past couple of years as people returned to offices and to delivering in-person events, but we are lacking significant and accurate data on it from a global perspective. Without such data and specialist analysis of the data, we cannot begin to provide solutions.
“The analysis of responses gathered from the survey will not only help to form a clearer picture of factors influencing our workforce and what they are looking for from their employers and connections, but it will also, more importantly, help IAPCO and others in the industry to create educational, personal and professional programmes to support workforce development globally.”
IAPCO aims to publish the results of the survey in 1Q2023.
A screenshot from the Yarra Riverkeeper Association's page
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has entered into a new community partnership with the Yarra Riverkeeper Association (YRA).
As part of the Platypus Partnership, MCEC and YRA will work together to create stronger community connections and build a sustainable future for the Yarra/Birrarung river which runs past the venue. The partnership will also provide opportunities for MCEC employees to take part in learning and engagement with the Association.
A screenshot from the Yarra Riverkeeper Association’s page
The Yarra Riverkeeper Association is a not-for-profit, community-based organisation that works closely with local communities, Traditional Owners, government, and other stakeholders to advocate for the health of the Yarra/Birrarung. They work with Traditional Owners to re-energise the river ecologically and culturally, bringing back biodiversity and health.
This agreement extends MCEC’s goal of supporting the environment and the community by partnering with leading not-for-profit organisations across sustainability, health and housing.
MCEC already has existing partnerships with OzHarvest, the Good Friday Appeal, Variety – the Children’s Charity, Launch Housing, Starlight Children’s Foundation, and the Banksia Foundation.
Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park has embarked on a new voyage with the launch of Sirimahannop, a replica of the Royal Thai Navy’s last three-masted sailing ship from the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910).
The floating event venue – which transports guests back to a prosperous bygone era of Thai trade and heritage – is permanently docked at Asiatique The Riverfront.
Sirimahannop
1 of 8
Sirimahannop can accommodate up to 300 guests across two levels: the Upper Deck and Lower Deck.
The Upper Deck is an al fresco space where up to 200 people can soak up river views. Casual stool seating runs along the starboard side, and live bands, performances, and themed parties can be arranged for private buyouts.
Descending to the Lower Deck, the indoor zone can hold up to 100 guests seated. There are also two private rooms that can cater for up to six people each.
Guests can also expect epicurean adventures, including handcrafted cocktails, signature drinks and light shared plates that reflect the ship’s historical global trade routes, with a fusion of the finest ingredients from Thailand, Europe and other ports of call.
Sébastien Samoye has been appointed as vice president of real estate of Belmond, and will play a key role in curating the ultimate travel collection for the company.
He brings with him over twenty years of international experience working in asset management, finance and real estate, most recently in his own practice, CREO Advisory, and has overseen an extensive portfolio of hotels during his career.
Samoye will play a significant role in asset management of Belmond’s owned real estate and working with joint venture partners.
Azerai Can Tho in Vietnam has appointed a new executive chef, Bernardo Cabrera, who will oversee the entire range of Azerai Can Tho’s culinary programme.
The Mexican will draw on his past experiences working in Michelin-star restaurants like Ryu Gin in Japan, and Geranium in Copenhagen, Denmark.
In 2018, Cabrera moved to Vietnam, where he joined the culinary team at Amanoi. That experience marked his second stint with Aman Resorts after he joined Amanyara in the Turks and Caicos islands starting in 2012.
It’s AIME’s 30th Birthday – any historical anecdotes to share?
I remember my first AIME. I picked up my name badge and attended the hosted buyer briefing. The energy in the room was palpable and watching the joy as so many people hugged, kissed and laughed as they came together again was like nothing I had experienced.
What’s changed in your time in the industry?
The increase of digital in our sector perhaps goes without saying. When I started it was good old fashioned recording and sending these out on VHS tapes.
What do you think our industry will look like in 30 years?
Immersive and experiential learning is growing and we need to learn how to create these educationally based experiences in our program.
Have you met any partners or made new business contacts through AIME?
Every year I meet new partners and business contacts at AIME. It’s one of the main reasons I continue to go year on year.
What are your top tips for networking?
If you’re on your own, don’t be afraid to approach that group and make conversation. Our industry is warm and welcoming. Let people know you’re flying solo – you’ll be building a network before you know it.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the industry?
There are a few things I could mention here but the skills shortage is key. Our industry is no longer seen as attractive to newcomers.. There is no clear pathway – especially for young people – for career growth and progression. We need to undertake career mapping and show how rich and diverse our industry is.
What are the key trends you are seeing in your area of specialty?
Within associations the need to reconnect in-person seems to be a key trend. With digital content, there are mixed feelings with some associations returning to in-person only and some maintaining a digital presence, as it relates to conferences.
What would you most like to learn about at AIME?
How can we unite as one industry to drive recognition through all levels of government, corporate and associations to increase our standing, appreciation and funding to drive more events into the Australian market.
What are some things you would advise someone to do who is attending AIME for the first time?
● Respect the time of the buyers. If you’re attending as a hosted buyer, attend every appointment. If you get behind schedule, go and see any appointments you missed to reschedule.
● Be open to learning!
If you could meet or chat to one person at AIME who would it be?
Julia Knowles! Julia was the person behind Her Majesty’s funeral. It was perfection in motion and such an example of the power of events.
AIME 2019 Hosted Buyer event at the Timberyard and Uncover Melbourne tour experiences
What are some of your go-to places when you’re in Melbourne (food/coffee/experiences)?
Mamasita for some delicious Mexican; Hochi mama and Straight outta Saigon for Asian; walking everywhere and listening to the sights and sounds.
The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) is the leading trade event for the meetings and event industry in the Asia Pacific region. AIME is where industry decision makers connect, create and do business. Applications for AIME’s highly regarded Hosted Buyer Program close 13 December 2022. Find out more here.
Alie V Sison is the new director of sales and marketing at Swissotel Clark, replacing Albert Lafuente who is now resident manager of Sedona Suites Ho Chi Minh City.
Prior to that, Sison was director of sales at Raffles and Fairmont Makati as well as Mandarin Oriental in Manila. She was also director of sales and marketing at Discovery Suites Ortigas.
Indonesia welcomed G20 delegates this week with upgraded and sustainable infrastructure and attractions in Bali, with a spotlight on local cultural arts and craft and cuisine.
Angle Tanoesoedibjo, vice minister of tourism and creative economy, said at a virtual media briefing from Bali that the offer of various national dishes represented an Indonesian gastronomic diplomacy.
Electric vehicles were operated during the event to bring the G20 delegates around
Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy’s (MoTCE) deputy of tourism products and events, Rizki Handayani, shared that the Story of Gulu and Friends food theatre and the Archipelago on a Tray highlighted culinary delights from different parts of Indonesia.
She said: “The tray, for example, showcased (dishes with ingredients) sourced from Aceh to Papua. The duck, for example, was from Sumatra, coffee from Gayo (Aceh), and tea from West Java. All islands in the country were represented (in the lunch).”
The story of sustainable food sources was also presented through an integrated performance.
As part of the G20 side event, head of delegations visited the Ngurah Rai Mangrove Forest Park. Ahead of the visit, facilities at the mangrove area were upgraded, including the construction of the entrance gate, parking area, G20 monument, plaza area, Beji (the sacred garden in the temple area), Wantilan (pavilion), mangrove tracking track, nursery area, nursery irrigation system, receiving area, viewing deck towards Benoa Bay, and viewing tower.
The Estuary Dam Solar Power Plant (SPP) also had upgrading works done, such as optimising the function of the water reservoir in the Muara Reservoir, which is expected to reduce the impact of climate change. This renewable energy transition is in line with one of the global issues at the G20 Summit.
In addition, Indonesia showcased its green energy concept by implementing the SPP on the Bali-Mandara Toll Road, with electric vehicles – 962 cars, 454 motorcycles, and 28 bus units – operated during the event to move G20 delegates around.
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.
Graham Pope is the vice president of international sales, Cvent. He has more than 15 years of experience in the events and software-as-a-service (SaaS) space. Prior to joining Cvent, he spent five years as EMEA group commercial director at Global Experience Specialists.
Samoye will play a significant role in asset management of Belmond’s owned real estate and working with joint venture partners.
Prior to that, Sison was director of sales at Raffles and Fairmont Makati as well as Mandarin Oriental in Manila. She was also director of sales and marketing at Discovery Suites Ortigas.
