The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) has unveiled the programme for its first major event, an exhibitor training day.
The educational event, which is free for exhibitors affiliated with AAXO members, is designed to prepare businesses to get the best from their trade show experience.
Business consultant Frank Tilley will facilitate the October 14 event, which includes sessions on how to plan and budget for a show, design a stand, create marketing collateral, train staff and work with the media.
Meanwhile, AAXO officials have confirmed the association has commissioned market research into the effect of the exhibition industry on South Africa’s economy.
Gillian Saunders, of Grant Thornton, said the group was excited to work on the project.
“The research that AAXO has requested will equip exhibition organisers with the insight to position themselves for growth and profitability and will be of enormous benefit to the entire industry,” Saunders said.
Surveys have been conducted at the MamaMagic Baby Expo, Professional Beauty Expo and Business Entrepreneurship & Franchise Expo, with a further nine trade events to follow.
Survey results will be made available to AAXO members.
Details: aaxo.co.za
