The 13th edition of IMEX America opened its doors 8 October at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas and attendees saw a show floor which has increased 7% in terms of space over the 2023 edition.
Organisers said over a third of returning exhibitors had expanded their show floor presence, with over 400 exhibitor booths in total.
Growth is primarily being driven by the USA & Canada, the Caribbean, hotel groups and technology companies. IMEX America ‘24 is home to 46 technology stands, of which one third are new. Hotel groups also now represent close to 25% of the show’s footprint. Many other sectors of the show have also seen growth, from event production and incentive products to airlines and cruise lines – all pointing to the current strength of the wider business events community.
The number of exhibiting companies joining the show for the first time has also increased from last year. Among the 70 new stands are Guatemala; Exhibition World Bahrain; Sonder Hotels, Destination Niagara USA, Yosemite Park, Experience Grand Rapids along with DMCs including Dragonfly Africa and Greenroute Africa.
With 80,000 meetings planned between buyers and the 3,600 exhibiting companies, it promises to be a busy three days.
The show’s 150+ session education programme taking place on the show floor’s Inspiration Hub is designed to supercharge the business meetings and networking. Learning is spread across seven tracks, including Impact (IMEX’s Talking Point). Encore is sharing a fresh take on their immersive experience, Break Free: Unlock Your Impact, promising to challenge the senses and spark emotional impact. Google Xi returns with its renowned CoLaboratory offering experimental workshops and activations to encourage play, exploration and meaningful connection.
Spaces for rest, recharge and experimentation have been designed into the show.
IMEX CEO, Carina Bauer, explains: “The business events community is the shining star of IMEX America – our buyers, attendees, exhibitors, speakers and partners rightfully take the spotlight. Over the last decade or more the industry has really taken this show to their hearts, encouraged by proof of business value but also the strong sense of community and togetherness they experience here.
“From growing exhibitor participation and exciting, immersive activations, through to dozens of fringe events both on and off the show floor, it’s now clear the sector feels empowered to make this show their own. It’s a sign of the trust placed in the IMEX team and a living expression of two of our company values – people first and achieve together. I’m excited for the week ahead and looking forward to hearing about all the deals, the new connections and the bright ideas that will spring to life here.”
IMEX America 2024 runs at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, October 8 - 10. www.imexamerica.com
Come and meet the CMW team on stand C4916
