Face-to-Face: Shinu Pillai, Project Manager for IBTM India
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This week Travel Daily chats with Shinu Pillai, Project Manager of IBTM India about the first tabletop event in
Mumbai, its focus and India growing MICE industry.
1) What is the focus of IBTM in Mumbai?
The Incentives Business Travel & Events (IBTM) Expo will be held in Mumbai from 12-14 September 2013 at the Grand Hyatt. This event is set up in a table top format with pre-scheduled meetings for hosted buyers and suppliers. IBTM will offer half day conference and two full days of one-on-one meetings.
2) What kind of delegation are you expecting at IBTM in Mumbai?
The event will see a diverse range of products offered for incentives and business travel. The buyers portfolio range from inbound and international players, while suppliers will come from 22 international countries and eight Indian cities. Close to 60% buyers will be from international countries, while the remaining 40 from India. We are still in the process of finalising the total buyers and seller list.
3) How is the Indian MICE industry performing?
The Indian MICE industry has seen tremendous growth in the last few years. In the last three to five years, India has positioned itself as a MICE destination. India’s MICE sector is rapidly growing with newer facilities and cooperation between public and private operators. We have observed a steep increase in companies focusing on the MICE segment.
Destination per se, we saw Golden Triangle as the preferred destination for MICE activities, however with huge development in Tier II and III cities, MICE groups have also moved to other destinations in India. Hyderabad, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Goa are fast picking as MICE destinations.
4) What the key things that India can improvise for the MICE industry?
There is no doubt about the destination’s potential to position itself as a key MICE destination. Marketing the destination with the correct product offering as well as maintaining the quality of the product is critical. It is very important to offer a good MICE package with attractions that will allow the group to engage in activities. Other aspects that can be focused are culture, culinary and adventure experiences for MICE groups.
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