IMEX America returns in October to meet new needs of the industry

# tags: Events , IMEX America , Meetings Industry

IMEX America, which returns to Las Vegas October 10 – 13 October, is keen to address the new needs of the industry head on, bringing together the global business events community in a four-day show designed to deliver a tailored, targeted and efficient business experience.

This edition has been crafted by the IMEX team in response to the significant shifts in the sector in 2022. The market, particularly in the US, is busy and registration numbers reflect this. Just two months after registration opened, over 2,500 buyers have so far confirmed their participation. Likewise, there has been strong demand from suppliers and major global destinations. Dozens of suppliers from Asia and Europe who were unable to take part in 2021 are returning this October. These include Portugal. A wide range of event technology providers have already confirm their presence.

Education sessions power business conversations

Under the theme ‘Pathways to Clarity’, the IMEX team has streamlined the number of education tracks from 10 to four: Respect for People and Planet; Future Self; Innovation and Creativity; Event Planner Toolkit. The remodelled programme builds on IMEX’s strong educational legacy and aims to deliver a fresh twist on old problems while also facing the business realities of Q4 2022 head on. This radical simplification also fits better with post-pandemic business needs.

There are over 200 educational events over four days, beginning with Smart Monday on October 10, powered by MPI. The free day of learning offers tailor-made opportunities for corporate and association planners to meet, connect and learn at the Executive Meeting Forum, Corporate Focus and Association Leadership Forum. There are also sessions from IAEE, EIC and MPI, plus She Means Business a joint event by IMEX and tw magazine, supported by MPI. 

The expanded Inspiration Hub is once again home to show floor education. It now offers a choice of ‘E’ for everyone sessions or learning tailored for agency, corporates or association professionals.

Sessions will address topical challenges, such as how to manage supply chains (where’s the chicken?!) to contract clauses and pricing fluidity. Digital dragons, cryptocurrencies and the metaverse will all be explained and explored, while sessions on building creative and communication skills recognise new workplace demands.

The programme goes live online September 1.

Supporting sustainability

In a world where planet-friendly practices and carbon costs are more important than ever, IMEX America will champion sustainability, diversity and social impact throughout the education and across show floor activity with the IMEX-EIC People and Planet Village a focal point.

The Village, which returns following its launch at IMEX America last year, will feature a shared campfire area dedicated to sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion as well as the chance to take part in activities that support the local Las Vegas community. Wellbeing also figures highly with a dedicated Be Well Lounge offering mediation and mindful moments as well as wellness-focused show floor education or events.

Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, says: “Every year we start afresh. We carefully craft and rework the show in response to what we’re seeing and hearing in the industry and from post-show surveys and data. When to-do lists and hours are long and budgets and resources are limited, any visit to IMEX America needs to be a tailored, efficient and satisfying experience. More than ever, the market is looking for a single location – and a single business trip – that accomplishes multiple goals

We’re confident with our wide range of North American and international suppliers, packed learning programme and extensive opportunities to connect that this year’s show is ‘the one that gets it all done’.”

IMEX America 2022 takes place at the Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, and opens with Smart Monday, powered by MPI, on Monday October 10 followed by the three-day trade show October 11-13. More information at www.imexamerica.com.