EIBTM, a leading global event for meetings and incentive industry, is set for another outstanding year with over 3,000 exhibitors from more than 90 countries showcasing their products and services in Barcelona next month, said the organisers.

These include 28 new main standholders from leading hotel brands Tiara Hotels and Oberoi Hotels; destinations such as Mozambique, Senegal, Venezuela and cities such as Bonn, according to Reed Travel Exhibitions.

The event, which begins on December 1, delivers three days of focused access to a dynamic business environment, thought provoking professional education and business networks for exhibitors, Hosted Buyers and trade visitors, said a top official.

'With under one month to go before EIBTM opens its doors to the international meetings industry, over 50,000 business appointments are set to take place as the event plays host to more than 3,700 Hosted Buyers; all recognising the importance the event plays in delivering business and return on investment,' June Clark, EIBTM’s Hosted Buyer programme manager said.

As of now, pre scheduled appointments were up 10 per cent on the same time last year, she added.

According to Clark, over 255 international association buyers have been accepted onto the Hosted Buyer programme, a substantial increase on association buyers in attendance last year, and all signs are predicting an increase in numbers attending the over 30 education sessions targeted at corporates, associations, agencies and suppliers.

'We are absolutely delighted with these pre-show figures, proving why EIBTM continues to attract Hosted Buyers from all over the world who are eager to do business,' she remarked.

'This year we have seen particular interest from Belgium, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Russia as well as long haul destinations such as Argentina, Brazil, China, India and North America.'

“It is clear that, in challenging times for the industry, top international buyers recognise the value and return on investment of attending EIBTM. Our buyer driven pre scheduled appointment system ensures that we bring the right people together in an environment that is conducive to doing business,” she added.-TradeArabia News Service