Although the 2022 edition of Meetings Africa will take a hybrid format, exhibitions are strictly physical. However, buyers have a virtual option to join the event which will take place from February 28 – March 2 at the Sandton Convention Centre.
Affirming this, Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB), Amanda Kotze-Nlapo said the decision to resort to the physical format alone for exhibitors is to maximize opportunities for doing business at the event.
“It was a calculated decision that we made to exhibitors for a greater mileage to do business and showcase what they have on offer. And as I say to the exhibitors, you need to help us to convert this business and that needs to be in person,” she stated.
Several sessions and events at Meetings Africa 2022 will have a blend of hybrid and in-person formats.
Structure of the show:
• Physical participation for all exhibitors;
• Physical participation for all global hosted buyers not impacted by travel bans;
• Virtual participation for buyers that are unable to travel including a hosting digital platform for virtually meetings;
• BonDay (Business Opportunities Networking Day) hosting a MICE Masterclass, Youth Educational Programme as well as SMME training programme;
• BonDay educationals (4 sessions) to continue during the show;
• Welcome function taking place on the 28th of February 2022 focusing on buyer-exhibitor engagements and delegate networking;
• Platform to leverage SA Tourism various marketing initiatives: Global brand film launch, Global brand advocacy, Welcome campaign, Speed marketing sessions, Sustainability Village and SMME market access;
• Post show buyer familiriasation trips to enhance destination profiling.
Another change to this year’s event is the Diary System which was on opened on the 8th of February.
The new features allow buyers and exhibitors the ability to link personal assistant e-mail address to diary requests, select venue by booking capacity, manage your exhibitor directory entry and product listing, searchable exhibitor directory with diary contacts and download all their meeting contacts under ‘My Contacts.’
Exhibitors at Meetings Africa 2022 will have access to the online appointment system, which enables them to pre-schedule meetings, maximising their time with buyers.
