The concept of delegates being able to attend a specialised event without leaving their office has obvious appeal, say exhibitors at Into Africa, SA’s first online travel expo.
Aimed at SA corporates, TMCs and the leisure industry who arrange travel for South Africans into Africa, the event features virtual exhibitor stands and a line-up of authoritative speakers. It is scheduled for four hours from 09h00 on Thursday, September 13.
While physical one-on-one meetings remains the ideal, an online expo will allow exhibitors to reach delegates who just are not able to afford the time and costs of attending a trade show in another centre.
All readers of media partners, eTNW and Travel & Meetings Buyer, are invited to attend for free. Register here.
Said founder and ceo of BON Hotels, Guy Stehlik: “The great question - 'are travel shows worth it?' - has been one that we at BON Hotels have considered and grappled with since our inception. Traditional travel shows, especially the most well-supported and well-known are an expensive exercise. It is easy to get wrapped up in the ‘have to be seen’ to get your brand out there. While trade shows provide a place to raise the profile of your brand, let’s face it, for a start-up or any relatively young business, trade shows are expensive. Not only are you carrying the costs of the exhibition fees, but also air tickets, accommodation, entertainment, an entire staff complement out of office…the list goes on.
We are very excited at the introduction of an online trade show; what with the business world’s evolution into everything online, we see an online version as a welcome step into the future. Naturally, the success is going to weigh on industry participation and the value and authenticity of the content, discussions and importantly the effectiveness of how it’s put together,” said Stehlik.
Another exhibitor, Radisson Hotel Group, said it has always spearheaded innovation and is a proud early adopter. “We believe in adapting to the ever-changing needs of the traveller and our stakeholders. We are thrilled to be part of the first online travel show focusing on East Africa and look forward to seeing its sure success,” said William McIntyre, regional director, Africa.
For more details contact nataliec@nowmedia.co.za
