Attending AIME 2024 was not just about networking and showcasing our services; it was a significant experience that highlighted the pulse of the business events industry. The atmosphere was contagious, buzzing with excitement and anticipation for what the future holds. With a knowledge program on the first day followed by two days of engaging with over 100 exhibitors it’s intense and almost feels like you need to follow a strict training regime to prepare! But, if there’s anything event professionals have its endurance. We are Olympic athletes when it comes to long hours, conversations and networking. Something else I noticed, and I don’t think I was the only one, was the absence of Covid discussions, signalling a collective step towards recovery and resilience.
Above Image: Some of the Arinex and Arinex Live team attending AIME 2024 at the Arinex and Arinex Live booth including (left to right) Oliver Matthews, Jordan Walsh, Nicole Walker, Joe Ciliberto, Amy Buttery and Chrissy Gregory
Throughout the Knowledge Program and ideas sharing, sustainability and AI emerged as dominant themes throughout the event. From reducing carbon footprints, understanding diversity and inclusiveness to incorporating AI-driven solutions, the industry is actively embracing innovation for a brighter, greener future. I was particularly impressed by one exhibitor’s tool to measure the carbon score of events, emphasizing the growing importance of environmental consciousness.
In conversations with my peers, discussions revolved around the challenge of meeting client expectations within constrained budgets, highlighting the need for creativity and efficiency in event management.
It was exciting and encouraging to hear lots of questions and talk about the newly formed Australian Business Events Association. ABEA announced, during the show, the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). This collaboration signifies a commitment to address three crucial pillars of the Australian business events industry: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI); Legacy and Sustainability; and Talent Development and Retention.
Another key takeaway was the focus on tailoring events to cater to Gen Z. With their unique preferences and expectations, event planners are adapting strategies to engage this demographic effectively.
Arinex were honoured and inspired to have Brendan Watson OAM, Scouts Australia Chief Commissioner, as our guest speaker for our Client Appreciation Dinner sharing his experiences and insights into the value of listening to our young people. Gen Z engagement and their perspectives of our world should be at the forefront of events and decision making as their connection to the world is what gives us purpose.
Above Image: Brendan Watson OAM, Chief Commissioner, Scouts Australia speaking at the Arinex Client & Partner Appreciation Dinner during AIME 2024.
Overall, AIME 2024 was a testament to the driven and passionate event professionals working behind the scenes at Talk 2 Media & Events in collaboration with Melbourne Convention Bureau. The team left inspired reminded of why we do what we do – bringing together likeminded people to spark ideas and discover the latest innovations. As we navigate the evolving landscape of events, embracing innovation and sustainability will undoubtedly drive us towards a more inclusive, impactful future.
Above Image: Staff from Arinex Live, Arinex, BE Wellington NZ and Crown Melbourne taking a group photo together at The Arinex Group’s Night Noire Party during AIME 2024.