28 December 2020, Bangkok: Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau reported that Thai MICE entrepreneurs successfully gained 52 leads from IBTM World Virtual 2020, underscoring Thailand’s status as an attractive destination and European markets' confidence in the Kingdom.
Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, unveiled successful results at the IBTM World Virtual 2020, which TCEB supported Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA) and more 30 Thai MICE entrepreneurs to join in. The Europe’s premier trade show was held as virtual event between 8 and 10 December and attracted more than 700 entrepreneurs and 8,300 attendees from the global MICE industry. At the end of the show, Thai MICE entrepreneurs gained up to 52 leads with 11,800 meeting & incentives travellers and estimated 743.40 million baht in revenue to Thailand. The successful result reflects a positive sign that Thailand continues to be of the preferred destination in the European market.
"Europe is our priority long-haul market. By joining in this virtual event, Thai MICE entrepreneurs have a chance to demonstrate their readiness in using new business tools to grow and maintain their customer base. Besides, the event has provided a communication platform for Thai entrepreneurs to directly inform their market on Thailand's Covid-19 performance, the ease of travel restriction, and TCEB's marketing promotional tools, which will enhance MICE traveller's confidence in choosing Thailand as a destination for MICE events in the future.”
Mr. Stephen Sinsap, Cluster Director of Sales – MICE at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, said that the most anticipated thing at the event is to maintain strong relationship with customers in different parts of the world. One of the challenges is deciding on the right trade show to attend. Therefore, the event organiser's credibility is significant. This virtual event enables MICE suppliers to approach customers and directly introduce business contacts without pre-scheduling appointment. It widens the opportunities for business talks and reaching new customers.
“The support from TCEB is very much appreciated as MICE operators, hoteliers, DMCs (Destination Management Company), and service providers in the industry are seeking help to overcome the challenging time. Through financial backing and the opportunity to join this trade event, operators have gained consumer insights and confidence in the business outlook. Thailand remains a desired destination among European clients due to the country’s noted services, great attraction, and a value for money.”
Mr. Napat Watthanasan, Senior Sales Manager at the Peninsula Bangkok, said that customer retention is now a priority, especially when travel restriction remains in effect. By joining this virtual event, the hotel has a chance to promote awareness of its business' readiness to resume service with the clients when the situation is back to normalcy.
“The virtual event allows us to simultaneously meet many clients, similar to the on-ground trade show. The most important thing we have learned from this event is that clients from the US and European countries still prefer Thailand. Also, MICE travellers have confidence in Thailand's COVID-19 control measures, and the country remains among top destinations where people wish to travel to once the pandemic ends.”
Mr. Bryan Lee, Senior Sales Manager at Conrad Bangkok, said that IBTM World Virtual 2020 gathered buyers from Europe and America, which are the hotel's primary markets. The virtual event provided a platform for the hotel to maintain a business relationship with clients. Also, feedback from clients is a boost for MICE operators' confidence. European and American customers said they have confidence in Thailand's public health measures and would choose to travel to Thailand as soon as the situation allows as the destination offers good value for money.
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For further information, please contact: Corporate Image and Communication Department, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization)
Ms. Parichat Svetasreni Tel: 02 694 6000 Email: parichat_s@tceb.or.th
Ms. Ananta Leekasem Tel: 02 694 6000 Email: ananta_l@tceb.or.th
Mr. Chakrapong Pongwecharak Tel: 02 694 6000 Email: chakrapong_p@tceb.or.th
Visage Company
Ms. Yupaporn Lertsattakit Tel: 02 616 6749-50