Top takeaways from IMEX 2023: from discoveries to collaborations

IMEX, as the world's premier event for the meetings, events, and incentive travel industry, is an annual magnet for professionals seeking to expand their horizons and connect with peers.

IMEX 2023 did not disappoint in its offerings. Taking place at Las Vegas's Mandalay Bay, North America’s largest M&E trade show brought four days of insight, trends and networking to the  City of Second Chances.

Here’s a distillation of the latest trends from the epicentre of the events world. 

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1. Discovering New Destinations

At the heart of any travel or event industry conference is the opportunity to learn about new and upcoming destinations. IMEX 2023 showcased:

New Locations Around the World: As the global tourism market evolves, so do the destinations. There were several emerging locations, from remote islands to untouched countryside spots, each promising unique experiences for attendees and travellers. Our favourites include a remote fishing village in Alaska, a rustic ranch in Montana and a private island in South Africa.

New Openings: From the most luxurious resorts to boutique properties, there were a number of new openings showcased that promise to redefine luxury and comfort. If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve and give your clients a sneak peek at the best the industry has to offer, IMEX is your gateway.

Renovations and Re-openings: Some classic venues and hotels have undergone massive transformations, merging traditional charm with modern amenities. The spotlight on these properties illuminated the dedication of the industry to upgrade and evolve.

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2. Gaining Insight into Market Trends and Challenges

A significant portion of IMEX 2023 was dedicated to understanding the pulse of the industry. The thought leadership sessions were particularly enlightening:

Content Creation and Curation: With the digital world moving at a rapid pace, creating compelling content to attract and engage attendees and travellers is more crucial than ever. Experts shared insights into what works and what doesn't in the current content landscape.

Cross-Agency Collaboration: The emphasis on cross-agency collaboration showcased the benefits of shared knowledge. Agencies are now more open to pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise to provide better solutions for clients and events.

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3. Maintaining Relationships with Key Suppliers and Hotels

IMEX has always been a hub for forging and strengthening business relationships, and 2023 was no exception:

Continuous Collaboration: Beyond the event itself, many professionals spoke about working with key suppliers and hotels throughout the year. These collaborations ensure smoother operations, better rates, and innovative solutions for clients.

Celebrating Together: There's nothing like a face-to-face meet, and many industry professionals cherish the opportunity to meet their collaborators in person and celebrate their collective successes. Let’s not forget the infamous IMEX after-party hosted annually by MPI, this year at Drai’s beach club. 

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4. Building and Strengthening Connections

Networking is one of the pillars of IMEX, and this year was a testament to its importance:

Brilliant Networking Events: From cocktail parties to formal dinners, and interactive sessions to quiet one-on-ones, IMEX 2023 provided myriad opportunities for professionals to connect, share stories, and build future partnerships.

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IMEX 2023 was not just about discovering new places or learning about market trends; it was a holistic experience that encompassed learning, networking, and celebrating the spirit of the industry. As we move forward, the insights gained from this year's event will undoubtedly shape the industry's future in exciting and innovative ways.

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