Cancelled AIME 2021 due to COVID-19
Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has announced the cancellation of its 2021 event, which was scheduled for the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in March, due to concerns brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Event organisers Talk2 Media & Events shared that the event faced challenges brought about by international and domestic travel restrictions, despite healthy interest for the event from exhibitors and buyers.
Matt Pearce, CEO of Talk2 Media & Events said: “As the past year has shown, it’s difficult to predict if border closures will be required to slow the spread of future outbreaks. As difficult as it is to cancel, we cannot in good conscience stage an event that devalues the quality of experience or accessibility of AIME in delivering meaningful interactions for exhibitors and visitors, alongside subsequent appointments with our international networks.
“The Business Events industry is facing many challenges and the entire Talk 2 Media & Events team will be there to support our community until we meet again at AIME 2022.”
AIME 2022 will play a significant role in the business events industry’s recovery and create and re-establish valuable connections to drive commerce for the wider region. With support from the Melbourne Convention Bureau, AIME has begun contacting attendees, including those who have already registered, to manage existing bookings and arrangements, as well as event refunds.
Julia Swanson, CEO, Melbourne Convention Bureau said: “The feedback so far has been overwhelmingly supportive of our difficult decision, as the team at Talk2 Media make their way through contacting every single one of AIME’s buyers and exhibitors to update the latest developments and provide support in managing arrangements. It’s a real testament to our industry and we’re looking forward to delivering an even bigger and better show in 2022.”
Mr Pearce added: “As we navigate through these trying times, we remain optimistic that business events will adapt, innovate and emerge stronger than ever. We cannot wait to see you all next year – to connect and reunite as a community,”
AIME’s upcoming event will take place on March 21–23, 2022, with full details to follow in the coming months. For those with existing bookings and registrations, a Talk2 Media representative will contact you directly.
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