Volkan Ataman, President, Tourism Media Group, express his views on the most extensive business event and how it leverages MICE globally
Jessy Iype
What can participants expect from ACE of MICE this year?
The world’s third largest MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Congress, Event) exhibition, ACE of M.I.C.E. Exhibition by Turkish Airlines is scheduled to be held on February 21-23, 2018, for the fifth time at Istanbul Congress Center – ICC. The event will be covered on a 5000 sqm net area. It is themed as the same in previous year: ‘MICE Industry Convenes With All of Its Colours! The AME’18 exhibition will have 750 hosted buyers from 40 countries, almost 9,800 B2B appointments, 220 national and international exhibitors, 160 sponsors and partners, 20 sessions, 35 speakers and 15,000+ national and international visitors. Face-to-face interaction with high-level decision-makers and influencers of the industry will allow the participants to connect with new and existing customers under one roof. MICE Industry Professionals, Associations/Societies/ Federations and Corporate Companies will be the hosted buyers at AME. In addition, the ‘Business Network Night’ will provide a chance to build new business contacts. AME’18 comes along with innovations like TECH ZONE, which will include event technology exhibitors and latest trends both in Turkey and in the world. Brands from USA, UK, Belgium will showcase their offerings. There will be many sessions related to 2018’s event technology trends and brand new technological developments such as virtual reality/augmented reality, wearable technology, meaningful use of data, event software and flexible display technologies.
What is the USP of the event?
We gather all professionals of Turkish MICE industry and let them argue on the issues of the industry through panels discussions and seminars.
How do you see Turkey coming up as a suitable MICE destination?
The tourism and MICE industries in Turkey has had its share of ups and downs. After the lull period, we are now getting back to our feet and ready to emerge as the top destinations for MICE. The industry has high hopes towards 2018. The feedback from previous ACE of M.I.C.E. Exhibition has highlighted the potential of our country with a positive outlook ahead.
Any upcoming projects?
We would like to elucidate on a new association. The TETKİD association was established in order to gather event managers of corporate companies to set the standards and service-buying criteria of the Turkish MICE industry. The association has the goal of raising the awareness of brands, event companies and suppliers with a global perspective and informing them on the innovations of the world by educating them.
