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Volume VIII Issue 9 September 2017 52 pages
A DDP Publication
Burgeoning trends in MICE
editorial
Dear Reader,
PUBLISHER & EDITOR
When looking for options to host another MICE travel, make sure
SanJeet
Japan figures somewhere in your itinerary! And to help you, we
explore MICE in Japan in our cover story. Whether it’s about improving
team work or experiencing high standards in hospitality, The Land MANAGING EDITOR
of the Rising Sun has much to offer. Also in terms of green MICE, Peden Doma Bhutia
Japanese culture has always emphasised on a harmonious existence
within nature. The popular MICE cities of Japan include, Tokyo, ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Sendai, Chiba, Kanchan Nath
Hiroshima, Kita Kyushu and Kobe. Next month the JATA Tourism Expo
will be held from September 21-24, 2017 at Tokyo Big Sight in Japan.
ASSISTANT EDITOR
The stability, growth and the confidence of the Indian economy will Jessy Iype
help boost the business travel market in India. The economy is growing
at a rate of over seven per cent, which will help in increasing business
DESIGN
traffic. With a focus on costs and driving profitability, a lot of companies
are looking for solutions to stretch their travel budgets and companies Raashi Ajmani Girdhar
are in a strong position to provide state-of-the-art technology, data and
analytics solutions. We talk to the CEO of one such company. ADVERTISING
Gunjan Sabikhi
In an interview with Nicholas Dumbell, General Manager,
Renaissance, Marriott Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel & Lakeside
Karishma Khanna
Chalet- Mumbai, we find out more about the largest MICE hotel Neeraj Kaira
of the Marriott group in India, and also why MICE in India can be Jaspreet Kaur
tempting for international players.
ADVERTISEMENT DESIGNERS
Bahrain is now the new kid in the block that is aggressively wooing
Vikas Mandotia
the destination weddings market. Since India has a huge wedding
market moving outbound, Bahrain has designed a well-thought out Nitin Kumar
strategy to attract weddings from India. Many factors work in their
favour like the flying time from India which is below four hours, the PRODUCTION MANAGER
variety of five-star international hotel options, and beautiful venues. Anil Kharbanda
The average length of stay can range from three nights to five nights.
With the business environment turning competitive, it is imperative CIRCULATION MANAGER
for organisations to ensure optimal commute for employees who Ashok Rana
come from far and work late hours. Our counsellor Shivani Misri
Sadhoo shares tips. MUMBAI: ADVERTISING
Keep reading and giving your feedback to us at: Harshal Ashar
micetalk@ddppl.com Priyanshu Wankhade
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MICEtalk September 2017 3
contents
14
SEPTEMBER 2017
8
highlights...
NEWS
8 NEWS from the world of MICE
WEDDING
12 FNP unveils its maiden
12 wedding hotel
COVER STORY
14 The Land of the Rising Sun
welcomes MICE
WEDDING
24 Bahrain rings in weddings
4 MICEtalk September 2017
Over
600,000
Please send in your suggestions and
feedback to micetalk@ddppl.com
ReadersYou can also read MICEtalk online at
www.micetalk.com
24 28
32 34 46
BRAND
28 Embarking on MICE with Marriott
32 TRENDS
Creating next-gen business travel
38
ASSOCIATION
Regular
34 ICPB Conclave to expand boundaries
COUNSELLOR
Counsellor Shivani Misri
Sadhoo writes about how
38 AWARDS 48 organisation nowdays are
Maya captivates East India providing suitable transport
shuttle options for those
employess who work in
late shifts
EVENT
46 Largest Asia-Pacific MICE ` 100
Cover Design by:
showcase at IT&CMA, CTW Raashi Ajmani Girdhar
Volume VIII Issue 9 September 2017 52 pages
A DDP Publication
6 MICEtalk September 2017
Japan welcomes MICE
news
NEWS
SOUTH INDIA
HeliTaxi service
for Bengaluru soon
Bengaluru will become the first city in
the country to have a helicopter shuttle
EUROPE service by November 2017. The Heli
Taxi services will become operational
Indian arrivals to between the Kempegowda International
Airport (KIA) and Electronics City.
Spain touch 100,000 Minister of State for Civil Aviation,
Jayant Sinha, who announced the
n The number of Indian arrivals to Spain has touched 100,000-mark, launch, said that the service will ensure
informed the Tourism Office of Spain. Ignacio Ducasse, Director and Tourism quick seamless transfers to and from the
Counsellor, Tourism Office of Spain, Mumbai, says, “Spain registered 105,646 airport at a cost similar to a luxury taxi
Indian arrivals in 2016, an increment of 17.08 per cent over the previous year. fare. The fare of luxury taxis, which ply
In this way, for the first time it has surpassed the number of 100,000 tourists on this route (KIA and Electronics City),
coming from India." The main destinations that Indian tourists visited continue is between `2,500 and `3,000. Thumby
to be Barcelona, Madrid, Andalusia, Valencia and Ibiza. Aviation Private Ltd has been roped in
to offer the shuttle services. To begin
with, the services will be from KIA to
Electronics City and subsequently will
be extended to White Field and HAL
airport. The services are expected to
begin in about three months.Thumby
Aviation has two Bell 412 helicopters for
13 passengers and Bell 407 as well.
EAST INDIA
Odisha’s maiden Travel Bazaar from Oct 15-17
n The Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha in collaboration
with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)
shall organise the first Odisha Travel Bazaar (OTB) on October 15-17, 2017,
in Bhubaneswar. According to Sanjeev Kumar Mohanty, Head, FICCI-Odisha
State Council, there will be around 40 foreign tour operators, 10 top of the line
inbound operators, 20 leading domestic tour operators from across India and SOUTH INDIA
five leading airlines participating as hosted buyers.
First express security
check facility at Hyd
n GMR Hyderabad International Airport
Ltd (GHIAL), which operates Rajiv Gandhi
International Airport (RGIA), Hyderabad
has announced that under the umbrella of
GHIAL’s signature programme ‘Passenger
is Prime’, and in collaboration with CISF,
it has become the first airport in India to
provide pre-embarkation security check
right at the terminal’s entry gate. This will
serve as ‘Express Security Check’ facility for
domestic passengers.
8 MICEtalk September 2017
news
ASIA EAST ASIA
Dream Cruises unveils first all-inclusive
services for palace suites
n Dream Cruises has unveiled a new luxury experience for guests for its
prestigious Dream Palace Suite and Garden Penthouses on board Genting
Dream and its soon-to-arrive twin sister ship World Dream. Dream Palace
has 142 suites and private VIP facilities including a swimming pool, spa,
gym and dining venues. “Since the launch the guest feedback on our Dream
Palace experience has been overwhelming. This has inspired us to create an
all-inclusive luxury offering, which upgrades our guest experience to a new
Alibaba Group, Marriott
level and makes our Dream Palace proposition across our fleet even more International join hands
exceptional in the market,” said Thatcher Brown, President of Dream Cruises. n Alibaba Group and Marriott International
Guests can enjoy the new Dream Palace experience on Genting Dream from have announced the establishment of
September 1 and on World Dream when it arrives in Asia in November. a joint venture to redefine the travel
experience for the hundreds of millions
of Chinese consumers travelling abroad
and domestically every year. Drawing on
resources from both Marriott and Alibaba,
the joint venture will manage Marriott’s
storefront on Fliggy, Alibaba’s travel service
platform. It will also market directly to
Alibaba’s customer base, provide a link
between Marriott’s loyalty programmes and
Alibaba’s loyalty programme, and support
Marriott hotels globally with content,
programmes and promotions customised
for the Chinese traveller. Arne Sorenson,
President and Chief Executive Officer,
Marriott International, said, “We are pairing
our hospitality expertise with Alibaba’s
digital payment platform, Alipay and driving
loyalty membership programmes.”
ASIA WEST INDIA
Singapore Airlines launches Maharashtra to focus
campaign with Shangri-La on cruise tourism
n In celebration of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) n Nitin Gadkari,
50th founding anniversary, global travel brands Shangri-La Hotels and Minister of Shipping,
Resorts and Singapore Airlines have partnered to launch a regional travel Government of India;
campaign called ‘ASEAN Is More – First Stop Singapore’. The campaign Jaykumar Rawal,
will showcase Southeast Asia’s diverse destinations with specially curated Minister of Tourism
leisure travel offers, which can be reserved from August 1 to October 31, Government of
for stays until December 31, 2017. Families can find Maharashtra, Sanjay
exclusive flight offers to exciting destinations and hotel Bhatia, Chairman,
deals for any Shangri-La hotel or resort in Singapore, Mumbai Port Trust,
Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand. Vijay Waghmare,
Jaykumar Rawal MD, MTDC and
David Dingle,
Chairman, Carnival UK., were part of a
conglomeration of a high-level delegation
in Mumbai recently who announced their
collective plan and focus to develop cruise
tourism. Titled ‘Dawn of Cruise in India’ the
seminar aimed at encouraging cruise tourism
in India, more specifically Mumbai. Rawal
said, “Cruise tourism will earn huge foreign
exchange and generate job opportunities.”
news
NEWS SOUTHEAST ASIA
SuperStar Libra to triple homeports
GLOBAL
Pacific World unveils
new venues for MICE
n Pacific World has introduced its
new selection of event venues and
immersion experiences for its guests.
Patricia Silvio, Global Marketing
Manager of Pacific World, shares,
n Star Cruises has announced SuperStar Libra’s latest deployment from “We have found that most of the
September 3, 2017 onwards with triple homeports in Kuala Lumpur via spaces selected answer to the latest
Port Klang and Penang in Malaysia, as well as in Phuket, Thailand, with two industry trends. Clients are craving
cruises per week, including the three-nights Kuala Lumpur (via Port Klang)/ for immersive experiences to engage
Phuket/Penang cruise or the four-nights Kuala Lumpur (via Port Klang)/ with the local destination, culture
Langkawi/Phuket/Penang cruise. Ang Moo Lim, President,Star Cruises, says, and tradition.” Pacific World has
“Star Cruises is optimistic this will grow our source markets in Southeast identified a growing interest in
Asia, allowing guests more access to multiple homeports and concurrently private residences, natural outdoor
developing and stimulating the growth of the cruise tourism sector across
locations and conceptual venues that
borders through fly-cruise options.” Kuala Lumpur remains one the key
highlight culture and gastronomy
gateway to Malaysia and also the Southeast Asian region with an expected
for meetings and events in Paris,
targeted inbound tourism of over 30 million in 2017.
Barcelona, Asia, and more.
UAE SOUTHEAST ASIA
Dubai’s auditing trade conference next year Tamarind signs JV with
Innaz Communique
n Tamarind Global has entered into a
n The 2018 Institute of Internal Auditors International Conference, to be joint venture with Innaz Communique, a
held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid reputed wedding management company
Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of in Indonesia. This partnership is expected
Dubai, is set to attract 3,500 delegates from 110 countries next year at Dubai to boost cross-tourism as Innaz will also
International Convention and Exhibition Centre, from May 6-9, 2018. Dubai promote India as a prospect for weddings
Business Events (DBE), collaborated with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) destination to Indonesians. Mahesh
and the UAE Internal Auditors Association (IAA) to bid for the event. Issam Shirodkar, MD, Tamarind Global, says,
Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said: “This strategic partnership will open up
“ The event fuels our journey towards our goal for business events.” opportunities for our clients in India to
explore Indonesia, venues in Bali.”
10 MICEtalk September 2017wedding
FNP UNVEILS its maiden
WEDDING HOTEL
Ferns N Petals (FNP), the pioneer brand of the premium flower business in India, has
now unveiled Udman, India’s first wedding hotel and retreat complex
MT Bureau
P
ositioned advantageously on NH-8, the
complex is spread-out over 14 luxuriant
acres. The property is distinguished by a
welcoming ambience, truly exotic interiors and
fantastic services making it Delhi’s most affluent
address to host events.
The resort and hotel comprises of an air-
conditioned banquet and a poolside lawn and a
glass-house with a distinct European feel. The
Vikaas Gutgutia resort’s exterior facade is surrounded by lush This property has made obsolete the need to book
landscaping and has a dedicated passage for the multiple venues with the hassle of managing them.
groom’s convoy. And to top it all, the renowned The property offers multiple options to celebrate
Seasons Group is the Operating and Food & various functions such as Mehendi, Bachelorette,
Beverage Partner. Sangeet as well as other ritualistic ceremonies.
Its uniqueness as well as convenience will set a
“Udman is the first-of-its-kind wedding hotel benchmark in the industry,” said Vikaas Gutgutia,
which is unlike conventional venues where Founder and MD, Ferns N Petals.
people used to host weddings and celebrate other
important events. The primary idea behind Udman FNP Gardens (A Unit of Ferns N Petals Pvt.
was to create a place where a wedding celebration Ltd.) has seven breathtaking wedding venues in
can take place with all facilities under one roof. the prime locations of Delhi & NCR, namely,
Ambience Golf Drive (comprising of The Ritz and
The Riviera) at NH-8, Vilasa at Kapashera, The
Udman is the first-of-its-kind wedding hotel Kundan at Kapashera, Shagun Farm at Bandh
which is unlike conventional venues Road, Brij Greens at Chattarpur and now Udman.
12 MICEtalk September 2017cover story
The Land of the
RISING S N
welcomes MICE
Looking for a new paradigm in business invocation? Then, Japan is sure to inspire you
with fresh ideas! Be it about improving team work, experiencing high standards in
hospitality or sustainability, Japan has all this and much more to offer...
Kanchan Nath
14 MICEtalk September 2017cover story
J
apan, true to its tag of being The Land of
the Rising Sun, has an enormous potential
for MICE. The country has experience
in hosting international association
conferences and meetings and has one of the
largest national memberships within many
international associations. The country’s network
of local convention bureaus, professional
congress organisers and DMCs bring a level of
professionalism to all its events. Japan's public
transportation system is one of the world's
largest. The network of aviation and rail systems
make it possible for travellers to access almost
all of the country with ease. Within individual
cities also, the subway and bus routes are well
organised, making navigation simple.
AIR CONNECTIVITY
Three airlines connect India to Japan; All Nippon
Airways (ANA) offers a direct flight from adjacent hotels will cater any parties in
Mumbai to Tokyo; Delhi to Tokyo; Japan Airlines any of the reception halls and meeting
(JAL) offers direct flight from Delhi to Tokyo and rooms. It has a theatre capacity of
Air India offers direct flight from Delhi to Tokyo. 1100; maximum capacity of classroom
In total, there are 18 direct flights available from is 882. Maximum number of reception
Delhi to Tokyo in a week between these airlines. participants are 800.
From Mumbai there is one direct flight available
for Tokyo daily from ANA, while myriad layover MICE hotels in Tokyo
options are available. Prince Hotels
Prince Hotels in the Takanawa and Shinagawa
The popular MICE cities of Japan include: Tokyo, area boast over 130 banquet halls, including the
Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, outstanding Hiten Main Banquet Hall.
Sapporo, Sendai, Chiba, Hiroshima, Kita Kyushu
and Kobe. Hotel New Otani
Situated in Tokyo, it was built for the Tokyo
TOKYO Olympic Games. It has 1,479 guest rooms and
Tokyo is the main convention city and Tokyo Big offers a banqueting space of 9404 square metres.
Sight is one of the biggest convention centres here.
Imperial Hotel
Tokyo International Forum (TIF) has a great The Imperial Hotel has greeted a large number of
number of visitors from Japan and overseas. It's honoured guests throughout its more than 120-
one of the best convention and art centers in year history. It offers 27 banqueting rooms in a
Japan and comprises of eight halls including the range of sizes.
country’s largest hall with 5,012 seats, 34 meeting
rooms, galleries and others. Keio Plaza Hotel
The hotel has an assortment of 40 meeting
Its great location right next to the Marunouchi rooms of various sizes that can be used for grand
business center and the Ginza, the largest ceremonies as well as parties.
shopping area, is unsurpassed. It has a theater
capacity of 5012, maximum capacity of classroom Hilton Tokyo Bay
is 612, maximum capacity of banquets is 1328. It Hilton Tokyo Bay is ideally situated on the
has a capacity of 3000 reception participants. eastern shores of Tokyo Bay, adjacent to Tokyo
Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Sea. Its 16
Tokyo Big Sight: Located in the waterfront meeting rooms can cater to everything from DID YOU
sub centre of Tokyo, it has great accessibility small private dinners with about 10 guests to KNOW?
both domestically and internationally. Its large-scale conferences and exhibitions for up to Japan has a
80,000-square-meter indoor exhibition space 1,400 delegates. population of 127
is ideal for all types of exhibitions and events. It million people; its
also has an international conference hall and YOKOHAMA capital city Tokyo has
reception halls with a capacity of 1,000 people, Pacifico Yokohama (Pacific Convention Plaza a population of 13
plus meeting facilities for all sizes and purposes. Yokohama): This world-class convention facility million. The currency is
The restaurants in the Tokyo Big Sight and complex comprises the 5,000-seat National Japanese yen
MICEtalk September 2017 15cover story
Convention Hall, the 20,000 m2 column-less
Exhibition Hall, the Conference Centre with 50
rooms of various sizes, and a five-star hotel with
Eyeing Indian market
a view of the Yokohama Bay. Kenichi Takano,
Executive
Workpia Yokohama: The three-story Workpia Director, Delhi
Yokohama convention facility is a popular Office, JNTO,
venue for medium-sized conventions of 100 to says, “The total
400 attendees. It has 10 rooms equipped with
number of arrivals
movable walls to accommodate different space
from India in 2016
requirements with advanced amenities.
were at 1,23,000
and in the first
NAGOYA
Nagoya Congress Centre: Conveniently located six months of
a 40-minute train ride from Central Japan 2017, Japan has received 69,500 tourists.
International Airport, the center has 23 meeting India is our new market opportunity. The
rooms. It has a theatre capacity of 3012. It offers average length of stay for overall visitors
an exhibition space of 4295m². to Japan is 4-6 days; the amount of
DID YOU money they spend on an average is 1.4
KNOW? KYOTO lakh. The largest MICE group that
Average life Kyoto International Conference Center (ICC we have had from India so far was
expectancy in Japan is KYOTO): The first and only nationally-owned from the Lions Club (Group Size: 1200)
one of the highest in international conference hall in Japan has around 70 in June 2016.”
the world large and small meeting rooms and exhibition halls.
16 MICEtalk September 2017cover story
With 41 years of experience and close coordination TIF has the country’s largest hall with
with neighbouring hotels, the center offers
excellent support and services. It has 70 meeting 5,012 seats, 34 meeting rooms
rooms, theatre capacity of 2500. Its maximum
capacity of classroom is 1840, for banquets is 1700, buses connect directly to Hyatt Regency.
and reception participants is 2500. The amount of
exhibition space that the centre gives to its clients Osaka International Convention Center:
is about 3000 m². Located in the business and government office
quarter of Nakanoshima, this is a multi-purpose
Kyoto Research Park: Just one stop from Kyoto facility available for meetings, concerts and
Station, this center is highly experienced in exhibitions. It offers convenience, high-quality
hosting international conferences, meetings, service and international communications.
research conferences and exhibitions. Optional In fall 2008, the Keihan Nakanoshima Line
performances featuring maiko and koto are opened right beneath the facility providing direct
always popular with international guests. The access to key areas like Umeda, and even to
maximum number of reception participants Kyoto. The maximum number of participants it
it can hold is 300. It offers an exhibition space can hold is 1000.
of 365 m².
UNIQUE MICE VENUES
OSAKA State guest house, Tokyo: While state and official
International Exhibition Center Osaka guests are staying at the guest houses, various
(INTEX OSAKA): It has six halls covering a total diplomatic activities are held, such as summit
area of nearly 70,000 m2 available for trade shows, meetings, courtesy calls, signing ceremonies,
exhibitions, concerts and meetings. Limousine receptions and banquets.
MICEtalk September 2017 17cover story
Glover Garden, a sightseeing spot, can be
rented out, after closing, for social gatherings
Nijo-jo Castle, Kyoto: At the Nijo-jo Castle Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Okinawa:
UNESCO World Heritage Site, events are held Holding a gala dinner or reception in front of the
that take full advantage of its historic value and gigantic Kuroshio Sea tank at Okinawa Churaumi
the great national treasures held in the region. Aquarium will make any group feel like they are
in the middle of the sea.
Moerenuma Park, Hokkaido: There are 15
buildings on the premises. These include the Popular DMCs in Japan include JTB Global
32m-high Glass Pyramid, the symbol of the Marketing & Travel, Nippon Travel Agency, Tobu
park. The venue has meeting rooms, which Top Tour, Kinki Nippon Tourist, Tonichi Travel
are equipped with audiovisual devices, while and The J Team.
there are optimal exhibition and workshop
DID YOU spaces available. NIGHTLIFE IN JAPAN
KNOW? Tokyo is home to one of the most diverse
Japan’s Glover Garden, Nagasaki: This is a famous and fascinating nightlife scenes in the world.
literacy rate is sightseeing spot nationwide. It can be rented out Shibuya, as one of Tokyo’s most densely
almost 100 per cent after closing and one can host a social gathering. packed and brightly-lit central districts, offers
18 MICEtalk September 2017cover story 20 MICEtalk September 2017
cover story
countless eateries, boutiques, watering holes, Japanese restaurants. Skewered food is readily
clubs, arcades and karaoke bars catering available in Japan. Lotus root, mushrooms,
to night owls well into the small hours. green pepper, okra and many other vegetables
Shinjuku is another city-within-the-city that such as gingko nuts are served on sticks. Pickled
never sleeps. It offers diverse products from rowdy vegetables often come as an accompaniment to
izakayas and beer bars to places like the Robot a meal. Beans are used in all kinds of Japanese
Restaurant, Ginza as night falls, it transforms into fare. The varieties of edible seaweed and kelp
one of Tokyo’s premium entertainment districts, are overwhelming, and most likely, you’ve never
with scores of decadent fine-dining restaurants heard of many of them: hijiki, tokoroten, aonori,
(including many of Tokyo’s best sushi shops), chic as well as the more familiar konbu and wakame.
bars, and opulent nightclubs.
The Japanese are masters of tofu. Served boiled
Shimokitazawa (Shimokita, for short) is a or fried whether made from white sesame seeds
bohemian neighborhood that has many offerings (gomadofu) or just reconstituted and spongy
for vintage shopping, quirky eateries and indie (koyadofu) don’t neglect to try the many forms of
entertainment options. this extremely versatile, protein-rich bean curd.
Shimokitazawa is a magnet for Tokyo’s hipster
and alternative crowds, and is packed full of lively The best places to eat in temples are in Kyoto
(and reasonably-priced) bars and izakayas. and in the mountain temple town Koya-san
Roppongi is filled with everything from upscale NEW FOCUS FOR MICE
bars, jazz venues and western-style clubs, to The new focus for MICE in Japan is the Island
countless dive bars. of Okinawa. The popular venues for functions
are the ‘Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium’ and
VEGETARIAN FOOD the ‘Nanto Valley of Gangala’.
Zen Buddhist temple cuisine is the beacon of
hope for a vegetarians in Japan. The best places to Whether you want to add a special welcome for
eat in temples are in Kyoto and in the mountain your guests when they arrive at the airport, have
temple town Koya-san. There are also few temple a visit from a traditional performance group or
restaurants in Tokyo. even have Miss Okinawa attend your event’s
One must be aware that anything that includes welcome ceremony, they can arrange a wide DID YOU
broth is likely to be fish dashi unless you are range of activities to make your event unique. KNOW?
eating in a vegetarian restaurant. There are Mt. Fuji, the tallest
noodle restaurants in Japan, you can also find They also provide guidebooks and conference mountain in Japan,
tofu restaurants, garlic restaurants and potato bags. They provide a grant to the cost of is an active volcano
restaurants focusing on vegetarian cuisine. charter shuttle buses and jumbo taxis for (although scientists
Vegetarian food in the Japanese cuisine includes: MICE (international conference included). have not reached a
mochi, most often found in the form of dense rice A reduction in facility charges is available on consensus on what
cakes. Eggplant, is often ordered as a side dish at some venues. defines 'active')
MICEtalk September 2017 21shopping
Stop to shop in JAPAN
From hi-tech gadgets, branded goods to traditional craft passed down from ancient
times, Japan has something to cater to every kind of shopper from all around the globe
L
eading up to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics,
Japan is taking steps towards encouraging
hands-free travel that allows visitors
to send baggage and purchased goods to airports,
stations, hotels as well as their airports, stations,
and hotels at their next destination. Meanwhile
allowing tourists to enjoy without worrying
about luggage.
JAPAN SHOPPING NAVI
This is a smartphone application for shopping
with enjoyment and convenience while travelling
in Japan. Providing support in English, traditional wear), Edo Tsumami Kanzashi (traditional
Chinese characters, simplified Chinese characters, hair accessories made from thin pieces of silk),
Yoyogi Park Korean, and Thai, the app contains information on ceramic products, etc.
Flea Market in sales and events for over 500 stores across Japan,
Tokyo is a 10- as well as coupons for stores and restaurants, BEST SOUVENIRS OPTIONS
clothing size charts, and information on Japanese For souvenirs, there are many options: Matcha
15 mins walk yen and tax-free shopping. Using your device’s (Green Tea), chopsticks, Japanese stationary
from Harajuku GPS function, the app locates nearby tax-free (recommend: 100-Yen shop), Furin (wind-
or Shibuya stores, hospitals, evacuation sites, and free chimes), Japan themed keychains, fridge magnets,
Wi-Fi spots. green tea chocolates, etc. Popular shopping malls
Station include Don Quijote, LalaPort, Takashimaya
SMART PHONES TO COMMUNICATE Times Square etc.
Aside from a group of electronics stores, most
sales clerks cannot speak English or Chinese, you FLEA MARKETS AND BARGAIN BUYS
might consider using your smart phone to get Yoyogi Park Flea Market in Tokyo is a 10-15
your message across. minutes walk from Harajuku or Shibuya Station,
while Ajinomoto Stadium Flea market in Tokyo is
FOR THE INDIAN CONSUMER a 20 minute walk from Tamabochi Mae station.
There are a lot of items that Indians can opt for Bargain buys can be obtained from Gotenba
while shopping in Japan. Tenugui (Japanese hand Premium Outlet, Makuhari Mitsui Outlet Park
towel), Higasa (UV umbrellas), Yutaka a casual and so on. With two hours to spare, one can go
summer kimono (traditional Japanese womens shopping at Shinjuku, Ginza, Shibuya, in Tokyo.
22 MICEtalk September 2017wedding
B HRAIN
Rings in WEDDINGS Bahrain is a blend of contemporary development and
an attractive liberal lifestyle along with a rich culture that
wants to set a new standard for romantic elegance.
Sunil Mathapati, Country Manager, Bahrain Tourism
& Exhibition Authority, reveals more
Hazel Jain
24 MICEtalk September 2017wedding
What trends are you witnessing for destination the Royal Golf Course, Arad Fort and Private
weddings in Bahrain? Islands. Lastly, the Wedding Department of
Bahrain is a new entrant in the tourism space the Ministry gave a brief presentation on how
for the Indian market. It has been a wedding they can assist at every step to ensure smooth
destination in the GCC. Since India is a huge functioning of the event.
wedding market, we have designed a well-
thought out strategy to attract weddings from Which venues in Bahrain are gaining
India. Many factors works in our favour like the popularity for weddings?
flying time from India which is below four hours, A variety of banquet halls makes every five-star
the variety of five-star international hotel options, hotel unique. The most popular are The Four
and a variety of beautiful venues. The average Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Sofitel and Art Rotana. Sunil Mathapati
length of stay can range from three nights to five Hotels like Novotel and Elite are also gaining
nights. As a new destination in the destination popularity. From scenic and serene to classic and
wedding space, we have opened our doors for all contemporary, Bahrain's hotels are truly diverse
types of functions. and promising. One venue which is gaining
popularity is Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
Which are your main markets from India that offers a sense of privacy, exclusivity and
for weddings? grandeur and can accommodate anything from
Mumbai, New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Kolkata and 30 to 550 guests. Chic, modern design meets
Chennai are our main markets. We will be doing local tradition in ballrooms, with an expansive
innovative promotions of Bahrain which will give outdoor terrace and oval-shaped lawn that has
visibility to the destination. views of the Manama skyline.
Tell us about the recent wedding planner trip What kind of support do you offer to the
you conducted? wedding planners?
The last wedding planner familiarisation As a tourism board, we offer assistance at every
consisted of planners from Mumbai. We had stage during planning and monitor every facility
a mix of planner and event managers who to ensure there is a smooth operations which will
were considering Bahrain for their clients. ensure a smile for families and planners. We are
The itinerary was well planned with a visit to also geared up to handle any last minute requests.
six five-star hotels. A wedding presentation
was given by all the hotels and a detailed QnA Are drones allowed in Bahrain for
session was conducted with their sales team, photography/video shoot?
banquet managers and chefs to understand their Yes, drones are allowed in Bahrain for
deliverables. Visits were conducted in various photography and video purposes. However, we
outdoor venues like authentic Arabic locations, need prior permissions.
picture courtesy: Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority
MICEtalk September 2017 25wedding
B HRAIN
has a plethora of offerings
O
ne of the most important things is • Al Ghazal Ballroom: Exquisite crystal
choosing the right hotel to conduct the chandeliers cast a warm glow over
wedding ceremonies. Here is a list of the rich blue carpets in this elegant
handpicked venues to help planners arrive at that ballroom, which can seat up to 550 guests.
important decision. The ballroom can also be sub-divided into four
smaller rooms to accommodate more intimate
FOUR SEASONS celebrations.
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay offers a sense of
privacy, exclusivity and grandeur – welcoming • Al Noor Ballroom - At 858 square meters
from 30 to 550 guests. Chic modern design and with seating for up to 600 guests, this is a
meets local tradition in a combination of two ballroom fit for royalty.
ballrooms, and an expansive outdoor terrace and • Grand Foyer - The expansive Grand Foyer
oval-shaped lawn with Manama skyline views. can accommode up to 500 guests in comfort
and luxury.
Capable of Local customs: Perfect for hosting traditional
weddings in Bahrain, its two ballrooms can host • Al Khayma (Tent): At more than 725 square
hosting events separate men's and women's celebrations. An meters, the contemporary-designed and
for 10 to 900 adjoining band room can pipe live music into thoroughly impressive Al Khayma offers a
guests, Four both venues uniquely atmospheric setting for banqueting
and receptions of up to 300 guests.
Seasons Hotel Function rooms: The functioning rooms
Bahrain Bay at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay can • Rotonda: The wood-panelled Rotonda, with its
features 3,272 host Bahrain events for 10 to 900 guests. The signature golden wall coverings and exquisite
hotel features a total of 3,272 m2 (35,222 sq. glass chandeliers, is a favourite for groom’s
m2 of events ft.) of function space. Along with wedding celebration in the region.
space professionals, the hotel offers over 3,750 square
meters of banqueting facilities including a ART ROTANA
1,195 square meter ballroom and a second This beach resort offers guests the option to select
858 square meter ballroom to create an from 311 opulent rooms and suites, including
unforgettable occasion for any celebration. presidential and vice presidential suite.
26 MICEtalk September 2017wedding
WEDDING VENUES The Mezzanine floor features a grand terrace
Indoor overlooking the entire ballroom, and a dressing
Thuraya ballroom is designed with great flexible room for the bride. A lavish and delectable buffet
facilities that enables it to accommodate for large dinner may be served outdoors on the terrace or
ceremonial parties with up to 700 attendees and indoors on the ground floor.
to small parties with average of 80 attendees.
Timeless elegance: Awal Ballroom can host up
Outdoor to 400 guests for a banquet dinner.
The open beach area provides all that is necessary
to a stunning wedding ceremony at the beach. Exquisite Events: Alternatively, for weddings
The private island is highly recommended. hosted in Al Dana Ballroom, the dinner buffet
may also be served on the convention centre’s
ART Rotana’s terrace has an extended outdoor terrace or poolside overlooking The Gulf
area that allows different arrangements to take Hotel’s gardens.
place. It is able to accommodate 200 guests.
Many couples choose this area for reception SPECIAL VENUES
party in which the dinner is accessible through BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT
the restaurant. Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is an
ultramodern motorsport facility that is located
SHERATON in the heart of the Sakhir desert. Designed by
• Cuisine: Clients can personalise wedding the renowned German engineer Hermann
menus created by their talented chefs. Tilke, the circuit incorporates many features of
• Bride and Groom Arrangements: Their local culture. Throughout the year, numerous
trained associates will assist you from the corporate events take place at BIC. Social events
menu, flowers, lighting and entertainment. such as weddings, music concerts and charity
occasions are also hosted in the arena.
• Ballrooms: Al Taj Ballroom is the ideal wedding
venue in Bahrain that boasts of a spacious pre- ROYAL GOLF CLUB
function area which can accommodate up to The Royal Golf Club, located just 20 to 30
400 people. Awali Ballroom can accommodate minutes’ drive from Manama and from the Saudi-
up to 200 people. Bahrain causeway, is a unique venue in Bahrain
with its spectacular views of rolling fairways and
GULF HOTEL CONVENTION AND SPA sparkling lakes.
Al-Dana Ballroom at the Gulf Convention Centre
provides the perfect setting for even the most The club offers three different event venues ideal
lavish and extravagant weddings. for wedding and engagement parties of all sizes.
With the capacity to host up to 2000 guests Venue Capacities:
for a reception or 1200 for a banquet dinner, Majlis can hold up to 120 guests, while Marquee
The ballroom presents several unique features can accomodate up to 160 guests. The poolside
including a VIP lounge for distinguished guests. can cater to up to 300 guests.
MICEtalk September 2017 27brand
Embarking on
ICE with
ARRIOTTbrand
Nicholas Dumbell, GM, Renaissance, Marriott Mumbai Convention
Centre Hotel & Lakeside Chalet- Mumbai, Marriott Executive
Apartments, talks about catering to the MICE crowd
Kanchan Nath
M
umbai is not only the economic For any event to be successful the usage of
hub of the Indian sub-continent props and logistics are crucial apart from the
but also the business hub for the convention space.
global market. To showcase the
Nicholas Dumbell
diverse norms of MICE in the city, Marriott as “We have been working on improving the
a brand has proven its mettle from time to time. convention experience, may it be with props,
Elaborating on the specifications of the largest buffet setups, doing stuff out-of-the-box,” he adds.
Marriott hotel in the country, Dumbell shares,
“We have close to 230,000 square feet of space in GROWTH PLANS
the hotel, both indoors and outdoors. Whether The city of dreams, Mumbai, has proven to be
it is our 13,000 square feet ballroom, or 35,000 fruitful for Marriott’s properties. Talking about
square feet Renaissance gardens. Between our the growth plans of Marriott hotels, he says, “ We
two hotels we have close to 800 bedrooms. In the will be opening up even in some of the smaller
main renaissance hotel, we have 600 bedrooms. In cities; we have a goal to make sure by 2020 we
December 2016, we completed the refurbishment have 200 hotels, which is a doubling of our hotels
of half those hotel bedrooms. So we pretty much in three years; these are exciting times for us. We
have a brand new hotel with a fantastic meeting have doubled our banqueting revenue over the
and event space.” last four and a half years. At the same time we
MICEtalk September 2017 29brand
have opened JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar which in a high 60 per cent occupancy. RevPAR will
is our sister hotel, right next to the Mumbai be between `7500-8000. We have seen
International Airport. When we measure our growth in RevPAR, our hotel strategy this year
We will finish RevPAR index, we got a premium of 30 per cent has been driving occupancy and have had
the year in a which is the best around.” huge success with over 25 per cent growth
in occupancy.”
high 60 per CLIMBING THE LADDER FOR MICE
cent occupancy. India is currently slowly climbing up the ladder CHALLENGES
RevPAR will with conventions, conferences and hotels geared Even while there are opportunities for MICE
up to take the optimal role in MICE. Giving his in India, there are some organisational hiccups
be between perspective on MICE, Dumbell shares, “There that is not letting the MICE segment reap
`7500-8000 is a growth in the number of international benefits. Enumerating challenges in the MICE
conventions happening in India. For the big market, he says, “The biggest challenge for
MICE conventions, only five per cent have an MICE in India is a lack of any coordinated
international element to it. I would like to see formal convention bureaus.”
that grow to about 20 per cent. Also, customers
are now willing to pay a little bit more for added WEDDING MARKET
value. People will pay more if you are putting India is incomplete without its weddings.
across a more elaborate buffet with great props. Dumbell adds, “Wedding are growing at a
As operators in the business, we need to identify quicker pace than conventions. About 30
how we maximise that. Marriott’s ‘Meetings per cent of our events business is coming in
Imagine’ programme helps customers choose weddings. We will be doing over a 100 weddings
such added benefits.” this year. The sector is surging. The challenge
with weddings is the number of auspicious days
OCCUPANCY AND REVPAR and its challenging to encourage them to move
Dumbell gives a sneak peek on the statistics to other days. The wedding segment does drive
expected this year, “We will finish the year a huge amount of revenue for us.”
30 MICEtalk September 2017XXXxx
Creating NEXT-GEN
BUSINESS TRAVEL
Vishal Sinha, CEO, India, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, talks about his new role as CEO and
the growth of the business market in India
Kanchan Nath
What is your analysis of the growth of the generations – expect a business travel experience
business market of India? that is technology-driven and more closely
The stability, growth and the confidence of the resembles their leisure travel booking experience.
Indian economy will help boost the business travel My vision is for CWT to be the clear leader in
market in India. The economy is growing at a creating the business travel experience that the
rate of over 7 per cent, which will further help in new generation of travelers in India expect – an
increasing business traffic. With a focus on costs experience that is intuitive, user-friendly and
and driving profitability, a lot of companies are personalised. This is part of CWT’s global strategy
looking for solutions to stretch their travel budgets and we are making significant investments
further and CWT is in a strong position to help towards achieving this. In doing so, I hope to
Vishal Sinha them achieve this by providing state-of-the-art grow our business in India considerably over the
technology, data and analytics solutions. coming months. CWT is already a leading travel
management company in India and we have a
What is the vision that you have for Carlson strong track record of helping companies optimize
Wagonlit Travel (CWT) in India as Chief their travel programs. We currently manage travel
Executive Officer? for close to 200 mid- and large-sized companies
Today, India has one of the youngest traveller in India and I expect our client-base in the market
populations in the world, In 2016, nearly 60 per will continue to grow at a steady pace. With our
cent of the travellers from CWT’s clients in India industry-leading technology, world class data and
were millennials, and they accounted for close to analytics solutions, and a very capable sales team,
half of the trips. Millennials – more so than other I am confident we will be able to achieve this.
32 MICEtalk September 2017trends
In addition, earlier this year we launched 'CWT may outweigh T&E savings, engagement and
For You', our state-of-the-art business travel participation of remote attendees can contribute
solution for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) dramatically to an organisation’s goals. By using
in India. We have already had more than 200 SME tools like Facebook’s “live” video streaming,
clients register for this product, and we are helping meetings professionals can have remote attendees
them take control of their business travel spend participate in their events. No one is excluded
by giving them the right price for air and hotels, due to geographical location, attendees can share
and providing them with value added services the event with others, two-way interactions are
like meals, seats and free date changes. Moving possible, and events can be recorded and further
forward, we will be looking to further grow our shared post-event.
business in India in the SME segment.
What all does a destination/city need to be top-
How important are meetings and events to notch for MICE?
move the company business forward? What are A number of factors determine how attractive
the latest trends? a city is as a MICE destination. Most top-notch
CWT Meetings and Events is a key part of Carlson MICE destinations around the world have several
Wagonlit Travel’s business, both globally and things in common – world-class infrastructure
in Asia Pacific. While we currently don’t offer and facilities, a safe and secure environment,
meetings and events services in India, we continue an international mindset, and vibrant culture.
to assess the opportunities in this market. That said, meeting buyers know that significant
strategic thinking goes into determining where
At CWT, we use technology to provide a seamless to hold a meeting or event. Sometimes location is
experience for attendees along with the data and predetermined by factors beyond the scope of the
analytics organisations need to add tangible value meeting. Other times, agenda drives location. In
for both; at the same time, optimising spend and all cases, price matters. When choosing a location,
ensuring industry and regulatory compliance. buyers must consider all related costs including air
Real-time
feedback is
critical to
a meetings
organiser’s
ability to make
meaningful
changes
The work of an M&E practitioner is never really travel, availability of direct flights, flight duration
done as technology improvements continually and frequency, weather including seasonal issues
raise the bar on both possibilities and expectations. and climate, major security threats, local petty
Beacon technology, with a microchip in attendee theft, traffic conditions and accessibility to public
name-tags to track location, session attendance, transport, F&B, and more.
exhibit visits, F&B participation, traffic flow and
more, provides the opportunity to validate popular Why do face-to-face meetings mean
agenda items and to make real-time adjustments more business?
to others, using onsite communication efforts to While to some extent teleconference, video
drive results. That said, while basic tracking data conference and VoIP platforms have replaced
is interesting, it may only reveal what is happening business travel, these are typically for low-
onsite, not necessarily why. Real-time feedback is participation meetings such as trainings. In many
critical to a meetings organiser’s ability to make instances, these technologies compliment rather
meaningful changes both in real-time and for than replace business travel. The adoption of video
future meetings. Technology is also now being conferencing creates opportunities for hybrid
used to further enable virtual attendance. Although meetings where organisers bring content to a
some upfront virtual technology costs overall much wider participant base.
MICEtalk September 2017 33association
The 9th
Convention
India
Conclave was
held in Delhi
last year
ICPB Conclave to expand boundaries
ICPB's 10th Conventions India Conclave (CIC) to be held in Hyderabad from August
29-31 at HICC, expects 200-300 delegates during the two-day event
T
he much awaited 10th annual convention Absorbing panel discussions are planned on
of India Convention Promotion Bureau day two, one on 'Convergence and Colloration-
(ICPB) known as Conventions India need to create an independent eco-system for
Conclave (CIC), is aiming to project the Indian meetings and exhibitions industry', moderated
sub-continent as the preferred destination by K.V. Nagendra Prasad, President, IEIA;
for international and domestic conventions. another on 'Role and relevance of PCO',
The theme for this year is ‘Expanding the moderated by Kylee Haines, Director,
Boundaries–Mission Possible.’ CIC will focus Congress International Solutions; and another
on all segments of the MICE industry, creating one on 'Destination Matters: Meeting the
an opportunity for its members to look for new expectations of corporate houses', moderated
avenues of business development. The inaugral by Anup Nair, SITE India President; among
session of this green and sustainable conclave other sessions.
ICPB will work shall be graced by Suman Billa, Chairman,
on restructuring, ICPB and Joint secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Day two will kick start with a 'ICPB Green Walk'
Chander Mansharamani, Vice Chairman, to reiterate the commitment of the Bureau and
strengthening the ICPB, and senior government officials from the its members to green and sustainable meetings.
association, and Telangana government, that is also the partner According to Mansharamani, “Some 250-300
CIC will play state for the event. The key note address on delegates, which includes 50-60 exhibitors
the topic 'A Bird’s eye view- existing supply, and both domestic and international buyers,
an instrumental market share in the region and globally', are expected." He further added that ICPB is
role in the same shall be given by Rod Kamleshwaran, working on restructuring and strengthening the
Partner & COO, Gainingedge.com. association, and CIC will play an instrumental
role in the same.
Other key speakers include, Damian Hutt,
Executive Director, Association of Association
Executives; Guy Bigwood, MCI Group
Sustainability Director; ; Ravinder Sethi, MD,
Rogers Worldwide; Yogesh Mudras, MD, UBM
India; Vishal D'Souza MD, MCI GeTs India;
Varun Mehrotra, Director of Sales, Association
& Exhibitions, Novotel & HICC; Girish Kwatra,
Head, Meetings and More; Amit Saroj, Director,
India Attitude; Rajen Habib Khwaja, Former
Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and Director
General of Administrative Staff College of
India; Amresh Tiwari, Hony. Secretary, ICPB.
34 MICEtalk September 2017business destination
xxxxxXX
Make your business events a
SUCCESS IN THAILAND
Embark on your business expedition to Thailand and experience a vibrant journey of bleisure!
T
hailand’s colourful charm sets it apart ENGAGING PASSIONATE PROFESSIONALS
from other destinations, promising an In Thailand, business events have been taken
exciting and successful journey. Here to a new level through the dedication and
you will find many distinctive destinations, capabilities of its skilled professionals. In Thailand is
myriad business opportunities with government addition, a new generation of energetic Thai a colourful
support. Add outstanding Thai hospitality and ‘startups’ backed by government support offer
your flavourful journey is assuredly on the path new opportunities and challenges. marketplace
to business success. within easy
LEVERAGING SUCCESSFUL reach of major
A VIBRANT BLEISURE JOURNEY BUSINESS JOURNEYS
Whatever you require, be it stylish customised Thailand is a colourful marketplace within
Asian countries
venues, or something off-site and off-beat, we easy reach of major Asian countries, a
can package it with colourful, breath-taking leading member of the ASEAN Economic
activities to take your journey to the level of Community and in touch with world
‘bleisure’ – the holistic balance of ‘business’ business leaders via an essential network of
achievement combined with entertaining global connectivity and integrated support.
‘leisure’. Select Thailand for your bleisure Start your vibrant journey with TCEB at:
journey towards a successful event. www.businesseventsthailand.com.
MICEtalk September 2017 35business destination
Discover MICE in The The Netherlands is home to
multifunctional convention
NETHERLANDS centres equipped with
state-of-the-art facilities
T
he Netherlands Board of Tourism & Congress Centre and Submarine Wharf or at
Conventions has plethora of offerings the blossoming Groot Handelsgebouw, where
for conducting international meetings meeting rooms have a view of the brand new
and conventions. Co-operation between Rotterdam Central station. There are also a
NBTC and the conventions industry makes it number of venues that have already made a
possible for the Dutch conventions industry to mark for themselves. One of these classics
respond efficiently. Here is a glimpse of some is Ahoy. This convention centres offers 2750
Dutch cities which are perfect for conferences: seats in a fixed congress formation. De Doelen,
another conference venue and convention
AMSTERDAM centre in Rotterdam that can accommodate a
Amsterdam is an ideal conference destination large gathering.
Utrecht offers that hosts many world-class conventions, events
many special and (trade) fairs, each year. This vibrant city is THE HAGUE
and inspiring among the top 10 most important commercial One of Holland’s largest conference centres, the
centres in the world. World Forum Convention Centre is situated in
locations for the heart of the historic city of The Hague. The
hosting events ROTTERDAM entire city is designed to host small and large-
One can have conference at RDM Rotterdam’s scale events.
UTRECHT
Utrecht offers many special and inspiring
locations for hosting events. The largest of these
venues are housed in the Beatrix building and
include the Jaarbeurs conference centre and
Beatrix Theatre. The venues total over 1 million
square feet of exhibition space. Another large
and relatively new venue is the concert hall,
TivoliVredenburg.
NOORDWIJK
Noordwijk can host a multitude of international
conferences and small-scale gatherings. Big
congress hotels like Hotel NH Noordwijk
Conference Centre Leeuwenhorst is among the
many options for hosting events.
36 MICEtalk September 2017trends
iCE CHANTS the mobile mantra
Disha Shah, Director and Mohit Khanna, Managing Director, iCE Group India,
elucidate on the current trends in the MICE industry and the impact of GST regime
Kindly tell us about ICE Group India. appreciate. It could be a surprise limousine ride
iCE Group India is the brand name which we in an old European town or a nicely cooked
operate. Our company is registered as ICE barbeque meal on board a catamaran we always
Travels n Tour under which we have deliver the unexpected. Customer delight is what
a) Ice Travels - IATA company specialising we use as our mantra for repeat marketing.
in MICE
b) Ice Events - Corporate Event management Have you been impacted by GST? What is the
company way forward?
Disha Shah
c) Let’s Go India - Inbound Division GST is a reform in our existing system and
anything that reforms or changes the system has
The company was founded in the year 2010 by its negatives and positive impact on the regular We also help our
Mohit Khanna and later Disha Shah joined, our mode of life. Yes there have been a few delays in
clients conduct
company specialises in MICE and Events. Our business due to GST implications and a lot of
diversified scope of work includes – domestic companies have kept their travel and incentives conferences overseas.
and international travel, planning and executing on hold but we strongly believe that change is We do many
medium to large scale conferences, incentive good in the long run. incentive travel
movement, Corporate events and product arrangements
launches. We are an IATA company with our How have the first half of 2017 been for you?
own in-house event production team and a What are your expectations from the rest of
creative team. the year? What are your plans for 2018?
First half of 2017 has been good for the industry
What innovative marketing strategies have overall and we too have benefitted from the same.
you adopted to increase business this year? We have a lot of MICE movements on hold which
Technology is our strength and we have have been postponed for the last two quarters.
capitalised on that to the maximum this year. Be For 2018 we already have pitched for our core
it our back office operations or building an app business of Medical conferences in India as well
for every MICE movement for our customer as overseas.
we ensure the ease through technology. Our Mohit Khanna
mantra is Mobile Friendliness! We also leverage Which are the different conferences and
a lot from our suppliers. Nothing innovative or events that you plan for your clients?
new here but we ensure we get all details from We do domestic medical conferences where Technology is our
our suppliers and we utilise their full potential. we take care of the entire travel needs. We strength and we have
Be it partnering with tourism boards, ensuring also help our clients conduct conferences capitalised on that
exclusive value add-ons from hotels or exploring overseas. We do many incentive travel
to the maximum
the unexplored of the destination, we give it arrangements. We use a lot of technology for
all. That is the reason why our guests always our conferences. Majority of our clientele include this year
get something extra from us which they always FMCG, pharma and consumer goods industries.
MICEtalk September 2017 37You can also read
