The impressive contingent from Hilton Worldwide
The busy show at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre
The busiest girl in 'show' business: Robin Paisley
Deborah Davy of Tourism Toronto with Brian Robertson representing SMI, a division of Vision Travel
Take 700 exhibitors, add 2,000 meetings and incentives buyers, put them in a vast room at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and watch the magic happen.
Incentive Works just wrapped up its 23rd show and as in past years it was a great combination of fabulous booths, professional and personal development sessions, fun parties and connecting, connecting, connecting.
“We’re in an industry that preaches face-to-face,” the show’s General Manager Robin Paisley told me, “And despite all the technical advances, the desire to meet others personally is as strong as ever.” When she 1st started working with the show 14 years ago, it was primarily a way to get out RFPs. Today? “It’s as much about building relationships, building your career and your business.”
Wandering through the impressive show, here are some of the nuggets I gleaned:
From San Francisco: “Yes we can be a little pricey for meetings. Want to keep the cost down? Schedule yours over a U.S. public holiday such as our Thanksgiving and watch the prices plummet.”
From Score Promotions: “Our hottest client giveaway items now are power banks and mobile chargers – as inexpensive as $10.”
From the Grande Residences in the Riviera Cancun: “We’ve been open only 8 months and are already #1 on Trip Advisor for the region. Guests love the private shuttle from the airport and that we do check-in right in their suite.”
From Quebec City: “Our new campaign is ‘So Europe, so close’ – people love the ambience in Quebec City!”
From Porter: “#1 question we are being asked: When will the tunnel be ready?’ We’re looking at March or April next year.”
And from Edmonton (my favourite) – their slogan: “Cold? Yes. Dark? Yes. Boring? Never!”
