How would you sum up the Business Travel Show 2015?
David Chapple - This is the biggest edition since the event was created 21 years ago. We welcomed 256 exhibitors, compared with 220 last year. All the major brands are represented, from airlines, hotels and business travel agencies, as well as smaller, technologically innovative structures.
How do you explain these good results?
D. C. - We have done a very good job of attracting travel buyers of the right calibre through our hosted buyer programme. This year, we had a total of 386 hosted buyers, representing major groups from a wide range of sectors. They come in particular to attend training sessions, but also to meet certain exhibitors by arranging meetings in advance. In all, some 3,000 meetings were arranged by our guests this year. These qualitative meetings with buyers guarantee a return on investment for our exhibitors.
How far does the show extend beyond the UK market?
D. C. - We have 40% foreign buyers in our hosted buyer programme: France, Germany, Spain, Portugal and the Nordic countries are well represented, as is Russia, a market with around ten representatives this year.
Is this international dimension one of your priorities?
D. C. - Yes, it's part of our strategy. We're really looking to establish ourselves as a major international event, by attracting suppliers who are relevant to buyers' needs.
What next?
D. C. - We intend to continue on the path of internationalisation. So next year we'll be breaking new ground by setting up regional pavilions, to attract American suppliers in particular, but also Russia, the Scandinavian market and the Benelux countries.
DR
