13 Jan 2014
New Zealand’s conference, meeting and incentive sectors are set to come into their own this year as the country’s economy continues to strengthen, says ProMag Publishing director Stu Freeman.
ProMag Publishing owns and manages several events aimed at the meetings industry, including Convene 2014 at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland on April 8.
Staff training and retention, as well as rewarding high performance standards and setting incentives for sales, will all be imperative for New Zealand businesses in 2014, Freeman says.
‘Over the past few years, forward looking companies have continued to reward staff and operate incentive schemes to encourage both increased sales and efficiencies.
‘Businesses have continued to meet, often with a strategic and cost saving focus. The industry has reported that although the frequency of meetings has held up, delegate numbers and spend have reduced over the past few years. I think the emphasis will change this year.’
Freeman says organisations need to plan for growth in 2014 and beyond, with face to face meetings remaining the best way to communicate and for teams to connect.
‘Organisations also need to recognise that their staff are working harder than ever, with increased demands on their time. So 2014 will be a year when businesses start to reward loyal staff again.’
He says this does not mean irrational spending on long lunches and parties. ‘I would expect meeting planners to be looking at meaningful experiences, ensuring that staff feel they are developing professionally and that teams are working together effectively.’
The Convene 2014 expo will be an early opportunity for conference, meeting and incentive organisers to source venues, accommodation, speakers, entertainment, catering, activities and other products and services.
‘We have nearly 100 exhibitors already confirmed for the expo and typically attract around 400 buyers – including executive secretaries and personal assistants who organise company meetings, professional conference and incentive planners, association executives and others from the not for profit sector, special interest tour organisers and even wedding planners looking for something different.’
Freeman says Convene is more than an expo and always incorporates familiarisation tours the day before the exhibition, plus the popular Convene industry breakfast, seminars and entertainment showcases.
For more information contact:
Stu Freeman ph 09 818 7807 email stu@promag.co.nz
