Reed Travel Exhibitions claims its 2011 World Travel Market (WTM) trade show has generated £1.65bn in travel and tourism industry deals.
 
According to the organiser, the figure is ascertained by independent research across its exhibition pool and includes deals either signed at the event, or from negotiations through its Meridian Club business network, which will lead to deals before the 2012 edition of WTM.
 
The £1.65bn figure is up 16 per cent on the previous year’s result, where £1.42bn in business was either done on the show floor or in the 12 months following WTM 2010. Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) attributed the growth to its overhauled Speed Networking programme, a one-hour session for exhibitions and buyers held prior to the show’s opening on 7 November.
 
Previously, Speed Networking sessions were conducted on the show floor in five, 45-minute sessions. RTE also claimed the introduction of its networking breakfast provided further opportunities for deals to be struck.
 
WTM 2011 reported a five per cent visitor rise to 28,183 (pre-ABC audit) and said 47,776 people participated in the show overall from 7 to 10 November.
 
“The expanded Speed Networking programme played an important role in the success of WTM 2011 for both exhibitors and Meridian Club members, offering both stakeholders increased opportunities to meet new contacts, sign contracts and conclude deals,” WTM exhibition director Simon Press said. “The amount of business conducted and the findings from the exhibitor research shows WTM is delivering on its commitment to facilitate business in the travel and tourism industry.

“The amount of business conducted at World Travel Market continues to increase, firmly positioning WTM as a must-attend exhibition for national and regional tourist boards, global brands and technology companies.”
 
RTE claims the post-show exhibitor research also found 94 per cent are likely or extremely likely to rebook for 2012, while 96 per cent were either completely satisfied or satisfied about their participation last year.
 
WTM returns to Excel London from 5 to 8 November.
 
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