Of the four companies that expressed interest in partnering with SA Tourism in the organisation of Indaba, Meetings Africa and a possible luxury show, the tourism board appears to be talking to just one.
Earlier this week, Carol Weaving, MD of Thebe Reed Exhibitions and organiser of Africa Travel Week, told Tourism Update that she had had a positive conversation with SA Tourism, and was hoping for another meeting. Thebe Reed’s proposal would bring Indaba and WTM Africa, one of the trade shows that form Africa Travel Week, together.
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The three other potential partners said they had had no further communication from SA Tourism. Justin Hawes of Synergy Business Events, which submitted a proposal as part of a consortium that included the international ITE Group, said he nevertheless remained hopeful.
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Guido Ceruti, CFO for Pure Grit Project and Exhibitions Management, a company with past experience in the organisation of Indaba, commented that he had heard nothing whatsoever and would have hoped for some feedback by now. A similar response was made by a member of staff of Outlaw Marketing and Events.
SA Tourism was approached for comment, but had not reverted by press time.
Leading industry stakeholders would support a combined Indaba and WTM Africa trade show. Martin Wiest, CEO of Tourvest, said a merger would be a good thing. He felt Durban, the venue for Indaba, should remain the location for the event, as costs in the city were more economical. Africa Travel Week currently takes place in Cape Town.
Craig Drysdale, General Manager – Global Sales for Thompsons Africa, said: “Thompsons Africa would absolutely support a merger. It makes absolute business sense going forward from an industry impact point of view and spend.”
Spokesperson for Mango, Hein Kaiser, said at the moment the two shows were fulfilling different functions and had different audiences in terms of geography. One large show could be the way forward but, alternatively, each show would need to clearly define its objectives so that exhibitors could align themselves accordingly.
Michelle Coleman and Hilka Birns.
