Moscow International MICE Forum'11. Interview with the organiser

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"Its been a difficult year but we are most satisfied with the show's results"
Kim Waddoup, CEO of the aiGroup reports on the Moscow International MICE Forum 2011

– Do you mean the continuing Global Recession, the upheavals in the Middle East or the tragic natural disaster in Japan?
– Global incidents provide a challenge to any event organiser. Many budgets remain restricted but most International MICE suppliers understand how important it is to be present at such events and promote their services. The situation in Egypt was particularly troubling as it is a strong centre for Russian MICE activities and the uncertainties in the crucial booking period cost us several participants.

– How did this affect participants and visitors?
– We did loose many familiar participants from the Middle East but in turn we able to welcome many new participants attracted by the prospects in the Russian MICE market. Visitors were generally extremely positive as they are seeing an increase in the number of enquiries and need to re-new their contacts and find new destinations for MICE activities.

– In our past interviews you have always mentioned that a crisis is a good time for business. Is this still your view?
– With more than 30 years experience in the Tourism Industry I have become a veteran of so many situations that have taken their toll on tourism. Each 'crisis' actually offers so many opportunities: only the fit will survive and success is rewarded to those who are creative and find imaginative solutions. Weak companies fail leaving a more open and less confused market for well organised, professional organisations. It's so like a forest after a fire as the first buds appear.

– You mentioned that the situation affected your participants, what will happen there now?
– As the revolt grew worse I heard many people say that Egypt as a destination was finished for a long time. I have a great deal of admiration for this country and know that they will recover very fast. Naturally it is not prudent for participants to travel when such a situation occurs, but I am certain that the industrious Egyptians will soon be once again posting increases in the number of visitors.

– How are these global incidents reflected in the MICE sector?
– The MICE market is vast and varied. Russian companies appreciate how important it is to be present at Meetings and Conferences and their representatives continue to travel. Many understand that 'difficult times' are just a blip on the road map and soon everything will return to normal. Regrettably tragic incidents happen but the world has become more resilient and this is especially apparent in the MICE sector. The MICE market is also highly competitive and one country's troubles are another countries gains. This business swings around quickly.

– What are your overall impressions of the current state of the Russian MICE market?
– Firstly it has recovered fast, major organisations are sending delegations around the world and almost every day we hear of a high profile Russian group enjoying the unique experiences of major destinations. Budgets certainly seem to be increasing and there is a general positive feel in the air.

– MICE covers 4 prime sectors. What is your understanding of the current results. – The meetings sector is strong, Russian companies needs to be integrated into the International markets and their management is keen to ensure that senior management and sales staff are present at leading events. Incentive is probably the leader from Russia at this time. The new market place is highly competitive and companies realise the importance of incentives and rewards for their staff and a most memorable tour will maintain loyalty and increase efforts. The Conference sector is primarily domestic but slowly interest in foreign destinations is becoming more popular. Participation at leading Exhibitions around the world is also increasing fast.

– What took place here today at the Moscow International MICE Forum?
– Our 70+ participants have seen a constant stream of carefully invited visitors. They have all been busy since the doors opened at 10:00. A range of industry relevant seminars from Russian MICE leaders have been available for our business visitors so our aim of keeping both participants and visitors more than satisfied has been achieved.

Thank you,
Ruslan Dzkuya, journalist

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