Rapid Rise of Technology-driven Solutions Focus at UFI Open Seminar in Asia

March 8, 2016

Almost 270 delegates from 21 countries and territories gathered in Chiang Mai at the end of February to discuss and debate the future of the exhibition industry. T

Technology, and the internet in particular, has long been a potential opportunity as well as a source of concern to business event organizers. 

At this year’s UFI Open Seminar in Asia, industry leaders shared their views on the future of the exhibition industry as more and more event-related online platforms and mobile apps come to market.

The 11th edition of the seminar was held in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai and was hosted by UFI Diamond Sponsor, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

The event featured two days of networking and learning as well as a Sustainable Development Focus Meeting, a CEO Golf Tournament, committee meetings, city tours and much more.

More “than a third of UFI’s membership is now based in Asia, so it’s not surprising that the UFI Open Seminar in Asia has become our second largest event after the global Congress,” said Kai Hattendorf, UFI’s managing director.

He added, “This seminar has grown into an essential platform for the Asian exhibition industry to meet and discuss the issues and challenges facing our industry in the region. Given the rapid rise of technology-driven solutions, this year’s seminar was a particularly robust discussion about the forces shaping the future of our industry.”

Supawan Teerarat, vice president at TCEB, said, “TCEB has a long-running and valued relationship with UFI, so we were honoured to host the 11th UFI Open Seminar in Asia. The exhibition industry in Thailand continues to goes from strength to strength and so we were delighted to have the opportunity to showcase Thailand’s world-class venues and service capabilities to our colleagues from around the region.”

As always, the seminar featured an engaging line-up of industry leaders. ITE Group’s Digital Director Baris Onay opened the seminar with his take on the convergence of digital tools and face-to-face events.

Mao Daben and Gu Xuebin discussed the latest innovations in China, Asia’s largest exhibition market. Koelnmesse’s Christian Glasmacher moderated a panel that explored mobile marketing trends at events. Other speakers

included SISO’s David Audrain, jwc’s Gerd Weber, Tracy Short of SMG Malaysia, and many others.

The program also included a sold-out Sustainable Development Focus Meeting, the second edition of the UFI CEO golf tournament, a members’ meeting of UFI’s Asia Pacific Chapter as well as an UFI Associations Committee Meeting.

In addition to TCEB, our host and Diamond Sponsor, other key supporters of this Open Seminar in Asia were Diamond Sponsors: Global Experience Specialists (GES) and Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE). The seminar’s Silver Sponsor was the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB).

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.