Meetings & Conventions magazine recently published results of an online survey into planner interest in, behaviour at and preferences in trade shows. Key findings from the research were:

• Primary objectives of attending shows were making new contacts (84%) and finding new destinations for future consideration (78%) 
• 83% of respondents walk the entire show and stop at booths that interest or attract them 
• 94% think it is professionally valuable to attend a trade show 
• 55% save almost all of the materials they collect whilst attending 

The other main observation was about which trade shows in the US planners attend. The most popular show attended is HSMAI's Affordable Meetings (50%), MPI's annual trade shows second (39%) and The Motivation Show (IT&ME) third (25%). 

VisitBritain will be attending the next MPI World Education Congress (WEC) and Trade Show in Miami, taking place in July 2005. VisitBritain will coordinate a branded British presence on behalf of participating suppliers including booth rental and decor. Whilst suppliers must be individual members of MPI to attend, if you are interested in targetting the US Meeting or Incentive planner at one of the key US trade shows (in the eyes of the planners themselves!) please contact VisitBritain to register your interest (see the link directly below for details).

Further information on the opportunity to join VisitBritain at MPI WEC in Miami

You can also read the full report into US trade shows from Meetings & Incentives magazine by clicking here.

Since 1965, Meetings & Conventions magazine has been helping meeting and event planners in corporations, associations, incentive houses and independent planning companies excel at their jobs and effectively manage their careers. Further details on the magazine and subscriptions can be found at www.mcmag.com