IMEX America is the largest trade show for the global meetings, events, and incentive travel industry. Held annually at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, the event brings together suppliers and buyers from every sector of the meetings industry under one roof. It is an award-winning show that enables participants to conduct a year’s worth of business, network, and attend specialist education sessions. In 2023, the event hosted 15,029 participants, including 5,364 buyers and facilitated 83,000 meetings. The 2024 edition, running from October 7 to 10, promises to continue the trend with major exhibitors from across the globe, with a significant focus on the Caribbean.

The Bahamas: Showcasing Luxury and Business Synergy
In 2024, The Bahamas will be represented by Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation, Equilibrium Events, the Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion Board, The Islands of the Bahamas and more. The presence of The Bahamas at IMEX America highlights its position as a top choice for meetings, conferences, and incentive travel. Atlantis Paradise Island will showcase its world-renowned luxury resort, which offers not only leisure but high-end meeting facilities, making it a prime destination for corporate events.

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism will present its ongoing efforts to develop the region as a hub for both tourism and business. The country is investing in infrastructure that supports the growing demand for business travel, providing a luxurious backdrop for both small meetings and large international conferences. With hosted buyers from over 65 countries attending, The Bahamas is poised to capture the interest of those seeking to combine business with a tropical paradise.

Jamaica: A Growing Meetings Destination
Jamaica, represented by Cayman Airways and the Jamaica Tourist Board, will also have a significant presence at IMEX America 2024. As one of the most vibrant destinations in the Caribbean, Jamaica has been positioning itself as a key player in the meetings and events sector. The Jamaica Tourist Board will showcase the island’s ability to host a variety of corporate events and incentive trips. From the serene coastal venues to the lively cities, Jamaica offers diverse settings for meetings and events.

In 2023, 4,201 hosted buyers attended IMEX America, and Jamaica aims to tap into this high-profile audience. Many buyers at IMEX control substantial budgets, with 27% managing more than $10 million, making the event a crucial opportunity for destinations like Jamaica to showcase their value proposition.

Puerto Rico: A Meetings Hub with Modern Facilities
Puerto Rico will make its mark at IMEX America 2024, represented by Castillo Destination Management, Destination Puerto Rico, and the Puerto Rico Convention Center. Puerto Rico is home to the largest convention center in the Caribbean, offering state-of-the-art facilities that are ideal for large-scale international conferences and events.

With direct connections to the U.S. mainland and no passport requirements for U.S. citizens, Puerto Rico presents a seamless option for U.S.-based businesses planning international events. Destination Puerto Rico will highlight the island’s mix of modern venues and rich culture, positioning it as a go-to destination for meetings and incentive travel. The presence of 1,163 buyer attendees at IMEX 2023 from 43 countries, with 47% of them being corporate buyers, shows that Puerto Rico is on track to capture significant attention at the 2024 event.

Aruba: A Tropical Paradise for Business Events
Aruba, known for its year-round sunshine and clear blue waters, will be represented by the Aruba Tourism Authority, Aruba Hilton Caribbean Resort & Casino, ECODMS Aruba, and the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. Aruba has been gaining recognition as a destination for business events, combining its natural beauty with top-notch event facilities.

The Aruba Hilton Caribbean Resort & Casino and Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort offer luxurious accommodations and meeting spaces, while ECODMS Aruba emphasizes sustainable event solutions. Aruba’s participation in IMEX America 2024 will highlight the island’s commitment to delivering both eco-friendly and high-end experiences for corporate meetings and events.

Barbados: Business and Pleasure in Harmony
Barbados will also be featured at IMEX America 2024, showcasing its growing role as a destination for corporate meetings and events. Known for its cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, Barbados offers a unique blend of business and leisure opportunities. The island’s tourism board will focus on how Barbados provides a mix of traditional elegance and modern facilities, making it an ideal location for corporate retreats, incentive trips, and conferences.

IMEX America 2024 Event Details
IMEX America 2024 kicks off with a full day of free education at Smart Monday, powered by MPI, on October 7. The trade show will open to attendees from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm on October 8 and October 9, and from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm on October 10. Exhibitors will have early access from 7:00 am on October 8 and from 8:00 am on October 9 and 10. To alleviate crowding, exhibitors are encouraged to arrive before 9:00 am.

In 2023, 27% of IMEX’s hosted buyers controlled budgets exceeding $10 million, and 43% held director-level or above positions. These decision-makers represent powerful opportunities for Caribbean destinations to secure new business. Atlantis Paradise Island, Cayman Airways, Puerto Rico Convention Center, Aruba Hilton, and other exhibitors from The Bahamas, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Aruba, and Barbados will be key players in connecting with this influential audience.

Educational Insights from Industry Experts
IMEX America 2024 will also feature expert speakers, including:

Kim Napolitano – Hilton Worldwide Sales

Naomi Clare Crellin – Founder & CEO of Marriott

Gerilyn Horan – Vice President, Group Sales & Strategic Accounts, Hilton

Jamie Murdock – Managing Vice President, Sales

These speakers will provide valuable insights into trends in the meetings, events, and incentive travel industries, helping attendees stay ahead of the curve in an evolving market.

The Caribbean’s Strong Presence at IMEX America 2024
The Caribbean’s participation at IMEX America 2024 underscores the region’s growing importance in the global meetings and events industry. With The Bahamas, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Aruba, and Barbados all represented, the event will highlight the Caribbean’s ability to offer world-class facilities, breathtaking landscapes, and exceptional service for business events. Whether you’re planning a conference, incentive trip, or corporate meeting, the Caribbean is ready to deliver a unique and memorable experience that blends business with the beauty of the islands.

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