TravTalk India Online Magazine
M!CE professionals across India are positive about its appeal as premier M!CE destination. Barun Gupta, President, SITE India Chapter, believes G20 will be a game changer for India’s growth of exhibitions and incentives across states.
Janice Alyosius
Collaboration, marketing efforts, and simplified visa processes are seen as factors to improve India’s M!CE image. With a diverse range of experiential destinations and captivating experiences, India aims to attract a wide range of visitors. As it invests in infrastructure, India’s rise as a global M!CE destination offers opportunities for success.
Reflecting on the post-pandemic scenario, Barun Gupta, President, SITE India Chapter, expressed optimism this year. Attributing growth to India’s participation in the G20 and the increase in exhibitions and incentives across cities and states, he said, “This year is promising and exciting for the M!CE industry, with ample opportunities for both domestic and international travellers.”
India ideal M!CE destination
Naveen Kundu, MD, EbixCash, said the macro-economic indicators, ongoing infra development, and the government’s vision will position India as an ideal M!CE destination soon. Kundu added, “India is an emerging market and is rapidly on way to become the favoured destination in APAC.” He averred the country’s vision along with its ability to offer short-haul and long-haul M!CE experiences thereby luring visitors from nearby Asian countries, as well as European and American nations.
Aggressive marketing
Kundu stressed the need to market India aggressively as a M!CE destination and spoke of the changes that have taken place in India’s convention sector in the past five years, with several convention centres in the pipeline. Kundu said, “Within the next decade, India will have large and medium-scale convention centres in 30 cities, providing ample supply for global events, conferences, meetings, and incentive travel. Pointing out to India’s thriving exhibition market, he said, “The market is experiencing growth, attracting exhibitors from across the world. The population has become a consuming force, making India an ideal market for a wide range of products.”
Marketing campaigns
Kundu said global buyers assess the appeal and potential rewards of a destination before making their choices. He shared, “As India focuses on extensive marketing drives to promote its products and experiences globally through government initiatives and private sector efforts, more and more M!CE events will be attracted to the country. India has something to offer for everyone, and with proper marketing strategies in place, the abundance of offerings can be communicated to the global market”. Expressing confidence in the government’s plans, he believed they will achieve the desired outcomes.”
Kundu called upon professionals to be optimistic about India’s potential as a M!CE destination. “Rather than focusing on challenges, our focus should be to recognize the opportunities that lie ahead. With a united effort to market the country aggressively, collaborate across sectors, and dispel misconceptions, India can position itself as a premier destination for M!CE,” he said.
Meeting buyer expectations
Acknowledging the importance of meeting buyer expectations in the M!CE industry, Nitin Sachdeva, member, International Board of Directors, SITE Global, said, “When it comes to meeting buyer expectations, safety and security are paramount for M!CE destinations. To enhance India’s image, we need to focus on perception that often outweighs performance. Public relations activities, conducted by government offices and tourism boards, can play a vital role in shaping this perception. The government and stakeholders are planning to introduce i-M!CE, which can be a step in the right direction. Through joint efforts between corporate entities, the government, all stakeholders in India could establish itself as a favoured M!CE destination.”
Analysing the outbound travel market, Sachdeva shared, “The outbound travel market has witnessed significant expansion, particularly in terms of group sizes. Previously, we had around 2,500 passenger groups, but now we are seeing groups of 10,000 to 12,000 travellers, indicating a massive growth trend. Incentive travel has gained traction for employees and sellers of various firms. Post pandemic, people have developed a stronger desire to travel and seek new experiences rather than focusing on saving for their future generations. This shift in mindset has led to a surge in domestic travel in the Indian market, resulting in high demand for flights, trade, and competitive hotel pricing.”
Highlighting the impact of G20, he said, “The government’s investment in the M!CE industry, particularly with its involvement in G20, is encouraging. This commitment demonstrates its recognition of the M!CE industry and its growth potential. If this momentum continues, there is potential for the M!CE business to thrive in India.”
Govt must promote India
Manpreet Bindra, Vice President, M!CE, FCM Travel Solutions India, stressed the need to promote India as an attractive destination for inbound and corporate M!CE events. Highlighting the government’s efforts to invest in infrastructure and improve the perception of India as a tourist destination, he said, “Organizations must collaborate with the government and motivate people to choose India as a destination for M!CE events.” He said the importance of simplifying visa processes to attract more foreign visitors is a must, citing examples from countries such as Australia and Singapore.
Gaining popularity
Jyothi Varma, Advisory Consultant, Travel & Hospitality, acknowledges India has everything needed to be an attractive M!CE destination. Recognizing that the market perception needed improvement, she said there is need to spread awareness about India’s offerings and collaboration to unlock India’s brilliance in the M!CE industry”.
