MAJOR EUROPEAN INTEREST IN EIBTM 2004 BID

The search for a possible new 'home' for EIBTM from 2004 has created "enormous interest", Reed Travel Exhibitions has said. The formal Tender Document is due to be issued at the beginning of October to a total of 21 cities.

Organisers announced their intention of investigating other potential venues for EIBTM at this year's event in May at Palexpo, Geneva. But they are still not ruling out the option of remaining in the current location.

"We have been extremely encouraged by the level of interest following our initial letter to major exhibition and convention centres in cities throughout Europe", said Tom Nutley, Managing Director of RTE.

"EIBTM is without question the leading event for the incentives, business travel and meetings industry worldwide and we are pleased that so many destinations are keen to make a formal bid.

"We are keeping an open mind at this stage but there has been notable support from exhibitors who feel that it is worthwhile to at least investigate what other options are open to EIBTM, particularly as it moves into the second important phase of its history."

The cities that have committed to the tender process have until the end of December to make a full submission. They will be required to demonstrate that they not only have the kind of modern facilities that are in keeping with an event of this scale and calibre, but also a comprehensive infrastructure and range of quality hotel accommodation as well as integrated transport with good links throughout the world.

"This will be a brilliant business opportunity for who ever is finally chosen", said Nutley. " We hope that the final decision will be made by the summer 2002, allowing plenty of time for the location to work with us in the build-up to 2004." The decision will be made in conjunction with exhibitors, industry associations and the newly formed EIBTM Advisory Council, which meets for the first time in October.

Mr. Nutley said that EIBTM would not publish the list of cities that have indicated they will tender, although he has confirmed that Geneva will be taking part in the process.