Issued by: The Exhibitions and Events Association


Says Chief Executive Sharon Peetz: “As EXSA member activities are key drivers for a healthy economy, and more specifically for the communications industry, the media has made a huge difference in positioning our collective efforts. In this regard I do not only want to single out exhibitions and events related media, but also the business to business as well as the consumer, trade and technical titles.”

Peetz indicates that frequent forums for exhibitions, events, conferences, congresses, concerts or whatever relevant activity in which its members have an organisational role to play, have increased dramatically both in volume and in quality. She says that venue owners have also made a great contribution towards the industry's corporate identity, and cites the fifth anniversary of the Cape Town International Convention Centre, having hosted more than 2000 events since having opened its doors, as an example. This achievement received extensive publicity.

“Media coverage about the exhibitions and events industry is in our national interest as it attracts thousands of business persons from outside South Africa. Just look at events such as the World Economic Forum which was held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, or the Soccerex Exhibition, which took place at the Sandton Convention Centre. Other examples that attract international visitors are the Nedbank Golf Challenge at Sun City and specialist congresses and conferences such as in the specialist medical field. The more regular professional members of the industry interact with the media and submit accurate information for them to inform the public at large, the more our industry will benefit from the exposure. As the news about these events travels the globe through online media, potential tourists gain confidence to visit our shores and experience an industry which can compete with the best in the world, with being at leisure in South Africa as a bonus attraction.”

According to Peetz, the Association will continue to build relations with the media, as the many exhibitions and events also represent a revenue stream for them. “Through sharing our annual plans with interested media owners, and as a consequence achieve packaged publicity, we will further be able to build on a partnership and realize the objectives of the Association and our members.”

Visit our PRESS OFFICE: EXSA - The Exhibitions and Events Association of Southern Africa - was established in 1980 as a non-profit organisation. EXSA is the official and recognised Association of the exhibition industry in Southern Africa, providing credibility and status for its members. EXSA aims to both protect and promote the exhibition industry.- more....

[12 Aug 2008 13:07]

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