An increasing number of cities and countries around the globe are recognising the value of attracting events, as is revealed by the rush to take stands at EIBTM, the business travel and motivation show, more than six months before the event is due to take place.

Building on the record attendance at EIBTM 2006, a large number of returning events destination exhibitors have not only re-confirmed early, but are also increasing their stand space for this year’s event. Companies Kuoni Destination Management, Austria, The Netherlands, Thailand and Mexico were some of the first to confirm their participation at EIBTM 2007.

Already contracted onto larger stands are Argentina, Sweden and the city of Vilnius. Meanwhile, Chile has increased it’s stand size by 150% due to the full participation of Chile Tourism returning to EIBTM this year, and the Dominican Republic Tourist Office has just confirmed a 25% growth in stand size.

EIBTM also welcomes Adventure Myanmar, the first ever exhibitor representing this emerging Asian destination, along with Munich and Marketing Birmingham, both exhibiting as main stand holders for the first time.

The floor plan for EIBTM 2007 will see improvements to benefit exhibitors, hosted buyers and visitors. For the first time there will be a dedicated Mediterranean area within the Europe section, grouping together the countries representing this increasingly popular geographical region. The area will also include a third hosted buyer lounge to provide a relaxed setting for the expected 10% increase in hosted buyer attendance.

The Fira Gran Via venue in Barcelona, Spain will be home to EIBTM from 27 to 29 November.