AAXO Press Release

Building better exhibitions through knowledge-sharing and education: AAXO held their first-ever Exhibitor Training Day

Exhibitions are a powerful way to connect with customers in an increasingly tough business environment. However, to make the most of the opportunity, there are a number of factors that need to be considered by exhibitors. For this reason, the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) hosted their first-ever free Exhibitor Training Day on the 14th of October 2015, which was a resounding success. The event was extremely well attended and received a great deal of positive feedback. It also underscores AAXO’s commitment to provide value for AAXO-associated exhibitors, in order to contribute to a profitable and thriving exhibition industry.

The Training Day was held at the Ticketpro Dome, where a superb line up of industry experts addressed a packed room of over 120 people on the different aspects of creating a high-impact exhibit. The talks covered a wide variety of topics including how to set targeted and strategic objectives to ensure a measurable return on investment; how to generate leads and close sales; what to consider when planning a stand; marketing opportunities; the technological advances that can give a stand an edge; environmental issues related to exhibiting; how to train and brief staff and how to make the most of sponsorships. Question and answer sessions were held after talks in order to give attendees a chance to clarify issues and get further information, and the day also included a networking session for delegates and presenters.

At the end of the day, exhibitors received a Certificate of Participation, indicating that they had attended the training. Exhibitors were also informed about the AAXO “badge of approval” – a badge stating that exhibition organisers that are AAXO members are AAXO approved and thus adhere to the AAXO code of conduct. This gives exhibitors peace of mind as they are reassured of the quality and credibility of an exhibition or organiser. 

Carol Weaving, Chairperson of AAXO, is thrilled by the feedback received after the Training Day. “The response from organisers, sponsors and exhibitors has been absolutely phenomenal. The event turnout was excellent and the quality of the presentations ensured that all who attended derived a great deal of benefit from the day.” She adds, “This event has set the bar for future AAXO events and demonstrates that we are a dynamic organisation that is pushing for change and growth within the industry. We look forward to going from strength to strength and invite our industry colleagues to join us.”

Adriaan Liebetrau, Chief Executive Officer, Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) commented, “For a first event it was a great success, I certainly learnt a lot of new things and was amazed by the technology – the day was absolutely trend setting.” SAACI has also indicated an interest in conducting a joint training session with AAXO for 2016.

AAXO would like to thank all of those who presented at and attended the Exhibitor Training Day. AAXO also gratefully acknowledges the contribution from the sponsors of the day: the Ticketpro Dome, The Dome Banqueting, Inspire Furniture Hire, the 3D Group, AVI Africa, GL Events South Africa, Orange Orbit Productions, Concept G Exhibitions and Events, Lodge Events Security, Kingfisher Promotions, Scan Display, Seriti Security Services, Alliance Safety Management and African Show Services.

For more information on AAXO and their upcoming events go to www.aaxo.co.za or contact Cindy Wandrag on 011 549 8300 or info@aaxo.co.za.

For membership inquiries, including a full list of membership benefits and information on how to join, contact membership@aaxo.co.za