EIBTM 2007 is set to have a record number of European exhibitors at this year’s event showcasing an extensive range of venues, products and services from this popular region of the world.

New companies, increased stand space from returning exhibitors and a maintained presence by European destinations will see the most diverse representation for many years.

Eastern and Central Europe will have a significant presence at the event supporting its growing popularity as a meetings and incentives destination.

Croatia has increased its stand space by 18%, Hungary is taking 90sqm and Romania has increased by a massive 64%. Poland, Slovenia and Ukraine are returning to exhibit this year whilst Slovakia’s stand will be over a third larger than in previous years.

The city of Vilnius, Lithuania will also have its own stand almost 30% bigger than last year.

Vera Szűcs-Balás, Manager for the Hungarian Convention Bureau stated: “We think EIBTM is a great opportunity to promote Hungary as a destination for congresses, conferences and other business events. This is the 7^th time we are exhibiting at EIBTM, and we are looking very much forward to it. It always has been a huge success for us and we try to attend well prepared in order to provide up to date information to Hosted Buyers and visitors. There are a number of novelties on the Hungarian meetings and incentives market including plenty of new hotels and conference venues as well as several ones still being built. We will launch them at EIBTM along with our new brochure, The Meeting Planners’ Guide to Hungary that will be published in September this year.”

Northern Europe will also have a stronger presence at EIBTM this year with Sweden increasing its stand size by almost 30%, Norway by 8% and Iceland has increased by 66% more space. Denmark, Lapland and Finland will not miss out on the business that EIBTM generates as they are all returning to the show again this year.

Other European destinations set to have an even larger presence at EIBTM this year include Britain, Austria, Germany and France. Two major European cities, Munich and Birmingham, have decided to exhibit independently for the first time to focus on their own product offering and brand values which they feel are more than a match for their competitors.

Ian Taylor, Commercial Director at Marketing Birmingham, which operates Birmingham Convention Bureau, said “Research has revealed that the events industry in the West Midlands is worth a staggering £6bn to the regional economy and £2.3bn in Birmingham alone.

It is therefore clearly essential that we continue to grow this area and attract more high profile events to the city. Our decision to exhibit in Barcelona reflects our confidence in Birmingham’s credentials as a leading events destination, and in the city’s ability to attract international acclaim.”

Spain will have a strong representation from hotels, venues and convention bureaus such as Turismo Andaluz who have increased their stand size by 70% and first time exhibitors Hoteles Santos, Palau Moxó, Port Aventura S.A, Casa Llotja de Mar, Unitursa and Vincci Hoteles.

Mandy Torrens, Exhibition Director commented: “With the exhibition floor larger than ever before, the range and diversity of products and services on offer for buyers and visitors to discover at EIBTM this year is set to be extensive.”

The Fira Gran Via venue in Barcelona, Spain will be home to EIBTM from 27^th-29^th November 2007.