MANPREET BINDRA

Head of MICE FCM Travel Solutions India

MICE OUTBOUND TRENDS 2016

As far as India is concerned, the outbound MICE market is growing fast and has a prosperous future. MICE requirements are growing for diff erent sectors in the country ranging from industries such as Automobile; Paints, Telecommunications and Insurance to Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare and Energy. Apart from the white- collar corporate clientele, the FMCG ( Fast Moving Consumer Goods) and Agro sectors are aggressively providing incentive trips overseas to dealers from the rural and non- metro areas of the country. Asian destinations provide excellent value for- money and aff ordable rates.

MICE DOMESTIC TRENDS 2016

As many hotels have increased their inventory– It has added to the advantages of the MICE segment in India as the cost of holding a business event in India has become a much aff ordable destination than other Asian countries like Singapore or Malaysia. India is increasingly on the rise of being the preferred destination for MICE travellers as it off ers work cum pleasure. Now there is a growing trend among corporates for locations away from city environs, fi nest conferencing facilities and options for relaxation and entertainment. Hotels are witnessing a consistent growth in the MICE with almost 25- 30 per cent of hotels receiving their business through MICE events. Th e group sizes are increasing from 100- 150 to 300- 500 plus.

India has always been an enchanting destination for tourists from all around the world. With its rich heritage, vibrant culture and its natural beauty it already attracts leisure tourists but with world class hotels and the current development of infrastructure, India is now one of the top MICE destination ( domestic inbound) and ( outbound) destination in Asia. In addition to important business opportunities, MICE industry provides immense benefi ts to the broader economy as it generates on average a higher spending level, reduces seasonality, contributes to the regeneration of destinations, spreads knowledge and enhances innovation and creativity.

MARKETING STRATEGY TO GROW MICE IN 2017

Th e Indian MICE market is growing rapidly with a strong domestic sector, and a booming outbound traffi c. At the same time, with the country's current eff orts to increase its inbound corporate travel, hotels and convention centres are witnessing massive expansion programmes to make India into a leading corporate meetings destination and hub.

Hotels are witnessing a consistent growth in MICE almost 25- 30 per cent through events