2011 Business Travel Show Middle East cancelled

The 2011 Business Travel Show Middle East will not go ahead this year, according to show organisers Centaur Travel Group.

“This decision comes after much deliberation and consultation with buyers, suppliers and key influencers on what the market needs in terms of a Business Travel Show in the Middle East,” said  Centaur Travel Group head of marketing Susanna Baker.

“Of course, there are a number of differing opinions but there is one general view shared by most: the corporate travel industry needs and wants a dedicated event in the Middle East.

“However, in order to deliver more return to our exhibitors and to grow the event, a few changes to the existing format need to be made. The decision to postpone the event until 2012 therefore gives us time to make these changes to produce a better event for everyone involved."

Event director Paul Grinnall, who had been running the show for the past eighteen months, is leaving due to the postponement.

Past exhibitors at the show have included high-profile names such Virgin Atlantic, United Airlines, Air France, Jumeirah Hotels Group, The Address Hotels & Resorts, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts and Premier Inn, as well as a host of top tour operators and travel agencies.