B2B (business-to-business) events in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region were pivotal in business interactions throughout 2023. Despite facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, these events staged a robust comeback and are forecasted to sustain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.5% until 2028.
Events, particularly in-person ones, offer attendees a unique opportunity to connect, engage with products and brands, and contribute to networking, knowledge-sharing, market expansion, and industry advancement.
41% of marketers consider events as the most effective channel for reaching business objectives. A noteworthy 79% of marketers attribute sales generation to events. Moreover, 85% of these professionals concur that events have a positive impact on both lead generation and sales.
74% of consumers say that engaging with a brand in person makes them more likely to purchase its products and services. 98% of consumers, in addition, are more inclined to buy after attending an event.
These stats reveal that these events are more than just gatherings. They underscore APAC’s strong commitment to building solid business ecosystems and establishing influence in the global economy. Importantly, their impact is expected to continue shaping the B2B landscape in 2024 and beyond.
Selecting the ideal destination for these events involves several factors. Diverse venues equipped with advanced technology, ensuring flexibility with adaptable spaces are very much preferred. Comfortable accommodations are also crucial, complemented by quality activities that seamlessly integrate business, leisure, and travel within a single trip.
This strategic approach ensures the chosen destination not only meets logistical needs but also enhances the overall experience for attendees. Cities like Singapore and Sydney have acknowledged this trend, positioning themselves as dual-purpose destinations, not just for corporate matters but vacations as well.
Leading in this initiative, they market themselves as both leisure and exceptional MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destinations. These cities secured the top three spots in Cvent’s 2018 list of the top 25 Meeting Destinations in the Asia Pacific.
This ranking is based on data from the Cvent Supplier Network’s RFP sourcing activity, valued at over $14.7 billion, reflecting more than 40 million room nights in 2017, supporting over 715,000 events worldwide.
It’s not just about work in this bustling region; the impressive numbers also highlight its potential as a leisure destination. This makes it an excellent choice for blending business and leisure, known as “leisure.”
Related: How to Extra Boost Your Event Attendance
Bleisure and event marketing in the APAC
Bleisure, the merging of business and leisure travel, significantly shapes B2B events in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. This concept has gained significant traction over the past few years, with its travel market expected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2030.
This trend prolongs event participation, leading to increased engagement and networking possibilities. The attraction of merging business and leisure appeals to a broader audience, resulting in higher attendance rates.
APAC destinations that actively promote bleisure opportunities capitalize on the region’s diverse offerings, enhancing the global appeal of both the event and the location. The economic impact is significant, as bleisure travelers contribute additional spending to local economies.
The flexibility in scheduling and the positive experiences fostered contribute to the overall success and satisfaction of B2B events in APAC. Recognizing and accommodating this evolving trend is crucial for event organizers seeking to optimize attendee experience and event outcomes.
B2B events for your 2024 bleisure trip
In 2024, APAC takes center stage for B2B professionals seeking a balanced mix of productivity and enjoyment during their business trips. As we embark on a year of business growth, Callbox is pleased to highlight upcoming B2B events in Singapore and Australia. Additionally, we provide recommendations for leisure activities once your business matters are sorted out.
- CommunicAsia
- Inbound by HubSpot
- Techspo Singapore
- Buildtech Asia Expo 2024
- Asia Tech x Singapore
- Singapore FinTech Festival
- B2B Expo (Melbourne)
First stop, Singapore:
CommunicAsia
A pivotal event within Asia Tech x Singapore set to take place in the Singapore Expo this May 29-31, 2024, CommunicAsia is Asia’s largest ICT stage, uniting telecom professionals, CSPs, technology vendors, and regulators.
The said event will cover topics like 5G monetization and network vulnerabilities, and explore key themes in telecommunications and technology. The 2024 edition features discussions on Artificial Intelligence, enhancing telco services, innovations, and partnerships, along with Techxlr8 sessions on Cybersecurity, 6G, Data, and IoT. It serves as a hub for startups to showcase innovations, making it a central platform for cutting-edge discussions in the telecom and ICT sectors.
Inbound by HubSpot
INBOUND by HubSpot, scheduled for September 18-20, 2024, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, is a prominent event for professionals in sales, marketing, and customer experience.
The event includes workshops, talks, and networking opportunities, providing a platform to acquire new skills, stay abreast of industry trends, and establish valuable partnerships. With a global audience, it facilitates connections with potential customers and partners.
HubSpot partners can engage with experts to discuss the future of their businesses. Beyond its professional aspects, INBOUND supports team bonding, creating a productive and collaborative experience for attendees.
Techspo Singapore
Techspo Singapore 2024, happening on September 19-20 at Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, is a two-day technology expo that promises an immersive experience into the latest advancements in Internet, Mobile, AdTech, MarTech, and SaaS Technology. Attendees, including innovators, entrepreneurs, educators, investors, and digital professionals, can explore exhibits, network, and collaborate.
Beyond exhibitions, Techspo Singapore hosts a paid event, DigiMarCon Southeast Asia Digital Marketing, offering a blend of learning, theory, and inspiration, complemented by the dynamic product interaction and networking opportunities on the Techspo floor. The event also features the paid conference DigiMarCon Southeast Asia Digital Marketing for additional learning and networking opportunities.
Buildtech Asia Expo 2024
BuildTech Asia (BTA) is a pivotal B2B trade event for the building and construction industry in the region, scheduled from March 19 to March 21, 2024, at the Singapore Expo. Positioned as Asia’s leading platform, BTA focuses on integrating digital and smart technologies to enhance the resilience, sustainability, and future readiness of the built environment.
The event drives industry-wide digital transformation through the Industry 4.0 roadmap. With over 10,000 attendees from 25 countries, 100+ exhibitors, and 170+ facilitated business matching sessions, BTA serves as a key platform for advancing innovation and skill development in the construction sector.
Asia Tech x Singapore
Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2024, standing as Asia’s flagship tech event where technology converges with society and the digital economy, takes place at the Singapore Expo from May 29 to May 31, 2024.
This event is organized by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Informa Tech, with support from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). ATxSG sparks intelligent conversations in Singapore across business, tech, and government.
The event features co-located events such as ATxSummit (May 30-31), an invitation-only gathering for in-depth discussions on the role of technology in our shared digital future, and ATxEnterprise (May 29-31), showcasing hot tech topics through events like BroadcastAsia, CommunicAsia, SatelliteAsia, TechXLR8 Asia, and Innovfest x Elevating Founders.
Singapore FinTech Festival
The Singapore FinTech Festival Masterclass on November 15, 2024, from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM at Hall 5, Singapore EXPO, offers a deep dive into unlocking the potential of the Southeast Asia market.
This session, hosted by the Singapore FinTech Association (SFA), emphasizes the strategic importance of Singapore and provides valuable insights into the fintech landscape. The Masterclass will conclude with an audience Q&A, fostering a comprehensive discussion.
Attendees can leverage this opportunity to forge partnerships, broaden their network, and make valuable connections during the Festival. Furthermore, the session is a platform to discover the latest innovations in financial services and gain insights from over 850 speakers on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities.
Planning to launch your B2B event? Maximize your event turnout—virtual or live—with our call to invite marketing campaign!
Your Singapore leisure itinerary:
Your visit to the Lion City won’t be complete if you don’t visit these awesome locations try out these exciting activities.
Everyday Street Art + Street Food Walk
This culinary journey is the top-rated Airbnb Experience in Singapore with 400+ five-star reviews. Joiners can explore the diverse cuisines of Singapore’s main ethnic groups, offering insights into the secrets behind the best stalls.
With intimate group sizes (limited to 6), this tour focuses on handpicked small businesses to provide an authentic taste of local flavors, steering clear of commercial stops. This curated experience prioritizes market respect over turning it into a tourist trap.
Traditional kitchen practices, including the use of herbs and spices, are being shared to participants as they enjoy delving into diverse flavors. You can take a stroll between meals to explore street art and atmospheric alleys for a complete experience that engages both your taste buds and senses.
Head to Sentosa Island
Offering fun attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and S.E.A. Aquarium, Sentosa Island is the perfect destination for business travelers who love a dose of adventure and entertainment after a day’s work.
The island offers a one-stop-shop bleisure concept that can be accessed either through the central business district or public transport. It is home to Singapore’s best beaches and a massive Resorts World, drawing in approximately 19 million visitors, both Singaporeans and tourists, each year.
Spanning 500 hectares, this resort island boasts over 30 themed attractions, 120 food and beverage outlets, golden sandy beaches, 17 hotels offering more than 4,000 rooms, two premier 18-hole golf courses, a deep-water yachting marina, lush greenery, and a variety of other amenities.
Go for an Insta-worthy photoshoot at Gardens by the Bay
Get the most out of your business trip by visiting the horticultural wonderland, Gardens by the Bay. These futuristic gardens are perfect for the nature-loving businessman who loves to spice up their social media feed-from portraits to tourist photos to small videos for Instagram reels from your phone.
A prominent attraction within the area is the Supertree Grove, characterized by towering artificial trees adorned with vertical gardens. The supertrees are highlighted at night through an illumination display accompanied by music, creating a visually captivating experience for visitors.
Adjacent to the Supertree Grove is the Cloud Forest Dome, an architectural structure housing a 35-meter tall mountain enveloped in mist and covered with diverse vegetation. The dome simulates a tropical rainforest environment, complete with a cascading waterfall. Both spots showcase the fusion of nature and innovation, aligning with Gardens by the Bay’s commitment to sustainability.
Learn how to play mahjong in a local home
Whether you’re a board game enthusiast, culture explorer, or a fan of “Crazy Rich Asians,” this one is for you.
Learn classic Singaporean Mahjong in a 2.5-hour session at a local home with Sabrina and her coaching team. Suitable for beginners and those revisiting Mahjong, the experience covers gameplay, and rule explanation, and offers cultural insights.
Participants will receive a detailed 16-page booklet, covering essential aspects such as recognizing tiles, understanding point systems, and enjoying the Mahjong experience in an authentic local setting. The Mahjong tiles are designed with clear images, making it easy to grasp without the need to read Chinese characters. Additionally, a guide sheet will be provided for your convenience.
This inclusive experience promotes skill development, social connections, and lasting memories. Participants will receive 1-2 days’ notice of any insufficient sign-ups and alternative arrangements.
Take a stroll down memory lane in Kampong Glam
Join a 3-hour walking tour of Kampong Glam, starting at the MRT station. Explore historic streets like Arab Street, Bussorah Street, Baghdad, Kandahar, and Muscat Streets for insights into the neighborhood’s history and Malay/Middle Eastern cultures.
Encounter traditional businesses, visit the Sultan Mosque, and observe the former Royal Palace (closed on Mondays, $6 entry fee). Enjoy local tea and snacks like Lemper or onde-onde along the way.
Explore Haji Lane, known for its vibrant shophouses, street art, and bohemian vibes—a hotspot for selfie enthusiasts and street art lovers. Optionally extend the tour to Bugis Market, Singapore’s largest street market, and nearby temples. Durians sampling and tour duration (around 2.5 hours) can be flexible based on group preferences.
Having delved into noteworthy B2B events and tourist destinations in Singapore,
Let’s now shift our focus to Australia.
Here are some of the most awaited business events in the Land Down Under:
B2B Expo (Melbourne)
The B2B Expo 2024, in conjunction with Commbank SmallBiz Week Expo, is scheduled for May 29 & 30, 2024, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This collaborative event combines the strengths of B2B Expo and the established Commbank SmallBiz Week, now in its third year.
Boasting a diverse range of industries, this must-attend expo facilitates connections between B2B suppliers and small business owners, offering a unique platform for buying and selling. All B2B Expo tickets will seamlessly transfer to the Commbank SmallBiz Week Expo, promising a larger and more comprehensive B2B experience.
Attendees, particularly small to medium-sized businesses (1-200 employees), can capitalize on this opportunity to engage with passionate business owners, enhance brand awareness, market their businesses, generate leads, make sales, discover new vendors, expand networks, and gain valuable insights from industry leaders.
B2B Marketing Leaders Forum APAC 2024
B2B Marketing Leaders Forum APAC 2024 (Sydney) is set to be the premier event in APAC’s B2B marketing landscape, scheduled for May 8-9, 2024, in Sydney, Australia. Now in its ninth year, this forum represents the largest gathering of B2B CMOs and marketing leaders in the region.
The venue, Doltone House Jones Bay Wharf, will host over 600 B2B CMOs and marketing leaders, engaging in insightful discussions covering pivotal topics such as pipeline management, revenue strategies, growth initiatives, brand development, leadership insights, and personal career advancement.
The forum places a strong emphasis on our roles as business leaders driving revenue and growth, to secure a robust presence at the leadership table and ensure personal relevance in the dynamic landscape of modern marketing. This is an opportunity to gain valuable insights, network with industry leaders, and actively contribute to the ongoing discourse that is shaping the future of B2B marketing.
B2B Marketing Leaders Forum Melbourne 2024
The 5th annual B2B Marketing Leaders Forum Melbourne, Melbourne’s largest B2B marketing conference, is set to take place in person on November 24, 2024. Over 300 B2B marketing leaders will convene to explore their pivotal roles as business leaders, steering revenue and growth with a strong presence at the leadership table. The event aims to ensure personal relevance in the realm of modern marketing.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from industry luminaries, including two former CMOs now CEOs, a CFO, and over 40 CMOs and B2B marketing leaders. These seasoned professionals will share insights on driving revenue, fostering growth, accelerating pipeline development, and building brand prominence. Additionally, attendees will receive valuable advice on leadership strategies and personal career advancement.
iMedia B2B eCommerce Summit Australia 2024
The iMedia B2B eCommerce Summit Australia 2024 is an exclusive, invitation-only event tailored for B2B brand manufacturers, eCommerce professionals, and wholesale distributors.
Taking place from October 8 to 30, 2024, at the Sheraton Grand Mirage, Gold Coast, this 2.5-day summit gathers over 200 key B2B merchants for face-to-face business meetings, roundtable discussions, and presentations by 95 merchants and 95 technology & solution providers.
The event, promising a unique blend of business and leisure, is set against the luxurious backdrop of the 5-star Sheraton Grand Mirage. Industry leaders endorse and deliver the summit in partnership with the B2B eCommerce Association, allowing interested individuals to subscribe for invitations and updates.
Past attendees commend the conference for organizing seamlessly, featuring engaging speakers, providing relevant content, and offering valuable networking opportunities.
Of course, no Australian business trip would be truly fulfilling without a touch of enjoyment and adventure. Explore these destinations to achieve the perfect work-play balance, and everything in between.
National Gallery of Victoria
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in Melbourne is one of the most outstanding destinations for business travelers seeking a compelling bleisure experience in Melbourne.
Founded in 1861 and is renowned as Australia’s oldest public art museum, it has two locations, NGV International and The Ian Potter Centre. The gallery boasts a world-class collection of over 70,000 works, encompassing international and Australian art, including pieces from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities.
The NGV’s diverse collection spans centuries and global cultures, showcasing significant art movements. Many artworks are generously donated by the community, creating a shared cultural heritage. Beyond static exhibits, the NGV offers a dynamic arts experience with temporary exhibitions, talks, tours, kids’ programs, films, late-night openings, and performances, catering to various interests.Evident in its appeal, the NGV drew over 1.5 million visitors in 2010. With its accessibility, varied programs, and cultural richness, it stands out as an excellent choice for travelers with an appreciation for the arts.
Sydney Harbor Bridge
A landmark of Australia’s largest city, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is recognized as the world’s largest steel arch bridge. It is referred to as the Coathanger by the locals and seamlessly integrates into Sydney’s urban landscape. The bridge offers a climbing experience accessible by foot or bike and provides extensive panoramic views.
During the climb, notable landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, CBD with skyscrapers, and bustling urban life along the harbor are visible. The ascent also covers the Royal Botanic Garden, offering a unique viewpoint for observing wildlife at Taronga Zoo.
Perspectives of Manly Beach, the Pacific Ocean, various harbor islands, and the residential North Shore are unfolded. A timed climb at night reveals the city’s illuminated skyline, contributing to a diverse visual experience. Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an activity suitable for both business and leisure interests.
Indulge in art, wine, and farm-to-fork experience at Leeuwin Estate Winery
Good food, fine wine, classic artworks, and a scenic view of Margaret River? That sounds like a truly Aussie way to cap up a business traveler’s bustling day!
Begin with a detailed exploration of Leeuwin Estate, a family-owned winery renowned for its fine wine, culinary excellence, and commitment to the arts. The experience commences with a glass of sparkling Brut, complemented by an introduction to the winemaking philosophy.
A visit to the Leeuwin Art Gallery to explore contemporary Australian artworks featured on the winery’s iconic ‘Art Series’ labels follows next. Take your time to learn about the Leeuwin Concert Series, known for alfresco performances by top musicians.
Following the gallery visit, you’ll enjoy a tutored tasting of five Leeuwin Estate wines paired with West Australian delicacies. The experience concludes with a three-course seasonal lunch at the award-winning Leeuwin Restaurant, each dish thoughtfully accompanied by perfectly matched Art Series wines.
Grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee at Brother Baba Budan
Attending business conferences can be exhausting, and nothing can boost your spirits up like a cup of good coffee after a long day.
Brother Baba Budan, a trailblazer in Melbourne’s coffee culture, is celebrated for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. With on-site bean roasting, it captures the bold flavors that define Melbourne’s coffee scene. The menu goes beyond coffee, offering a variety of sandwiches, cakes, and pastries.
Explore the retail shelves stocked with coffee essentials like Cold Filter Casks, Drip Coffee Bags, and brewing accessories. For bleisure travelers, Brother Baba Budan enhances your trip by immersing you in Melbourne’s coffee culture. It offers exceptional brews and a welcoming ambiance that goes beyond the typical cafe experience.
Immerse in local culture and creativity at Salamanca Market
You’ve absorbed industry insights and network with power players, and your conference badge is practically overflowing with knowledge. But let’s face it, corporate buzz can only take you so far. Drop by Salamanca Market, Hobart’s for a fresh whiff of local ingenuity.
Every Saturday, rain or shine, over 300 stallholders transform this waterfront port into a bustling market showcasing handmade treasures, fresh produce, and unique gifts. Wander cobbled lanes, savor fragrant coffee, and mingle with friendly locals.
Salamanca Market isn’t just shopping; it’s an experience. Immerse your senses, ignite your imagination, and find a piece of Tasmania to take home – or relish the taste of the island’s vibrant charm.
Wrapping things up…
The APAC region, notably Australia and Singapore, is witnessing a resurgence of in-person B2B events due to strong business ecosystems and the flourishing “bleisure” trend. Both locations boast advanced venues and a vibrant atmosphere, creating an ideal backdrop for corporate connections, networking, and expansion opportunities.
While these destinations inherently attract business and leisure travelers, partnering with a lead generation services provider with event marketing expertise, such as Callbox Singapore, can significantly enhance the success of your B2B events.
Established in 2004, Callbox is a trusted event marketing services provider in APAC. Our regional expertise provides valuable insights into market dynamics, customer preferences, and cultural nuances, enabling effective targeted event marketing strategies.
We offer comprehensive support, from pre-event marketing to post-event follow-up, ensuring optimal outcomes for attendees and contributing to overall B2B success in the region. Our expertise in event marketing, powered by a multi-touch multi-channel strategy, guarantees remarkable results through targeted campaigns, high attendance, and attendee conversion.
Beyond event marketing, Callbox provides powerful solutions for telemarketing, appointment setting, lead generation, and database services. Our flexible pricing options cater to your specific business requirements.
Are you ready to boost attendee turnout and conversions for your events? Partner with us now!
