CEIR GLOBAL VIRTUAL EVENT TRENDS SERIES Case Study: 1st Arabia Tradeshows & Conferences 3 Exhibitors Exhibitors aimed to promote to, and have, one-on-one meetings on the virtual platform with buyers in the MENA region. A total of 130 companies from China and Saudi Arabia exhibited at this event. Sectors represented were extensive: agriculture, construction, accessories, furniture, medical, health, beauty, electronics and food. The virtual event platform included private rooms for one-on-one video meetings between buyers and exhibitors. Exhibitors had virtual exhibit booths as well to feature and promote their products. Exhibitor satisfaction was good. Participation of governmental bodies in the opening ceremony helped draw attendance. It gave an added value with speakers from the ministries. It provided more exposure for the show, which drew more people to attend, and provided prospective buyers for exhibitors. Attendance prompted searches for showcased products. Metrics Used The platform provided exhibitors access to a wide range of data to monitor and evaluate the activity in their booths, including how many attendees visited and the number of meetings that happened. It also enabled them to download contact info on those who visited their booths. Areas of Challenge The biggest challenge relating to virtual exhibit booths was convincing exhibitors to exhibit in this platform. Prospects did not believe they would have the same value as exhibiting at a physical event to meet potential buyers. The opportunity to sell products was available on the platform however, customization of the platform was required to make it easier for customers to buy product. The participation level was not satisfactory. This event addresses many industries, and having 130 companies participate was not enough to provide the needed depth of offerings. Many industries were covered by this ? ? ? ? ? ? ?