The 2017 conference & exhibition in South Africa Rule Book

When it comes to your marketing, there is no doubt that exhibitions provide the best value for money. Conferences with exhibitions alongside, offer clients an experience; Exhibitor’s can showcase a new product or service and network with hundreds of prospective clients in a single day.

​However, exhibiting at an event can be daunting. South African company Exhibition Freighting G.S.M are an Exhibition Logistics company who move goods to and from exhibitions, conferences, events and private demonstrations, taking care of all customs formalities and ensuring that all goods arrive on time for the event. Here, Exhibition Freighting G.S.M explains how to have a successful event in 2017, and why Cape Town, South Africa is the top conference destination for 2017, and how to exhibit there.

How to ensure your participation at a conference in 2017 is a success

​Exhibit at the right conference/exhibition for you – There are a variety of exhibitions and conferences which are taking place all over South Africa in 2017, and it is vital to ensure you are showing at the one which is right for your business. The various Industry Sector Associations in S.A are the best people to contact, to ensure that you attend the best exhibition or conference for your industry.  This information can be found on the EXSA website.

​Research your audience – Understanding your target audience is vital for any company planning to participate at a conference/exhibition in South Africa. As well as the country and culture, businesses need to be aware of companies in South Africa who are interested in the products they are selling. This information is available at the Commercial Attaché in the Foreign Embassy’s in South Africa. Companies should make contact with the Chamber of Commerce, as they will have information on which specific companies relate to each industry. 

Why Cape Town is the next top conference spot 

Cape Town and the Western Cape in South Africa is an intellectual magnet, with four world-class universities and other research institutions in fields as diverse as astronomy, science, medicine and social politics. However, there are also many other reasons why Cape Town is the perfect spot for your next conference:

Accessibility - Cape Town International Airport is served by more than 20 international airlines on a weekly basis, linking the destination to global hubs like Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Dubai, Singapore and London (and a wide variety of other connections via Johannesburg). The city is an overnight flight from any European destination, and the airport is situated just 20 minutes from the city centre.

Value – Cape Town is recognised internationally as one of the most affordable business, tourism and incentive travel destinations in the world. Whether you are attending or exhibiting at a conference / exhibition, you will get much more for your money in this city compared to its European or American counterparts.

Global Appeal - Cape Town has consistently been voted as one of the world’s favourite tourist destinations, with a reputation as a modern and convenient city. There are a variety of wine areas within a short driving distance from the Cape Town city centre, as well as many restaurants service traditional or contemporary Cape cuisine. Cape Town and the Western cape is a cosmopolitan destination where cultural diversity is welcomed, and a wealth of artistic and musical talent, opera, ballet, drama and comedy are always on offer.

Business tourism infrastructure – There are a host of world-class, multi-purpose venues when it comes to conferences & exhibitions, to choose from in Cape Town. This includes the Cape Town International Convention centre (CTICC), which is an impressive, architecturally striking, city landmark. The venue is conveniently located in the city centre, and has an excellent support system for hosting any event of any size.
​
Range of activities – Cape Town has a huge variety of external tours and activities to suit all tastes. Tours range from visits to the Cape Winelands, Cape Point and Table Mountain. For something more leisurely, enjoy shopping at one of the local markets, or world-class shopping areas. However, the province is also a paradise for sports and adrenalin fanatics and offers world famous golf courses, hiking, fishing and mountain biking, in and around the Peninsula.

How to manage the logistics when attending a Conference in South Africa

The logistics around organising to attend and exhibiting at a conference in South Africa can be tricky, so it is beneficial to hire experts to ensure everything goes smoothly. Exhibition Freighting G.S.M, understand all South African regulations such as:

Importing - South Africa has strict rules when it comes to importing products into the country, and this includes products being sent to an exhibition. An Exhibition Freight Forwarder like Exhibition Freighting G.S.M will understand how to deliver goods in order to comply with custom regulations.

Limiting your liability – An Exhibition Freight forwarder will have the knowledge and expertise to assist both the conference organiser and conference exhibitor. There will be strict timelines including the time to wrap and pack goods, air freight travel and compliance with import regulations which need to be adhered to. Having an expert in your corner like Exhibition Freighting G.S.M means you will never fall behind, and ensures everything will be ready in time.
​
Customs regulations – South African custom regulations are in line with the rest of the world, especially when it comes to food products. Importing food is difficult, with many strict rules and regulations, even for an exhibition. South Africa follows the guidance set by the World Health Organisation, so it can be beneficial to check their website in regards to rules around meat, poultry and dairy. All food items must have a health certificate as Port Health will inspect the products.