As appointment bookings open up for hosted buyers at 2018's Business Travel Show, BTiQ spoke to one buyer about how she plans to get the most out of the exhibition and conference. Marjaana Helkkula is travel manager at Deltamarin and will be a hosted buyer for the sixth time.
What do you like most about the hosted buyer programme?
What I like the most is the possibility to meet with everyone under one roof; I work 'alone' in this job so in this environment I can find others who have the same issues. I can meet others buyers from Finland and Europe; some in the same industry. There is a good mix of old and new suppliers too.
Does travel and accommodation make it easier to get sign off to attend?
Yes absolutely. My company values education but we're in a completely different industry to travel so most of the education is focused on engineering etc. So this way I can get the education I need and the cost is so small I can get acceptance easily.
How else does being a hosted buyer make the show easier for you?
The diary is great. It is the chance to plan the show in advance and book with the suppliers and conference sessions that you want. It's very convenient.
Do you attend the masterclasses?
The masterclasses have been a step ahead of what will happen in the industry. There have been discussions on topics such as duty of care and payment options which are important but hard to learn in the office. As they are quite advanced topics to discuss there is a lot of interaction and people can ask questions so it makes me think in a new way.
What is your top tip for travel buyers attending Business Travel Show?
Plan in advance! As soon as the diary is open I book appointments and masterclasses. Make sure you leave time for lunch and coffee breaks and consider the top suppliers you want to see. Allow some time to just walk around as you'll meet new people and get new ideas even that way.