This year, I’ve aimed to share IMEX Frankfurt with you from multiple angles, from behind-the-scenes insights and micro-events to networking moments, destination promotion, and the incredible people who truly bring this show to life. I encourage you to take a look; each one highlights a different piece of this unique puzzle. Do you agree that #IMEXperience is more than just a hashtag?
Representing Poland at IMEX Frankfurt – More Than Just a Stand
For me, IMEX Frankfurt is first and foremost about supporting the national stand organised with great dedication by the Polish Tourism Organisation. Our goal is to create a welcoming and professional space where exhibitors feel at ease – a place where meaningful conversations happen, productive meetings take place, and the Polish meetings and events industry is proudly represented.
Joining us on the stand are convention bureaux, congress venues, DMCs, ITCs, PCOs, hotel chains, and LOT Polish Airlines – all united in showcasing the strength and diversity of Poland’s MICE offering.
Put People First
I must also highlight our ongoing cooperation with the OMD Expo team. Their professionalism, seamless communication, and on-site support are second to none. Thanks to their expertise, the stand not only looks fantastic but runs like clockwork. A huge thank you to the team – and to Marta in particular!
I always look forward to “Day 0” – that special moment when we arrive from the airport at Messe Frankfurt and finally see our months of planning brought to life.
Atmosphere is everything. Karolina and Inga are instrumental in helping us build an environment that feels energetic, warm, and hospitable – almost like family. Photographer Michał captures these moments beautifully. Judging by the smiles of returning visitors and the buzz around our coffee corner, we think we’re getting it right.
For all senses
Speaking of coffee, it’s become our signature. Aromatic, unique, and offered in several varieties – even one with salt from Wieliczka! Alongside it, we served matcha, tonic espresso, a range of teas and other beverages, creating a relaxed setting for networking and new connections.
For many IMEX attendees, a visit to our stand for a Polish coffee has become a cherished tradition. I can’t imagine the show without Robert, Ola, and Radek from Może Kawy.
This year, our stand featured apples as a visual nod to Poland’s presidency of the EU Council. We also hosted our first Polish Delight Tasting, where guests sampled craft cider from the Mazovian family-run brand Dwaj Bracia (@cydr_dwaj_bracia).
Another exciting first was the introduction of mini physiotherapy treatments, courtesy of a specialist from the Wieliczka Salt Mine – a unique and very Polish touch.
Finally, I’m proud that we were able to promote the upcoming ICCA Central European Chapter Meeting 2025, which will be held in Poznań, and to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Mazurkas Travel with our industry friends and partners.
Find out more here: Poland’s Showcase at IMEX Frankfurt in 2025.
Music with Meaning: Vistula University Choir Takes IMEX Frankfurt by Storm
When Aneta first suggested the idea of a live choir performance at IMEX Frankfurt last year, we had a feeling it could be something special. Following our incredible collaboration with Brian Allan and Basia Giewont, expectations were already high, and what happened this year exceeded them.
This time, the Vistula University Choir – a vibrant group of young artists from Poland – took to the stage as part of IMEX’s Musical Mornings at Messe Frankfurt. With two heartfelt performances, the ensemble brought a fresh and emotional energy to the show floor that was impossible to ignore.
Under the direction of Agnieszka Zińczuk – a conductor, director, and choreographer in one – the choir captivated audiences from the very first note. Their repertoire blended international pop and musical theatre hits with beloved Polish songs. From Lady Gaga’s Shallow to Shadowland from The Lion King, Mrozu’s Nic do stracenia, Ariana Grande’s The Boy Is Mine, and Beyoncé’s Party – each performance was technically strong, emotionally charged, and utterly engaging.
Of course, the set wouldn’t have been complete without Let’s Talk Business – the signature anthem composed by Brian Allan, performed in the choir’s uplifting gospel-inspired arrangement.
The reaction from IMEX attendees was truly remarkable. Delegates stopped in their tracks, filmed the show, asked about the performers, and many came back, hoping to see them again. Some even joined in, dancing and singing along.
Partners from across the globe approached us after the concerts, offering genuine congratulations. Many commented that these were the moments that give trade shows soul – real, heartfelt experiences that break through the noise and bring people together.
It was one of those rare moments when you feel how powerful and human destination promotion can be – less formal, more emotional, and driven by culture, passion, and energy. Music, youth, and authenticity – that’s a language the world understands.
For me, it was an unforgettable experience – the kind that reminds us why we do what we do. I wish the talented students and artists of Vistula University many more opportunities to shine. You made Poland proud.
My First IMEX Run – A Different Kind of Networking
This year marked my first-ever IMEX Run – and what an experience it was. At 6:30 in the morning, by the banks of the River Main, a lively crowd began to gather. Still shaking off the early start, but already buzzing with energy.
I’m especially glad I managed to convince Robert Szulc (Świat na raty – @WorldInStages) to join – we set off from the hotel together at 6 am, walking through the quiet, awakening streets of Frankfurt.
At the start line, surrounded by runners in bright pink IMEX Run shirts with the motivating “Let’s Go!” printed across their backs, we soon spotted Piotr Cieślak, along with other familiar faces from the industry, including Shawn (Yih-Hsiang) Cheng. Just like that, it felt like home.
The route stretched just over 4.7 km, taking us along the scenic riverbanks on both sides of the Main. Starting and finishing near the Holbeinsteg footbridge, we passed through the charming neighbourhoods of Sachsenhausen and Altstadt. The morning sun shimmered on the water, and the cheerful hum of a truly international crowd added an uplifting spirit to the run.
No, I didn’t make the podium – let’s be honest, I was definitely “closer to the back than the front” – but that wasn’t the point. It was about the shared experience, the conversations, the laughter… and occasionally, yes, the walking breaks. And of course, snapping a few photos along the way.
It’s a completely different vibe from the exhibition halls and meeting rooms – and perhaps that’s exactly why it’s so valuable. The IMEX Run in Frankfurt offers a refreshing pause and a real sense of being part of something bigger: an active, open, and welcoming global community.
I’ll be back next year. And you – will you join us next time? Let me know in the comments!
A Night to Remember – IMEX Gala Dinner at Alte Oper Frankfurt
In the world of trade shows and industry events, some moments go far beyond the usual stand-side conversations. For me, one such moment was the IMEX Gala Dinner held in the stunning Alte Oper Frankfurt – an extraordinary evening that brings people from all over the world together in a truly elegant setting.
That night, the Polish spirit shone especially bright. We witnessed a historic moment: for the first time, the prestigious Paul Flackett IMEX Academy Award was presented to a representative from Central Europe, and that person was none other than Aneta Książek, head of the Poland Convention Bureau.
It’s difficult to put into words the pride and joy we felt, both as the Polish Tourism Organisation team and as part of Poland’s wider MICE community. As was rightly highlighted during the award presentation, Aneta has spent years shaping the image of Poland as a modern, open, and highly professional destination for meetings, congresses, and incentive travel. Aneta herself emphasised that this award is not only a personal recognition but also a tribute to the collective effort and shared passion that drives our industry forward.
Our congratulations also go to Viktoriia Yushkaliuk from Vistula University in Warsaw and 2B Turystyka Biznesowa, who received the MPI Foundation Student Scholarship Award. It’s incredibly encouraging to see young professionals recognised on such a global stage – it gives real hope for the future. Kudos also to the MPI Poland Chapter for fostering this kind of growth and visibility.
As for the IMEX Gala Dinner itself, it was the epitome of elegance and inspiration. Warm conversations, heartfelt encounters, shared smiles and emotional moments – all within the iconic setting of the Alte Oper. A space that impresses with its beauty, but even more so with the energy and passion of the people it brings together.
It was an evening filled with emotion, pride, and motivation. I return from Frankfurt with my head full of reflections, and with a renewed conviction that Poland truly offers more than you might think.
IMEX – Inspiration and Micro-Moments That Matter
IMEX is always an intense time – not just packed with pre-scheduled meetings at the stand, but filled with spontaneous moments too. You bump into someone you haven’t seen in years – in a corridor, between pavilions – and even if it’s just a few minutes (everyone’s rushing somewhere), it’s often enough to reconnect, exchange a smile, meet someone new, and say, “let’s catch up later.” Those brief exchanges can be unexpectedly inspiring.
Monday, as always, belonged to ICCAWorld – a full day of discussions, meetings, and shared planning. I had the chance to join the ICCA Central European Chapter session, where we promoted the upcoming event taking place in Poznań at the Poznań Event Hub.
The evening? A classic – the Association’s Social networking event at the Frankfurt Marriott Hotel.
IMEX is also about micro-communities that meet in their rhythms and rituals, like the creators and innovators who gather at the regular meetups curated by Irina von Graf and Sina Bunte. Their energy helps build a valuable space for meaningful exchange.
This year, I also managed to carve out a moment for myself and take part in the “Unlocking Creativity: Leica’s smartphone photography workshop.” In IMEX’s education zone, I got to look at the world, just for a while, through the lens of a smartphone. A refreshing change of pace.
On Tuesday, I dropped into CIM-Clubbing, hosted by the editorial team at CIM Magazine – Conference & Incentive Management. Yet another place where our industry connects in less conventional, more relaxed ways – and once again, what begins as an informal conversation can easily evolve into real collaboration.
As always, I paid a visit to the IMEX Press Office – this year for ICCA’s press conference announcing the latest global rankings. It’s a moment the entire meetings industry watches closely.
And finally – the last day, those final hours – when there’s time to explore other stands. This year, two truly stood out for me: Peru and New Zealand. The creativity, the storytelling, the atmosphere – sometimes it’s just one thoughtfully designed detail that stays with you long after the event ends.
A special thank you to Mariusz and SmartPhotoLab.pl for helping preserve these memories as magnetic keepsakes. You were fantastic neighbours to the Polish Tourism Organisation – Poland Convention Bureau stand.
IMEX means full days, a flood of ideas, a diverse mix of people, and a wealth of emotions. And that’s exactly why I love this show.
Behind the Scenes at IMEX – It’s the People Who Make the Difference
IMEX is one of those industry events that naturally draws attention. But it’s only when you’re on the ground that you truly understand what makes it so exceptional. Of course, the programme, the exhibitors, the delegates, the networking – it’s all expertly curated. But the real strength of IMEX lies in the people who make it happen.
The IMEX team has remained remarkably consistent over the years. From the Brighton-based office to the crew running the shows in Frankfurt and Las Vegas, they don’t just deliver a world-class MICE platform; they create a genuine community.
There’s something truly special about them, a unique blend of British professionalism and wit, infused with American openness and optimism. From Carina Bauer, through the sales and marketing departments, to operations, everyone brings something distinct to the table.
I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Liz Brand and Georgina Sell for always taking such great care of us and the Polish national stand. This year, Liz even had a special mission!
To Suzanne Medcalf Mulligan, Sophie Pink, and the entire digital team, thank you for making us laugh while challenging us to look at innovation with fresh eyes. New formats, new ideas, and a new energy, all delivered with charm and creativity.
This year was particularly special, as we had the opportunity to host members of the IMEX team here in Poland.
Suzanne and Sophie joined Eventprofs Creators Lab (Laboratorium Twórców) initiative, delivering an inspiring workshop for the Polish MICE industry. Later, together with Will, they explored Warsaw, filmed, took photos, and of course, shared many moments over coffee. These were energising, authentic encounters.
A little later, Carina Bauer visited Warsaw as part of the IMEX MPI Future Leaders Forum. The conversations that took place, with students, young professionals, and seasoned industry representatives, once again highlighted that IMEX is far more than just a trade show. It’s a movement grounded in values, curiosity, and community-building.
So it came as no surprise when the IMEX Group was ranked in the Top 10 of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025 (mid-sized company category).
Because IMEX isn’t just about flawlessly executed exhibitions. It’s about trust, authenticity, community, and above all, the people who make all the difference.
Meet the Team Behind the Mission
When you head to IMEX, you go with a clear mission: meetings, promotion, relationship-building, and collaboration. It all happens fast, often intensely, and occasionally with a dash of chaos. But one thing is certain – none of it would matter without the people you do it with.
As this year’s IMEX adventure wraps up, it feels important to share a few words about us – the team behind Poland’s presence at the show. We’re small, but tight-knit. Each of us brings different experiences, perspectives, and personality, but we share a common goal, and above all, trust in one another.
It’s Aneta, Magda, and me – Jaro. Together, we are the Poland Convention Bureau – Polish Tourism Organisation.
Aneta is the visionary with a pragmatic streak (those who know her will know the hashtag: #konkretyAnety). Strategy and instinct are in perfect balance, always two steps ahead, bringing both calm and drive to every situation.
Magda is the logistics mastermind. While the rest of us are still weighing options, she’s already juggling three tasks and putting the finishing touches on the plan.
As for me, well, someone has to hold the phone, follow the trends, talk to media and influencers, and keep asking: “Can we do this differently?”
So thank you, Aneta. Thank you, Magda. For the trust, the precision, the laughter, and for walking in the same direction, each of us in our way.
People in the industry sometimes say, “You three make a great team.” And maybe there’s something to that. Our IMEX photos probably capture it best – that balance between professionalism and just the right amount of creative madness. That’s exactly how we want to represent Poland: with energy, originality, and zero pretence.
Together with our partners and exhibitors, we don’t just build a stand – we create a space, an atmosphere, and lasting positive associations with Poland. And that only works when there’s real energy and trust within the team. Poland – More than you expect.
And to everyone who joined us at IMEX – our partners, our exhibitors, and our visitors – thank you. See you soon: in Poland, at the next events, and of course… at the next IMEX.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through IMEX!
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