Singapore enhances incentives programme; gears up for strong recovery

The recovery of Singapore’s business events industry is picking up pace, and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is riding the momentum by launching an enhanced incentive programme for international groups.

Under the In Singapore Incentives & Rewards (INSPIRE Global 2.0) programme by STB, qualified corporate groups can look forward to new experiences from dining and attractions to thematic tours and team building. They can choose from a selection of close to 80 complementary experiences that delegates can enjoy in Singapore – an increase from 54 experiences that were introduced under INSPIRE Global 1.0.

The positive outlook for business events follows the recent relaxation of COVID-19 measures in Singapore (pictured)

New INSPIRE Global 2.0 partners include Sentosa’s perfumery attraction, Scentopia; 1-Group, a lifestyle group offering a range of dining experiences; and Urban Yogis, a yoga wellness centre providing wellness teambuilding experiences. A new retail category has also been added, and experiences include exclusive shopping sprees at Design Orchard2, as well meet-and-greet sessions with designers.

A strong pipeline of events for the rest of 2022 and beyond has also been confirmed, and these include inter airport South East Asia (IASEA) 2023; Rotary International Convention 2024; FIND – Design Fair Asia in 2023 and 2024; Worldchefs Congress and Expo 2024; and 110th Lions Clubs International Convention 2028.

As such, a full recovery for the business events industry is expected in about three years.

In another positive sign, PEOs are also expanding their teams in Singapore, as they deepen their presence in the region and anchor new events in the city-state. For example, MMI Asia and dmg events Asia increased their staff strength to handle the anticipated growth in new events across physical, digital and hybrid formats.