Carlson Marketing corporate clients represent some of the world's biggest Fortune 1000 companies,chiefly in the financial services, travel, telecom, retail, consumer goods and automotive sectors. Those who attend IMEX America will be high level corporate meetings and events buyers with significant US as well as international spending power.

"We know the proven success of IMEX in Frankfurt and look forward to an energizing and productive North American show in 2011. We are excited to be involved in the first IMEX America. We know that travel engages and motivates, which makes this show an excellent fit for us and our clients," said Fay Beauchine, president, Engagement & Events, Carlson Marketing.

Ray Bloom, IMEX Group Chairman, explained: "Our agreement with Carlson Marketing sends another strong signal to the worldwide meetings, events and incentive travel industry that we are serious about making sure that IMEX America delivers high level business opportunities for all its exhibitors. Carlson Marketing's client base of Fortune 1000 companies, plus the company's unquestioned authority in the market is yet another stamp of approval for the show and demonstrates our ambition to make a big impact from day one."

The involvement of Carlson Marketing complements several alliances already announced. These include many of the major hotels groups including Intercontinental, Marriott and Starwood along with travel, meeting and incentive companies such as Conference Direct, Experient, HelmsBriscoe, Global Cynergies, HPN, Maritz Travel and Northstar Meetings Group.