Visit Manchester has teamed up with Manchester United football club to showcase the city to conference organisers from around the world at IMEX America – a new global conference industry exhibition.

The event takes place at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Las Vegas on 11 – 13 October 2011. Visit Manchester’s presence will be seen at the Visit England stand on booth B809. The show will run the largest hosted buyer program ever held in North America with over 2,000 qualified buyers expected to attend.

Paul Simpson, managing director of Visit Manchester, said; “This is a great example of two businesses in Greater Manchester working in partnership to showcase the city. IMEX America offers unprecedented business opportunities and we’re looking to impress top industry planners from the US and around the world.

“Manchester is a leading conference destination offering excellent value for money, and our multiple venues ensure that we retain an extremely competitive edge. With an international airport on our doorstep, offering 65 direct flights a week to the US we’re well placed for business from the United States.”

Manchester will be hosting an event on Wednesday 12 October at 4.30pm giving visitors to the stand the chance to win a signed Manchester United shirt. Entertainment will be provided by a world class soccer freestyler.

Attendees will also be encouraged to register for the opportunity to discover Manchester with a fully hosted trip to the city. Details will be available on the Visit England pavilion.