In our studio on the show floor of this year's IMEX Frankfurt, two longtime collaborators and friends sat down to reflect on the industry's evolution and share fond memories. The conversation between
Ray Bloom, chairman and founder of the IMEX Group, and Diane DiMaggio, global business development director for Northstar Meetings Group, was a look back at industry milestones as well as a heartfelt tribute to DiMaggio's retirement after more than
40 years in the business events space.
The conversation covers a sweeping history of the trade show industry — from the early days of EIBTM, which Bloom founded and where he and DiMaggio first crossed paths, to the global influence and enduring
innovation of IMEX. Bloom reflected on DiMaggio's steadfast support and her role in bringing U.S. planners to Europe year after year, while Diane shared behind-the-scenes insights into how Northstar and its Successful Meetings brand championed the
growth of global hosted-buyer business events.
Among the highlights from the interview:
- DiMaggio recalls attending the very first EIBTM and the industry changes she's witnessed since [4:08]
- Bloom reflects on the evolution of IMEX and how DiMaggio's support helped shape its U.S. presence [8:26]
- Bloom offers a moving tribute to DiMaggio's career and her contributions to the global events community [16:17]
- DiMaggio shares what she'll miss most — and what's next for her [16:49]
As DiMaggio steps away from four decades of influence in the events industry, this interview serves as both a thank you and a celebration — a reminder of the people behind the partnerships that keep this industry thriving.
Watch the full video
interview above.
