Tips & Insights
Welcoming the World with Warmth
International Buyers Center is an invaluable resource for guests from around the globe
“Our mission is to welcome international visitors as valued guests, create a space for them to relax and recharge, minimize their stress, and make them as comfortable as possible,” said Lee Allen. “The International Buyers Center (IBC) becomes their home away from home. We help them achieve their business goals, which often involves opening new markets for our industry.”
Allen, Manager of the IBC and MediaLink, located in the High Point Theatre, has been helping Market visitors since 1998, when his company, Travel Quest, Inc., opened a travel desk in IHFC. In 2006, he contracted to open and manage the first IBC, which served about 25 people per day. Exponential growth required a move. Today’s IBC serves up to 1000 visitors daily, including the onsite registration required for all international buyers. “Our goal is to anticipate our guests’ needs, so they can concentrate on buying. We’re also responsible for vetting all international visitors to maintain the integrity of the Market,” he said.