IBTM America 2015

Hugo Denizart

RIO, R

from January to January

io de Janeiro… so many possibilities, places, smells, colours and flavours. How delightful this state is: so full of diversity and abundant attractions.

For those that have already visited this wonderful destination, you will know that it has absolutely everything to make you go crazy. Beaches, mountains, history, music, dance, cold, heat. Whether you visit for relaxation, to go on an adventure, staying close to the person you love, creating spectacular memories with your family, being among friends, whether you are young or old people, then Rio de Janeiro is a complete state.

Are you the type of person that enjoys a cold beer or a caipirinha, food from street vendors or dining in a fine restaurant, craft shops or sophisticated ones, hot spots or tranquil ones, coconut water or fondue?

Then, here in Rio, you will find all this and much more and it is not always necessary to choose between one or the other. Very often the cities in the state can offer both experiences, to suit everyone’s tastes.

Put on your backpack, check in and take a deep breath, because this edition will take you on a journey through the charms of Rio de Janeiro. Are you ready?

So, let’s have a good trip.

Hugo Denizart

Guanabara Bay

The wonderful City, filled with thousands of charms André Filho–the composer of the song ‘Wonderful City’ - says the city of Rio de Janeiro is “filled with thousands of charms” and is a “land that seduces all”. Proof of this is the Christ Redeemer, who from the top of the Corcovado Mountain, gives a warm welcome to its all its visitors. But the fame of the capital extends to the beautiful beaches that line the buildings. With sunshine or even in cloudy days, the beaches tend to always be full of people lying lazily in colorful sarongs on the hot sand. Among Hugo Denizart

Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon

the attractions is Copacabana, with its promenade whose mosaics resemble the motion of the waves. Across the street, craft and souvenir stalls appear every night attracting groups of tourists who fancy a nice walk and some uncommitted shopping.

Ipanema is the place to be seen for trendy people. That’s where fashion and trends are launched by people always in tune to the latest market news, including diets and the best exercises in order to get the “summer body”.

The LGBT public also have their own area at

Life Guard Station 8. You will see several flags in support of the gay movement.

An interesting and spectacular local tradition is watching the sunset on the beach and there’s no better place to do this than in Arpoador, from here you can admire the last rays that colour the sky and the sea, with the Dois Irmãos Mountain completing the backdrop. The beach was even voted as the second most beautiful in the country, according to the English newspaper, The Guardian.

Turisrio

Botanical Gardens Turisrio

Venturing into Lapa is a great for those looking for hustle, bustle and diversity. Besides having bars littering the main streets, the neighborhood has many nightclubs, playing different types of music, from rock to forró and MPB (Brazilian Popular Music) to country music. Close by is Santa Teresa,which also offer diverse opportunities that finish with a caipirinha in your hand.

But one of the great wonders of the city is to look at the old buildings and breathe the history of the metropolis. Founded on March 1st 1565, in Rio de Janeiro you can experience a time not so far away; in fact, 450 years ago. Since then a lot has happened, and the city actually used to be the capital of Brazil (from 1763 to 1960) and has since establish itself as the main tourist destination in the country. The most salient places are the Municipal Theater, the National Library, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Arc de Teles, the Tiradentes Palace, the Imperial Palace and the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil. If you’re hungry, then be sure to try one of the delights from the Colombo Confectionery, built in 1893. The house is a symbol of the belle époque of the city.

If you enjoy green, open-air areas, then you don’t have to go far to find them. Rio has several natural parks such as one in Tijuca, which has trails and climbing areas that take you into the largest urban forest in the world. The Botanical Garden, in turn, has a catalog of 6,500 species of trees and plants. For picnic lovers, the ideal place is Parque Lage. Admission is free and it also has some beautiful ruins and caves, as well as the School of Visual Arts, which often holds exhibitions on site.

But we would not be talking about Rio without mentioning the city’s icons. Among them is the main tourist attraction, the cable car of Sugar Loaf.

A trip to the top is almost mandatory, s i n c e it s g l a ss c ap su l e a l l ow s a panoramic 360-degree view of the city. In Morro da Urca, the first stop in the cable car, you can get an idea of the extent of Rio and its different areas that make the city so unique, a mixture of nature and urbanity that together coexist in perfect harmony.

Lapa arches

Turisrio

Municipal Theatre

MICE segment is booming Turisrio

Besides being one of the most sought after leisure destinations in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is also very well established in the MICE segment. According to the last survey by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Rio de Janeiro hosted 64 international events in 2014, after São Paulo (66 events) and ahead of Foz do Iguaçu and Brasília (16 events).

This result is the sum of an integrated infrastructure that aims to serve tourists visiting the Wonderful City, in the best possible way. In addition to a hotel industry that consists of about 34 thousand rooms and another 18 thousand under construction, the city also has an extensive airline network, with flights to the world from RioGaleão International Airport, the largest in Brazil and the second busiest in the country.

For events, Rio de Janeiro has Riocentro and at 571,000m², it is the largest events center in Latin America. The built up area is divided into five event rooms covering

Museum of Modern Art

100,000m². Other prominent venues are the Convention Center Sulamérica, Copacabana Fort, Maracanã Stadium, Pier Maua, Sugar Loaf, Marina da Gloria,

and several other centers and hotels that provide venues of different capacities and sizes for all types and of professional groups in various city locations.

The tourist region of the Green Coast (Costa Verde), one of the most beautiful and exotic locations in the state, is on the southern coast of Rio de Janeiro. Formed byAngra dos Reis, Ilha Grande, Mangaratiba, Paraty, Rio Claro and ItaguaĂ­, the region was a milestone during the colonization of the country, being one of the first colonized regions inBrazil. Its landscape has more than 2,000 beaches and a multitude of islands, whose waters have different shades of green, ranging from intense to translucent.

A refined destination on the Brazilian coast, Angra dos Reis is an almost mandatory paradise for lovers of natural beauty, as it is home to 365 islands, one for every day of the year. The city has a wide range of resorts and hotels, offering many tourist itineraries, including boating and nature trails among rivers and waterfalls, as well as extreme sport options such as rappelling, mountain biking and rafting.

Ilha Grande, known for one of the most beautiful coastal regions in the world and a prime example of this isLopes Mendes beach, which has appeared countless times on various lists of the most beautiful. Its success among tourists is dueto its wild vegetation of almond and apricots trees that surround the beach and its crystal clear waters. The island is accessible by boat, leaving from Angra dos Reis, JacareĂ­ and Mangaratiba.

Another place that you should visit is Paraty. Its historic center is remarkable for the neoclassical and baroque style houses and cobblestone streets that give a rustic feel to the city. The city has excellent hotels and restaurants with varied cuisine. One of the most sought after delicacies here is the cachaça.

TurisRio

Nature and culture on the Green Coast

Streets of Paraty Hugo Denizart

Lopes Mendes Beach, Ilha Grande

GETTING TO KNOW TH STATE OF RIO DE JANEIR Pedra Branca State Park

Manguinhos library-park Itatiaia National Park

Concórdia Range State Park

VALENÇA

STATE OF SÃO PAULO

ST

Bocaina Range National Park Angra Nuclear Plant

Shipyard

OF

Guanabara Bay Complexo do Alemão ITAGUAÍ

Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon

ILHA GRANDE PARATY

E

Manguinhos UPA

ANGRA DOS REIS

Ilha Grande Bay

AT

RIO DE JANEIRO

Martim de Sá Beach

Santa Marta Community NITERÓI

Tijuca National Park

Rocinha

Ipanema Beach

Tiririca Range State Park

Lopes Mendes Beach

Rocinha Sports Complex

Itacoatiara Beach/Elephant Rock

HE IRO

STATE OF ESPÍRITO SANTO

STATE OF MINAS GERAIS

KEY Beaches

Infrastructure

Bays and Lagoons

Parks

Social Constructions

Desengano State Park

SÃO JOÃO DA BARRA

Órgãos Range National Park

SANTA MARIA MADALENA

Três Picos State Park

CAMPOS

Feia Lagoon QUISSAMÃ Jurubatiba Lagoon

RIO

CARAPEBUS

CACHOEIRAS DE MACACU

DE J ANE

IRO

MACAÉ

A T L A N T I C O C E A N

ARMAÇÃO DE BÚZIOS

Brava Beach

Araruama Lagoon

Lagoons, white sandy beaches and dark blue sea make up the Sun Cost (Costa do Sol) region. Along this tourist route, hot weather and tranquility, but you will also find adventure and water sports. Among the major cities that make up the region - a total of 12 - are: Búzios, Cabo Frio, Arraial do Cabo and Rio das Ostras. Easily accessible from the state capital, the region is recognized for the excellent hotels, accompanied by restaurants with high-level gastronomy.

Full of trendy shops, funky bars, fine dining and international clubs, Búzios has one of the busiest nights in the state of Rio de Janeiro. During the day, visitors enjoy the intense sun, relaxing by the sea. By night, Hugo Denizart

Brava Beach, Sun Coast

Rua das Pedras (Cobbled Street) comes alive with hordes of people. The most popular beaches are Geribá, Ferradurinha, Armação, Ossos, Olhos de Boi and Caravelas.

Just 38km from Buzios, Arraial do Cabo also has its paradise spots. Unlike other beaches, the sea in Arraial stands out for having an intense blue. Among the most beautiful beaches here is the Ilha do Farol (Lighthouse Island), which also was considered the “most perfect beach in Brazil” by the National Institute for Space Research (INPE). A nearby town,Cabo Frio also attracts many tourists during the high season and offers unique attractions, like Forte Beach.

Sergio Quissak

Idyllic scenery on the Sun Coast

Azeda Beach, Búzios

Arquivo TurisRio

Historic farm in the Coffee Valley Region

An abundance of history in the Coffee Valley Region Formed by large farms with colonial and historic architecture, the Coffee Valley Region (Vale do Café) is a legacy left by the coffee industry, the main product of the Brazilian economy during the 18th and 19th centuries. In total, 15 cities shape the region, especially Valença, Vassouras and Miguel Pereira. In addition to visiting hundreds of farms, tourists can explore the buildings of the coffee barons and the slave quarters, preserved assets that tell the history and show a bit of the birth of the country’s culture.

During the month of July, the region hosts the Coffee Valley Festival, an event that features music concerts on farms, concerts in the public square and promotes music workshop with local children. Another event that is gaining more popularity is the “Café, Cachaça e Chorinho”. With gastronomic appeal, the program includes visits to historic farms to taste the colonial breakfast, with many cakes, bread, milk and fresh cheeses; most products are produced on site.

The region is an ideal retreat in rural tranquility or to go on eco-tours. In Miguel Pereira, cold waterfalls, little churches, cachaça and crafts are the main attractions

Colonial architecture in Vassouras

in the city. With an intact architecture, the past connected to the height of the Coffee Cycle, can be well observed in Valença.

In Vassouras, rural hotels and properties usually keep their traditional rituals, like the Casa de Hera Museum that offers

Imperial Tea. If you are seeking a relaxing day and not many adventures, you can go horse riding or fishing. Or even stretch out the trip to Conservatória and enjoy some serenades, songs that will fill the streets and open up the city.

Waterfalls and museums litter Serra Verde Imperial

Flavio Gueiros

Nature in Serra dos Órgãos National Park

Alexandre Peixoto

The Serra Verde Imperial is a region where the Portuguese royal court used to be. It has a pleasant mountainous climate, which has made it the main refuge for people from the state capital and other Brazilians seeking authentic cold European weather during the winter. This is when people can take advantage of elegant clothes for this season and warm up by the fireplace, while enjoying fine wine and a cheese fondue or, for the more romantic, a fruit and chocolate fondue. There are many different possibilities when out shopping in the region. Clothes and crafts fill up the bags of virtually all tourists visiting Serra Verde Imperial.

You should start your route here in Nova Friburgo and visit theRanz beer factory, Rock Valley and Barão Bier. Be sure to taste all of them. Each has its own unique style; they have become icons of the city. Then take the opportunity to browse around the lingerie and flowers shops.

Founded in 1843 by Emperor D. Pedro II, so that the imperial family could shelter from the intense heat of the capital, Petropolis offers a mix of historical heritage and ecotourism.

Among the main attractions are the Imperial

Quitandinha Palace, Petrópolis

Museum, São Pedro de Alcântara Cathedral, the Crystal Palace, the Quitandinha Palace and the House of Santos Dumont. Close by, Itaipava stands out for its sophisticated aura and fine gastronomy. Visits to local breweries are recommended: Bohemia, Itaipava and Cidade Imperial.

In Teresópolis, bucolic landscapes, Handicraft Market and charming restaurants stand out. Serra dos Órgãos National Park is a must see. Waterfalls, natural pools, trails

and picnic areas are some of the attractions offered. The Finger of God is a challenge for the more radical of tourists. To cross the Teresopolis-Petropolis National Park takes three days of walking along a trail, which consists of a waterfall, different vegetation and a unique setting. After a day of walking, enjoy the local cuisine with European influences and among the novelties you will find the Vila St. Gallen, a brewery complex that attracts many visitors to the city.

Fábio Guedes

Rock formations in the Region of Agulhas Negras

Bucolic and pleasant atmosphere in the Region of Agulhas Negras Márcio Fabian

Resende, Itatiaia, Quatis, Penedo, Visconde de Mauá and Porto Real make up the Region of Agulhas Negras (Black Needles), a lush combination of vegetation, waterfalls and paradisiacal sites with an important set of rock formations. The region takes its name from the Agulhas Negras Peak, located in the Itatiaia Park. At 2791 meters, it is the highest point in Rio de Janeiro. The park also offers several other attractions such as the Blue Lagoon, a natural lake formed by the river Campo Belo and the Bridal Veil waterfall, which stands at 40 meters.

In the region, two cities are responsible for the intense flow of tourists: Penedo and Visconde de Mauá. The first has a strong Finnish influence and this is reflected in its architecture and local culture. It is famous for its handmade chocolates, rustic atmosphere and Nordic chalets. In Visconde de Mauá, a former hippie village reflects a bucolic and welcoming setting for those who want to be isolated from the crazy and hectic life of the big cities. The variety of natural scenery inVisconde de Mauá

Panoramic View of Visconde Mauá

is an invitation for well-being.

To learn more of the history of Brazil you don’t need to go that far. Resende, located 36km from Visconde de Mauá, is associated with the mining and coffee in the 18th and

19th centuries. Besidesits important historical heritage, the city offers a precious architectural and cultural heritage that is listed by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN).

The 2016 Olympics are coming!

After the success of the FIFA World Cup, the eyes of the world turn once again to Brazil, especially to Rio de Janeiro.

The city will host the 2016 Olympics, between 5th and 21st August and is the first ever in South America. The Rio 2016 Committee is now entering the final stretch of preparations for the mega event.

According to Carlos Arthur Nuzman, president of the Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games for Rio 2016, the legacy for Rio and Brazil will be huge. “No host city will have had as many benefits as Rio”, said Nuzman.

It is the fruits of a collective creation process, the Olympic Games brand is inspired by the nature of Rio and Brazil - full of hairpin bends, mountains, rivers and lakes. The most beloved icons of the city, such as Sugar Loaf and Corcovado, are represented in the brand design. The concept was born from a simple idea: what makes Rio a unique city and makes the Olympic Games a grand event are the people. Therefore, it is an essentially a human brand, that invites people to live with passion and grace, to live and share, spreading kindness and warmth with joy and contagious energy.

Divulgação Rio 2016 / Alex Ferro

Rio will host the Olympic Games

Alexandre Macieira / RioTur

What’s new in this edition?

Besides being the first time that the Olympic and Paralympic Games will be held in Brazil, the event will bring some innovations for this 28th edition. Four new sports will be included: Rugby, Golf, Paracanoe and Paratriathlon, defined by the IOC and the International Paralympic Committee. A total of 16,000 athletes from 204 countries will attend the mega event. Just for the Olympics, 10,050 athletes from 204 countries will compete for 306 medals, including 136 women’s events, 161 male ones and 9 mixed. The competitions will be held in 33 locations spread across four regions of the city of Rio de Janeiro: Barra, Copacabana, Deodoro and Maracanã.

Tourism Company of Rio de Janeiro Website: http://www.turisrio.rj.gov.br| Address: 30, Acre Street, Center, Rio de Janeiro. RJ, Brasil 20081-000.

Phone: (+55-21) 2334-6153

Maracanã Stadium

Weltcoome

l i z a r B Index SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT Rio de Janeiro BRAZILIAN TOURISM 6 WTTC studies POLITCS 7 MTur 8 Embratur MICE 10 ABEOC 12 GBTA SPECIAL ICCA 14 Santiago González 16 ICCA 2014 statistics released 17 ICCA country & city rankings 2014 18 Number of Brazilian cities grows

in the ICCA ranking DESTINATIONS 20 São Paulo (SP) 22 Rio de Janeiro (RJ) 23 Brasília (DF) 24 Foz do Iguaçu (PR) 26 Salvador (BA) 27 Natal (RN) 28 Fortaleza (CE) 29 Florianópolis (SC) 30 Porto Alegre (RS) 31 Recife (PE) CONVENTIONS AND VISITORS BUREAUX 32 Rio CVB 33 São Paulo CVB SPECIAL INTERVIEW 34 GL Events Brazil EVENT VENUES 36 Event Venues in the main

state capitals of the country

Industry trends * Events are not restricted to the area of Medicine, the events of Technology, for example, must lead the ranking in the coming years * Super Competitiveness (new destinations and new market providers) * Bureaux 100% professionalized * Long-term strategic plans * Investment in training * Technology used in favour for the networking of delegates

FOLHA DO TURISMO FOLHA DO TURISMO

President Adolfo Martins Executive Vice President Roy Taylor roytaylor@mercadoeeventos.com.br - (55-21) 3233-6319 Director of International Marketing Rosa Masgrau rosamasgrau@mercadoeeventos.com.br - (55-21) 3233-6316 Comercial Director João Taylor (joao.taylor@mercadoeeventos.com.br) - (55-11) 3123-2243 Director in São Paulo Mari Masgrau mari.masgrau@mercadoeeventos.com.br - (55-11) 3123-2247 Director of Development Business Fernando Martins fernando.martins@mercadoeeventos.com.br - (55-21) 3233-6207 Chief Editor Natália Strucchi natalia.strucchi@mercadoeeventos.com.br - (55-21) 3233-6263 Chief Reporter Luiz Marcos Fernandes luiz.fernandes@mercadoeeventos.com.br - (55-21) 3233-6262 Chief Reporter in São Paulo Anderson Masetto anderson.masetto@mercadoeeventos.com.br - (55-11) 3123-2239 Planning Director Andrea Martins Legal Affairs Director José Manuel Duarte Correia IT Manager GRM Photographer Eric Ribeiro Designers Alexandre Souza e Viviana Assunção Press Office Rio de Janeiro (55-21) 3233-6353 Press Office São Paulo (55-11) 3123-2239 / 2240

* Innovation and Creativity * Micro-segmentation of the market * Growth in city infrastructure * Reduced budgets (correct use of funds) * Destinations must have strong brands (aggregated value) * Sustainability * Accessibility * Most demanding customers * Strengthening of PPPs (Public-private Partnerships)

Pedro Menezes (pedro.menezes@mercadoeeventos.com.br) Rafael Massadar (rafael.massadar@mercadoeeventos.com.br) Samantha Chuva (samantha.chuva@mercadoeeventos.com.br) Thalita Cardoso (thalita.cardoso@mercadoeeventos.com.br) Commercial Department Rio de Janeiro (55-21) 3233-6319 São Paulo (55-11) 3123-2222

Rio de Janeiro: Rua Riachuelo, 114 - Centro CEP 20230-014 - Phone and Fax (55-21 ) 3233-6201 São Paulo: Rua Barão de Itapetininga, 151 - Térreo - Centro CEP 01042-001 - Phone (55-11) 3123-2222 - Fax (55-11) 3129-9095 Commercial Representative in Brasilia CPM Consultoria Planejamento Mídia Ltda. (marcio@marketingcpm.com.br) (55-61) 3034-7448 / SHN Quadra 2 - 15 Andar - Salas 1514/1515 Executive Office Tower - Brasília / DF - CEP 70702-905 Commercial Representative in the United States Brazil Travel Media - Claudio Dasilva (www.braziltm.com - claudio@braziltm.com) +1 (954) 647-6464 / 401 E Las Olas Blvd # 130 Fort Lauderdale - Florida - 33301 - USA Translation Mathew Hunt (huntm11@gmail.com / (55-21) 99678-3868)

The articles and opinions of third parties published in this edition do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the newspaper.

Mercado & Eventos is a publication of

Lisia Minelli (lisia.minelli@mercadoeeventos.com.br) Nathália Marques (nathalia.marques@mercadoeeventos.com.br)

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Editorial MICE: a promising market in Brazil

A

n industry that generates R$4 billion a year and in the last 10 years has grown by more than 400%, even taking into account the fluctuations in the economy, has put Brazil among the most promising countries in this sector. It is no accident that Brazil is in the top 10 in the ranking of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

to meet a growing demand. It is estimated that the available event venues in Brazil is close to 10,000 for exhibitions, conferences and events of various kinds, with a total area of around 10.5 million square meters and a total capacity that exceeds 10 million people.

Known as a country of undeniable beauty and natural attractions, Brazil has also been highlighted for its ability to host mega events. Last year, when the country hosted the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the results were not limited to the sports sphere, but also extended to organizing and investing in infrastructure. Next year, it will be the turn of the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. It will be the first time the Olympics have been held in a Latin American country.

Even with the slow down in the market, the industry’s expectation for this year is that the segment registers a growth of around 8% compared to last year. It should be noted that the average tourist travelling on business, spends on average three times more than the leisure tourist. Not to mention that with the growth of the MICE market and Business Tourism, some of the cities in the country are investing in modern venues, previously concentrated only in Rio and São Paulo. This is the case of Foz do Iguaçu, Recife, João Pessoa, Brasilia and many others that already have all the infrastructure enabling them to receive medium and large events.

In Brazil, Event Tourism is currently the second largest factor in attracting foreign visitors to the country. The segment accounts for 25.6% of the total volume of international tourists, close to six million. Corporate travel represents 74.5% of tourist flow to the country.

And, increasingly, the private sector has invested - in partnership with the government - in the expansion of the hotel network and also in new convention centers

Investments are also seen in the hotel industry.

According to studies conducted by the Brazilian Hotel Operators Forum (FOHB), the hotel industry plans to invest US$12.8 billion by 2020. In all, about 630 new hotels should be ready within the next five years, which will boost the industry growth by up to 65%. All this makes Brazil a relevant market in the business travel segment and the in MICE market within Latin America.

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BRAZILIAN TOURISM

ABSOLUTE size in 2014

Relative size in 2014

Total Contribution of Travel & Tourism to GDP

GROWTH 2015 forecast

Long-Term Growth / 2015-2025

Breakdown of Travel & Tourism’s Total Contribution to GDP and Employment 2014’

GDP (2014 BRLbn)

Employment

Relative importance of Travel & Tourism’s total contribution to GDP

Official name: Federative Republic of Brazil Capital: Brasília Location: Eastern South America Language: Portuguese Main religion: Christianity President: Dilma Vana Rousseff Currency: Real (R$) Minister of Tourism: Henrique Alves

WORLD RANKING (OUT OF 184 COUNTRIES)

Brazil

WTTC

Total contribution of Travel & Tourism

Direct

Indirect

Induced

WTTC: new studies show predictions for the future of the Brazilian sector SUMMARY TABLES: ESTIMATES & FORECASTS Brazil Direct contribution to GDP

Total contribution to GDP

Direct contribution to employment Total contribution to employment

Visitor exports Domestic spending

Leisure spending Business spending

Capital investment

SUMMARY TABLES: ESTIMATES & FORECASTS Américas / Americas Direct contribution to GDP

Total contribution to GDP

Direct contribution to employment Total contribution to employment Visitor exports Domestic spending

Leisure spending Business spending Capital investment

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INTERVIEWS

POLITICS

MTUR New management: the Tourism Ministry promises partnerships

“

The government seeks a quick solution for the resumption of economic growth.

Definitely a good alternative would be to invest in tourism

The new Tourism Minister, Henrique Eduardo Alves, who took office in April, reaffirmed that the economic crisis that the country is in can be reversed with greater investment in the various segments that comprise the productive chain of tourism. “The government seeks a quick solution for the resumption of economic growth.

Definitely a good alternative would be to invest in tourism, because of the immediate return that this industry generates, including the creation of new jobs”, Alves said.

According to him, there are about 130 million people with the potential to travel, however, only 62 million people are active travellers. “We have 70 million people who may add tourism to their plans and we will work to get them”, he said. The minister also highlighted the importance of uniting the public and private sectors as a priority in its management. He plans to pay special attention to technological innovation, with the development of platforms for promotion of the states. “With strategic partners, we will contribute to the development of tourism in Brazil, which is a unique opportunity for the destinations”, he said.

Henrique Alves added: “Tourism is recognized as one of the most important economic activities in the country, it generates employment and income for small, medium and large businesses.

The sector is one of the most important activities of a country that wants to develop, grow and give quality of life with the right opportunities for all, because it is rare to have an economic activity that has all the prerequisites of social politics”, he said.

Growth - The events industry in Brazil generated R$209.2 billion last year, the equivalent to 4.32% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Compared to 2001, when the annual income of the events industry was R$37 billion, there was an increase of 465%. Over the past decade, the congresses and business conventions held in Brazil rose by around 400%. According to ICCA, between 2003 and 2013, the number of events increased from 62 to 315.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, the business tourist is fussy about the quality of service they receive and spend more than the average. It is a segment that should be viewed with the utmost attention. In Brazil, event tourism is the second largest factor in attracting foreign visitors to the country, accounting for 25.6% of the total volume of international tourists, close to six million.

Corporate travel accounts for 74.5% of tourist trips in the country.

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INTERVIEWS

POLITICS

EMBRATUR Brazil: fully capable of leveraging Events Tourism

“

Attracting large standard ICCA events is not something that we will get immediately, but in the medium and long term

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The Brazilian Tourism Institute (EMBRATUR), responsible for the strategy of promotion and marketing of the country abroad, has a new board of directors. The head of the organisation is the former National Secretary of Tourism Policies for the Ministry of Tourism, Vinícius Lummertz. Soon after taking office, Lummertz confirmed that among its plans are the promotion of Event Tourism and the MICE market. Brazil has lost some positions in the international ranking that was recently released by the ICCA and they have made Lummertz change his views on the potential of this market in the country.

“These oscillations are perfectly normal and the fact that we are in tenth place in the international ranking is an honourable position. I can remember that for the last three years, despite increased competition and fluctuations in the economy, Brazil has been in the Top Ten. So there’s no reason to worry. We should also remember that in 2016 we will have the Olympics, which will be an excellent opportunity for the country to gain greater visibility. Attracting large standard ICCA events is not something that we will get immediately, but in the medium and long term”, he said.

On the mechanisms and strategies that EMBRATUR intends to adopt to increase the attraction of events for the country, Lummertz admits that it is necessary to rethink the current model to remain competitive. “We have to set a more agile and efficient model and, therefore, the idea is to discuss with sector entities, such as ABEOC, new strategies to further streamline this process. I think we can advance much on this issue. Remember that states from North to South of the country have increasingly invested in modern venues to receive medium and large events”, he said.

Vinícius Lummertz is convinced that the future of Brazil lies in Tourism.

“We have unique natural attractions and a fantastic cultural diversity, besides we are the third commercial aviation market in the world. There are 53 sectors of the economy influenced directly or indirectly by the Tourism industry. There is no way to ignore it”, he said.

The new president defended the expansion of the role of the Brazilian Tourism Institute. “So far EMBRATUR was only responsible for the international promotion. Our idea is to expand its range of initiatives in a working partnership with the Ministry of Tourism in order to promote domestic tourism. We need to create mechanisms to attract more resources for investments. The change of the EMBRATUR model has already been discussed and we need to move forward on this, since the bureaucratic issues are an obstacle impeding stronger and big scale promotions”.

He points out that the country has a diversity of attractions and great potential. “Brazil is the ninth largest tourism economy in the world, and its tourism potential in 20 or 30 years time, is the same that was predicted for agriculture in Brazil 20 or 30 years ago to. To reach the current level that agribusiness has today, we employed two principles: entrepreneurship and knowledge and our tourism sector have these skills in abundance.

We should not concern ourselves with the economic situation, but with the structure, this is the base that must change in order to achieve the development we desire.”

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INTERVIEWS

MICE

ABEOC After the FIFA World Cup, the events sector is expected to grow 10% in 2015

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The truth is that more and more companies believe and use the event as a communication, marketing and networking tool

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The visibility generated by the FIFA World Cup in 2014 is driving international tourism and its effects can be seen in the long term, especially in the number of events that the country will host. According to the president of the Brazilian Association of Event Companies (ABEOC Brazil), Ana Claudia Bittencourt, data by the Brazilian Association of Corporate Travel Agencies (ABRACORP) from February this year indicates that in 2015, Business Tourism is expected to grow 10% compared to last year.

“We gained a lot of international visibility, the whole world saw that it is possible to stage major events here, we have a technical ability and the infrastructure to match. Add to this our friendly people and a rich culture, which made the FIFA World Cup in 2014 very special. The infrastructure is also an important legacy, without the Cup, the major advances in airports and hotels would not have been possible”, said Ana Claudia Bittencourt.

The president notes, that some companies and bodies will decrease their budgets because of the country’s economic downturn, but overall, the sector will grow. “However, the pace of this expected growth depends on factors such as the promotion of Brazil abroad, investment on new convention centers, modernization of tax and labour legislation related to the sector and the revision of the General Tourism Law. It is very important also to train business and event professionals. The truth is that more and more companies believe and use the event as a communication, marketing and networking tool”, she emphasizes.

Ana Claudia Bittencourt, however, warns that the events sector can even help to bring foreign money to the country by hosting international events and undoubtedly contributing to the economy in all states and regions of Brazil.

“In 2013, according to the II Economic Dimensioning of the Event Industry in Brazil, 590,000 events were hosted in the country, generating R$209.2 billion and accounting for R$47.8 billion in taxes”, says the president of ABEOC Brazil.

One of the measures needed according to the president is fairer tax laws, that would have a positive impact on the sector.

MICE

MICE

Number of events in Brazilian regions - 2013

Number of participants of events - 2013

Northern Region

Northern Region

Midwestern Region

Midwestern Region

Southern Region

Southern Region

Northeastern Region

Northeastern Region

Southeastern Region

Southeastern Region

Type of events held by organizers - 2013

Locals hired by organizers to run events - 2013

Convention Centre Flat Auditorium / Theatre Exhibition Pavilion Buffet / Restaurants Resort Club House / Shows Club / Stadium

Meetings

Trade

Sociocultural events

Arena

Conventions

Sporting Events

Ship

Mixed events

Rural Exhibition / Auction

Type of events held in Brazil - 2013

Source: ABEOC Brasil/Sebrae/Observat贸rio do Turismo-FTH-UFF-2014

Business Centre

Congress

Tourist attractions

Jobs generated by the events industry in Brazil - 2013

Direct Outsourced Indirect Total

National International

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INTERVIEWS

MICE

GBTA GBTA: Brazil has the potential to continue growing in the MICE segment

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We need to improve services and logistics, but the prices, exchange rate, diversity, nature, welcoming people, the friendly atmosphere and tropical climate are advantages

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The Brazilian market for Business trips has slowed recently but will continue to grow. This is the conclusion by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA). The organization’s president in Brazil, Wellington Costa, believes that the country’s current scenario is momentary and the economy will again move forward. “Brazil has enough potential to continue to develop as a growth market in the MICE industry”, he said.

According to Wellington, an analysis of 2014 shows different scenarios around the globe, with some regions growing faster than others. “We can note a higher growth in some countries and in others it is moderate due to the crisis that still affects certain destinations. In Brazil, yes, we will have growth, but it will come up short of expectations”, he said.

The prospects of GBTA in relation to Brazil have been steadily reducing. Last year, the annual survey by the association, underwent a review and predicted an increase in business travel spending in the Brazilian market by 3.6% in 2014 and 4.1% this year. Even with a smaller increase, the country could become the seventh largest market in the world in this segment.

With regards to incentive trips, Costa said, to increase its share in this market, Brazil needs to better exploit its potential, including more publicity and greater professionalism. “Definitely this [incentive travel] is something we have to work better at. We need to invest more in certifications and the GBTA is doing its part”, he said.

He believes that there are a number of opportunities in the country in the events field. He adds that the sports and sustainability segments need to be better controlled so Brazil can receive more events. “We have several competitive advantages over other destinations. Diversity is one of them”, he said.

“We need to improve services and logistics, but the prices, exchange rate, diversity, nature, welcoming people, the friendly atmosphere and tropical climate are advantages”, he added.

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INTERVIEWS

MICE

ICCA Training is key to the development of the sector

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It is estimated that the events and business tourist spends between 4-6 times more than a leisure tourist

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In recent decades, the Events and Convention sector has become an engine, boosting the regional and national economies, and changing the futures of cities. With this growth, the industry has created a new economic development opportunity for the destinations. According to the regional director for Latin America and the Caribbean arm of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Santiago González, Event Tourism is responsible for benefiting destinations in many different ways. “It is estimated that the events and business tourist spends between 4-6 times more than a leisure tourist. Depending on the city, the event tourist stays on average 6 days and spends US$650 per day in an international event and US$ 360 per day in a Latin American event”, said González.

According to the ICCA ranking, currently, Europe is the region that hosts the most international events, accounting for 54% of the share. It’s followed by the Americas, with 22% (North America and Latin America account for 11% each) and Asia and the Middle East, with 19%. “The high percentage acquired by Europe is no coincidence, it is a result of different initiatives that European countries have undertaken since the 70s. However, Europe and other regions have been losing market share in recent years. More and more event organizers from Europe and the United States are looking for new destinations for their events. The regions that have maintained solid growth are Asia/Middle East, Latin America and Africa. With regards to Latin America, in 2004, the region accounted for only 7.7% of the international market. Today, the region accounts for 11.3%”, emphasizes the CEO of the ICCA. González says that the growth and increased representation of Latin America in this segment is well known and has even assumed a prominent position among the popular destinations for staging events. The region held 638 international events in 2004 and 1,294 in 2012, with a slight drop in 2013, recording 1,243 congresses.

According to the 2014 ICCA ranking, the main countries that stage international events in Latin America are Brazil and Argentina.

“Brazil leads the ranking in the region, which has allowed the country to enter, in recent years, the list of ‘Top 10’ global markets, currently occupying tenth position, a historic moment for Latin America.

It was the first time in the history of ICCA that a Latin American country was ranked among the top 10 in the world”, says González.

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ICCA

MICE

ICCA 2014 statistics released: Paris remains number one city, USA top country Paris retains the top rank, with Vienna swapping places with Madrid and moving up from three to two, and Berlin and Barcelona swapping places at four and five respectively.

With regular jockeying for position between rival destinations, numerous short-term reasons why space isn’t always available for association meetings and with more meetings still to be discovered by ICCA and its members, these don’t represent any dramatic changes.

The top five countries all remain in that top echelon, with USA retaining top ranking, Germany and Spain ranking two and three, whilst UK and France swap places into fourth and fifth place respectively.

ICCA undertook a major review of historical data over the last twelve months, removing all meetings from the statistics which no longer met the strict three-country rotation criterion and clamping down on single meetings which might previously have appeared as multiple separate meetings. As a result the normal levels

of growth appear to be slightly reduced, even though ICCA believes that the underlying rate of growth is almost certainly still robust.

ICCA CEO Martin Sirk commented: “What was striking in this year’s exercise is actually the very large number of meetings we identified over the last twelve months for the year 2013 – more than 600 meetings were identified worldwide, and we’re pretty certain we’ll have equal success in finding more qualifying 2014 meetings over the next twelve months. Most commentators are naturally focusing on the new 2014 rankings, but the nature of this business means that we always continue to identify many qualifying meetings long after each annual announcement. We can’t stress this point strongly enough: ICCA’s rankings are a snapshot of a moment in time of a database designed for sales and marketing purposes, for a very specific segment of the market, a segment moreover where decisions are made three to six years in advance. Any destination wishing

to accurately present its true performance in the international meetings field needs to complement the ICCA statistics and rankings with its own robust measurement of all meetings business won for the future and hosted in the past year. With our new ICCA Statistics Tool, ICCA members can also now extract data on meetings that are especially important for their destination, for example if they’re primarily interested in meetings of more than 1,000 delegates, or which are related to a particularly important segment of the association market, such as medical sciences – we expect to see many ICCA members communicating their rankings in these specific type of meetings, and not just relying on their position in our overall rankings”.

ICCA’s international association meetings tables are published every year. To be included, meetings must be held on a regular basis, have at least 50 delegates, and rotate between at least three countries.

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ICCA

MICE

ICCA COUNTRY & CITY RANKINGS 2014

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EVENTS IN BRAZIL

MICE

Number of Brazilian cities grows in the ICCA ranking, but the country falls one position

Brazil fell one position to tenth place in the ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) ranking of countries that have hosted international events in 2014. Despite the decline, there is still reason to celebrate, as the number of Brazilian cities hosting events increased in 2014 compared to 2013. According to data released in Holland in May, 61 cities in the country hosted international events in 2014 compared to 55 in the previous year.

The Southeast region, which has São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro as the main foreign tourist destinations, hosted 161 events in 27 different cities. São Paulo exceeded the “Marvellous City” this time. Among the 61 cities listed in the ICCA ranking, seven across four states staged international events for the first time.

“It’s great for new cities to be ranked for the first. This is the result of working in partnership with states, cities and the tourist trade. We are seeking to diversify the Brazilian destinations and tourism products”, said EMBRATUR (Brazilian Tourism Institute).

For Arnaldo Nardone, the former president of ICCA and member of the association’s board of directors, the position of Brazil and 18 | MERCADO & EVENTOS | IBTM America l Chicago

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Argentina in the ranking could be better.

“These are countries with great potential, which have very important markets and great opportunities to grow. The power of these countries has also been getting better.

When a country occupies a high position in the ranking we must be careful because it is very difficult to keep its place”, he emphasized.

The director listed points that Latin America needs to focus on and improve in order to become a power in the tourism sector of events and business. “First, I must stress that it is important to continue our plans. This is a long-term project, which does not give immediate results. Many destinations, when they do not see results, give up on the plan and change the strategy. This disrupts and delays the development of the market. In this matter, the action plan must also be respected.

Finally, workers and directors engaged in the projects must be maintained. Latin America has a habit of making very fast changes, not taking advantage of the reliability of these people and especially not taking advantage of the knowledge they acquired along that period of work”, says Nardone.

São Paulo celebrates result More than ever, São Paulo is consolidated as an event destination. According to the latest ICCA survey, the state capital is among the world’s cities that host the most international events. Boasting 66 events, the city now occupies 34th position worldwide, ahead of traditional destinations such as Rio de Janeiro, which appears next to Lima, on 64 events.

The result contributed to Brazil’s 10th place in the general ranking, with 291 major global meetings with 22.68% held in São Paulo.

“The good position of the country shows how cities are improving both in infrastructure to stage events that meet ICCA standards and in the information given by CVBs and public bodies of tourism. It shows that São Paulo has the infrastructure needed to host international events that are extremely important in the technical and scientific world and responsible for bringing news, studies and research in various areas of knowledge”, says Toni Sando, chief executive of São Paulo Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Rio believes in a 2017 recovery Regarding the decline in the ICCA ranking, the executive director of Rio Convention & Visitors Bureau, Michael Nagy, said the result was expected. “Every town that host the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics records a drop in events and this has also happened to Rio de Janeiro. The recovery will come from 2017, when the city will complete its infrastructure projects and urban mobility”, he said. Rio was second in the Brazilian ranking, with 64 events (against 79 in 2013), 35th in the world ranking and fourth in the Americas, next to Lima and behind Buenos Aires, Santiago and São Paulo.

EVENTS IN BRAZIL

MICE

João Pessoa is featured in the Northeast The capital of Paraíba is among the 10 destinations that hosted the most international events in Brazil. According to the president of the Convention & Visitors Bureau of João Pessoa, José Camilo Juliani, to achieve this position the CVB worked hard to attract congresses and events that would raise the flow of tourists to the city in low season: “This achievement was only possible thanks to the dedication and continuous effort of our management and operational staff, in addition to strategic alliances with SETDE/ PBTur, Sebrae, Convention Centre, ABIH and the João Pessoa Secretary of Tourism, which is cooperating with the work and giving unconditional support to the processes of attracting events, promotion of the capital and the development of our destination and its infrastructure.” The director of João Pessoa Convention Centre, Ferdinando Lucena, said that this position in the ranking will be a motivating factor for the city of João Pessoa to improve on its position in 2015, equating to other destinations that are traditionally recognized.

The South’s, Paraná and Santa Catarina, achieve good results The state capital of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, remains among the top ten destinations in Brazil that host international events reaching joint sixth place and with Porto Alegre, the state capital of Rio Grande do Sul. According to the president of Floripa & Região Convention Bureau, Marco Aurélio Floriani, Florianópolis is the smallest capital in the country, it is off the beaten track for direct flights from abroad to Brazil and still remains

among the top 10 destinations that attract the most international events. “This is due to the quality of services and good infrastructure, including the hotels, offered for staging congresses, conferences and fairs”, he says. To be included in the ICCA ranking, international events must have at least 50 participants, be held regularly and must have been hosted in at least three different countries.

According to the ranking published by the ICCA, Foz do Iguaçu is the Brazilian city that staged the third most international events last year. The city was behind Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. It is the best placed non state capital in the ranking among the top ten destinations in Brazil.

With 16 events recognized by the ICCA, Foz do Iguaçu repeated its performance of 2013, when it was also placed third. There was the expected downturn in Brazil due to the World Cup, which decreased the number of international events in the country - from 315 in 2013 to 291 last year.

Reasons to celebrate in South America The city of Lima, Peru’s capital, celebrates fourth place in the Americas in the ICCA ranking. The city held 64 events last year 64, the same number as Rio de Janeiro. Peru appears in 39th position in the list of countries, staging 84 events.

All these initiatives are, in the opinion of the executive director of Convention & Visitors Bureau, José Luiz Lima, the result of a strategic work in order to consolidate the Peruvian capital as a destination for events and business. “Lima Convention & Visitors Bureau began its work in May 2012 and we already have 55 members among which are the leading hotels in Lima, LATAM, H. Stern, Telefonica and several operators and service providers”, he said.

Along with PromPeru and several associates, a

work plan was drawn up with a focus on certain types of events in certain markets and regions: “We made many contacts with associations and event producers; for two years we have been attending major fairs and events in the segment, such as IMEX Las Vegas and Frankfurt, EIBTM and others; we have been working on basic promoting initiatives of Lima and Peru so the destinations are well displayed and become competitive in quality and price.”

In August, a new and modern Convention Centre will open in Lima. “Now we can be even more competitive because there was no place available for large events before. This Centre will be able to accommodate up to 10,000 people in its various rooms within a cultural complex”, explains the director.

Argentina, meanwhile, celebrates the sixth consecutive year in the Top 20 of the ICCA ranking. Twelve destinations in the country are in the international ICCA ranking as they have hosted more than five international conferences during 2014. Among them is the city of Buenos Aires, which occupies 21th position worldwide, with 91 conferences during the year.

This position puts the capital Buenos Aires in front of New York, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Mexico City, Milan, Shanghai, Sydney, Tokyo, Washington and Vancouver.

Mendoza is in 2nd place among Argentine destinations, after staging 21 international congresses; Cordoba appears in 3rd with 17 international congresses and Rosario in 4th, with nine events. The next cities are: La Plata and Mar del Plata, with seven events; Bariloche, with six, and the towns of Pilar, Puerto Iguazu, Salta, Tucuman and Santa Fe, which shows the importance of the Meeting Tourism Marketing Plan, prepared by the Ministry of Tourism, through INPROTUR and AOCA – Argentine Association of Organizers and Suppliers Exhibition and Congress.

On the following pages you will read about the main Brazilian cities that appear in the list

1 São Paulo 66 events 2 Rio de Janeiro 64 events 3 Brasília and Foz do Iguaçu 16 events 4 Salvador 14 events 5 Fortaleza and Natal 11 events 6 Florianópolis and Porto Alegre 9 events 7 Recife 6 events June 2015

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São Paulo,

state capital of São Paulo Gay Parade in São Paulo

São Paulo holds an event every six minutes. In 2014 alone, São Paulo welcomed 11.4 million visitors who were motivated by business and events. The total number of tourists also reached 15 million. According to the latest general ranking by the ICCA that was released in May, the state capital attaining 34th place, and taking first place among the main Brazilian cities hosting events according to ICCA standards.

Being able to accomplish large and important trade shows, conferences and conventions, São Paulo is considered to be the financial heart of Brazil, supported by a large commercial structure, for a variety of venues, for the largest hotel network in Brazil (42 thousand available rooms) and for a fleet of taxis that well serve the executives.

The Observatory of Tourism and Events, the study and research arm of São Paulo Turismo, estimates that the city receives over 90,000 business events every year, which corresponds to 72% of all those held in the country. Last year, according to a survey conducted by the Economic Research Institute Foundation (FIPE), the economic impact of trade fairs on São Paulo was R$16.3 billion. According to official data, foreigners visiting São Paulo who are motivated by business, on average,stay for 5.2 days in the 20 | MERCADO & EVENTOS | IBTM America l Chicago

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capital, while the national tourist stays 2.7 days. The average spending of international tourists is R$664 and national is R$519.

Business tourists in the state capital also look for dining, shopping and nightlife, according to the survey by the Observatory. With this public in mind, the SPTuris developed the project “Stay Another Day”, a guide withall the leisure options that could motivate tourists to extend their stay in the city.

In 2012, the city was recognized as a leader in attracting investment to Brazil by FDI Intelligence, and in 2013 was named as the best city for doing business in Latin America by the international ranking of America Economia. Last year, it was named as the most influential global metropolis in Latin America in the Chapman University and CSC in Singapore ranking.

According to SP Turis, who looks after the administration of attracting events and promoting the destination, São Paulo rose 14 positions in the Doing Business report ranking, by World Bank and also received the IFEA World Festival & Event City award for being the destination that strives to provide an environment that is conducive to successful events and festivals.

Last year São Paulo performed well in tourism. According to the Statistical

Yearbook of Tourism, the growth of number of tourists was about 20% reaching an estimated 15 million visitors and tourism revenue of R$11.3 billion. The FIFA World Cup was among the factors that contributed to the increase, because it brought about 541,000 tourists to the city in June and July, more than 221,000 (40.85%) foreigners.

Calendar and Venues - The city’s calendar has a wide cultural program throughout the year. Among some of these events are the Virada Cultural, Virada Esportiva, the Brazilian Formula 1 Grand Prix, International Automobile Salon, Biennial Book, Street Carnival and at the Sambadrome, LGBT Parade, São Paulo Fashion Week, Christmas and New Year’s Eve Lights in Paulista Avenue.

Not counting the hundreds of national and international concerts throughout the year.

Considering the major events and convention centres, we highlight the Anhembi Convention Palace, WTC Convention Centre, Expo CentreNorte Convention Centre, São LuisEvents Centre.

If the Pavilions are considered then we can also highlight: the Anhembi Exhibition Hall, Immigrants Exhibition Centre–now São Paulo Expo, Expo North Centre, Transamerica Expo Centre and the Biennial Pavilion, among others.

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Pedro Kirilos / Riotur

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PLACE

Rio de Janeiro,

state capital of Rio de Janeiro Sugar Loaf

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and several other centres and hotels that provide venues of varying capacities for all types and sizes of professional groups spread across various neighbourhoods that cover the entire city.

Rio has been tested numerous times and masterfully showed that it understands this segment well. Some of the mega events that Rio has already staged are the United Nations Conference on the Environment and Development, Rio 92, when 122 heads of state and governments visited the city; Latin America, Caribbean and European Union Summit, with 42 heads of state and governments; the World Congress of Cardiology, in 1998, which brought about 19 thousand professionals from around the world to the city; Telecom Americas, in April 2000, which brought together 27,000 participants; the Pan American Games, in 2007; the World Youth Day, in 2013, with 3.7 million pilgrims; and the 2014 World Cup, which attracted 886,000 tourists to the country.

State - The rest of the state is also showing that it understands the issue. By the end of the year, the cities of Nova Friburgo,

CaboFrio and Paraty should receive new convention centres. The projects are being developed by the Tourism Development Program PRODETUR-RJ and implemented by state departments of Work, Tourism and Environment.

Fernando Maia / Riotur

Besides being one of the most sought after leisure destinations in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is also very established within the MICE segment. According to the 2015 ICCA survey, Rio de Janeiro hosted 64 international corporate events in 2014.

This result is the sum of integrated infrastructure that aims to combine, in the best possible way, tourists visiting the Marvellous City. In addition to a hotel network that consists of about 34 thousand rooms, and another 17000 under construction, Rio also boasts a comprehensive airline network, with connections to the whole world from RioGaleão International Airport, the largest by area in Brazil and the second busiest in the country.

For events, Rio de Janeiro has the largest events centre in Latin America, Riocentro, covering 571,000m², of which 100 thousand square meters are constructed areas, divided into five pavilions. Other prominent venues are Sulamérica Convention Centre, Forte de Copacabana, Maracana Stadium, Pier Maua, the Sugar Loaf, Marina da Gloria

Fifa Fan Fest in Copacabana Beach

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Setur-DF

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PLACE

Brasília,

the federal capital Cathedral of Brasília

Brasília, the federal capital of Brazil, was designed down to the smallest detail and is a reference when it comes to urban planning. The capital offers high standard quality tourist services, from modern international hotel chains to B&Bs, inns and hostels. It is therefore considered as a major tourist destination for business and events in the country. According to the 2015 survey by the ICCA, Brasilia ranks third of the cities that hosted international congresses and conventions in 2014.

Tourists visiting Brasília are divided into two groups: business and leisure.

Almost 60% of those visiting the city have work on their agenda or participation in conferences. According to a survey by the Centre of Excellence in Tourism (CET) by the University of Brasilia (UNB), business travellers are mainly from the state of São Paulo (15.9%), followed by Minas Gerais (13.97%) and Rio de Janeiro (10.2%). The main exporters of foreign tourists to Brasilia are the United States, Colombia, Angola, Portugal, Costa Rica,

China, Zimbabwe, Mexico, Italy, Spain and Paraguay.

In 2014, President Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport in Brasília became the second busiest, second only to São Paulo International Airport, Guarulhos.

With new boarding lounges, the North Pier and the South Pier, the airport’s capacity doubled, from 13 boarding arms to 29.

The construction work has increased the capacity from 16 million to 25 million people a year - an expansion of 56%. The apron, another critical element in expanding the capacity of an airport, increased by more than two and a half times. The number of parking spaces more than doubled with the opening of a second car park.

The city also offers a diverse structure for holding events such as convention centers, fairs exhibition halls and cultural venues. In 2014, the federal capital Brasilia launched the International Convention Centre of Brasilia (CICB), covering 72,000m² enables the venue to host major events.

In the center of town is the Ulysses

Guimarães Convention Center, boasting 54 thousand square meters spread over three halls and has a capacity for 9,400 people.

The venue - fully renovated and expanded in 2005 - is among the three largest in Brazil and is full of the latest equipment. It also has five auditoriums and 13 modular rooms with soundproofed walls.

The City Park Exhibition Pavilion was built to house the facilities for State Fairs that occur in Brasilia and became a reference in exhibition halls. It hosts hundreds of cultural events per year festivals and large fairs. It stands out for its spacious interior, spread out over 51,000m² and also has 4,500 spaces in its main car park.

Overall, the business tourist can still extend their trip and visit the sights of the city. The TV Tower of Brasilia, Juscelino Kubitschek Memorial, the National Museum and the Museum of the City of Brasilia, in addition to the Alvorada Palace, Itamaraty Palace and Presidential Palace are worth the visit.

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Foz do Iguaçu, located in Paraná

Iguaçu Falls

Known for t he b eaut if ul natural spectacle of the Falls, which boasts 268 waterfalls, all of differing types and sizes, Foz do Iguaçu, in the state of Paraná, has also pursued business tourism through congresses, events and fairs. The proof is that Foz do Iguaçu ranks third among the cities that in 2014, hosted events that meet ICCA standards. Iguassu Convention & Visitors Bureau – ICVB is focused on attracting events, which generate business opportunities.

Also in June, from 17 to 19, Foz do Iguaçu will hold its largest professional scale tourism event, the Festival das Cataratas (Falls Festival), where one of the innovations for this edition will be the MICE Hall.

In 2014, Iguaçu CVB attracted 25 events and supported more than32.

A brief analysis of the importance of these numbers points to the injection of approximately R$23m into the local economy. The number of room nights

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(daily) is also relevant, reaching more than 60,000. To achieve this, the organization is focused on relationship building initiatives with promoters and event organizers, having taken part in more than 150 meetings and participated in MICE fairs in Brazil and worldwide.

Training - From January until now, in São Paulo the ICVB has trained more than 100 professionals from 10 events and corporate convention organizers, and has conducted visits to associations and organizers to prospect for new events to be held in Foz do Iguaçu. The executive manager of ICVB, Basileu Tavares, estimates that this training and visits open up a range of opportunities for the destination, involving the entire production chain of local tourism: “One of the company’s that we visited was responsible for organizing more than four thousand events last year and of course we want some of these events to happen in Foz do Iguaçu”.

Industry figures: Hotel complex: 26 368 beds Estimated investment for years to come: R$726 million - Federal Government R$996 million - Private Sector

Events area of Wish Resort

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PLACE

Salvador,

state capital of Bahia

The capital of Bahia has ranked fourth by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) in Event Tourism segment.

Throughout the national territory in 2013, this helped generate R$200 billion for the segment.

The average growth in the last 12 years has reached14% per year and Salvador is a city that has a diverse and modern hotel network, with a wide selection of budget hotels, flats, hostels and resorts.

The infrastructure for events in the city also helps. The Bahia Convention Center, Bahia Othon Palace Hotel, Fiesta Convention Center, Pestana Bahia Hotel and the Gran Hotel Stella Maris Resort & Convention, can accommodate up to 12,750 people together. The creation of “Salvador Destination” in November 2014 has also directly helped promote the destination.

In all, 21 representatives of hotels and two event companies got together and founded the organization that has Paul Gaudenzi, head of GJP Participaçõesas its president.

The Bahia Convention Center, for example, has capacity for up to five thousand people and at the end of January received an investment of R$10 million for its renovation. Improvements such as the replacement of four elevators and eight escalators are planned, which will make the entry and exit of people faster, particularly during major events. In mid-April, the Department of Tourism of Bahia finalized details for the replacement of the new access areas that will ensure the region continues competing and succeeding in attracting events and fairs.

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Currently, the Iemanjá Theatre and the halls on the 4th floor of the Bahia Convention Center are in operation, while the pavilion, where the fairs take place remains closed. To help maintain the useable area in comfort, air conditioning and lighting maintenance services were carried out.

The redevelopment of the Expo Park is also part of the project to strengthen business tourism. According to the Department of Tourism, business tourism is important for the economic development and job creation in Bahia, and that’s why it takes priority among the investment projects planned by the government.

Currently, the Bahia hotel network has 39 thousand beds and a monthly average occupation rate that reaches 55%.

In these units, there are large and impressive convention centers that, gradually willdrivethe corporate presence across Salvador. This is the case of the Pestana and Othonchains, which have Convention Centers capable of receiving up to 2,200 and 3,490 people, respectively.

Airlines–In the state capital, 26 international flights a week arrive at the Deputy Luis Eduardo Magalhães International Airport, not to mention the 1,048 domestic flights that take off and land here. In the last two years, 20 airports in the state received about R$700 million in investment, R$127 million just on the busiest airport in the state – The International Airport of Salvador. A new check-in area, 36 counters, improvements in ground services, medical stations, telephone system, baggage rooms, boarding arms, gates, access ramps, panoramic

Barra lighthouse

elevators, are just some of the improvements at the Luis Eduardo Magalhães Airport. From 2011 to 2014, passenger demand at the airport jumped from 8.3 million to 10.8 million, showing a significant increase in demand in the city in recent years. To support all this increase, the apron has also been expanded, currently 91.395m² can accommodate Boeing and Airbus aircraft, and this is in comparison to 79,645m² that was recorded in 2011.

An important feature of this segment is that business trips occur without traditional tourist attractions, such as sun and sand, because the reason for the trip is all about business. However, this corporate thinking has changed and currently the range of leisure and entertainment attractions to occupy the free time executives have is gaining momentum and they have their preferred destinations. Leisure attractions in Salvador are plentiful, in addition to the beautiful beaches and all the leisure facilities along the waterfront, the cuisine and the whole history of the city enchant even the least interested people.

Leisure - The first capital of Brazil reserves a mixture of tranquility, curiosity and refined cuisine. History, nature, faith and fun are how divide the tours in Salvador. Whether in the uptown or downtown districts, attractions surprise visitors all year round. There are churches and historical houses in Pelourinho; nightlife and in the summer you will find many street parties and the famous Carnival.

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Natal,

Panoramic view of Genipabu

state capital of Rio Grande do Norte

Natal, the state capital of Rio Grande do Norte, stands out for tourism as it has an abundance of natural beauty, rich culture and a flawless tourism infrastructure within the MICE segment. The city has more than 30 event venues of different sizes, which offer comfort and technology. The five most important and biggest convention centres of the state together, support up to 14,440 people, not counting the small and modular infrastructure that can also be used.

The Natal Convention Centre, for example, can accommodate up to 7000 people. Officially designed to host Conferences, Seminars, Meetings, Artistic Events and Exhibitions, the site is located

Ponta Negra Beach

next to a modern hotel complex with bars, restaurants, a beach, shopping, a cycle path, travel agencies and car rental companies, among other fundamental services for a business traveller. In December 2014 alone, the centre was responsible for hosting four national events and is improving as the city decided to increase the capacity of the venue to attract even more events and increase business tourism.

With a R$30 million contribution from the Ministry of Tourism, an 8000m² extension and construction of a multipurpose hall started in February this year. Thus, the constructed area will expand from 14,000m² to 22,400m². The capacity will increase to 10

thousand people, seven thousand just in the new multipurpose pavilion, which will be able to accommodate various types of events such as congresses, fairs and exhibitions.

Natal, which was one of the 2014FIFA World Cup host cities, has already received other major events. The capital is compact and easily accessible, allowing for rapid transit. Its proximity to Europe, compared to other regions of Brazil, is also considered an advantage. A flight from Natal to Lisbon, for example, lasts less than seven hours. The São Gonçalo do Amarante International Airport welcomes tourists in one of the largest terminals in Brazil. The renovated and modern airport promises quick and easy connections to all major Brazilian cities.

The hotel network in Natal is composed of more than 26 thousand beds that offer excellent choices in all categories and by numbers of stars. Via Costeira and Ponta Negra are the regions where the major hotels in the capital are generally found.

Leisure -Natal has about 240 restaurants and bars that have the power to offer regional and also internationalcuisine. Dunes, reefs, cliffs and rock pools occupy the 400km of Natal and the surrounding area. This makes the capital of Rio Grande do Norte one of the most popular destinations in the country. Buggy rides, rustic fishing villages, unspoilt nature, restless nights sleep and sunshine almost every day of the year complete the setting.

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Centro de Eventos CE

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Fortaleza, state capital of Ceará When we talk about the Northeast of Brazil, images of paradisiacal beaches come to mind, along with the welcoming and smiling people, parties and typical food. With Fortaleza, the state capital of Ceará, it is no different. Its beauties and landscapes attract tourists from all over the world. Despite being a beautiful leisure destination, the city also combines it with good infrastructure for holding national and international size events.

Photo: Governo Federal

Fortaleza International Airport

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According to the latest survey by the ICCA, Fortaleza held 11 international events in line with the association’s standards and is positioned fifth in the ranking of cities that hosted international congresses and conventions in 2014.

Another feature of Fortaleza is that the city is strategically located just below the Equator. Fortaleza is only 6 hours and half flight from Europe, North America and Africa, the shortest route from Brazil to these regions. It’s also on the way to other states, so Fortaleza qualifies as an international air and sea gateway to South America for tourism, business and events.

The Pinto Martins International Airport in Fortaleza is among the ten busiest in the country by volume of passengers, accommodating 6.2 million movements per year. It operates direct or connecting flights by major airlines to all state capitals.

It has a total area of more than 5 million square meters, which, in addition to housing three aprons, offers: a food court, shops, ATMs, currency exchange and various transportation services.

Other attractions for the business tourism segment are the hotel chains in Fortaleza, restaurants and the recent construction of the Event Centre, as well as urban mobility.

The Ceará Events Centre (CEC) is the most

Beira-Mar Avenue in Fortaleza

modern venue of its kind in Latin America and the second largest in Brazil by area, at 76,000m², 13,000m² of which are fully air-conditioned. It has capacity for 30,000 people. The venue is multipurpose and is able to hold fairs, exhibitions and other events. It is divided into two large blocks, consisting of an exhibition hall, with up to 13,600m², and two mezzanines with 18 modular rooms each.

The quality of Fortaleza’s infrastructure to host events does not end here. Besides the CEC, the Sebrae-CE Business Centre is also a good option for events. The venue features a 2,000 square-metered air-conditioned area entirely designed for trade fairs, exhibitions, conferences and seminars. The Ceará Convention Centre is another excellent example, and can host 7,000 people.

With 25km of coastline, Fortaleza also offers numerous options for business tourists to extend their trip, by enjoying the beauty and the experience of the culture of Fortaleza.

Do not miss Futuro Beach, a favourite with swimmers due to its eight kilometres of waterfront. In the evening, it is worth while visiting the houses of forró, a traditional local dance. And be sure to visit the craft market and the craft fair on Beira Mar, where rich crafts made with lace and straw and regional products fascinate visitors.

Epa Machado / Santur

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Florianópolis, state capital of Santa Catarina Having one of the best social indicators in Brazil, Santa Catarina is the sixth richest state in the country with a diversified and industrialized economy. A major exporter and consumer hub, the state is among the highest generators for the national economy, accounting for 4% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Located in southern Brazil, the destination is at the top of the national ranking of human and economic development. The natural beauty, the diversity of the ethnic mosaic and the vocation for tourism make Santa Catarina the perfect setting for events such as conferences, seminars, conventions, cultural events, sports competitions, and, of course, an unforgettable holiday.

According to the latest ICCA ranking, the capital of Santa Catarina ranks sixth among domestic destinations that held international events in 2014. From 2008 to February 2015, Florianópolis hosted more than 250 thousand people at events and conferences supported by the Florianopolis Convention and Visitors Bureau.

This year, 26 events are planned to

take place in Florianopolis, national and international and all backed by the Bureau.

Last year there were 22. According to the president of Florianopolis’ Convention and Visitors Bureau, Marco Floriani, this type of tourism began growing eight years ago. Floriani adds that the city can hold events of different sizes: “We don’t have big centers of events like the ones in Rio and Sao Paulo, but 90% of the events here serve up to 5000 people.”

The city has more than 18,000 beds, in addition to offering complete tourist infrastructure. The main convention center in the destination, the Florianópolis C onve nt i on C e nt e r - C e nt ro Su l i s responsible for absorbing the majority of the demand of events taking place in the city and surrounding area. There are still venues in Costão do Santinho Resort, Santa Catarina Association of Medicine (ACM) and Federal University of Santa Catarina.

Cu r re nt ly, C e nt ro Su l h a s 1 6 , 5 6 0 square meters of built up area, divided into two floors, with modular rooms to accommodate up to 3,500 people

seated comfortably and two exhibition halls for up to 13 thousand people, in addition to two restaurants, a snack bar, coffee shop and outdoor parking for up to 1,200 vehicles.

Aiming to take advantage of the high flow of business tourists who impact not only tourism, but also on the destination’s economy, Florianópolis is building a new convention center at an estimated investment from the state government of R$70 million. It will be located in Canasvieiras, in the north of the island. The site will be 17 thousand square meters and have capacity to house up to 3,500 people.

Business travellers can enjoy their days off by visiting some of the attractions in the city: the Hercílio Luz Bridge, the Historical Center, Beira-Mar Avenue, the bucolic Azorean districts of Santo Antonio de Lisboa and Ribeirão da Ilha, Portuguese forts, museums, churches and theaters.

The city has more than a hundred beaches scattered throughout the coastal island and on the small continental peninsula that forms the city.

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Setur-POA

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Porto Alegre,

state capital of Rio Grande do Sul

Farroupilha Park

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network that is expanding, has domestic and international chains. More than 250 hotels and 20,000 beds meet all the quality, comfort and service requirements.

The city is accessible to the world on flights between Europe and the Americas.

The airlines TAP, Copa Airlines and Taca have direct flights from Lisbon (Portugal), Panama City (Panama) and Lima (Peru). There are as well direct flights to Montevideo (Uruguay), Buenos Aires, Rosario and Cordoba (Argentina). From Panama, Copa Airlines offers connections to over 50 destinations in Central, South and North America and the Caribbean.

TAP operates flights to several European countries.

Events - Its main venue for corporate events offers a multifunction infrastructure, technology and a prime location. These are some of the features of the FIERGS exhibition centre. These characteristics are highlighted by interconnected and modular areas, adaptable to any type of event, with a total of 36.724,85m². The site hosts congresses, conventions, fairs,

concerts, receptions, awards, graduations and more.

Currently in 4th place in the ranking of ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association), in 2016 Porto Alegre is planning a new convention centre.

The site will be 9000m2 and have a capacity of 6450 seats and parking for 6000 vehicles.

Infraero

The city of Porto Alegre is strategic for Mercosur and a geographical centre for the main routes within the Southern Cone, equidistant from Buenos Aires (1063 km), Montevideo (890 km), Sao Paulo (1109 km) and Rio de Janeiro (1558 km).

The Salgado Filho International Airport is 15 minutes from the city centre and travelling within the city will not take more than 30 minutes going from any one point to another, even in rush hour. The city also has a good fleet of taxis at very reasonable prices. If you want an even cheaper option, simply take the bus, as the public transport is an efficiency model for the rest of the country.

Porto Alegre is a centre of excellence for shops, services and logistic solutions, urban and road infrastructure, medicine and health, communications and quality of life. Above all, it is a multicultural and hospitable city, a destination with multiple attractions for every type of visitor.

A cent re for business and major national and international events, Porto Alegre is well served by hotels. The hotel

Salgado Filho International Airport

Rafael Medeiros

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Recife,

state capital of Pernambuco

It is no coincidence that Recife, the capital of Pernambuco, is increasingly gaining notoriety as a MICE destination and occupies seventh place in the ICCA ranking (referring to events in 2014). The city has all the important factors to be able to stage small and large events, such as hotels and infrastructure, as well as places that can provide unique experiences to visitors.

One of the strengths of Recife is its convention centres, which are varied and recognized as among the best in the Northeast. One of them is the Convention Centre of Pernambuco, with capacity for up to 6000 people. The site has four auditoriums, 22 conference rooms, pavilions for exhibitions and parking for 2500 vehicles.

The state capital has no shortage of places with good infrastructure, even for small events. Located in the district of Boa Viagem, the Mar Hotel Convention Centre has ten modular rooms that adapt to each event and has capacity for up to 1600 people. The Golden Tulip, also located in Boa Viagem, is another good choice, as it has rooms for almost all types of events. There are eight rooms that can accommodate up to a thousand people

and the hotel also offers parking.

Facilities - Despite being a factor of extreme importance, the destination stands out in the MICE industry not only because of the venues but because of the infrastructure, communication and transport. The study “Best Cities for Business” by Urban Systems, points out that Recife leads the top 20 cities with the best infrastructure in Brazil for business tourism.

Another highlight of Recife is its connectivity. Guararapes International Airport is located in the urban area, which makes life much easier for business travellers.

It operates 24 hours a day servicing eight airlines, four international, with direct flights from Miami, Panama City, Lisbon and Frankfurt. At the airport you will find innovation and comfort with the capsule hotel, which is designed for connecting passengers. The “hotel” has a box shape and is attractive to travellers who would like to take a nap, watch TV or read with more privacy. The first hour costs R$49.90 and for each additional hour, there is a fee of R$15.

The Airport was chosen in 2013 as the best airport among the 14 busiest in Brazil, according to a survey by the Proteste Consumers Association.

Investment - In view of this positive scenario in Recife, it is not surprising that investment is increasing more and more. In December 2014, the Ministry of Tourism announced an investment of R$2 million for the CidadesInteligentes (Smart Cities) Project, in order to make the capital more attractive and functional.

Tourist attractions - In addition to all the above elements that make the city one of the best in Brazil within this segment, the capital of Pernambuco has many tourist attractions, including beautiful beaches, excellent cuisine, historic architecture and a rich culture. Thus, Recife has established itself as a great choice for tourists who travel for business and want to stay a little longer.

For these visitors, there are short, quick tours, enabling visitors to make the most of it.

Among the beauties of Recife, are its beaches with fine sand and green water.

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INTERVIEWS

CONVENTIONS AND VISITORS BUREAUX

RIO CVB Rio CVB prioritises attracting events for the Latin American market

“

The city is gaining unprecedented improvements in infrastructure and this will benefit the events and conventions segment

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Responsible for attracting events for Rio de Janeiro and also promoting the city as a destination, the Rio Convention & Visitors Bureau has 110 scheduled events to take place before 2021. Latin America is considered a priority among the destinations to promote the city as a business hub. According to Michael Nagy, Commercial director of Rio CVB, work is being prepared with a view to Rio in 2017, due to the legacy left by the Olympics: “Just in the Latin America market, we have identified 1,400 events that we will try and attract”.

The work for the Olympics is giving a new face to the city, aiding the Events segment: “The city is gaining unprecedented improvements in infrastructure and this will benefit the events and conventions segment. This work is being conducted in partnership with organizations like ABEOC-RJ, SETUR-RJ, RIOTUR and Rio Galeão, which are helping to attract new international flights to the city”, he said.

Regarding the need for new convention centers to meet growth and the demand for the events sector, he points out that the city has many good options, but it’s necessary to create new locations for large and medium-sized events: “With the increase of hotel units we need to have venues for conventions not only in hotels. The South Zone needs new options to better leverage its great potential”.

For the next two years (2015 and 2016), there are 36 international and 20 national events according to the Rio CVB. Together, they will take Rio to, approximately 155 thousand businessmen that will generate an estimated income of US$271 million. The calendar of the Rio Convention & Visitors Bureau already has eight events to be held in 2018.

Together, they should bring 29.7 thousand people to the city that will generate, approximately, US$55 million.

“The tourist appeal of Rio de Janeiro, and the exposure that the city has received since the announcement of the sporting events, is a great ally in the attraction of these exhibitions.

The organizers know that to promote an event in Rio is to ensure that there will be 15% to 20% more businessmen”, said the chief executive of Rio CVB, Alfredo Lopes.

INTERVIEWS

CONVENTIONS AND VISITORS BUREAUX

SPCVB SPCVB invests in professional training and strengthening its initiatives

“

Today we see many modern and quality event venues being opened as the demand is growing all the time and the city needs to followsuit

São Paulo has excellent facilities for all kinds of events.

Leisure and business tourism, entertainment, gastronomy, culture and history, certainly distinguish the city and have put it at the top of the income generation chain. According to the president of São Paulo’s Convention and Visitors Bureaux, Toni Sando, the city has great historical and cultural heritage, major convention centers, venues and the largest number of hotels in the country. “The hotels have upgraded their facilities to be able to host more events. There are also major business centers such as the Paulista, Faria Lima and Berrini avenues, that make São Paulo the best city in Latin America for business, as you will meet the main buyers and companies in the country”, he said.

Increasingly, São Paulo invests in improving its infrastructure.

This is a result of an increase of events and attracting companies to the city and state. “Today we see many modern and quality event venues being opened as the demand is growing all the time and the city needs to followsuit”, he said.

In addition to the event capacity, São Paulo is a hospitable city. The reception of more than half a million visitors during the FIFA World Cup is proof of this, as was indicated by research from the Tourism Observatory with fans that visited the capital. Gastronomy, nightlife, culture, shopping and the hospitality of São Paulo were evaluated as positive.

“But SPCVB, through the Academy Visit São Paulo, still has constant work in the training of professionals responsible for the first contact with the visitor”, said Sando.

According to the president of SPCVB, the focus of the organization’s work has been in the training of professionals responsible for the visitor’s first contact with the city, as valets, taxi drivers, hotel receptionists, traffic wardens and more.

According to Sando, SPCVB’s challenge for the next two years is very large. “The focus will be on development and growth.

We aim to make SPCVB a different organisation than we have today, bigger and stronger, with a higher participation in the capital, associated cities and tourist resorts”, he concluded.

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SPECIAL INTERVIEW

GL EVENTS BRAZIL

GL EVENTS BRAZIL GL Events Brazil: CEO criticizes amateurish structures and reveals strategies for success As the market is in crisis and is marked by recession, GL Events Brazil decided, four years ago, to concentrate ona short and medium term investment program, with planning, professionalism and competitiveness. The group has just signed a partnership with Accor, launching the Grand Mercure Riocentro Hotel, and achieved an important growth in the number of events, giving a clear demonstration of competence and strategic planning, both in the administration of Riocentro and of the São Paulo Expo complex. Together they are receiving an investment of R$700 million for infrastructure and services improvements.

According to the CEO of GL Events, Arthur Rapsold, the company jumped from the fourth to the second most profitable of the multinational group, with its headquarters in Lyon, France.

Theexecutive also highlights the challenges that are impeding the growth of the conventions sector. He also criticizes the “fever” of new convention centres erected without planning and with a truly amateurish structure.

I believe that the event sector will grow rapidly, especially international events, if the bureaucratic model for issuing visas is changed

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MERCADO & EVENTOS - What are the challenges and holdupsthat impede the growth of trade shows and the conventions segment in Brazil today?

ARTHUR REPSOLD - I believe that the event sector will grow rapidly in the country, especially the international ones, if the bureaucratic model for issuing visas is changed. It is unfortunate that the process of issuing visas, which has been discussed for years in the country, has not yet improved. Due to this, we lose important events and fail

to attract fairs and conventions.

Given the difficulties encountered, the organizers end up opting for other countries and, therefore, the country loses foreign exchange and business, thus undermining the entire tourism chain. Take the case of the US market, which is discouraged because of the requirements for visas. It is an easy matter to settle, and one that just does not advance. Another challenge concerns the improvement in the infrastructure of the convention centres. GL Events have invested resources in Riocentro and São

SPECIAL INTERVIEW

Paulo Expo. The Northeast has also invested, but remember that you can’t have convention centres without proper planning.

M&E - How has the lack of data and information regarding the events segment in the country hampered the planning of building new centres?

ARTHUR REPSOLD - Indeed, despite efforts by authorities and associations such as ABEOC and others, the sector lacks a more accurate picture of the event numbers in the country. This is a complex task and it is not easy for the sector to do research.

It’s no use building a large convention centre if the flights and the hotels are not compatible.

Likewise, it’s no use investing in new hotels and flights if there are no good convention centres. This growth has to be planned. We have seen amateur initiatives like stadiums for the World Cup that are white elephants. The same is happening with the construction of large convention centres without proper strategic planning.

Without naming names, I see convention centres being built with totally inadequate designs and erected amateurishly.

M&E - When you talk about the investment in Riocentro and São Paulo Expo, what is being done to improve the infrastructure at these two complexes?

ARTHUR REPSOLD - If we look at the last four years, we have invested close to R$400 million in improvements including the Grand Mercure Hotel. We are also investing another R$300 million in Expo São Paulo. Much of this investment is being directed at the pavilions with new halls and breakout rooms. The

GL EVENTS BRAZIL

whole infrastructure of the Riocentro was very outdated and the complex has undergone complete renovation. In relation to São Paulo Expo, after the reformation, it will be the largest convention centre in the country boasting 110 thousand square meters. We are constructing a building with 4,500 parking spaces spread over seven floors. We will also build a new pavilion that will begin in two months.

M&E - Barra da Tijuca,in Rio de Janeiro, has been chosen as the ideal location for new hotel developments. What are your expectations in attracting new events due to this increase in the number of rooms?

ARTHUR REPSOLD– Barra da Tijucahas always had problems with respect to transportation and hotels. This scenario changes completely as out of the 25 hotels that are under construction in Rio, at least 14 are located in Barra da Tijuca. This means an increase of 12,000 rooms.

The question of transport is also being settled, initially with the BRT and soon with the subway.

Rio is well served. We have air access, good services and we are preparing with competence for the Olympics. With all this, the events segment will benefit. I believe that after 2017 we can see the results of all this investment and there are many reservations already in Riocentro, proving this. We are backing this expansion of the event segment.

In the case of a city like Rio, in low season, the events will have a fundamental importance.

M&E - How were the results of 2014 and what are the expectations for this year? Is there

any interest in returning to host ABAV International Tourism Expo in Rio? ARTHUR REPSOLD - We had a positive result last year with a R$567 million profit and the calendar of events is expanding.

The year 2015 will be complicated due to the Olympics and the aftermath of the World Cup, but I’m pretty optimistic. In São Paulo we have already began attracting large events. The company ranked second in income within the multinational group and the first in investments. We also thought about opening one or two more offices in the country to offer a network, invest in services of events. Regarding ABAV, of course there is interest in returning to host the event at Riocentro, but it depends on the own board of ABAV. One might think about hosting Congresses alternatively, one year in each city - Rio and Sao Paulo - and as we have Riocentro and the São Paulo Expo, we are thinking about taking this idea to them soon.

If we look at the last four years, we have invested close to R$400 million in improvements including the Grand Mercure Hotel

M&E - Last year, you released a new website and also a new concept of brand identity. How has the group been working with new technology and what are the results?

ARTHUR REPSOLD - The results were the best possible, exceeding all expectations. To give you an idea, our social media access had an 80% increase in the first quarter of this year.

Today we have 500,000 likes on Facebook, more than one million page views. They are very strong numbers and we are investing more and more.

We even translate our website into other languages.

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EVENT VENUES

STATE CAPITALS

Event Venues in the main state capitals of the country ALAGOAS MACEIÓ

Centro Cultural

Phone: (55-71) 3413-0000

Povos da Amazônia

Website: www.solexpress.com.br

Centro e Convenções Ulysses Guimarães

Capacity: 17.000 Centro Cultural e de

Address: Praça Francisco

Pestana Bahia

Capacity: 9.000

Exposições Ruth Cardoso

Pereira da Silva - S/N

Capacity: 3.600

Address: SDC Setor de Divulgação

Capacity: 1.239

Phone: (55-92) 2125-5300

Address: R. Fonte do Boi, 216

Cultural, Eixo Monumental

Address: R. Celso Piatti, s/ nº

Website:

Phone: (55-71) 2103-800

Phone: (55-61) 3214-2728

Phone: (55-82) 3315-1633

www.povosdamazonia.am.gov.br

Website: www.pestana.com.br

Website: www.setur.df.gov.br

Website: www.centrodeconvencoes.al.gov.br

CEARÁ

Centro de Convenções Studio 5 Capacity: 20.000

FORTALEZA

Naoum Express Brasília Capacity: 80

Maceió Atlantic

Address: Av. Rodrigo Otávio, 3.555

Capacity: 1.100

Phone: (55-92) 3216-3513

Centro de Convenções do Ceará

Phone: (55-61) 3212-4545

Address: Av. Álvaro Otacílio, 4.065

Website: http://www.studio5.com.br/

Capacity: 30.000

Website: www.naoumplaza.com.br

Phone: (55-82) 2121-5656

centrodeconvencoes/

Address: Av. Washington

Website:

BAHIA

www.maceioatlantic.com.br

SALVADOR Jatiúca Hotel

Address: SHS, Quadra 0, Bloco J

Soares, 1.141

Royal Tulip Brasília Alvorada

Phone: (55-85) 3101-6152

Capacity: 1.000

Website:

Address: SHTN, Trecho 01, cj. 1B,

www.centrodeeventos.ce.gov.br

Bloco C

Capacity: 1.200

Bahia Othon Palace

Address: Dr. Mario Nunes Vieira, 220

Capacity: 1.000

Marina Park Hotel

Website: www.

Phone: (55-82) 2122-200

Address: Av. Oceânica, 2.294

Capacity: 1.200

royaltulipbrasilalvorada.com

Website:

Phone: (55-71) 2103-7100

Address: Av. Presidente Castelo

www.hoteljaticuca.com.br

Website: www.othon.com.br

Branco, 400

Phone: (55-61) 3424-7000

Phone: (55-85) 4006-9595

ESPÍRITO SANTO VITÓRIA

Radisson Hotel Maceió

Centro de Convenções da Bahia

Capacity: 750

Capacity: 12.000

Address: Av. Dr. Antonio Gouveia, 925

Address: Av. Simon Bolivar, 600

Oásis Atlântico Imperial

de Vila Velha

Phone: (55-82) 3202-4900

Phone: (55-71) 3117-3101

Capacity: 1.700

Capacity: 1.300

Website:

Website: www.bahiatursa.ba.gov.br

Address: Av. Beria Mar, 2.500

Address: Av. Santa Leopoldina, 840

Phone: (55-85) 4009-2800

Phone: (55-27) 3389-8000

Website: www.oasisatlantico.com

Website: www.ccvv.com.br

Address: R. Passárgada, s / nº

Vila Galé

Centro de Convenções de Vitória

Phone: (55-71) 2106-8500

Capacity: 2.000

Capacity: 600

Website: www.deville.com.br

Address: Av. Diouguinho, 4.189

Address: R. Constante Sodré, 157

Phone: (55-85) 3486-4400

Phone: (55-27) 3335-4600

Website: www.vilagale.com.br

Website:

www.radisonhotelmaceio.com.br Deville Prime Salvador

AMAZONAS

Website: www.marinapark.com.br Centro de Convenções

Capacity: 600

MANAUS Centro de Convenções do Amazonas Vasco Vasques Capacity: 4.800

Fiesta Bahia Hotel

Address: Av. Constantino Nery, 69.050

Capacity: 5.300

Phone: (55-92) 2123-3800

Address: Av. Antônio Carlos

Website:

Magalhães, 741

www.visitamazonastur.com

Phone: (55-71) 3352-0000 Website: www.fiestahoPhonecom.br

Tropical Manaus Ecoresort

www.centrodeconvencoesdevitoria.

DISTRITO FEDERAL BRASÍLIA

com.br

GOIÁS Academia de Tênis Resort

GOIÂNIA

Capacity: 3.000

Capacity: 1.200

Gran Hotel Stella Maris Resort &

Address: SCES, Trecho 4, Lote 1B,

Centro de Convenções de Goiânia

Address: Av. Coronel Teixeira, 1.320

Convention

Portão A

Capacity: 2.000

Phone: (55-92) 2123-5000

Capacity: 1.300

Phone: (55-61) 3316-6161

Address: R. 4, 1.400

Website:

Address: Loteamento Praia de

Website: www.academiaresort.

Phone: (55-62) 3219-3300

www.tropicalhoPhonecom.br

Stella Maris, rua B, s / nº

com.br

Website: www.ccgo.com.br

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EVENT VENUES

STATE CAPITALS

Estação Goiânia

Capacity: 9.200

Phone: (55-31) 3217-7900

Centur – Fundação

Capacity: 12.000

Address: Av. Bernardo Antonio de

Website:

Cultural do Pará

Address: Av. Goiás Norte,

Oliveira Neto, s / nº

http://www.minascentro.com.br/

Tancredo Neves

Qd 2.1, 2.151

Phone: (55-65) 3318-1600

Phone: (55-62) 3218-5252

Website:

Website: www.estacaogoiania.com

www.eventospantanal.com.br

PARAÍBA JOÃO PESSOA

Goiás Arena

Hotel Deville

Fundação Espaço

Capacity: 15.000

Capacity: 1.000

Cultural da Paraíba

Address: Av. Fued José

Address: Av. Isaac Povoas, 1.000

Capacity: 15.000

Estação das Docas

Sebba, s / nº

Phone: (55-65) 3319-3000

Address: R. Abdias Gomes de

Capacity: 2.000

Phone: (55-62) 3218-5252

Website:

Almeida, 800

Address: Av. Boulevar Castilho

Website: www.goianiaarena.com.br

www.deville.com.br

Phone: (55-83) 3211-6210 | (83)

França, s / nº

3211-6250

Phone: (55-91) 3212-5525

Website: www.funesc.com.br

Website:

Capacity: 5.000 Address: Av. Gentil Bittencourt, 650 Phone: (55-91) 3202-4330 Website:

MARANHÃO SÃO LUÍS

Hotel Fazenda Mato Grosso Capacity: 2.000

www.fcptn.pa.gov.br

www.estacaodasdocas.com.br

Address: R. Antônia Dorileo, 1.100

Tropical Hotel Tambaú

Brisamar Hotel

Phone: (55-65) 3315-1200

Capacity: 1.500

Hangar Centro de Convenções e

Capacity: 200

Website: www.hotelmt.com.br/

Address: Av. Almirante

Feiras da Amazônia

Address: Av. São Marcos, 12

fazenda/ohoPhonephp

Tamandaré, 229

Capacity: 2.200

Phone: (55-83) 3247-1070

Address: Av. Doutor Freitas, s / nº

Website: www.tropicaltambau.com.br

Phone: (55-91) 3344-0100

Phone: (55-98) 2106-0606 Website: www.brisamar.com.br

MATO GROSSO DO SUL CAMPO GRANDE

Website: www.

PARANÁ

Hotel Luzeiros São Luis

hangarcentrodeconvencoes.com.br

CURITIBA

Capacity: 700

Centro de Convenções e

Address: R. João Pereira

Exposições Albano Franco

Damasceno, 2. Ponta do Farol

Capacity: 30.000

Bourbon Curitiba

Phone: (55-98) 3311-4956

Address: Av. Mato Grosso, 5.017

Convention Hotel

Website:

Phone: (55-67) 3326-7400

Capacity: 1.000

Centro de Convenções da

www.luzeirossaoluis.com.br

Website:

Address: R. Cândido Lopes, 102

Universidade Federal de

www.expoalbanofranco.com.br

Phone: (55-41) 3221-4600

Pernambuco

Website: www.bourbon.com.br

Capacity: 1.931

Rio Poty São Luís Capacity: 2.800 Address: Av. dos Holandeses s / nº,

MINAS GERAIS BELO HORIZONTE

L. 2/5, Q. 32 Phone: (55-98) 3311-1500

Chevrolet Hall

Website:

Capacity: 5.000

www.riopotysaoluis.com.br

Address: Av. Nossa Senhora do Carmo, 230

PERNAMBUCO

Address: Av Reitores – Cidade Centro de Convenções

Universitária

de Curitiba

Phone: (55-81) 3271-1068

Capacity: 850

Website.:

Address: R. Barão do Rio Branco, 370 Phone: (55-41) 3322-8955

Sebrae Multicenter

Phone: (55-31) 4003-5588

Capacity: 660

Website:

Address: Av. Jesônimo de

www.chevrolethallbh.com.br

Expo Unimed Curitiba

Phone: (55-98) 3216-6166 |

Expominas

Capacity: 2.000

(98) 3216-6147

Capacity: 21.000

Website: www.sebraema.com.br

Address: Av. Amazonas, 1.264

Albuquerque, s / nº

Phone: (55-31) 3334-5145

MATO GROSSO

Website: www.expominas.com.br

Website: www.ccc.pr.gov.br

Address: R. Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, 5.300 Phone: (55-41) 3317-3000 Website:

Minascentro Centro de Convenções

Capacity: 10.000

do Pantanal

Address: R. Curitiba, 1.264

PARÁ BELÉM

www.convencoes.ufpe.br Internacional Palace Hotel Capacity: 1.000 Address: Av. Boa Viagem, 3.722 Phone: (55-81) 4009-2500 Website: www.lucsimhoteis.com.br Mar Hotel Conventions Recife Capacity: 1.200 Address: R. Barão de Souza

www.expounimedcuritiba.com.br

CUIABÁ

RECIFE

Leão, 451 Phone: (55-81) 3302-4444 Website: www.marhoPhonecom.br June 2015

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IBTM America | MERCADO & EVENTOS | 37

EVENT VENUES

STATE CAPITALS

RIO DE JANEIRO RIO DE JANEIRO

Phone: (55-21) 2272-2919

8787 – Sarandi

Website:

Website: www.vivorio.com.br

Phone: (55-51) 3347-8636

www.convencoesreboucas.com.br

www.centrodeeventosfiergs.com.br/ Windsor Atlantica Hotel

Belmond Copacabana Palace Capacity: 2.000 Address: Av. Atlântica, 1.702 Phone: (55-21) 2548-7070 Website: www.copacabanapalace. com.br

Centro Fecomercio de eventos

Capacity: 450

Centro de Eventos PUCRS

Capacity: 1.300

Address: Av. Atlântica, 1.020

Capacity: 3.000

Address: R. Dr. Plínio Barreto, 285

Phone: (55-21) 2195-7800

Address: Avenida Ipiranga 6681,

Phone: (55-11) 3254-1591 |

Website: www.windsorhotels.com

Partenon

(11) 3254-1592

Phone: (55-51) 3320-3566

Website: www.fecomercio.com.br

Windsor Barra

Website: http://www.pucrs.br/cepuc/

Capacity: 5.000

Marina da Glória

Address: Av. Lucio Costa, 2.630

Capacity: 4.500

Phone: (55-21) 2195-5000

Address: Av. Infante

Website: www.windsorhotels.com

Dom Henrique, s / nº

SANTA CATARINA FLORIANÓPOLIS

Expo Center Norte Capacity: 4.500 Address: R. José Bernardo Pinto, 333

Phone: (55-21) 2555-2200 Website: www.brmarinas.com.br Píer Mauá

RIO GRANDE DO NORTE NATAL

Capacity: 8.000

Centro de Convenções de Natal

Address: Av. Rodrigues Alves, 10

Capacity: 10.000

Phone: (55-21) 3195-8000

Address: Av. Dinarte Mariz, s / nº

Website: www.piermaua.com.br

Phone: (55-84) 3236-2843 Website: www.ccnatal.com.br

RioCentro Exhbition & Convention Center

Serhs Natal Grand Hotel

Capacity: 20.500

Capacity: 1.300

Address: Av. Salvador Allende, 6.555

Address: Av. Senador Dinarte

Phone: (55-21) 2441-9398

Mariz, 6.045

Website: www.riocentro.com.br

Phone: (55-84) 4005-2000 Website:

Rio Othon Palace

www.serhsnatalgrandhotel.com

Capacity: 700 Address: Av. Atlântica, 3.264

RIO GRANDE DO SUL PORTO ALEGRE

Phone: (55-21) 2106-1500 Website: www.othon.com.br

Plaza Porto Alegre Hotel

Royal Tulip Rio de Janeiro

Capacity: 350

Capacity: 2.000 Address: Av. Aquarela do Brasil, 75 Phone: (55-21) 3323-2200

Address: R. Senhor dos Passos, 154 Phone: (51) 3295-8000 Website: www.plazahoteis.com.br

Website: www.royaltulipriodejaneiro.com

Costão do Santinho Resort,

Phone: (55-11) 224-5959

Golf & Spa

Website:

Capacity: 3.600

www.expocenternorte.com.br

Address: Rod. Vereador Onildo Lemos, 2.505 Phone: (55-48) 3261-1000 Website: www.costao.com Majestic Palace Hotel Capacity: 800 Address: Av. Beira Mar Norte, 2.746

Transamérica Expo Center Capacity: 3.000 Address: Av. Dr. Mário Villas Boas Rodrigues, 387 Phone: (55-11) 5643-3000 Website: www.transamericaexpo.com.br

Phone: (55-48) 3231-8000 Website: www.majesticpalace.com.br

WTC São Paulo Events Center Capacity: 2.500 pessoas

SÃO PAULO SÃO PAULO

Address: Av. das Nações

Anhembi Parque

Website:

Capacity: 30.000

Unidas, 12.551 Phone: (55-11) 3055-8888 www.wtcconventioncenter.com.br

Address: Av. Olavo Fontoura, 1.209 Phone: (55-11) 2226-0500 Website: www.anhembi.com.br Centro de Convenções Frei Caneca

SERGIPE ARACAJU Centro de Convenções de Sergipe Capacity: 1.000 Address: Av. Pres. Tancredo

Plaza São Rafael Hotel e Centro

Capacity: 2.100

Sheraton Rio Hotel & Resort

de Convenções

Address: R. Frei Caneca, 569

Capacity: 10.000

Capacity: 3.200

Phone: (55-11) 3472-2000 |

Website:

Address: Av. Niemeyer, 121

Address: Av. Alberto Bins, 514

(11) 3472-2020

www.centrodeconvencoes.se.gov.br

Phone: (55-21) 2274-1122

Phone: (51) 3220-7000

Website:

Website: www.sheraton-rio.com.br

Website: www.plazahoteis.com.br/

www.convencoesfreicaneca.com.br

saorafael/br Vivo Rio

Neves, 4.444 Phone: (55-79) 3226-9600

Teatro Tobias Barreto Capacity: 1.350

Centro de Convenções Rebouças

Address: Av. Pres. Tancredo

Capacity: 5.000

Centro de Eventos FIERGS

Capacity: 1.200

Neves, 2.209

Address: Av. Infantes Dom

Capacity: 8.000

Address: Av. Rebouças, 600

Phone: (55-79) 3179-1490

Henrique, 85

Address: Av. Assis Brasil,

Phone: (55-11) 3898-7850

Website: www.aracaju.se.gov.br

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