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HEADQUARTERS EUROPE, MIDDLE-EAST, AFRICA

the EMEA Magazine for Association Executives Supported by ESAE, European Society of Association Executives, and UIA, Union of International Associations, Europe

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Meeting Media Company Meetings Industry Publishers Afgiftekantoor 2800 Mechelen 1 Bureau de D茅p么t 2800 Malines 1 HQ is published 5 times a year: March, April, June, September, November Edition November 2012 - P3A9029

MACAU A meeting destination on the rise

Marketing your association with ESAE & UIA

congressfrankfurt Location. Service. Experience.

Top venues Congress Center, Festhalle, Kap Europa – together right in the middle of Frankfurt. Experience a lot and attain even more.

Find further Messe Frankfurt locations at: www.congressfrankfurt.de

HQ > CONTENTS

Colophon HQ or Headquarters is a niche publication for European and international associations headquartered in Brussels and all major European cities dealing with the organization OF worldwide congresses. It is published 5 times a year. Circulation is 5000 copies.

Subscriptions Subscription amounts to 65 EUR (all incl.) in Belgium, 75 EUR (all incl.) in the EU and 95 EUR (all incl.) in the rest of the world.

The subscription entails 5 editions of HQ per year including the special edition Meeting Trends, as well as an online access to the website.

To subscribe: www.headquartersmagazine.com Editor in Chief Marcel A.M.Vissers T: +32 (0)3 226 88 81 marcel@headquartersmagazine.com Managing Director Cécile Caiati-Koch T: +32 (0)2 761 70 52 cecile@headquartersmagazine.com Account Manager - International Sales Kelvin Lu T: +32(0)761 70 59 kelvin@headquartersmagazine.com Managing Editor Rémi Dévé T: +32 (0)2 761 70 58 remi@headquartersmagazine.com Design WALLRUS, Kortrijk T: +32 (0)56 24 94 44 info@wallrus.be Print Cartim - Destelbergen Supported by ESAE and UIA Address 59, rue René Declercq B - 1150 Brussels (Belgium) T: +32 (0)2 761 70 50 F: +32 (0)2 761 70 51 www.headquartersmagazine.com Responsible Publisher Meeting Media Company Marcel A.M. Vissers Mechelseplein 23, bus 1 B - 2000 Antwerpen (Belgium)

marcel’s comment

Telex Message: ‘Long Live the Fairs’ I would like to send two oldfashioned telex messages to two of my good relations in the world of exhibition organizers. First of all ‘long life’ to EIBTM, celebrating its 25th anniversary in November this year. I remember that day in May 1993 very well, when Ray Bloom organized his first World MICE Exhibition in Geneva.

The meetings industry (still called MICE in Europe back then) was completely stunned when they heard the term ‘hosted buyer’ for the first time. It was interpreted as ‘paying someone to do business’.

This marketing principle was not practiced in any other industry branch. No one believed in it, except for a few editors of professional magazines. Those magazines went out of their way to attract ‘buyers’ to the fair. In exchange, more often than not, they got a free stand in some forgotten corner of the exhibition.

That’s the way things were back then. The principle worked, but nowadays interest has faded and most magazines don’t even visit new fairs like AIBTM and IMEX America. They feel a bit underestimated for the work they did helping those exhibitions grow.

A second message goes out to someone I have to mention with his full name, because people sometimes tend to forget him in our industry. In 1993 I got my first invitation from an Asian fair organiser. Mr. Darren Ng of TTG Asia started IT&CMA (now there’s also IT&CM China and IT&CM India) in Hong Kong. Via an intermediate stop in Singapore, the event found a definitive place to stay in Bangkok. ‘Long life’ to IT&CMA, celebrating its 20th birthday this year! Asian organisers are generally more friendly in their dealings with the press. That’s why their press

rooms are always filled to the brim. Credit where credit is due: in this case all credit goes to Darren Ng, who I’d like to call Asia’s Ray Bloom. IT&CMA still has a lot to look forward to, the Asian MICE industry is really up and running.

The first association buyers have already registered! I know, no one is losing any sleep over this little piece of history, but I’m doing it for our grandchildren.

» More stories on www.headquartersmagazine.com

DESTINATIONS

CONTENTS General Edito AIM Group International News Association Portrait Cécile Caiati-Koch

Marcel A.M. Vissers Editor in Chief

Rémi Dévé

5 6 7 8

ESAE & UIA Marketing your association and its events 11

DESTINATION special HQ magazine sets great store by sustainable development and therefore chose responsible FSC® certified paper which comes from a controlled source.

More info: www.fsc.org ® FSC, A.C. FSC-SECR-0045

Macau

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Meetropolis, Germany Hong Kong Brisbane, Australia Malaysia Brussels, Belgium Rimini, Italy Lausanne, Switzerland Grimaldi Forum, Monaco, Viparis, France CTICC, South Africa Montpellier, France Scotland World Forum, The Hague

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Drivers for change in the meetings industry We live in a globally changing connected world where volatility is the key business driver.

The elements of change that impact any company have the same relevancy to our industry.

Our markets are volatile. Technology changes constantly. New generations of customers, workers, companies, supply chains, members have evolving needs. Communication means, messages and methods need to be more creative. We must be ready to meet these drivers for change head on - in fact, we have to be more proactive and we cannot afford not to be.

Specifically, what does change look like for the meetings industry?

The association meetings have evolved from being the ‘activity’ to becoming ‘the platform’ for all association activities. Organizations are questioning and defining the objective of events and meetings. The core reason they meet is of course all about learning. But, is

learning simply about gaining knowledge… or making connections? Or both? The structure and format of the meeting are shifting. Before, we held plenary sessions, concurrent/parallel sessions, satellite symposia and the like. Today, our events need to be a delegate centred educational experience.

Then, how do we prepare for the future? First, continuously look at your meeting through the eyes of your participant and determine a unique proposition that will exceed their expectations. Second, make sure you keep your promises.

How to implement a successful event?

Recognize the need for more creative meeting spaces to integrate different learning experiences, implement high use of technology, create customized appealing meeting packages, focus on sustainability and the increasing need to invest in the community, plan and implement a total customized experience for the delegates.

Flaminia Roberti

Contact Flaminia Roberti Marketing & Sales Director AIM Group International T: +39 06 33053.219 f.roberti@aimgroup.eu www.aimgroupinternational.com

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KLCC

London

Prague

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Eyeing China Market

Europe’s Largest Medical Congress Selects London for 2015

5th Annual European Investment Conference in Prague

As Malaysia’s leading convention facility offering world-class services to an international clientele, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Centre) is always looking for ways to remain ahead of the curve.

With this in mind, the Centre is increasing its engagement with a large populated emerging market in Asia namely China. The recent three-city China road show to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou organised by the Centre’s Team Malaysia partner, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), provided an ideal platform for the Centre to further increase awareness of its facility and services to a big potential clientele. www.klccconventioncentre.com

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) announced that it would bring its annual congress to London in 2015. The ESC Congress is the largest cardiology meeting in the world. Around 35,000 medical professionals are expected in the capital for the 5 day event from 29 August - 2 September 2015. The announcement was made by Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, Kevin Murphy, CEO of ExCeL London and Prof Kim Fox, representing the ESC. www.londonandpartners.com

World’s leading senior and most respected financial, economic and investment commentators met in Prague to examine challenges and opportunities that face the global financial industry and the implications for investors in Europe. The annual CFA Institute European Investment Conference, held in partnership with the Chartered Financial Analyst Society of the Czech Republic (CFA Society Czech Republic) and under the auspices of Petr Koblic, Chairman and CEO of the Prague Stock Exchange, brought together over 300 investment practitioners from around the world, on 18-19 October 2012 at Marriott Hotel Prague. www.pragueconvention.cz

Navigating Compliance Waters at QEII Conference Centre The latest in the series of QE II masterclasses will address increasingly complex regulatory requirements and how they impact association events, particularly where medical and scientific meetings are concerned. The morning session will be led by Julie Simper, Kenes Education CME/CPD Manager, who will be joined by a range of experts in association management, sponsorship, industry and compliance. This is a free event to be held at QEII Conference Centre, London, on Tuesday 11 September, but booking is essential. www.qeiicc.co.uk/compliance

Geneva Spirit: 50 event organisers from Europe in Geneva From 21 to 23 September, the new ‘Geneva Spirit’ rally organised by the Geneva Tourism & Convention Bureau brought together 50 conference and convention organisers interested in the possibility of choosing Geneva for future events.

Professionals from Switzerland, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Italy, Russia and Israel took part in this first meeting. Divided into six teams, each named after a personality well known in the city - Calvin, Poussin, Rousseau, Sissi, Zep and Zino - they explored the town through various activities and by answering Geneva related questions. www.genevaconventionbureau.ch

2012 - 2013 Meetings Industry Fairs Worldwide: Make Your Choice!

EIBTM // 27-29 November 2012, Barcelona // www.eibtm.com AIME // 26-27 February 2013, Melbourne // www.aime.com.au IMEX // 21-23 May 2013, Frankfurt // www.imex-frankfurt GIBTM // 25-27 March 2013, Abu Dhabi // www.gibtm.com AIBTM // 11-13 June 2013, Chicago // www.aibtm

HEADQUARTERS 7

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> association portrait

EUROMIL

A talk with Secretary General Dr. Gerhard Ahlbrecht EUROMIL, an umbrella organization, is the main Europe-wide forum for cooperation among professional military associations on issues of common concern. Founded in 1972 by 8 associations from 5 West European countries, the organization grew steadily and is now composed of 43 associations from 28 countries. Its Secretary General Gerhard Ahlbrecht was kind enough to answer a few questions.

Dr. Gerhard Ahlbrecht

HQ: What should we know about ­EUROMIL and what makes it so special?

Gerhard Ahlbrecht: EUROMIL is indeed a special and literally unique organization: the story started in a small hotel in ­Bergisch-Gladbach, Germany, almost exactly 40 years ago and consequently, on 13-14 September 2012, the European Organisation of Military Associations (­EUROMIL) celebrated its 40th anniversary.

From the Russian Federation to Ireland, and from Finland to Cyprus, EUROMIL defends the social and professional interests of military personnel of all ranks in Europe and promotes the concept of ‘Citizen in Uniform’.

Through its office in Brussels, EUROMIL facilitates the exchange of information, experiences and best practice among member associations. The organization, moreover, strives to secure and advance the human rights, fundamental freedoms and socio-professional interests of soldiers by monitoring and advocating at the European level.

EUROMIL supports the inclusion of military personnel into EU social and labour legislation. Among its achievements was the significant contribution of EUROMIL in creating the political circumstances in which some countries introduced legislation and regulations recognizing the legality of representative associations for military personnel. EUROMIL continues to support the right of association in all European countries and to form associations for military personnel to protect their social conditions.

> association portrait

Even before 1989 EUROMIL became conscious of the political changes and their impact on all citizens of Europe as the European Union evolved towards the political and economic integration of nations at an increasing pace. Nowadays, the organization maintains formal contacts with the EU Institutions, the Council of Europe (CoE), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC).

Additionally, EUROMIL established partnerships with the Parliamentarians Network for Conflict Prevention (PN), the European Security Round Table (ESRT), Dr. Manfred Wörner Circle (DMWC) and most recently the European Movement International (EMI).

HQ: Tell us about the events you organise as an association.

Gerhard Ahlbrecht: EUROMIL organizes two Presidium Meetings a year, one in Brussels and one abroad. This autumn, the 4th EUROMIL Congress will gather in Brussels on 26-27 October 2012. The Congress is the highest EUROMIL authority. It is composed of the delegates of the member associations in proportion to their membership and meets every four years. The Congress elects the President and the Board, approves the long-term policy objectives of the organization and has the sole authority to make amendments to its Charter.

High-level speakers, such as Pieter de Crem, the Belgian Defense Minister, will participate in the official opening. EUROMIL will welcome its Honorary Members among the approximate 80-100 delegates and guests. Presidium Meetings include a Welcoming Reception and at least one workshop, eg. on pension systems or veteran policies, always structured alongside a comparative approach at the European level.

Apart from these international gatherings of the ‘EUROMIL family’, the EUROMIL Office in Brussels organizes a wide range of events, for instance, Public Hearings in the European Parliament (EP) t, or Breakfast Meetings with its cooperation partner ESRT also in the EP, or, most recently, a so-called side event (panel) on the Right of Association at the OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM) in cooperation with ODIHR (Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights) in Warsaw on 25 September 2012.

104th Presidium Meeting

HQ: How do you choose the destination when organizing a conference?

Gerhard Ahlbrecht: The choice of the destination depends on the member associations in which country the conference takes place but has to be approved by the Board and the delegates of the Presidium, generally two years in advance. Next year EUROMIL will hold a conference in Cyprus, 2014 in Portugal and 2015 probably in the UK. The proximity of an international airport is a crucial criterion. It is important that delegates can easily access the venue from different parts of Europe. In this sense Brussels is the ideal location, the city in which EUROMIL is headquartered and where it holds its autumn Presidium Meeting each year and its Congress every four years. In the Belgian capital, EUROMIL has made an excellent experience with the International Trade Union House (ITUH) for many years now, in terms of technical support, catering, etc. pp.

HQ: What do you find most challenging as an association?

Gerhard Ahlbrecht: Regarding the organization of events, it is not always easy to find adequate keynote speakers, in particular abroad when EUROMIL depends, to some extent, on the hosting member association. Furthermore, and this won’t come as a surprise, we are facing severe budget constraints and have to streamline the organization. EUROMIL is a purely membership fee financed association which feels more and more the impact of far-reaching budget cuts in the defense sector at the national level, an impact which trickles down to EUROMIL member associations and entails negative effects on the ‘social dimension of security’, EUROMIL’s motto.

At present, the main challenge to tackle is the negative impact of the economic and financial crisis on defense budgets. The subsequent reductions in national defense spending and numerical strengths of armed forces have created new challenges for the national associations and EUROMIL HQ: According to you, what are the latest trends in the association world?

Gerhard Ahlbrecht: Today’s delegates demand information delivered faster (EUROMIL does this on its website for registered users prior to events by pulling together all relevant meeting documents online) and in more interesting and challenging ways. To this end, associations have to use social media in an innovative and, most importantly, interactive way, thus transcending hierarchical structures and circumventing ‘red tape’. In all types of association, even the military, social networking plays an increasing, sometimes hyped-up, role.

HQ: Any memorable destination you've been to lately. If so why?

Gerhard Ahlbrecht: EUROMIL’s Presidium Meeting in Stockholm in April 2011 is certainly among the most memorable destinations. Everything went smoothly, the delegates enjoyed a well-spaced, modern hotel, an innovative ice breaker Welcoming Reception (‘Island concept’), outstanding speakers and vivid discussions during a workshop. I would also rate our Presidium Meeting in Limerick in spring 2012 very high, among other things, for the unrivalled Irish hospitality, although, and this was a small disadvantage, accessibility of the city was not ideal in comparison with Dublin. www.euromil.org

WHERE

TIMELESS

ON-TIME

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With endless activity options – from world-class golf courses to some of the More and morehistorical global organisations and associations are making the decision world’s oldest sites – combined with breath-taking scenery and a to lively, Meet in Ireland, where working hard and an easy-going nature go hand in hand. vibrant culture, Ireland has something for everyone.

Where you hotels, find state-of-the-art conference facilities and cutting edge Pair thatelse withcan 5 star fantastic fresh food, and creative and imaginative professionalismactivities. amongstYou a young population? team-building will and seevibrant why Ireland is the ideal location More and more global organisations and associations are making the decision to for your incentive.

Meet in Ireland, where an easy-going nature go hand in hand.

Welcome to Ireland – theworking perfect hard placeand to meet.

Where 100,000 welcomes our enviable passion lifeenviable always ensure Welcome to Ireland, whereand 100,000 welcomes andforour passion

Where else can you find both state-of-the-art conference facilities and cutting edge an life enjoyable event organisers and delegates alike. for alwaysexperience ensure an for enjoyable experience. professionalism amongst a young and vibrant population?

Visit www.meetinireland.be www.meetinireland.be and next conference Visit andplan planyour your next incentive with with us. us.

Welcome to Ireland – the perfect place to meet.

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Marketing an association and its events Twenty-five years ago, I arrived in Paris to assume the responsibility of managing a trade association which had been in existence since 1927 and which was largely dominated by European and North American companies. Since then, the organization has evolved and major political and socio-economic events have reshaped the structure of the industry and its association.

Text Luc Maene, President of ESAE and Director General of the International Fertilizer Association (IFA)

The collapse of the former Soviet Union, the opening up of China, and the emergence of Brazil and India have significantly contributed to what the association represents today. In this process, the association had to constantly adapt and review its strategy to best respond to what its members have wanted.

Having some 150 break-out rooms in operation during our annual conference is certainly not something I would have imagined when I started in Paris. Marketing the association and marketing its events go hand in hand.

Indeed, satisfied members are the best ambassadors of our events and successful programmes attract new members.

Operating in a global environment with sometimes quite divergent views is a challenge for any organization. Providing a platform for discussion and for members to meet is key. The events we organize have grown from strength to strength and we need to constantly innovate in order to provide the best possible service.

Here again the events sector has been completely transformed. Not only has member behaviour changed regarding travel, but the communication tools at our disposal have altered the way we are now operating.

Satisfied members are the best ambassadors of our events and successful programmes attract new members

The good news is that we are now organizing many more events than in the past with considerably more energy and effort, in order to have attractive, well focused and interesting programmes.

No doubt, this trend is going to continue and we keep on reshaping our events to satisfy our customers.

Although the global economic situation over the past 25 years has seen its ups and downs, our events have stood firm, demonstrating the need for people to meet, to network, to interact, and to be together. The advent of social media, of hybrid meetings, and of stiff competition from commercial organizations are stimuli to do better and provide prime content.

Every association has a purpose, a mission, a vision and a strategy. Those that are capable of reviewing their

strategy in function of evolving member requirements will have no problem in surviving. Professionalism is required, certainly when organizing events, and it is satisfying to see member support growing with it.

www.esae.org

Luc Maene

Marketing: Back to Basics… more HQ had a talk with Keren Moses Deront, Account Director, and Adeline Prieur, Communications Manager, at Interel Association Management. What does marketing mean for associations? Are there do’s and don’ts? Shouldn’t we go back to the basics? Here are some answers.

HQ: Do you market your main events and your associations differently than before?

Keren Moses Deront: Yes, I think we all agree that adapting our marketing techniques and tools to today’s changing times is a must.

However, we often get so tangled up with all the technology, social media and the ‘e’ world that we tend to forget some Marketing 101 basics. There are some things that we should keep in mind no matter what marketing and evolving world we live in. Today, it has become so easy to push information out, that we sometimes overlook targeting the appropriate audience which really is the fundamentals of marketing.

HQ: So is successful marketing just about targeting audiences?

Adeline Prieur: Of course not, that would be too easy! It’s also about ensuring that an association’s main event is seen as part and parcel of the association. Many of the associations we work with consider their main event as their key revenue generator but don’t always use the opportunity to market event and association in an integrated manner. It is vital to use an event to promote the full array of an organization’s offerings and use the association’s other activities to ensure maximum promotion of their event.

How many of us have spoken to event delegates who are unclear on the organisation behind the event they are attending?

Having said that, one should avoid the ‘one size fits all’ approach: some delegates may only be attending an event to gain knowledge on a specific topic or use it as a networking opportunity . So we’re going back to the importance of knowing your audience and what they want. Members are behaving more and more like ‘customers’, they know what they want, and they want it now. To remain successful, associations need to capture, analyse and understand what the various audiences expect and design events that can cater to a maximum of these needs.

HQ: How can an association and its main event be seen as one?

Adeline Prieur: Whether associations organise their events in-house or via an external partner, it is important to ensure a holistic approach to marketing and communicating the Society’s activities and their main event. If events are marketed without showing a link to the organisation, the divide will broaden and opportunities could be missed.

If a Society chooses to use an external partner for their event organisation, they should try and integrate the staff within their own team as much as possible for the duration of this relationship. This ensures a more unified messaging and optimises opportunities and channels to disseminate the various offerings.

Keren Moses Deront: It is also important to ensure consistent branding. Visual identity is not as subliminal as we think. The Association should be highly visible at their own event so that event and association are seen as one.

HQ: Do you have specific suggestions to offer our readers?

Keren Moses Deront: The human factor is important in marketing so whether it is the staff, external partners, members or boards, they are often over-

looked as a marketing resource. Associations need to take advantage of their network and have them help spread the word. And of course, whether it’s via the website, in newsletters, eBlasts, meetings or stand presence, all association activities need to be showcased.

Adeline Prieur: I would also reiterate that associations need to take a more holistic approach and integrate their events as part of their wider strategy. What was once the key revenue generator for many associations, should now be considered within the context of other offerings and today’s market. I would also suggest that organisations take advantage of the physical presence of delegates at their meetings to dialogue, test ideas and ask them what they want to see in the future. For example, if an association is looking to launch a new activity, then a survey to delegates could help shape the initiative, determine market readiness or fine tune their marketing and roll-out plan.

HQ: Any other tips?

Keren Moses Deront: I would underscore the importance of relationships and word of mouth. Events are about individuals getting together to exchange and network. When clients, sponsors and members relay their own personal and professional benefits of attending a specific meeting or being part of an organisation, it is a powerful take home message for the listener.

Finally, I would recommend looking at what is being done by other organizations especially in the for profit world. We have a lot to learn from them; at the end of the day, we share the same objective: providing the best possible products and services to our ‘customers’. www.interelgroup.com www.interelamc.com

Increasing attendance levels at your event 6 key lessons

With less time and budget, we still all share a common goal - to ensure that our events are well attended and successful. An integrated marketing communications strategy and platform - one that is current and meets the real needs of our audiences is key! This will ensure a maximum degree of creativity and flexibility and will go a long way to setting up your event for success.

Text Tomas Wedin, Congrex Group Marketing Director

Developing a solid tactical plan that will lead to increased attendance levels at your next event is key. But how do we best maximise budget efficiency and audience reach? Below are 6 key steps to set you on your way:

Step 1: Follow your audience: before, during and after It’s essential to familiarise yourself with your participants and find out why they attend your event. This information will determine your unique selling points (USP’s). Some key points: • Which channels are best for your target audience? Do you really know who they are?

• Where is your audience? Local vs.

International.

• What are the current trends in your industry?

• Who are your main competitors and what are they doing?

• Examine past trends and attendance numbers. Talk to different people in the industry. It’s easier to work in collaboration with other associations and key stakeholders, than to try and work alone. Everyone has the same issues/ concerns - use your network.

Step 2: Set clear objectives Once you know your delegates and what your event offers, it is essential to set

clear tangible targets. The inventory of deliverables for marketing your event should include an interesting assortment of overall media to match the channels and its audience - allowing for focus on the most important information and who and how you want to target. Your objectives should detail how many attendees you want and what the mix of industry, country and other attendee demographic information should be.

Being very specific about your objectives will help you evaluate if your key messages are correct and if your selected communication channels are worthwhile.

Step 3: Determine your communications message - Assess the most relevant There are hundreds of ways to get your message across in the realm of (social) media and not all will be equally effective for your event. Determine what you want to communicate. It’s easy to get distracted by all the features of your event, so stay focused on your USP’s: What are your participant needs and are the media (social or otherwise) channels for intended use relevant to your target audience? Evaluate: • Programme content: since delegates will be focused on learning outcomes, use the draw of well-known keynote speakers who will create a buzz and encourage people to attend. Send tweets, messages on LinkedIn, and Facebook to announce an interesting speaker.

• Networking: events and conferences are key times to discuss future collaborations and business, so make sure you also emphasise the networking opportunities available.

• Incentives: Offer special deals and discounts to register early. This will give you a better idea of your attendance numbers. Use all available channels to spread the message.

• Design: the look of your message should fit and be used consistently throughout all your marketing activities. This can increase brand recognition of your event. Adapt this to your social media platforms as well.

Step 4: The quality of the message is only as good as how well it is transmitted The success of getting your messages across to the right audience lies in the repetition factor. It is essential to repeat your key messages via different channels,

so you will need to consider the quantity, frequency and type of media. Options you can utilise include: • Social media: Be very aware of what channels serve your event best - maximise the benefits of communicating directly and getting real-time feedback.

• Email: inexpensive for customised ­messages. Careful of spam filters and data protection laws.

• Direct Mail: Can be expensive, but ­effective. Usefulness will depend on the quality of your database.

• Website calendars and links: inexpensive and effective promotional tool - it can publish event details on other websites that your delegates visit.

• Advertising: target people not on your database and can boost event creditability.

• Other exhibitions and conferences: very effective way of reaching your target audience through attending or exhibiting at relevant events and conferences.

• Use your network - deploy all channels within your reach and use cross-promotions and other activities to further spread your message. Think other associations, conventions centres and other organisations.

There are hundreds of ways to get your message across in the realm of (social) media and not all will be equally effective for your event

time for the actual work to start. Coordinating the execution of all the marketing activities can be complicated; particularly if your event is international and you are using a lot of social media.

Your planning should be user-friendly and easy to understand. Remember to detail all the activities, deadlines and the persons responsible. Communicate the list to all parties involved and ensure everyone understands who is responsible.

Plan the life of your marketing campaign in a continuum - in other words the life of your event is much longer than you think.

Social media channels can really go a long way before, during and after.

Step 6: Good follow-up is everything!

Evaluate your event. Ask for feedback and keep the event alive by creating post-event platforms. Run feeds from your sessions on the event website and give those not able to attend the ability to participate. This will create a positive image of the event and already market the next one that follows. Most importantly, keeping in direct contact with your audience, will allow you to assess what tools were well used from the toolbox and which need improvement - or merely need to be tossed out. This is all good information - and will deliver dividends in the long-run by allowing you to further fine-tune your message and how you can best deliver it.

Step 5: It’s all about execution, execution, execution Once you have figured out your messages and how you will get them across, it is

www.congrex.com

UIA ı Union of International Associations

International Union of Immunological Societies (IUIS)

Immunology Without Borders

Which medical science is involved in the maximum number of diseases? Which medical research field leads to innovative diagnostic tools as well as treatments that can cure and prevent diseases on a global scale?

The answer: IMMUNOLOGY. The incredible diversity of immunology’s applications has created a medical research specialty that interacts with all medical fields. Doctors and scientists who study the body’s immune system are known as immunologists. The immune system is a highly complex network of cells, tissues and organs found throughout the body and plays a significant role in helping us stay healthy. It is our immune system that is at the frontline of defense in the war against infectious disease and cancer.

Immunology is a dynamic discipline.

Immunologists are constantly pushing to discover ways of defending the public against new and ongoing healthcare challenges. Immunology extends beyond laboratory and clinical research to public health initiatives to eradicate diseases from the planet.

IUIS, an umbrella organization Major human diseases can only be eradicated through international collaboration and exchange of information. IUIS is an umbrella organization for regional and national societies of immunology throughout the world. IUIS enables collaboration on a grand scale by federating the forces of tens of thousands of immunologists from 82 different countries.

There are currently 69 Member Societies of IUIS, which belong to one of four Regional Federations encompassing Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia-Oceania or are direct members such as US and Canada. Links with other international sci-

HEADQUARTERS 16

entific bodies are promoted through the International Affiliate Members of IUIS, membership of the I nternational Council for Science (ICSU) and formal liaison with the World Health Organization (WHO).

Activities of IUIS are overseen by the Officers and Council, who are elected at the triennial General Assembly and are broadly representative of the interests and geographical distribution of member societies.

Several Committees have also been established to conduct activities of ongoing interest to IUIS, currently in the areas of clinical immunology, education, nomenclature, quality assessment and standardization, and veterinary immunology.

The ICI Congress, the largest meet-up in immunology, every 3 years Every 3 years, IUIS organizes the International Congress of Immunology, the largest gathering of physicians, scientists and industrial representatives involved in immunology in the world. Close to 10,000 people come together to share their knowledge, innovations and discoveries in immunology. IUIS also contributes to the staging of regular congresses and conferences by each of the four Regional Federations and to various educational activities in immunology. The ICI Congress is the main tool for the Union to market itself.

The 15th International Congress of Immunology will take place in Milan, Italy, August 22-27, 2013. It is being organized in association with the Società Italiana Immunologia Clinica e Allergologia (SIICA).

MIC, Milano

Stefan H.E. Kaufmann, IUIS President, says: ‘The ICI will serve as platform for communication and exchange of the most challenging state-of-the-art research among immunologists. It will also serve as impressive communication forum for the general public, the press and politicians to be aware of the importance of immunologic research for maintenance of well-being, and combat of major diseases, including infectious diseases, cancer, cardio-vascular diseases, autoimmune diseases or allergies. Last but not least, the ICI will provide a unique opportunity for meeting colleagues/friends/post-doc candidates and mentors. The ICI is always a wonderful meeting point for researchers from academia, industry and clinics both from industrialized and developing countries and hence strengthen existing friendships and invite new ones.’

IUIS will be able to present the congress in Milan, a historic and magnificent city with vibrant energy. Today, Milan is a renowned international centre of fashion and design as well as a city with extraordinary art, most notably The Last Supper

by Leonardo da Vinci. Milan has recently opened MiCo, one of the largest and most modern congress centres in Europe. It will comfortably accommodate participants in IUIS’s 15th International Congress.

What’s the Union of International Associations (UIA)?

The Union of International Associations - UIA - is a non-profit, independent, apolitical, and non-governmental institution in the service of international associations.

Since its foundation in 1907, the UIA is a leading provider of information about international non-profit organizations and a premium networking platform between international organizations and the meeting industry worldwide.

Main activities + Yearbook of International Organizations - contains information on over 64,000 international organizations active in all fields of human endeavour, in all corners of the world, and over centuries of history.

Available online and in book form. + International Congress Calendar - with information on over 350,000 international meetings. Available online, in pdf, and on paper.

IUIS’s journal, Frontiers in Immunology - Academic publishing in the 21st century IUIS also publishes a journal so members are up-to-date with what the Union does.

It’s also a way for the organization to market itself. The format of IUIS’s journal is ‘open access’, meaning that the author pays for the publication rather than the reader. This enables journal articles to be freely available through the internet to everyone worldwide.

Frontiers in Immunology is exerting a paradigm shift in immunological publishing. It is a new and novel way to disseminate research findings and to facilitate communication, both among scientists as well as the community at large.‘Frontiers in Immunology is publishing by scientists for scientists. Absolutely the best thing about it is the interactive review process’ says Kendal Smith, Editor-in-Chief, Frontiers in Immunology.

+ Annual Associations Round Table features both open-space / networking and discussion oriented sessions as well as practical skills training sessions for associations.

See www.uia.be/roundtable Who can use the UIA’s research and networking platform? Everyone with an interest in international associations and cooperation: international associations, the businesses which provide services to them, media and press, research centres, universities, libraries, government offices. Associate Members have quick access to first quality material to benefit their business.

To join, see www.uia.be/associate-members.

www.iuisonline.org

HEADQUARTERS 17

HQ > MACAO

MACAU A new Destination City is born Until now, MACAU was relatively unknown to the MICE world. Its image was mostly a touristic one, and it’s still one of Asia’s favorite gambling destinations. Things are changing rapidly now: here is a short introduction to the new developments in Europe’s latest colony in China.

Text Marcel A.M. Vissers

The casino sector, particularly in its post liberalization phase since 2002, has been the principal growth driver behind the phenomenal growth in tourism witnessed

by Macau in recent years. Given the risk of over-reliance on a single growth engine, policymakers have recognized

HEADQUARTERS 18

the significance of the MICE sector in contributing to a sustainable and robust growth of Macau’s tourism driven economy. The unprecedented spurt in tourism infrastructure development is transforming this once sleepy enclave into a now more-than- emerging MICE destination.

Macau for MICE is more Visiting Macau for the first time means being confronted with a lot of casinos.

That’s the old tourist’s side of the city.

MICE travelers will nowadays discover the Macau’s hidden values: the architecture, the history, the ties with Portugal, the new conference hotels, the relative tranquillity of the streets, the lovely avenues with appealing shops, the nice

restaurants and a lot of different types of people. And this is exactly the image the new Macau MICE Industry generation wants to promote.

In the beginning of this year we interviewed Sou Tim Peng, Director of Macao Economic Services. He was very clear in his statement: ‘Since Macau first strategically positioned itself to become the ‘global centre of tourism and leisure’, much effort was invested into developing a handful of industries, which could help take Macau a few steps closer to this ultimate goal, and the convention and exhibition industry has been identified as one of them.’

> MACAO

With a bouquet of MICE facilities coming upstream, Macau, with its array of other entertainment and leisure assets will have a competitive advantage over well established MICE destinations in the region. Macau can therefore expect its business visitor profile to grow not just quantitatively, but also qualitatively.

Macau has been turning to association planners to prove them it’s not all about gambling, it’s also about history and culture and much more!

One of the most important developments in Macau’s MICE scene was the establishment in August 2011 of the unit Macao Economic Services: call it Macau’s first dedicated MICE department. Early this year they launched a remarkable promotion program.

The Macao Convention Stimulation Program The newly established Macao Conventions, Exhibitions and Economic Activities Development Department of Macao has launched an active stimulation program that aims to provide assistance and support to organizers and planners of conventions. It targets conventions and exhibitions already confirmed in Macau. The basic package includes a lot of complimentary promotional and informational material (video, welcome gifts, etc.). Delegates will get, for example, free admission to the Wine Museum and the Grand Prix Museum. There is financial support for accommodation (10% of the accommodation cost incurred at local hotels with a maximum of 5 nights stay)

and food & beverage (a maximum of MOP 400 for the F&B expenses or the meeting package expenses for each participant).

The program also includes an attractive package for keynote speakers and heads of delegations (a 2 nights’ accommodation cost incurred at local hotels and 50% of the transportation expenses). The financial support for potential events includes bidding support and site inspection.

Information about this attractive stimulation program can be obtained at Macao Economic Services (Conventions Department), email: ddceae@economia. gov.mo, website: www.economia.gov.mo

Compact and easily accessible Being only 28,6 km2, in total area, nowhere in Macau is too far away. Everything is within 30 minutes travel time. The compactness of Macau makes travel time short and so delegates will get more time to enjoy their stay. Macau International Airport is serviced by nine airlines and is only a 45 minute ferry ride from Hong Kong International Airport, the world’s fifth busiest airport. There are plenty of connections between Hong Kong and Macau.

In 2005 the Historic Centre of Macau was officially listed as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. It is the oldest, the most complete and consolidated array of European architectural legacy standing intact on Chinese territory, which retained their original function and spirit to the present day.

Macao Cotai Convention Hub

One of the biggest MICE developments in Asia is Macao Cotai or Asia’s largest hotel hub: + Grand Hyatt: 763 rooms + Hard Rock: 322 rooms + Conrad: 636 rooms + Sheraton (new): 3,850 rooms + Four Seasons: 409 rooms + Venetian: 3,000 rooms + Galaxy: 2005 rooms + Total rooms: 12,209 rooms

HEADQUARTERS 19

> MACAO

Sheraton Macao Hotel

Transforms Macao into Ultimate MICE Destination

Located in the heart of Macao’s bustling Sands Cotai Central resort, Sheraton Macao Hotel is the largest hotel in Macao as well as the largest Sheraton in the world.

The newest and largest hotel in Macao Sheraton Macao Hotel features 3,896 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, and 15,000 m2 of meeting space plus access to a further 5,000 m2 within the complex. The hotel’s pillarless Kashgar Grand Ballroom offers nearly 53,000 square feet (4,900 m2) of meeting space with the capacity to host over 5,000 guests in theatre-style, and is divisible into 16 soundproofed meeting rooms.

Everything under one roof Its extensive inventory gives the hotel the versatility to handle meetings and events of almost any size, from small intimate groups to large-scale conventions. Sheraton Macao Hotel is one of the only hotels in Asia with a dedicated team of professionals to target the association meetings segment. Being one of a few hotels in Asia large enough to host large-scale meetings with thousands of delegates under one roof, the organizers can enjoy the hassle-free logistics both in the pre-planning stage as well as during the execution as everything can be handled under one contract and one roof.

Big hotel doesn’t do small promotions ‘We are a big hotel, and big hotels don’t do small promotions. One of the unique offerings is the ability to provide meeting delegates with reduced rates and special offers for pre and post accommodation at Starwood Hotels in the region. Delegates often travel great distances to attend meetings and want to make the most of their visit. Starwood’s extensive footprint in the region means we can offer guests a multitude of options. In addition, we are doing a very attractive MICE promotion which allows one booker to win a seven-day getaway to any destination with Starwood properties including two business class return airfares,’ said Corinne Janssen, Director of Sales - Associations.

Sheraton Macao Hotel’s extensive inventory gives the hotel the versatility to handle meetings and events of almost any size

a dedicated event manager who will oversee its smooth running. Furthermore, Sheraton Macao Hotel enjoys strong relationships with local event companies, professional exhibition and conference organizers, destination management companies and team building specialists to ensure clients’ expectations are exceeded.

Convenient tool for meeting planners Resorts’ dedicated MICE website, starwoodmeetings.com, booking an event at Sheraton Macao Hotel is easy, efficient and cost effective. Hotel also offers two proprietary online meeting planning tools designed to enable meeting planners from any place on the globe to confidently and reliably arrange meeting logistics for clients and staff.

Sheraton Macao Hotel is also working closely with local partners on the development of distinctive partner programs and exclusive themed events for the most memorable receptions and dinners.

Contact Extensive team of meeting professionals With an extensive team of meeting professionals, every meeting, no matter how small, will be well looked after and tailor-made to feel exclusive. Every event is assigned with

Corinne Janssen Director of Sales - Associations Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central T. 853 8113 1966 F. 853 8113 1902 corinne.janssen@sheraton.com www.sheraton.com/macao

HEADQUARTERS 21

> MACAO

Sands Cotai Macao Ready to welcome you Macao is a city where East meets West and Sands Cotai Macao is the ideal destination for visitors to this fascinating gateway to China. Blending 5,000 years of Chinese civilisation with 500 years of Portuguese influence, Macao is a truly unique treasure. The Historic Centre of Macao was officially listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. It is the oldest, most complete and consolidated cluster of European architectural legacy standing intact on Chinese territory.

Macao is a city of temples and tradition as well as one of Asia’s fastest growing centres for international meetings, with Sands Cotai Macao providing every modern facility and service you could need for an international congress or meeting.

Macao is located on the doorstep of mainland China and is a close neighbour of Hong Kong. Just across the border from Macao, there are more than 30 million people in western Guangdong province, which is one of China’s most developed regions. Also, there are around 200 million people in Lusophone countries that share a common Portuguese legacy with Macao.

Over three billion people are within five hours flight time from Macao, making it an accessible and attractive destination for delegates attending international congresses.

Integrated city Sands Cotai Macao is a new integrated city within Macao where everything is within reach. It offers a wide variety of 9,000 rooms, 120,000 sqm of flexible convention and exhibition space, 58 restaurants and lounges, and a 150+ transport fleet. Sands Cotai Macao is a

one-stop-shop ensuring your planning experience is smooth and seamless.

Sands Cotai Macao is located on the Cotai Strip and includes The Venetian® Macao, Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central, Conrad® Macao, Cotai Central, Holiday Inn Macao Cotai Central, Four Seasons Hotel Macao, Cotai Strip. This provides a fantastic array of room types and sizes allowing organisers tremendous flexibility in arranging accommodation to suit all kinds of budgets.

Sands Cotai Macao is a new integrated city within Macao where everything is within reach As well as this huge range of hotel options, Sands Cotai Macao is also home to the 15,000-seat CotaiArena, the 75,000 sqm Cotai Expo and the 1,800seat Venetian Theatre, providing further options for congress organisers.

stores. Sands Cotai Macao also has an entertainment cast of 200 performers, ready to perform for delegates and visitors throughout the integrated city.

Sands Cotai Macao provides unmatched facilities and tremendous variety for congress organisers to choose from, and on a scale that allows us to host the largest or smallest of international gatherings in a single compact destination, with a single point of contact backed by a dedicated team of event professionals.

In addition

Contact

Outside the meeting space, Macao offers delegates everything from ancient culture to contemporary nightlife. Shoppes Cotai provides more than 400 duty-free brand

www.cotaistrip.com T. +853 8118 3388 enquiry@cotaistrip.com

HEADQUARTERS 23

HQ

> M eetropolis

KÖLNDÜSSELDORF

The Meetropolis: We custoMICE your meeting Two metropolises, one experience, The Meetropolis: Discover this unique destination for your successful convention.

With their concept KÖLNDÜSSELDORF - The Meetropolis, the Rhine River metropolises have been awarded project support from the European Union and the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia designed to further strengthen MICE business. The two diverse metropo-lises on the Rhine have bundled their attractive offers and will market themselves even more strongly on the international market as a congress destination region: Come and visit us at the IMEX America in Las Vegas on October 9-11, 2012.

The Meetropolis offers the best conditions for your successful MICE activities!

Cologne & Düsseldorf. The Meetropolis is waiting for you.

Contact Verena Vaßen v.vassen@meetropolis.de

Five good reasons for The Meetropolis + The central location with an outstanding infrastructure guarantees maximum accessibility and mobility for journey and stay. + Concentrated experience of conventions, know-how, a wide variety of venues plus quality of service establish the basis for stress-free success. + Various synergies offering excellent scientific and research skills in the region provide an extra edge, interested parties and speakers for your topic. + The proximity to German and international business ensures inspiration, insight, audiences and valuable multipliers. + The Rhineland embodies a piece of Germany's traditional and modern culture, and its people with their cordial mentality turn it into a unique experience.

www.meetropolis.de

CustoMICEd Conventions

KÖLNDÜSSELDORF – For custoMICEd conventions on the Rhine. Perfect access thanks to two international airports and an outstanding meeting infrastructure combined with a cheerful Rhineland welcome – that’s what makes KÖLNDÜSSELDORF such a special venue for your event. We’ll be happy to assist you with your wishes and ideas.

Come and meet our Meetropolis team at the EIBTM Barcelona at Booth J100-2 to 6.

www.meetropolis.de

We custoMICE your meeting.

HQ > H ong Kong

HONG KONG The World's Meeting Place Helps Asian Attractions Expo 2012 Breaks Record Hong Kong as Asia’s World City ­attracted the return of the Asian Attractions Expo (AAE) since its first visit in 2005. The event took place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in June 2012 and drew over 5,000 delegates from around the world, making it the largest ever AAE.

The 2012 event was hosted locally by the IAAPA Asia-Pacific office and was supported

by Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong (MEHK) of the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

'Innovations, services and products for the attractions industry’ was the theme and there were visits to local attractions including the signature Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park and Ngong Ping 360.

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City’s appeal factors add to show success ‘One of the main reasons AAE 2012 was held in Hong Kong is definitely the fact that it is a hub for China and North Asia,’ said Andrew Lee, Vice-President of IAAPA Asia Pacific. ‘Many of our exhibitors use our show as a platform to reach out to markets they wouldn’t be able to reach otherwise. Hong Kong is also attractive to Chinese delegates because of its accessibility and the city has a great international airport and great rail system, and good ferry network, all factors that help with numbers.’

Convenient way into the Mainland market Chip Cleary, President and CEO of IAAPA, said Hong Kong offers an easy and convenient way into the Mainland market

resulting in tangible developments within a couple of years. ‘Look at the numbers in the region,’ he said. ‘The middle class in China will continue to emerge at a very rapid pace. The curve relating to how people learn about theme parks is going to accelerate.’ Florida-based Ripley Entertainment exhibited at AAE 2012 precisely because of Mainland potential.

Busy booths mean business down the line Cleary says that when the designer booths are busy, manufacturers know that two years later people will be buying the rides. The AAE is also an education and networking event. IAAPA Chairman Roland Mack said the seminars are packed if you talk about safety: ‘There is a big demand for safety. Safety doesn’t stop at borders, it serves parks worldwide.’

> H ong Kong

Good range of quality venues on hand ‘Ocean Park and Disneyland in Hong Kong are brand names,’ noted Mack. ‘Industry practitioners want to see how these two wellknown brand name parks work. People were prepared to wake up at 4am yesterday just to see how a park opens.’ IAAPA held exclusive events at Ocean Park where delegates enjoyed a sneak preview of Polar Adventure, and at Disneyland where they enjoyed Toy Story Land.

Last but not the least, the HKCEC earned a special mention for its world-class quality and professional staff which Cleary said the city ‘sold itself’ with this spectacular venue.

of honour, hosting a dinner and bringing cultural performances for the opening ceremony.’ MEHK also organised a dedicated immigration counter at the airport. But Lee said that more than anything it was MEHK’s flexibility that impressed him the most. ‘The general willingness of the team to adjust support according to needs was very important’ he said. ‘Yes, each city may have a suite of services that it can offer to an organiser. But not all organisers need it. Our show is involved with the attractions industry so we didn’t need help selecting venues for the events because they are members.’ Lee recognized it was refreshing that the team was prepared to sit down and listen to what was needed. ‘Based on what it could offer, MEHK exceeded my expectations,’ he said.

Support above and beyond MEHK delivered big time, said Lee, with the professionalism of staff, both in the government sector and at venues. It ensured the success of AAE 2012, said Lee: ‘MEHK supported us by sourcing our guest

For details, please visit mehongkong.com

More about Hong Kong Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (HKAAPA) The Hong Kong Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (HKAAPA) is an association with a mission to unite Amusement Parks and Attractions in Hong Kong, working closely together to promote safety, connecting members with manufacturers and suppliers, developing young professionals and ensuring continued success of the attractions industry and Hong Kong tourism. They serve as ambassadors to promote a positive image of the industry and be a voice to the government and public on industry matters.

Founding members include AsiaWorld-Expo, Future Leisure Aviation Ltd (DHL Hong Kong Balloon), Hong Kong Disneyland, Ma Wan Park Noah’s Ark, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, Ngong Ping 360, Ocean Park, sky100 and The Peak.

HEADQUARTERS 27

flexible

personal

choice

always MORE...

The recently expanded Brisbane & Exhibition Centre is Australia’s most adaptable and award winning meetings venue in one of the most exciting and rewarding destinations in the world.

A world class combination.

Worldwide Convention Centre Team of the Year - London 2012

T +61 7 3308 3063 E sales@bcec.com.au W www.bcec.com.au The Centre is owned by South Bank Corporation and proudly managed by AEG Ogden

more personal - more choice

HQ > BRISBANE

Main foyer

BCEC on Grey Street

Plaza Auditorium

Brisbane’s BCEC on Grey Street

A catalyst for growth The opening in January of Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre’s $140 million expansion, BCEC on Grey Street continues to prove its worth.

The recent hosting of what was Brisbane’s biggest conference for 2012 the International Geological Congress (IGC) - the largest geoscience event ever held in Australia - would not have been held in Brisbane without the increased convention space provided by the five level Grey Street venue.

President of the 34th IGC Neil Williams said Brisbane was chosen to host the congress ahead of other capital cities primarily because of the facilities offered by the BCEC and the additional space and flexibility provided by its expanded facilities. The 6,000pax conference over five days incorporated 3,232 oral papers, 286 symposia, and 40 concurrent sessions at any one time for a full five day program.

Extremely popular The boutique facilities of BCEC on Grey Street were designed to attract the smaller and medium sized meetings and to comple-

ment the Centre’s existing 4,000 pax Great Hall, establishing the venue as Australia’s most flexible. The BCEC offering now is unique with three tiered auditoria and 44 meeting spaces. The venue’s integrated layout allowing delegates to ‘own’ their dedicated venue level is proving extremely popular.

The busy conference agenda of August and September delivered a peak period of extreme and heightened activity with the hosting of 33 conventions, including 9 international conferences. Professionals from all walks of life, gynaecologists, medicos, scientists, engineers, law librarians, investors, academics energy experts, environmentalists and designers were among 24,000 delegates who descended on the Centre during that eight week period.

Most recently Recent International Conferences hosted by BCEC include: + 34th International Geological Congress (IGC) - 6,000 delegates from 112 countries, five-day program featuring 3,700 oral papers, 3232 authors and 40 concurrent meetings per day.

+ Joint 12th International Child Neurology Congress and 11th Asian and Oceanian Congress of Child Neurology. A strong delegate boosting campaign resulted in the attendance of 1,300 exceeding delegate targets + 2012 IEEE World Congress on Computational Intelligence - attended by the world’s leading computer scientists and information technology experts. + International Council on Archives Congress 2012 - 1500 delegates from almost every country in the world. Held every four years this is the first occasion that the conference has taken place in the Southern Hemisphere.

With the opening of BCEC on Grey Street, 2012 was always going to be a landmark year for the Centre and this was certainly confirmed with the recent announcement of BCEC as the official venue for the G20 Leaders Summit in 2014. The Centre’s team has already begun meetings with the G20 Task Force in preparation for the 7,000 pax event.

www.bcec.com.au

HEADQUARTERS 29

LA C

TS CENT N E V E S E T N A ITÉ N

ER - FRANCE

Nantes, European Green Capital 2013 La CitĂŠ, 1 French convention center to achieve AIPC Quality Standards certification st

www.lacite-nantes.com

Come and Visit us at EIBTM 2012 Atout France Stand K400 Nantes Saint-Nazaire area www.nantes-just-imagine.com

HQ > M ala y sia

KUALA LUMPUR CONVENTION CENTRE Continues to Meet Evolving Needs Between 1 January and 31 August 2012, Malaysia’s premier convention facility, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Centre) was the venue for 955 events; including the 25th World Gas Conference 2012 (WGC2012), welcoming over 1 million guests. Come 2014, it will have the honour of hosting the ­Toastmasters International annual international convention, the first to be held outside of North America in the organisation’s 88-year history.

How the Centre has managed to stay ahead of the pack, according to General Manager, Peter Brokenshire, ‘to continually enhance our service and product propositions to deliver success for our clients’.

Peter Brokenshire

KLCC

the complimentary Cultural Showcase of Malaysian arts and craft under the Conventions Value-Add Programme now includes Chinese calligraphy and hennapainting and 10 complimentary tickets to the PETRONAS Twin Towers’ Sky Bridge for a bird’s eye view of the metropolitan city of Kuala Lumpur.’

Increasing accessibility More signature experiences Citing the latest signature experiences as an example, Brokenshire described DCPs with a Difference as offering more and better extras than any (packages) currently in the market, with unrivalled audio-visual support and expanded food and beverage while TenOnCall PLUS extends the popular TenOnCall service to three more function areas, each with its free-flow lifestyle cuisine and beverage service, natural lighting, dedicated private meeting room and smoking area.

Brokenshire explains: ‘5-Star Banqueting promises exclusive dining experience with Chef’s tailor-made menus, dedicated butler service for VIP tables and sophisticated settings such as silver service; and Snack on Arrival, a complimentary quick bite, steaming cup of coffee or tea and one of our famed ‘energiser shots’ for a great start to the day. Meanwhile,

Taking advantage of developments in ­design technology, the Centre’s website has been revamped, making it more content rich, visually stimulating and user-friendly. HTMLbased, ­www.klccconventioncentre.com is easily accessible while a customised mobile app ensures neither visual nor digital aspects are compromised when browsing from smart phones.

And as technology continue to impact how venues market themselves, ‘our Wi-Fi connection has been upped to 40MB for faster connectivity. Offered complimentary to guests, they can remain ‘connected’ at all times and with faster and easier realtime access,’ informed Brokenshire.

More flexible spaces The Centre’s latest extension of 2,600m2 (Hall 6) now brings its total function area to 22,659m2. Sited between the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and Grand Hyatt Hotel and

connected via Exhibition Hall 5 and the West Wing entrance, Hall 6 offers more space options for larger exhibitions, conferences and events.

And albeit plans are still being finalised, a KLCC Holdings’ (the Centre’s owner) commitment to develop Lot 91 adjacent to the Centre will eventually increase ­exhibition floor capacity by over 20,000m2 and facilitate the hosting of events with over 6,000 delegates.

Moving forward Despite global economic uncertainties in the short to mid-term, Brokenshire sees optimistic growth in the business tourism space with upcoming developments in the pipeline. The Centre is committed to remain relevant and competitive in delivering excellent service that exceeds clients’ expectation.

Contact Peter Brokenshire General Manager Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre +60(3) 2333 2888 info@klccconventioncentre.com www.klccconventioncentre.com

HEADQUARTERS 31

Conventions don´t have to be conventional A business trip to Madrid seems less like hard work than most.

Sunny weather, conveniently located conference venues and gourmet lunches are just some of the bonuses for when you visit on business.

After a busy day, Madrid’s famous museums and elegant stores are a great way to recharge before sampling the vibrant nightlife.

Relax over tapas in an outdoor cafĂŠ or dance until dawn. Whatever you do, Madrid is the business.

info.mcb@esmadrid.com (+34) 91 758 55 28 www.esmadrid.com/mcb

HQ > MALAYSIA

World Conference on Lung Health to Bring Global Experts To Malaysia In an important endorsement of Malaysia as a role model for developing countries, Kuala Lumpur will witness the convergence of world experts and advocates on lung health this November to attend the prestigious 43rd Union World Conference on Lung Health, from 13-17 November 2012 at THE Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. It will be organised by the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (the Union) headquartered in Paris.

Strategically positioned in the heart of Asia, Malaysia is the ideal gateway for global associations to connect with the world’s largest region - providing a compelling setting for the conference that brings together views from around the world to call for action against lung disease. Its mission is to bring innovation, expertise, solutions and support to address health challenges in low- and middle-income populations.

opmental policies. Malaysia is also noted for its efforts to continuously improve the health standards of its general population and has always been very supportive of new medical research on the topic at hand.

Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Zulkefli Hj. Sharif said the conference is expected to attract at least 3,000 delegates. He says: ‘MyCEB is very supportive of this conference for several reasons.

Other than its obvious economic benefits, the conference will definitely facilitate the opportunity for professional developments, knowledge exchange and best practices in the local and regional health sectors, particularly in respiratory health. It will highlight the vital importance of collaboration efforts to address the conditions affecting lung health which will impact positively on Malaysia.’ He added: ‘This is yet another addition to a growing number of medical conferences due to be hosted

by Malaysia which has been recognized by the Malaysian government as an area of focus under the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP). At MyCEB, we are very encouraged by this development.’

local support Supported by MyCEB, the Ministry of Health Malaysia and the Malaysian Association for Prevention of Tuberculosis, Malaysia was chosen to be the host country due to its status as a fast growing democratic and liberal progressive country with stability and sound socio economic and devel-

Mutual responsibility The theme for this year’s conference is ‘Driving sustainability through mutual responsibility’ highlighting the need for the health care community, government, donors, civil society and patient advocacy groups to work together to sustain

progress and reach international targets for lung health.

Dr. Nils

Dr. Nils E. Billo, Executive Director of the Union, said: ‘We are very happy with the support that has been given to us by MyCEB to ensure the success of this conference. We also hope that as a result of this c onference, the issues that have long been plaguing many underdeveloped and developing countries could be better addressed and resolved.’

The five-day scientific conference will involve presenters from 65 countries including USA, Australia, Botswana and South Africa. It will also include more than 150 postgraduate courses and workshops, symposia, plenary sessions and meet-theexperts sessions. www.myceb.com.my

HEADQUARTERS 33

HQ > BRUSSELS

Brussels, A knowledge, power city

Atonium

Powerful, green, cosmopolitan, multi-cultural, the adjectives are legion when it comes to describing Brussels. Always on the move, the European capital is fascinating in more ways than none. Association planners are not mistaken when they choose the city for their next event. Not only has Brussels links with most of them whether in the academic, scientific or IT field, but the Belgian capital can also help them with a special financial fund‌ under certain conditions of course!

HEADQUARTERS 34

Part of the Power Cities alliance, together with Washington DC, Brussels’ status has evolved, over just a few years, from being just an administrative city to a world capital for institutions and association headquarters.

Ever-increasing attraction There are many elements contributing to the ever-increasing attraction of Brussels: the presence of the European Union of course, NATO, but also the offices of more than 2,000 international associations, 15,000 lobbyists (more than anywhere in the world!), about 1,000 press correspondents, regular summits of the 27 heads of state, as well as many facilities such as the AISBL status, prestigious universities, hospitals, a well-connected location and accessibility, commitment to excellent services and the presence of

the FAIB (the Federation of European and International Associations is established in Belgium).

In a time where the importance of the knowledge society is constantly emphasized, Brussels stands proud, encouraging research and innovation in several fields. Scientific exchange is an ancient tradition in the Belgian capital, ever since 1911 when the renowned industrialist Ernest Solvay brought together the most brilliant scientific minds of the time at his first Solvay Conference for Physics, attended by Albert Einstein and Marie Curie amongst others. With its highlyregarded academic sector, Brussels has all the means of technological transfer to ensure the effective development of research work.

> BRUSSELS Not only is Belgium a pioneer in the field of life sciences - to give only a handful of examples, Brussels is home to 200 biotechnological and pharmaceutical companies and houses the second largest chemical cluster in the world - but its information and communication sector is one of the mist innovative, in constant expansion, contributing to 30,000 jobs with 2,000 IT companies and dynamic e-business activities.

Brussels Fund for scientific congresses

Lesser known

The good news is the existence of the notyet-so-well-known Brussels Fund for Scientific Congresses. Managed by VisitBrussels in partnership with Innoviris, the regional institute for research and innovation, it has several objectives: promoting scientific research in Brussels, developing the capital's reputation as a scientific centre and increasing the number of international congresses in the city.

Over the past few years, numerous actions have been taken by the Brussels-Capital Region aimed at taking on environmental challenges specific to a modern city-region.

The confessed goal is to make Brussels a model in terms of sustainable development, quality of life and solidarity for all.

Financial aid can consist of two types: prefinancing, aimed at scientific congresses (minimum 50 participants), and subsidies for congresses between 50 and 200 persons. For the former, the maximum amount available per congress is €50,000 and may

Parc du Cinquantenaire

For those living in Brussels, the city has undergone a visible transformation: the concept of sustainability has become completely integrated into the urban fabric. The advances made in the construction sector or in mobility are striking examples of this.

And of course, Brussels’ central location definitely helps to be sustainable!

Taking their responsibility in this area, Brussels Convention Bureau runs a proactive programme to encourage greener meetings in a city where biking and walking are actually quite easy, due to the capital’s relatively compact size. There are now a few hotels that are certified ‘green’, thanks for example to the Green Key label, an international eco-label for tourism facilities, while Brussels Government runs a ‘EcoDynamic Company’ label to grade green performance.

Place Flagey

not exceed 30% of the congress budget.

The level of pre-financing is determined by both the size of the congress and the cash flow analysis. The borrowed amount must be repaid in full before the start of the congress. For the latter, if a subsidy is needed to achieve a break-even point, the support fund can come into play. Costs related to the attendance of international speakers and those promoting the congress internationally can be covered. VisitBrussels may contribute up to a maximum of €100 per international participant, with a maximum of €10,000 per congress.

All scientific professionals wishing to organize an international congress in Brussels or who wish to support the candidature of Brussels for the congress of their association, are eligible. Certain conditions of course apply (more on this:

Selected events that have benefited from the Brussels Fund + 2nd International Meeting of the European Architectural History Network -EAHN+ 8th International Biometals Symposium + EuroSciPy 2012 - the 5th European meeting on Python in Science + Geologica Belgica 2012 International Meeting (GB2012) + Colloquium Van Eyck Studies + ‘Low-cost physics for development and education’ + ‘Oscilations, Thresholds and Bistability in Cellular Regulatory Networks’ + 10th French Belgian ABC Meeting

Parc Royal

www.visitbrussels.be/fund) and an evaluation of the application is usually carried out by a selection committee composed of Innoviris, Brussels Invest & Export, BAPCO, Financial Institution, VisitBrussels, the latter reserving the right to reject an application for reasons related to the financial condition of the fund.

Contact Hervé Bosquet, Director Elisabeth Van Ingelgem, Meetings & Conventions Manager VisitBrussels T +32 (0)2 549 50 51 e.vaningelgem@visitbrussels.be www.visitbrussels.be/meetings

HEADQUARTERS 35

Seating for 9000 in 39 rooms.

Large hall seating 4700.

500 parking spaces.

State-of-the-art technology.

Particular focus on environmental impact and energy conservation policies.

Plus a staff of professionals at your side.

Plus a destination that in terms of hospitality has no equal.

Just for you.

via della Fiera 23 - 47923 Rimini - Italy tel +39 0541 711 500 - fax +39 0541 711 505 www.riminipalacongressi.it info@riminipalacongressi.it

HQ > RIMINI

Palacongressi di Rimini to host the 2015 World Championships of Magic The Palacongressi di Rimini will be the host venue from 6 to 11 July 2015 of the FISM World Championships of Magic, the prestigious international competition that once every three years gathers the most expert and ‘amazing’ personalities of the sector.

The Convention Bureau della Riviera di Rimini followed all the bidding process and the triumphant allocation of the event to the city, which was held on Saturday 14 July in Blackpool. Italy literally beat the Korean competition and won the approval of representatives from the world of magicians.

Monica Petermann, International Business Development Executive at the Convention Bureau della Riviera di Rimini, in charge of the bidding process, says: ‘Since the first contacts, back in 2009, until today, we have worked with great commitment, promoting mutual knowledge therefore getting to know the fascinating world of magic, while sharing our long-term expertise in the meeting industry.

After the approval of the Italian bid, we had to win at national level. In spite of the tough competition - and collaboration! - with the city of Torino, the pluses of Rimini and of its stateof-the-art Palacongressi conference centre have been crucial, enabling us to move forward, to the international challenge. In the meantime, we have worked at length together with the local institutions to create a real task force for the support of the event.’

The satisfaction for having brought home such a result comes also from the world of magic.

Walter Rolfo, President of Masters of Magic in charge of the organisation of the 2015 World Championships of Magic, admits that though the whole process was challenging, it was also greatly rewarding: ‘The FISM event will prove to be a great opportunity for Italy, in general, and

for Rimini, as the selected hosting city, which will have the possibility to boast its long-term tradition in hospitality and the natural beauty of its territory, together with the development of its congress venues and the inborn vocation towards leisure and entertainment. The synergy between our artistic skills, the high expertise of the Convention Bureau della Riviera di Rimini and the support of the local institutions will let us raise the curtain over a great magic show that will involve the whole city and attract media attention, showcasing the Rimini Riviera to an international audience.’

Palacongressi di Rimini

Town Councillor of Financial Resources and Investee Companies of Rimini Gian Luca Brasini says: 'This achievement is the result of extraordinary teamwork as the competition did not exclusively depend on financial dynamics, which very often means events are allocated to destinations that guarantee greater public contribution. This was a victory based on the

characteristics of our city that has proven itself capable of working with other public bodies – the Chamber of Commerce and the Province for winning important International events.'

The organisers of the event, with Arturo Brachetti as its artistic director, intend to expand beyond the boundaries of the Palacongressi and ‘invade’ the city which is well accustomed to street shows, exhibitions and performances, creating a breathtaking atmosphere for adults and children, Rimini citizens and tourists alike.

Vote for Italy

Contact Monica Petermann International Business Development T. +39 054 11 71 15 00 petermann@riminiconvention.it www.riminipalacongressi.it

HEADQUARTERS 37

Swiss Convention Centres

"your quality partners"

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> S w it z erland

Switzerland Convention & Incentive Bureau presents

Lausanne

the business and convention city Š Regis Colombo, www.diapo.ch

Ideally situated 40 minutes from Geneva International Airport, the Olympic Capital benefits from an ultra-modern infrastructure - in terms of mobility, convention halls, hospitality and accommodation centres - that places it among the top ranks of sought-after destinations for the organisation of conventions and events. What is more, one tourist in three comes to Lausanne on business, whether individually or within the scope of an organised event.

Thanks to its strategic geographical location and its traditional role as an economic and technological crossroads, the Lausanne region has been chosen to be the international or European headquarters of numerous major corporations, such as Philip Morris, Tetra Laval, Nespresso, Kudelski, Logitech, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Medtronic and the Bobst Group. Interwoven into this economic fabric are the banks, trusts and service enterprises that make the region a cutting-edge commercial and financial centre. The vocational schools, the centres of research, the clinics, the Olympic institutions and the international sports federations also make a significant contribution to the boom in urban tourism.

A vast flow of business tourism is thus engendered through these industrial enterprises, a multitude of tertiary activities and the high-tech congress infrastructure.

A member of the Switzerland Convention and Incentive Bureau (SCIB), Lausanne is in a position to host major meetings of this kind. The MCH Beaulieu Lausanne currently constitutes the biggest convention centre in the region with 50,500 m2 and facilities capable of holding up to 5,000 people.

The University, the Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) and the Vaudois University Hospital Centre (CHUV) provide rooms and hospitality facilities, particularly in conjunction with science and medical congresses, which are one of the city’s specialities. Further, the EPFL will deliver next year an internationally unique convention centre, the Swiss Tech Convention Center which will offer fully modular rooms to endow the latest technologies and allowing to welcome up to 3,000 people.

A diverse range of hotels with over 5,000 beds, together with an efficient public transport network that puts all these places within easy reach, will do the rest to convince organisers of conventions, events and incentives of the advantages of Lausanne as the destination of choice in this domain.

Lausanne Tourisme offers also Congress & Events services to make full or partial arrangements for a national or international meeting, a congress, a conference, a seminar, an incentive or an event. These may be complemented by a programme of relaxation and recreational activities

Š Samuel Gachet

according to requirements. The quality of the setting, the ideal situation of the city as a point of departure for numerous excursions, its range of high-quality restaurants, attractions and cultural programmes are further arguments in favour of hosting a business clientele.

Contact

+ For Lausanne Lausanne Tourism & Congress Bureau Olivier Mathieu, Meetings Manager mathieu@lausanne-tourisme.ch +41 21 613 73 67 www.lausanne.biz

+ For Switzerland Switzerland Convention & Incentive Bureau Myriam Winnepenninckx myriam.winnepenninckx@switzerland.com +32 (0)2 345 83 57 www.myswitzerland.com/meetings

HEADQUARTERS 39

HQ

Monaco A Small Country with Great Potential Looking for an attractive destination where to organize your next event?

An affordable and friendly place offering good value for money?

Monaco is waiting for you!

Salle des Princes

To facilitate the organisation of your event, the Monaco Convention Bureau, the Grimaldi Forum Monaco and the Principality’s hotels set up a competitive offer, with solutions tailored to your needs, guaranteeing excellent value for money.

These many added values, provided not only by the Monaco Convention Bureau and the Grimaldi Forum Monaco, but also the hotel partners and the registered receptive agencies, really show how attractive Monaco is!

Imagine, on just 2 square kilometres 35,000 m2 of modular meeting spaces and more than 2,500 rooms near the sea with exceptionnal services.

The Principality of Monaco is quite a welcoming ground with excellent hosting facilities, amazing infrastructures, and an impressive quality of life. It has definitely become a must-do destination on the international business tourism’s scene.

A very competitive offer called ‘Monaco Meetings’ will make any event a sheer success

Let’s shine the light on all the advantages Monaco provides as a prestigious destination through its very competitive offer, ‘Monaco Meetings’ and its many assets and gratuities. For the events organizers generating more than 1,200 nights, ‘Monaco Meetings’ can include free coffee breaks and welcome cocktails, free internet access, free transport, special Convention Centre rates, negotiated hotel rates… making Monaco one of the most astounding destinations for conventions in Europe for big events, especially between November and March.

A dedicated website www.monacomeetings.com - will respond to any wish the event organisers might have. More than a just an offer, the synergy between all the MICE actors of the destination prove to all the organizers that their event will reach another dimension… by taking place in the Principality of Monaco.

Contact Monaco Convention Bureau Sarah Rico srico@gouv.mc 2a, bd des Moulins - 98000 Monaco +377 92 16 60 81 www.monacomeetings.com

©JC Vinaj

Grimaldi Forum Monaco ©DTC

©Olivia Marocco

> MONACO

12 reasons to choose Monaco + A one-stop-shop destination + An ideal location in the heart of Europe, less than two hours by air from the major cities + Close to Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport; easy access by taxi, helicopter, bus or train + A mediterranean climate all year round + A modern, eco-certified congress centre, internationally recognised by the industry + A hotel capacity of 2,500 rooms, with a real tradition of hospitality and in immediate proximity to the Grimaldi Forum Monaco + A territory of 2 square kilometers, everything at walking distance and perfectly safe + A strong, dynamic image to attract your participants + Harmonised rates and good value for money + A wide array of social activities: fine dining restaurants, casinos, lounge bars, shows and nightclubs… + 100 % GREEN destination with committed experts + A calendar of more than 1,000 international events

HEADQUARTERS 41

HQ > VIPARIS

Paris expo Porte de Versailles th

2015 venue for the 26 World Gas Conference Paris expo Porte de Versailles, a venue of the Viparis group, has been chosen to host the 26th World Gas Conference (WGC 2015), the world’s largest event dedicated to the gas sector. The conference meets every three years and in 2015 will be returning to Paris after an absence of 75 years. IT will be held from 1 to 5 June 2015. Under the presidency of Jérôme Ferrier, this ‘world gas summit’ will bring together some 5,000 delegates and 25,000 professional visitors.

Paris expo Porte de Versailles, a flexible venue A host of factors converged to influence the organizers’ decision to choose Paris expo Porte de Versailles, including its ability to host major events, the quality of its facilities and the flexibility of its exhibition areas. The technical and logistical infrastructure of the exhibition centre can easily accommodate an exhibition of 40,000 m2 in Pavilion 1 (with an extension into Pavilion 2.2 if necessary), while Pavilion 2.2 will also contain 7 conference rooms for 100 to 700 people. The plenary

sessions will be held in the adjacent auditorium Palais des Sports, which has 4,000 seats.

which joins the 125 congresses held at Viparis venues every year.

Viparis figures ‘At Porte de Versailles we’ve been able to design an event that’s built around conferences but has an exhibition at its heart, and that means delegates will be moving through the exhibition several times daily’ notes Daniel Paccoud, chairman of the national organizing committee of WGC 2015. ‘The major exhibitors were really enthusiastic when we announced that Paris expo Porte de Versailles will host the conference, a venue that’s known for its quality and its capacity, and for being very easy to reach in the heart of Paris. Many exhibitors have already confirmed their presence.’

Viparis teams The Viparis teams have demonstrated their ability to host very large professional events including exhibitions like the Paris Motor Show, corporate conventions and congresses like the French Mayors Congress every year, as well as major international conferences like the A ­ lzheimer’s Association International Conference in July 2011, which was ­attended by 6,000 delegates. Paris wins another major congress with WGC 2015,

The European and worldwide leader in the conference and exhibition sector, Viparis runs the 10 leading conference venues in the French capital: Cnit Paris La Défense, Espace Champerret, Espace Grande Arche, Le Palais des Congrès de Paris, Carrousel du Louvre, Palais des Congrès de Versailles, Paris Le Bourget, Paris Nord Villepinte, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles and Le Palais des Congrès d'Issy. Together, these sites offer 13 amphitheatres from 168 to 3,723 seats, 239 meeting rooms, 28 multipurpose spaces and 34 exhibition halls 1,060 to 72,002 m2. On average, every year Viparis hosts hosts 330 exhibitions, 125 congresses and 500 c­ orporate events ­attended by a total of 9.2 million visitors.

Contact Viparis 2, place de la Porte Maillot 75017 Paris T. +33 (0)1 40 68 22 22 sarah.dupons@viparis.com www.venuesinparis.com

HEADQUARTERS 43

Convention centre by name.

Unforgettable destination by nature.

Set in the heart of South Africa’s beautiful Mother City, with the awe inspiring Table Mountain as a natural backdrop, the Cape Town International Convention Centre is far more than a venue, it’s an experience.

And with versatile spaces and services suitable to everything from intimate wedding receptions and black tie banquets, to international conventions or global exhibitions, the CTICC is guaranteed to put your event firmly on the map.

Featuring: – Up to 11 200 m2 of exhibition space, of which 10 000 m2 is column-free

– 33 function or meeting rooms

– Majestic city and mountain views

– Venues designed to maximise natural light – Comprehensive range of catering,

– 2 large auditoria

– Two top-class restaurants

– A magnificent 2 000 m2 ballroom

– An exquisite roof terrace

AV, and planning services – 1400 parking bays

For more information, or to book your CTICC experience, call us on +27 21 410 5000 today or visit www.cticc.co.za

HQ

> CAPE TOWN

Transform your event into an experience at the CTICC

For those looking to host a typical meeting or old-fashioned conference, any venue will probably suffice.

However, memorable events are never achieved by means of the plain and ordinary.

To achieve the results you desire from your meeting, conference or convention, and generate the return on investment you deserve, you need to transform it from an event into a truly unforgettable experience. The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) is the perfect place to do just that.

Situated at the foot of one of the world’s most iconic mountains, in the heart of South Africa’s vibrant and welcoming Mother City, CTICC’s undeniable charm is exceeded only by its professionalism and versatility.

Offering highly flexible venues, world-class facilities, and fully-trained, professional staff, CTICC is designed with great experiences in mind. From its bright and airy double volume public gathering spaces and highly advanced technology to its uniquely scrumptious Afro-global cuisine and legendary attention to service excellence, every detail is meticulously attended to.

On-site five-star accommodation completes this appealing picture of absolute convenience and extraordinary service; while easy access to Cape Town’s world famous visitor attractions means CTICC is far more than a venue, it’s a destination.

Offering highly flexible venues, world-class facilities, and fully-trained, professional staff, CTICC is designed with great experiences in mind Small wonder it was the first convention centre in Africa to gain three internationally recognised management system certifi-

cations simultaneously, and the first in the world to align its reporting to the sustainability requirements of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) - all of which represent your guarantee of CTICC’s total commitment to the highest levels of quality, care, safety, and sustainability.

So, if you’re ready to transform your meetings into business-building moments, convert your conferences into conversation pieces, or host conventions that are anything but conventional, make CTICC your convention centre of choice.

For more information on transforming your meeting or conference into an unforgettable experience for your guests or delegates, visit www.cticc.co.za or contact CTICC on +27 21 410 5000.

HEADQUARTERS 45

MONTPELLIER, SOUTH OF FRANCE - CORUM 4:32 PM, 77°F

Office de Tourisme de Montpellier / ANATOME / © Cecil Mathieu - Stylisme Agnès B. / Octobre 2012

HAWAII’S NOT BAD FOR A CONVENTION, BUT HERE WE PREFER BRAINSURFING.

MEET US AT EIBTM BARCELONA > K400 27 /28/29 NOVEMBER 2012

MONTPELLIER CONVENTION BUREAU

conventionbureau-montpellier.com +33 6 70 86 72 54 bellamy-clauzel@ot-montpellier.fr

HQ

> MONTPELLIER

Montpellier, South of France The association destination par excellence Named by the New York Times as one of the top 45 places to go in 2012, M ­ ontpellier is more than ever a prime destination to organize professional events!

Each year, Montpellier hosts over 500 professional events - representing some 1.5 million attendees, exhibitors, and visitors attracted by the destination and the numerous exceptional venues dedicated to business tourism along the road to the beaches. Modern, dynamic, refined and centrally located in southern Europe, Montpellier is more than ever the ideal destination to create exceptional events.

Why choose Montpellier for events?

festivals and exhibitions, where culinary voyages have pride of place. Montpellier also houses the oldest faculty of medicine, the Fabre Museum and its rich art collections. As you shop along medieval streets and Odysseum, you will also be enthralled by this pedestrian town built by the most famous architects in the world, with its castles all around, luxury and well-being equipments, and the oenotourism actvities in its outskirts… Montpellier joins Mediterranean lifestyle with all the resources of a major city. Definitely a good combination of business and pleasure!

Considered as one of the leading five French cities organizing congresses and international exhibitions, Montpellier offers meeting facilities and accommodation for up to 5,000 people, from high top quality hotels (several new 4-star hotels open in 2011 and 2012), to residences/bed & breakfast. With its international airport, railway station in the city centre (3h15 from Paris), its direct access to the main European motorways, and its 4 urban tramway lines (the 2 new ones designed by Christian Lacroix!), ­nothing is easier than coming to Montpellier!

Meet Montpellier at EIBTM Barcelona and choose the city for your event!

Contact Marie-Dominique Bellamy-Clauzel +33 (0)6 70 86 72 54 bellamy-clauzel@ot-montpellier.fr conventionbureau-montpellier.com

Montpellier: More than a business stay!

With 1,000 years of history, Montpellier is a cultural gateway spot with world-class

© Anatome

© Anatome Marc Ginot

Montpellier is the very definition of the Mediterranean city. With its rich historical heritage and idyllic location just a few kilometers from the sea, Montpellier is a key International city for business tourism, in particular thanks to world-class facilities such as the Corum Conference

Centre, one of the rare major venues set in a downtown area, the Arena-Park & Suites, the new multi-purpose arena able to hold up to 15,000 people (2nd largest downtown facility in France), the Zenith Sud and Parc des Expositions, each service of Enjoy Montpellier structure.

© Ville de Montpellier

Place de la Comédie

Port Marianne

Tramway

Montpellier Tourist Office, South of France provides now the services of a Convention Bureau!

Four persons of the team are dedicated to assist the organizers in the realization of any kind of event in Montpellier. And they are no less than experts concerning the destination! They can organize site inspections, famtrips , selects suppliers and support the destination to host international congresses. When it comes to MICE, Montpellier is definitely on the move. Recent openings prove the point: Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza, Courtyard by Marriott, Park & Suites Millenaire and Elegance and the Holiday inn Express are all here to testify, while the Pullman Hotel has totally been renovated recently.

HEADQUARTERS 47

HQ > sCOTLAND

Scotland

More than a land of mountains and bagpipes V&A at Dundee

With the UK still in the top four worldwide countries for international association events, meetings into the UK from Europe on the increase, and Glasgow and Edinburgh remaining the main competitors to London, it has never been more

Fund, available over three years, to help attract high-yield, high profile international events to Scotland’s areas of indigenous expertise. With world-class standing in sectors such as financial services, food and drink, life sciences, creative industries, energy, medicine and tourism, Scotland is at the forefront of destinations in which to do excellent business.

­important to invest and innovate and Scotland is doing that in spades.

Tourism in all its forms is the biggest employer in Scotland, and business tourism alone contributes £878 million to the Scottish economy. In total 28% of all international association conferences held in the UK are hosted by Scotland with a significant proportion coming from Europe.

New found fund When it comes to association conferences and meetings, Scotland has a first-class reputation for the range and quality of its venues and facilities. However, the announcement of a £2m subvention fund earlier this year has given the country a new and competitive edge in attracting major international business.

VisitScotland’s Business Tourism Unit (BTU), in partnership with the Scottish Government, launched the Conference Bid

HEADQUARTERS 48

Commenting on the initiative, Kerry Watson, Associations Manager with the BTU, said: ‘We are operating in a highly competitive marketplace where every euro or pound counts. For many European buyers, value for money is the prime motivator, and the existence of subvention funding can often be one of the factors to make or break location decisions.

Since we introduced the new fund, we are reaping the benefits.’ Businesses set to use the fund to generate successful bids will include city convention bureaux, destination management organisations and consortiums of business tourism related interested parties.

Equally important is investment in new and improved facilities which are critical to stay ahead of the game. In this respect Scotland is certainly not resting on its laurels. All over the country, from rural resort hotels to city centre venues, a massive £2bn spend is either recently completed, currently underway, or in the pipeline.

In the major cities of Edinburgh and, Glasgow, exciting developments will be completing next year. Towards the end of 2013 the Scottish Exhibition + Conference Centre in Glasgow will unveil its new 12,000-seat arena, The Hydro, an event and performance space to rival the best in the world. Next May the Edinburgh International Conference Centre will complete its 2000 m2 expansion, adding a multi-purpose hall and breakout rooms.

Unique moving floor technology will transform the main hall from flat exhibition space, to tiered banqueting, rakedstyle auditorium and arena configurations in a fraction of the time required in more conventional venues.

Celebrating Scotland’s heritage Scotland’s heritage is also being celebrated with historic and iconic venues being restored and transformed. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of Scotland, both in Edinburgh, have re-opened after three year closures with brand new event spaces to host contemporary events, from gala dinners and receptions, to intimate dining. Assembly Rooms Edinburgh is another venue that has only recently re-opened to provide a multi-purpose event and performance space with glittering chandeliers, gleaming gold leaf and the capacity for 750 delegates right in the heart of the capital.

> sCOTLAND

Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa © National Museums Scotland

Lennox Suite Auditorium, EICC

National Museum of Scotland

Edinburgh’s hotels are not standing still either. The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa has created a bespoke flexible events complex, the largest in Edinburgh, with 1500 m2 of conference facilities, including 14 meeting rooms, complementing the complete renovation of its 269 bedrooms and suites.

And the nearby world-renowned Caledonian Hotel on Princes Street has seen its 241 bedrooms, meeting rooms, restaurants and public areas transformed as part of its rebrand to a Waldorf Astoria hotel.

Exciting news Elsewhere, exciting developments abound.

A proposed expansion to the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre, set in the oil capital of the world, is in the early planning stages. Work is due to start next year on an iconic new building in Dundee, the V&A (Victoria & Albert) at Dundee, due for completion in 2015. Designed as an extension to the famous V&A in London, the new arts centre will strengthen Dundee’s reputation as a centre for creative industries. The world of academia is also well represented with bespoke conferencing facilities intro-

The Hydro, Glasgow

duced at St Andrews School of Medicine and Edinburgh First’s John McIntyre Centre.

As the true home of golf, Scotland is seeing continual investment in golfing facilities as well, from the Trump International Golf Links with its own conference centre, to the relatively new Castle Stuart Golf Links overlooking the Moray Firth in the Highlands.

Business tourism is worth £878m to the Scottish economy with business visitors spending 1.5 times that of leisure visitors per night

bygone times with an exhibition at Glasgow’s new Riverside Museum of Transport, there is always something new to discover in Scotland.

Kerry Watson sums it up by saying: ‘We are famed for our dramatic scenery and vibrant cities, but there is much much more to Scotland and increasingly Europe is beating a path to our door. The demand is there and we are constantly seeking ways to satisfy it - whether it’s a rural location such as Crieff Hydro in scenic Perthshire which has just introduced WiFi throughout the hotel, or the Caledonian Waldorf Astoria with its 20MB broadband capabilities available 24/7, we can constantly exceed expectations!’

Contact Recent developments have added even more to the Scottish menu of facilities. Whether dining where kings and queens of Scotland have dined for centuries at Stirling Castle with its new Royal Palace opened last year and perfect for drinks receptions in the company of costumed characters, or taking a nostalgic look at

Kerry Watson Marketing Manager, Associations BTU, VisitScotland +44 (0) 131 472 2376 kerry.watson@visitscotland.com www.conventionscotland.com

HEADQUARTERS 49

HQ The Hague and > T he H ague

World Forum make you think In The Netherlands, right on the North Sea coast, lies a unique city. The residence of the nation’s royal head of state and its government, of embassies and courts of justice. But also of Vermeer and Mondriaan.

'It's a city of distinguished serenity and breaking world news in one. A city where decisions of global consequence are made.

Where deliberation is as natural as the fresh westerly wind. A city that always makes you think and so is the ideal place to make your conference successful. That city’s name is The Hague. The world’s city of justice and peace, close to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (50 km), Rotterdam / The Hague Airport (20 km) and Brussels (157 km).

Your reliable and objective partner in the city is The Hague Visitors & Convention Bureau. The ideal partner when it comes to advice free of charge, a high level of service and thoroughness while organizing your event or convention!

WORLD FORUM In The Hague, the World Forum is the perfect location for any association meeting due to its compact layout.

The venue creates an intimate atmosphere, due its 25 break-out rooms being situated directly around the main impressive plenary room - the 2160 person-seating ‘World Forum Theatre’. As the World Forum is a ‘middle-sized’ convention centre, the building can be offered exclusively to clients.

This allows clients to completely transform the look and feel of any congress. The World Forum now offers a new meeting room, the smaller World Forum Theatre, which accommodates 770 persons - the ideal size for most association meetings.

The Hague

Associations choose the World Forum due the personal attention that they receive and due to the exceeded service levels that the delegates experience whilst at the World Forum.

CONTACT The Hague Visitors & Convention Bureau +31 (0)70 361 88 02 conventionbureau@denhaag.com www.thehaguecongress.com World Forum +31 (0)70 306 62 28 info@worldforum.nl www.worldforum.nl

Agenda + 3rd Annual Conference On End-To-End 3d Returns To Europe, 12-14 November 2012, World Forum + 9th European Congress Of Chemical Engineering (Ecce), 22-24 April 2013, World Forum + Insol 2013 - 9th World Congress, 19-22 May 2013, World Forum + 2013 LEEE LTMC & 19th ICE Conference, 24-26 June 2013, Living Lab, Campus The Hague + 3rd Nuclear Security Summit, March 2014, World Forum + ECSITE Annual Congress, 20-25 May 2014, World Forum

HEADQUARTERS 50

Congrex celebrates 30 years

Congrex

celebrates

From Confere Submit yo

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Challenges for Associations Congrex has turned 30 this year! We have celebrated our journey from PCO to worldwide leading industry expert, with a ‘Win Expert Advice competition’.

The most interesting challenges have been addressed in the latest edition of Meet! magazine.

The winner has been rewarded with 30 hours of complimentary We invited our current and potential clients, partners and other consultancy by one of our expert teams. Read all about the stake holders, to submit the greatest challenges that they face in current challenges of associations in the latest edition of Meet! the areas of Association Management, Meetings/Events strategy, magazine, go to www.congrex.com/30years and Meetings/ Conference & Events Management.