The MICE business world has reopened with double the force, be it Meeting, Incentives, Conference , Exhibitions or Events. Business is in full swing with everyone keeping busy to serve their esteemed clients with renewed zeal and innovative approach.
Annual Business Conventions are back to the earlier numbers. Recently UFI organized their annual event in Oman bringing together the key stakeholders from Exhibition Industry. IEIA, Indian Exhibition Industry Association is coming up with their annual Open Seminar in Mumbai this December. IATO, Indian Association of Tour Operators is staging their annual conference in Lucknow. All these large scale events strongly hint at the pace business has resumed back.
Looking at the global MICE landscape, from the Incentive Travel viewpoint, all major MICE Destinations are receiving great numbers from India. India being the key contribution of generating global MICE Traffic to various destinations. Algthough there are two factors still affecting the MICE travel , one in term of TCS levied and second is the tax on incentive to dealers and distributors.
Since July 1, companies providing incentives such as foreign trips, exceeding ₹20,000 to their dealers and distributors, are required to deduct tax at the rate of 10 per cent.
A lot of corporate buyers and even MICE planners have raised their concerns with our research team. We are going to launch a study on this untouched subject soon. Do share your views on pr@miceaffairs.com
Next issue will be carrying special coverages from IATO and IEIA events being held in India. Stay tuned for more updates and do follow us on social, media to keep yourself hydrated with right dose of news from the world of Global MICE.
HKECIA welcomes measures to support C&E industry in the 2022 Policy Address hopes Hong Kong to relax all epidemic prevention measures
Jazeera Airways conducted events to celebrate new route to Bangalore and marking one year of operations to Chennai
Resort World Cruises Hosts Key MICE Industry Players For An Experiential MICE FAM Onboard Genting DreamResorts World Cruises Introduces Box Cricket at Sea
TCEB Spotlights 2 Venues Exemplifying the BCG Economic Model in Line with Thailand’s APEC Summit Agenda
UFI General Assembly wraps up a transitional year for the industry, highlights progress on key issues
UFI Global Congress the exhibition industry’s annual global gathering heads to Cologne in 2024
A return to form for the global meetings and business events industry marks close of IMEX America 2022
Making an impression: New Monet & Friends Experience to light up the Lume Melbourne at MCEC
A special sporting and fun event on the Genting Dream, available exclusively for Meetings,Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions (MICE) group
Event planning and delivery the focus in new MCEC event expert episodes
Natalie O’Brien Am Appointed as new Ceo for Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
Oman hosts memorable UFI Global Congress Hyatt Regency Trivandrum strengthens leadership for launch
RNI TITLE CODE UPENG/2018/75911
Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) hosts a one-day tour for members of the press to two special MICE venues in Bangkok that have embraced the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economic Model to reinvent themselves for the future. The tour is part of TCEB’s activities in the run-up to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit to be held during 18-19 November in Bangkok.
The BCG economic model is core to Thailand’s vision for sustainable development and t a means to economic recovery of the Asia Pacific region. It has been part of the agenda in the series of APEC Summit preparatory meetings held in Thailand this year.
The two venues – Patom Organic Farm and GalileOasis – are available for meetings, dining, or teambuilding activities. The former offers a countryside setting with luxuriant greenery while the latter a rugged combination of old and new that has proved to be pitch-perfect for theatrical performances, literary events, and craft markets.
The venues also showcase how the BCG model
has enable them to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of good health and well-being, sustainable cities and communities, and responsible consumption and production.
Patom Organic Farm is located about an hour’s drive to the west of Bangkok on 40,000 sqm of riverside farmland where herbs, vegetables, and fruits are grown. The site was untouched swampland for more than half a century until its owners decided to develop it as an organic farm in 2018.
Today, the farm also offers seven meeting rooms with capacity for up to 125 persons and 83 guest rooms for visitors who wish to stay over. MICE planners can organise activities based on a range of traditional practices such as seed-sorting, organic fertiliser making, vegetable planting, making scrub from rice grain, and making massage oil from herbs. At Patom’s wellness zone, there are also mind and body rehabilitation sessions to enhance a visitor’s understanding of healthy living. With its backto-nature atmosphere, wholesome gastronomy and eco-cultural activities, Patom Organic Farm is a statement on sustainability articulated with Thai ingenuity and artistry. Despite its location near the Ratchathewi BTS skytrain station, GalileOasis lives up to its name of being a pocket of serenity amid the frenzy of urban Bangkok. Made up of 20 units of threestorey shophouses that had for many years lay abandoned in dilapidated neglect, it was given a new lease of life in 2019 when a group of theatre enthusiasts decided to come together to create a space that would fulfil their needs.
Mindful of the history of the site, they renovated it with a light touch by repurposing some of the original materials and preserving the site’s gritty imperfection even as modern functional features were installed. The result is a multi-purpose arts space comprising a gallery, theatre, café and a 19-room loft-style hotel that quickly
caught the fancy of Bangkok’s creative community. Now known as an urban sanctuary with a unique identity and youthful energy with a meeting capacity of 60 pax, GalileOasis is living proof of the transformative powerof the BCG model when vision meets determination.
TCEB President, Mr Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, said: “The tour to Patom Organic Farm and GalileOasis is anopportunity for Thailand to show how the BCG model can benefit business, community, and the environment. TCEB has a policy of advancing sustainable MICE and communitybased MICE. Throughout the APEC Summit in Thailand, our ‘7 MICE Magnificent Themes’ campaign has allowed us to turn the spotlight on local communities throughout Thailand. The 7 themes – Exhilarating Adventures, Culinary Journeys, CSR Green Meetings, Treasured Team Building, Lavish Luxury, Fascinating History & Culture, and Beach Bliss – are aligned with both the BCG model as well as the 2022 APEC Summit’s theme of ‘Open, Connect, Balance’. We hope Patom Organic Farm and GalileOasis will capture the interest of event organisers and corporate clients who are looking for unconventional locations and experiences. Many more such MICE-ready venues can be found in our latest branding campaign ‘Thailand MICE – Meet the Magic’. We have made it much easier for MICE visitors to experience the local way of life when they visit Thailand.”
Representatives from UFI member companies from around the world met in Muscat (Sultanate of Oman) to review UFI’s activities throughout 2022 and to confirm plans for the year ahead. The 2022 UFI General Assembly took place before the UFI Global Congress. At the end of a year defined by both the post-pandemic industry recovery and new global challenges, the Congress is welcoming hundreds of participants from around 50 countries and regions.
Chaired by UFI’s 2022 President, Monica Lee Müller, the General Assembly reviewed and previewed the association’s initiatives to support UFI’s members - more than 800 strong, and across 86 countries. Many new members are joining the Global Congress for the first time, as 70 companies from around the world have signed up as UFI members in the past twelve months.
Monica Lee-Müller, UFI’s 2022 President, summarised the year as follows: “Throughout the last 12 months, so much has happened that deserves a mention.” Lee-Müller continued: “As a global association, we need full participation by talented, committed women, and men, from different cultures and backgrounds, to drive our industry forward. Personally, I think there is work to be done. But I can see changes coming: If you look at the demographics of participants in this year’s Exhibition Management School, more than half of the participants were women. Among the six winners of this year’s Next Generation Leadership Grant, four are women, and the six come from a diverse geographical mix: Asia, Africa, Central America, Europe and the US.
These talented young people with high potential will one day lead our industry upward and forward.“ Lee-Müller emphasized: “On sustainability, the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative is definitely our signature achievement in the past year. Over 400 companies have pledged, spanning 55 countries and regions and all spectrums of the industry. A tremendous amount of work has been done since its launch at COP26. I owe it to members of the Operational Group who have selflessly shared their expertise, experience and wholehearted commitment.“
Lee-Müller concluded: “Our spirit of collaboration goes way beyond our own industry. I am exceedingly impressed by our members’ humanitarian actions. When the conflict in Europe broke out, I heard news about our member venues being converted to shelters for displaced people, and supplies and volunteer services flooding in from other members. I heard about the six truckloads of emergency supplies brought from a member in Italy to the European Conference in Poznan. I heard about the enthusiastic donation drive that raised funds for the needy. I am so proud of what our community has done, and I sincerely hope the conflict and the suffering will come to an end in no time and that peace will prevail again.“
Summarising UFI’s activities for 2022, Kai Hattendorf, CEO and Managing Director of UFI says: “From post-pandemic recovery to refugee support and war in Europe, and from sustainability challenges to the return of inflation
rates not seen in a generation – 2022 has it all. What makes UFI so strong in times like this is that many UFI members have encountered one or more of these challenges before, and they are happy to share their learnings and strategies with each other. As the UFI team, we remain committed that all resources we provide are there to help our members navigate these challenges successfully. With this, we are well positioned for whatever we will encounter in 2023, and beyond.“
Throughout the year, UFI’s work focused on industry reopening and recovery, against a challenging backdrop of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, fluctuating economic conditions around the world, and ongoing pandemic closures, especially in China. UFI’s main activities in the past year included:
UFI’s engagement around industry advocacy is growing significantly – in line with the fact that the association is being seen and recognized as the global representative of the exhibitions segment of the events industry. Two examples: UFI has recently become a registered Liaison Organisation with ISO, and is involved in projects with the OECD.
As a founding member of the “Net Zero Carbon Events” initiative hosted by JMIC, UFI has been running the project office for the initial twelve months. At COP26 in Glasgow, UK, the initiative presented the industry’s net zero carbon events pledge in a special session. Recently, in Sharm elSheikh at COP27, the initiative presented the Roadmap to implementation.
Through the European Exhibition Industry Alliance (EEIA) in Brussels and the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA) in Washington, DC, UFI has been driving and supporting ongoing advocacy work around post-pandemic reopening conditions and support.
UFI continues to operate and update a designated COVID19 web presence at
www.ufi.org/coronavirus, and provides regular updates on the reopening of markets around the world (UFI Market Tracker), as well as other relevant information. As pandemic pressures diminished, this work has been scaled down.
UFI delivers regular research insights on global, regional, and topical themes, most of them widely considered as global industry benchmarks, and many are made available to the industry at large. A selection of key releases in recent months include:
- A white paper titled, “The Event Organiser’s Perspective on Data Ownership”. This paper shares critical areas that must be considered for organiser and supplier data relationships.
- A new edition of the “Global Recovery Insights” report, by UFI & Explori, tracked the customer response to the pandemic based on surveying 9,000+ exhibitors and visitors globally. The project was supported by SISO.
- An entirely updated “UFI World Map of Venues”. The report provides a global overview of exhibition venue capacity, and 21 market profiles. The report lists the largest venues for all 21 markets whose total capacity exceeds 300,000 sqm of gross indoor exhibition space.
- The 29th edition of the “UFI Global Barometer” report. Conducted in collaboration with 19 UFI association members, this edition continues to track the pandemic’s impact on our industry, and focuses in large part on the ongoing recovery and 2023 outlook, as well as the evolution of digitization of the industry.
- An update on “The Global Economic Impact of Exhibitions”. The calculations now include final 2019 numbers.
- A report called “FINDING THE FUTURE, TOGETHER – Towards a more sustainable B2B trade show industry in the U.S. and Canada”. This research set out to evaluate the mos material impacts on the environment from the operations of the B2B trade show industry. UFIis one of 14 partners who collaborated on this project.
UFI Events & Communities
The focus of UFI events has shifted back to in person, face-to-face formats wherever possible.
“UFIconnects“ webinars and other digital formats are being used as a complementary type of event.
The Global CEO Summit (GCS) took place 22-24 June, 2022, in Hamburg, Germany, rescheduled from its original date due to COVID.
The travel restrictions across the region due to the pandemic and the omicron outbreaks have made it impossible to hold a regular Asia-Pacific Conference in 2022. Instead, together with members across the region, the “UFI Asia Pacific
Week” took place, which has seen more than a dozen local and national events and meet-ups for the UFI members in the region.
A group of UFI members joined a specially arranged UFI delegation visit to “Expo 2020 Dubai” in early March. In addition, a one-day “Africa Exhibition Industry Outlook” conference took place on 13 September, 2022, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The European Conference took place from 4-6 May, 2022, in Poznan, Poland, and the LatAm Conference took place from 11-13 May, 2022, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Last but not least, this year saw the inaugural edition of the Asia CEO Summit & Joint Leadership Summit - a collaboration between AEO (UK), SACEOS (Singapore), SISO (US), and UFI, which took place from 5-7 October, 2022, in Singapore.
In addition, UFI is a partner and shareholder of the “Exhibition Think Tank Club” – a global community platform for industry professionals. Through the partnership, staff from UFI member companies have free access to the platform, which has grown to be a vibrant, 1,000-member strong industry community.
UFI’s “UFI Certified Professional” (UCP) designation, launched in the previous year, continues to evolve. Since its launch, UFI has awarded 26 industry professionals with the global designation, with more than 100 additional colleagues in the process. Six editions of the “Exhibition Management School”, have taken place since the launch of the new programme.
The “Next Generation Leadership Grant” programme is back again. Six winners have been selected, and they are presenting their findings at the UFI Global Congress in Oman. This year, the focus of the NGL project is the development of a talent narrative for the exhibition industry, a topic of critical importance to the future of our sector.
Global Exhibitions Day took place on 1st June for the 7th time. The 2022 GED campaign focused on the irreplaceable value of physical exhibitions and face-to-face business events in creating platforms for economic growth and recovery, as well as being the perfect occasion to network and meet new people.
The UFI team registered activities in 116 countries and regions, had an online reach of 782 million people, and a growing number of in-person events. In 2023, GED will take place on 7 June.
UFI’s outlook for the year ahead The months ahead will see UFI maintaining the focus on industry support and the evolution of industry business models, with advocacy, research and educational activities ongoing.
In-industry collaborations with global umbrella bodies like the Joint Meetings Industry Council and the “G3” partnership with fellow global trade associations AIPC and ICCA, UFI will help to drive industry wide core projects like the “Net Zero Carbon Events” initiative.
UFI’s Global CEO Summit will kick off the 2023 events roster, taking place on-site in Lisbon (Portugal) from 1-3 February 2023.
In 2023, the UFI Global Congress will take place in Las Vegas, USA, from 1-4 November, hosted by the Las Vegas Conventions and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). For 2024, UFI’s Board of Directors has selected Cologne, Germany, as the destination for the UFI Global Congress.
Michael Duck (EVP – Commercial Development, Informa Markets, and EVP – Commercial Development, Group at Informa Group) is UFI’s next President, taking up office at the end of the Global Congress in Muscat. He is joined in UFI's new presidential leadership trio by Geoff Dickinson (CEO, dmg Events) as Incoming President, and Monica Lee-Müller (Managing Director of Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Limited (HML), Hong Kong) as Outgoing President.
UFI is grateful to all its members, partners and sponsors, notably the Diamond Sponsors: Freeman, Qatar Tourism Authority, and TCEB.
UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has announced that its 91st UFI Global Congress will be held in Cologne, Germany. It will be hosted by Koelnmesse, and take place from 20-23 November 2024. The Congress will be hosted in the new Confex Congress Center at Koelnmesse, one of the most modern trade fair centers in Europe. As a city fair in the heart of Europe, the venue occupies the thirdlargest exhibition center in Germany and, with nearly 400,000m2 of indoor and outdoor space, is among the top ten in the world. With more than one million inhabitants, Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany and is one of the most important and popular tourist destinations in Europe.
UFI President, Monica Lee-Müller, says: “What a way for me to end my turn as the UFI president –being able to share the news that our association’s biggest event will return to Cologne, one of UFI’s 20 founding members, in 2024. Cologne won the bid against strong competition from around the world. After Muscat this year and Las Vegas in 2023, this is certainly another world class destination.“ CEO of Koelnmesse, Gerald Böse, says: “In 2024, we will celebrate 100 years of Koelnmesse. Thus, 2024 will be the year when tradition and future come together in a very special way. The time and place will be just right for another major event of our industry. Be part of it and celebrate together with us in the circle of our worldwide trade fair family. We cannot wait to welcome you in Cologne.”
The UFI Global Congress is the “must attend” event for the exhibition industry, as the largest global meeting of the year, which gathers hundreds of industry leaders from around the world to network and to learn. A testament to the global footprint of UFI, it is taking place in different regions around the world each year.
The UFI Global Congress takes place in October or November every year in trade show destinations around the world. Following this year’s Congress in Muscat (Sultanate of Oman), the event will move on to Las Vegas (USA) for 2023, where it will take place from 1-4
November, 2023. Recent hosts include Rotterdam (The Netherlands), Bangkok (Thailand), St. Petersburg (Russia), Johannesburg (South Africa), Shanghai (China), Milan (Italy), Bogota (Colombia), and Seoul (South Korea).
Germany – one of the world’s top three exhibition markets – has hosted the UFI Congress a number of times already, last in 2002, when the event was held in Munich.
Open to more than 50,000 industry professionals globally, who work for UFI member companies, UFI Global Congress combines international networking with unique content. It’s an opportunity to gain insight into topics of strategic interest, to learn about new trends, and to discuss the challenges facing the exhibition industry.
The 11th edition of IMEX America closes today following four days of business and networking that heralded a welcome return to form for the global meetings, events and incentive travel industry.
Speaking in the show’s closing press conference at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, IMEX Chairman, Ray Bloom, announced an overall participation of 12,000 people, of whom over 4,000 were buyers, 3,300 of these attended on the show’s hallmark hosted buyer program.
Bloom explained that the 2022 edition was 45% bigger than last year due to an easing of travel restrictions plus 40% of returning exhibitors taking more booth space.
“We’ve certainly all got our steps in this week,” he joked. Across the board, international exhibitors returned in strong numbers. Of those who doubled the size of their booths, 24% were from North America, 23% were hotel groups, 15% were European and 12% from Asia. Latin America and tech exhibitors also showed significant increases.
Bloom continued, “The size of this year’s show is obviously a function of many in the industry being able to travel and plan meetings again and to do so with certainty. It’s been a long time coming and, although we a produced a great show last year, this week felt like the big come-back we’ve all been waiting for.”
“That’s not to deny that challenges remain. Equally, it seems buyers are being more discerning”, he said. “We’ve heard they’re preparing RFPs in more detail and being more rigorous in their selection criteria.”
A return to form for the global meetings and business events industry marks close of IMEX AMERICA 2022
Bloom explained that exhibitors had reported long pipelines, with business being placed as far out as 2028. Early today Tourism Ireland announced they’d confirmed business to the value of EUR 10 million during the show, while Destination DC landed a large event for the American Distilling Association in 2026.
Carina Bauer, IMEX Group CEO, explained that, aside from being awarded MeetGreen’s Visionary status and the TSE (Trade Show Executive) Grand Award for Most Commendable Green Initiatives for the 2021 show, IMEX America has achieved the Events Industry Council’s Sustainable Event Standards Platinum Certification.
“The juddering, global halt of the pandemic may be behind us, but its lessons live on. And, having talked about disruption as a tool for business transformation for so long, we’re now seeing what that really means. Many of these lessons are positive, innovative and long overdue. From our A Voice for All program on Smart Monday, to Google Experience Institute’s NEU Project, we’re all invited to understand that events, and event designs, have excluded too many people for too long.
Having welcomed the largest group of faculty members in the world to IMEX America this week, Bloom reminded his audience that IMEX purposefully gathers every corner of the global industry together. “We’re not just talking about buyers and suppliers from all corners of the world. Hundreds of students, our future leaders, have been here, learning and experiencing the industry firsthand and seeing it in full color. And IMEX together with IAEE invite faculty here too, delivering a program tailored specifically for them.”
Some of the big themes percolating through from corridor conversations and speakers this week included: service levels, contracts, wellbeing and mental health; the pros and cons of distributed workforces; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEI+B) and sustainability, both personal and environmental.
“Two concepts I take from this week are belonging and freedom of choice. The first is about making sure everyone feels welcomed – that they genuinely belong at our events and that our designs include them. The second is a call for planners to let go. To break free of over-scheduling and a ‘more is more’ approach. We need to put people first, give them more choice and pay more attention to what makes us all human. At its most basic, this means prioritizing healthy nutritious food, clean water, time for rest, space for unscheduled connection and plenty of daylight. Google’s Megan Henshall put it best: ‘Not only does the data show that belonging is good for business, but as designers we also need to do a better job of not asking people to leave their lived experience at the doors when they come to our events.” Carina concluded.
miceaffairs
Mrs. Naruemol Sukhum, Director of Sales & Marketing, Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok, said: “The appointments with buyers produce satisfactory responses. We met a total of 18 buyers, most of which are travel agents and DMCS from India. Others are from Germany and Singapore, representing various business sectors. The corporate buyers are mainly interested in meeting and incentive travel.” Mr. Phanlop (Addy) Ritthrong, Managing Director, Eventage (Thailand), said: “Eventage participates in IT&CMA every year. It is a platform of opportunities to meet clients from all over the world and attract events to Thailand. We receive good responses from most of the clients. They are likely to bring business groups from many countries for our company. But most of them or 80% are from India. The others are from Asia Pacific. The business sectors of potential buyers are automobile and pharmaceutical”.
Ms. Arunroj Pittayapruek, Sales Manager, Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center (BITEC), said: “We received great responses at IT&CMA and would like to thank TCEB for giving us the opportunity to join Thailand Pavilion. We are very satisfied with the chance to connect with buyers from Destination Management Company (DMC), who are a significant driver of incentive travel groups, and event organisers, who are interested in making Thailand a destination for their events. We have many appointments with plenty of buyers. Clients from large market are the United States, clients from Asia are the Philippines and India, while clients from Europe are Italy.”
The responses of Thai exhibitors are positive with the prospects
The Centre has approved the appointment of retired IAS officer Pradeep Singh Kharola as Chairman and Managing Director of the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO). The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved appointment of Kharola as Chairman & Managing Director, ITPO in the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India on contract basis for a period of two years from the date of assumption of charge of the post or until further orders, whichever is earlier,” said an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training on Wednesday.
Kharola will continue to hold the charge of the post of Chairman, National Recruitment Agency till appointment of a regular incumbent in his place, it added.
The 1985 batch IAS officer was appointed as the Chairman of the NRA in March this year. He has also served as CMD Air India and Secretary, Civil Aviation.
Melbourne’s art and culture scene is about to get richer as THE LUME Melbourne prepares to unveil their next artist experience, Monet & Friends, to the public. Over a year in the making and featuring more than 800 individual art works, Monet & Friends invites visitors to take a spellbinding journey through the colourful world of French Impressionism.
This multi-sensory experience will see visitors journey to the heart of Bohemian Paris and through the gardens and farms of countryside France. Surrounded by Monet’s Water Lilies and dancing next to Degas’ Ballerinas, visitors will not just see the world of French Impressionism, but become a part of it.
“The immersive experience on offer at THE LUME Melbourne is far more accessible than a traditional gallery exhibition,” said Bruce Peterson, Founder and CEO of Grande Experiences and THE LUME Melbourne.
“You will be able to walk around and even play in the colours of the French Impressionists as they are projected around the gallery. This tactile, shareable experience opens art to a wider audience and challenges the way we look at this important cultural movement,” Peterson said.
Just as the rebellious French Impressionists sought to break out of their studios and use swift brushstrokes to capture the vitality of real life, the new Monet & Friends experience aims to drench guests in the sights, sounds, scents and tastes of this revolutionary time in modern art.
This was a radical turning point in culture that deserves an equally radical reinterpretation. The works of Monet, Cézanne, Renoir, Manet and more will ripple across four-storey-high canvasses at THE LUME Melbourne’s 3,000 square metre permanent gallery. The immersive experience will be beamed out of 150 projectors to create a feature that took 50,000 man-hours to curate.
The new experience will ignite all five senses, with a brand-new menu at THE LUME Melbourne’s aptly named Café de Flore, influenced by the French cuisine of the time. A signature scent has also been created, which is designed to complement the artist’s celebration of the outdoors and there is also a thoughtfully curated soundtrack to accompany the experience.
Gary Moynihan, lead creative with Grande Experiences and the team behind THE LUME Melbourne, says that music is always an important aspect of a show but with Monet & Friends they found some amazing synergies between the art and the music of the time.
“There was a similar Impressionist movement going on in composing,” Moynihan said. “Everyone was trying to capture this sensation of immediacy and rejecting the old forms of creation.
Claude Debussy was considered the first Impressionist composer and he was trying to capture that feeling of standing outdoors next to water and Monet was doing the exact same thing with painting.”
Monet & Friends will still be as instantly shareable on social media as Van Gogh with photo opportunities and the ability to walk into some of the famous Impressionist works including Monet’s Studio, where visitors have the opportunity to harness their creativity and recreate some of the artist’s most famous brushstrokes.
THE LUME Melbourne’s Founder Bruce Peterson sees the French Impressionists experience as a natural successor to the famed Van Gogh experience that has been seen by nearly 9 million people across 85 cities before finding its home at THE LUME Melbourne over the last twelve months.
The Monet & Friends experience is broken up into three main themes: the rise of Paris as the 19th century hub of art and culture; everyday scenes and the break with traditional studio art; and en plein air, the move towards outdoor paintings and sculptures.
“This was the first time that artists really took canvases out into the open to capture fleeting light and motion,” Peterson said. “We are hoping that exhibitions like Monet & Friends might be some visitor’s first interaction with art but we are not designing these experiences to replace traditional art galleries.
We hope that they inform and excite visitors and inspire them to seek out original art work as well.”
The Hong Kong Exhibition & Convention Industry Association (HKECIA) welcomes the measures of the HKSAR Government to support the convention and exhibition (“C&E”) industry announced in the latest Policy Address, in response to strengthen and capitalise on Hong Kong’s status as the Trade Fair Capital of Asia.
The existing Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme (CEISS), which originally expires on 31 December 2022, will be extended to June 30, 2023. In addition, the HKSAR Government will launch a new HK$1.4 billion (US$ 179.48 million) scheme after the CEISS expires to subsidise more than 200 exhibitions to be staged in Hong Kong over three years. The AsiaWorld-Expo Phase 2 project and the Wan Chai North redevelopment project near the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre will proceed to substantially increase large-scale convention and exhibition spaces to consolidate Hong Kong’s status as a premier venue for international C&E activities.
The HKECIA welcomes Government’s support to convention and exhibition industry, helping ease financial burdens on the organisers who can therefore get ready for the industry revival. An additional HK$1.4 billion scheme and the commitment to the development plans are a strong recognition of the significance of the exhibition industry to Hong Kong’s economy and government’s declaration of intention to reestablish Hong Kong as an exhibition hub of Asia, supporting numerous crucial industries and boosting commerce.
“While the HKECIA appreciates Government’s measures, our industry urges the Government to lift travel restrictions and relax all social distancing measures as soon as possible. The exhibition industry and business sector need to be able to freely reconnect with the world to enable the economy to recover. Otherwise, the aforementioned new policies are not able to benefit the convention and exhibition industry, and our industry is unable to bounce back and Hong Kong will lose advantages to other Asian cities,” Mr Bailey added.
Mr. Stuart Bailey, HKECIA Chairman, commented,
Jazeera Airways, Kuwait leading low-cost airline, operating regionally and internationally recently conducted events to celebrate the launch of direct flights to Bangalore and marking one year of successful operations to Chennai in the respective cities. The airline started its service to Bangalore in India on November 3, 2022, flying to the Garden City of India two times a week on Thursdays and Saturdays. This launch comes as part of their expansion in India, with Jazeera Airways now flying to all destinations available under the bilateral arrangement between the two countries.
The management at Jazeera Airways took the opportunity of successfully marking one year of operations to Chennai by thanking its trade partners for extending their support. Top 10 travel agents were also recognized and awarded at an award show in the city on November 2nd 2022.
Having started its India operations with Hyderabad in October 2017, Jazeera Airways has quickly grown in the last 5 years serving from 5 to 8 destinations in India and currently has 30 direct services to Kuwait and beyond from India.
Resort World Cruises recently organized a familiarization trip onboard Genting Dream, inviting key MICE Industry players from various cities of India.
The program was designed to deliver a true MICE experience to all the delegates invited. 35 MICE Industry players were invited to join this one of its kind MICE Experiential FAM. The guest were offered a real time experience of executing a MICE Movement onboard cruise, starting from Check in process, Immigrations, Activities and Venue show-around.
The delegates also explored the key facilities available onboard from Dance Stations, Adventure Rides, Dining Options, Meeting facilities, Fitness, Wellness and Shopping.
A Box Cricket session was also organized onboard Genting Dream to check out the cricketing skills of MICE Players.
Everything was tastefully done and offered to delegates in this exclusive MICE Experiential FAM. Total of 31 delegates joined the program, to get acquainted with the MICE offerings for their corporate clients.
Key Players included FCM MICE, Travel N Experience, SKH Global, Zenith MICE, Adiona Travels, Kolormice, Globe All India Services, Travel Clinic Voyage, Tibro Tours, Luxe Comfort Travels, Big Breaks.com, Fun Holidays, Choice Holidays, Good Earth Travel, Blessing Tours, Raj Yatayat and others.
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has released two more episodes in its Event Expert docuseries showcasing the experts, innovators and creators making MCEC Melbourne’s home of the unconventional.
Going behind the scenes, the new episodes feature the work of Maxine McIntyre, Event Planner and Amir Asady, Operations Manager.
Maxine’s story looks at how she brings events to life as an Event Planner. Recently awarded Venue Professional of the Year by the Venue Management Association, Maxine is enthusiastic about partnering with event organisers to bring their events to life, simplifying the process and making it enjoyable.
As an MCEC Event Planner for over 6 years, Maxine has worked on some of MCEC’s biggest events including Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE), featured in the video.
Amir’s story demonstrates the wide range of responsibilities of an Event Delivery Manager at MCEC, working with organisers across a broad range of events. Event Delivery Managers are experts at working under pressure to ensure events run seamlessly on the ground working across catering, tech, operations, and customer service.
Since filming, his MCEC career has continued to progress and Amir has been promoted to Operations Manager. The series is part of a suite of video content released by MCEC this year, along with the recent launch of their new brand video. Other videos in the series feature Sustainability Manager Samantha Ferrier, Executive Pastry Chef Alessandro Bartesaghi, and Digital Event Manager Mark Higgins showcasing their expertise. Further episodes are due for release in 2023.
MCEC’s Head of Marketing, Liz Kozmevski said: “Maxine and Amir’s videos give insight into the world-class customer service MCEC provides event organisers when planning and hosting events.
“It’s exciting to showcase the passion and thinking that takes place behind the scenes through storytelling and demonstrating the endless possibilities of hosting an event at MCEC.”
The Hon. John Brumby AO, Chair of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust, has today announced the appointment of Natalie O’Brien AM as Chief Executive of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).
Ms O’Brien joins the business in January 2023 and brings a wealth of leadership experience in the tourism and events industry. She is a former CEO of Food and Wine Victoria, producers of Australia’s internationally acclaimed Melbourne Food & Wine Festival.
Most recently she has managed her own strategy consultancy, while operating as a CEO for Wine Victoria, and previously interim CEO for Ballarat Regional Tourism, where she led the co-design of Visitor Economy Recovery Plans.
Ms O’Brien was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2019 Australia Day Honours list for significant service to tourism, food, and the community of Victoria. As CEO of MCEC Ms O’Brien will be responsible for the overall management, business plan delivery and future strategic direction of MCEC and the operational planning for the new Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCEC).
Ms O’Brien will step into the role following the departure of outgoing CEO, Peter King, who finishes with the business at the end of the year. This follows a remarkable 11 years in which Mr King has made a lasting impact on just MCEC, but to the wider visitor economy. Ms O’Brien joins MCEC at a crucial time as the organisation recovers from the impact of COVID-19 and builds for the future. The Centre has reopened to a strong demand for business in 2022 and her experience will play a key role in continuing to guide the business back to its pre-pandemic levels of success in the coming years.
Minister for Tourism, Sport & Major Events, The Hon. Steve Dimopoulos, said:
“Recognised for her contributions to Victoria’s tourism and major events sector, Natalie brings exceptional leadership and experience to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, ensuring the organisation continues to draw the events and exhibitions that support businesses and create jobs.”
“I thank Peter for his hard work and service across 11 years at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, under his leadership the venue has played an essential role in drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to Victoria.”
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust Chair, The Hon. John Brumby AO said:
“We’re really pleased with Natalie’s appointment as CEO of MCEC. We’ve been lucky to attract an executive with the experience and skillset to lead the organisation in the years ahead. She brings great insight and a tremendous track record of driving change and growth in organisations.
“Natalie will bring a wealth of senior experience to the role and will provide the vision and leadership MCEC needs as we continue to recover and grow in a challenging business events environment post-COVID.
“I’d like to congratulate Natalie on her appointment and look forward to working with her and MCEC’s senior management team on further developing our world class venue.
“Natalie was chosen after an extensive global recruitment and executive search process throughout Australia and internationally that produced an outstanding shortlist of candidates. The quality of the field is testament to the very high regard that the Centre is held in throughout the world”.
Speaking about her appointment to the role Natalie O’Brien AM said:
“I’m excited to lead an already iconic Melbourne landmark into the next phase of growth, as the organisation’s enormous impact and benefit continues to expand across Victoria.
“I can’t wait to work with the incredible team at MCEC, empowering them to continue to achieve their very best and contribute to the experience of all visitors to, and residents of, this vibrant and diverse state.
“I’m especially looking forward to building strong relationships with our customers, our people, the community we serve, and key government and industry stakeholders, while also fostering new partnerships and business outcomes in an increasingly competitive market.”
Natalie O’Brien AM will commence in her new role as CEO of MCEC from 9 January 2023.
Associate Vice President - Business Development
Basant Sabu who started his journey with The Fern Hotels & Resorts as General Manager - Business Development in 2015 has been promoted to Associate Vice President -Business Development at The Fern Hotels & Resorts. Basant comes with more than a decade of experience in Business Development, Strategy, Investments and Finance. Under his tenure, the brand has witnessed exponential growth from1300 rooms in 2015 to 5000+ rooms with 90+ operational hotels & resorts presently. The brand is targeted to reach around INR 800 crores in brand revenue by the end of this financial year. Mr Sabu will continue to lead the business development for The Fern Hotels & Resorts across its multiple brands in India and abroad in its next phase of growth.
Associate Vice President - Sales & Marketing (North & East India)
Mohit Sharad has been promoted to Associate Vice President - Sales & Marketing (North & East India). Heading the Sales & Marketing function for the North & East region since 2016, in his new leadership role he will be responsible for driving core sales, creating relationships, promoting brand strategies and assisting in brand marketing. Mr Sharad brings with him over a decade of experience in the Hospitality sector and has worked with ITC WelcomHeritage & Sewara Hospitality before joining the core management team at Concept Hospitality. He is passionately committed to encouraging the zeal of his young team, while nurturing a healthy and cohesive work environment.
Area General Manager - Goa
Rajeev Kumar, currently General Manager, The Fern Kadamba Hotel and Spa, Goa has been promoted to Area General Manager - Goa, overseeing the operations of all 6 Fern & Beacon hotels in Goa. Rajeev has been associated with the brand for the last 6 years. He comes with more than 2 decades of vast in-depth experience in the hospitality industry, being associated with brands like Holiday Inn, Mahindra Holidays and Wyndham group, with a strong hold in operations, business strategies, finance management and public relations. He has been the recipient of various hospitality awards. He is passionately committed to the business development and expansion of The Fern Hotels & Resorts in Goa.
Events are the best way to get your business in front of potential customers and hires. As a startup founder, you should be going to as many events as possible. It doesn’t matter if it’s a pitch competition, networking or an award ceremony — events are the easiest way to get exposure for your startup. Even if you're just getting your company off the ground, talking it up at events can lead to greater things. Done right, it can yield far more leverage than any amount of time spent in front of a computer screen. One such event, India Startup Summit & Startup Achievers’ Awards 2022 (ISS – 2022)is happening at The Umrao, New Delhi on 16 December 2022.
The 1 day event has Live Pitching, Panel Discussion, Expo and Awards ceremony as well. The Event will start at 9 am on 16th and will end with a Gala Dinner later in the night.
ISS - 2022 is proud to be supported by HSBC Bank as the Title Partner, BIGIN by Zoho CRM as the CRM Partner, VI-JOHN as the Grooming Partner, and TOI+ as the Knowledge Partner.
Startups from across the country are registered to attend the event. Some of the renowned speakers and Investors invited to the event are – Mr. Arjun Vaidya, Mr. T.Koshy, Mr. Bharat Seth, Dr. Sarthak Bakshi, Prof. Dhruv Nath, Nirmallya Roy Chowdhary, Ms. Yogita, Mr. Karan Varma, Mr. Prashant Narang, Mr.Rakesh Seth, Mr. Aryaman Mishra, Mr. Sourabh Goyal, Ms. Anjali Bawa, Mr. Tushar Kansal, Ms. Vandana Tolani, Mr. Himaksh Kashyap, Mr. Rajeev Khera.
• India Startup Summit - 2022 is an initiative by Entrepreneurs Media for the Indian startup ecosystem
• This will help join the dots among the startup community in India
• It is a platform to encourage the Indian startup ecosystem and aspiring entrepreneurs • ISS - 2022 will help to bridge the startup-investor gap
• The ISS-2022 is happening at The Umrao, Delhi Gurugram Highway on 16th December 2022 • An audience of about 900+ is anticipated during the event • It is expected to have 250+ conference delegates mainly Founders, Co-founders, CXOs, Toplevel decision-makers, Investors, and Startup owners • The event will have immense online and offline media coverage
UFI welcomed more than 400 UFI delegates, from over 50 countries and regions, to its 89 th annual Global Congress in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, from 14 to 17 November.
The Global Congress is always the largest, most international, and final event of the year for UFI members. It aims to build on the programming and conversations that occurred at all its events throughout the year and give a preview into the industry for 2023. The global industry was hosted by the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre and markets like Germany, Italy, the UK, US, India and, of course, the GCC region sent significant numbers of participants.
Oman’s Minister for Heritage and Tourism, Salim bin Mohammed bin Said Al Mahroqi, attended the Congress opening and held talks with the UFI leadership, underlining the importance of the sector for the development of Oman.
The Congress is known as a global platform for industry leaders to learn, network, and drive business. Four days of meetings, main stage keynotes and sessions, topical deep dives, and numerous networking events provided a multitude of opportunities to recharge old connections and make new ones.
Summarising the event UFI CEO Kai Hattendorf says: “This year’s Congress will be remembered for a long time. We returned to the Middle East for the first time in ten years, and we see significant progression in the industry throughout the region, with more markets growing their infrastructure and offerings for our sector. We re-balanced the mix between networking and content time. The networking areas were buzzing, the stands of our partners were busy. We were delighted to welcome many first time attendees,
and we’re even more pleased to know they left with new peers and contacts.”
With around 60 speakers from around the world, the Congress delivered a mix of keynotes and breakout sessions.
Opening speaker (and two times Oscar winner) Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoi showed the audience the power of story in transforming the world. She helped the audience to understand how the invisible can be brought into view and how we all have the power to change the way we think and view culture. She received a standing ovation from the audience.
UFI’s 2022 Class of “Next Generation Leaders”- Monika Baro, Jo Kowalsky, Justine Rebel, Daniella Galante, Maria Victoria Piñeres and Jon Yahirun – followed Ms. ObaidChinoi’s advice and presented precisely such a story – the story of a new career narrative to attract talent globally into the exhibition industry.
Sandy Angus, outgoing Chairman at Montgomery Group, led the first edition of a new format, the “Global Exhibition Industry Board Meeting”, where leaders like David Doft (CFO, Emerald Expositions), Anne Lafére (CEO, Easyfairs), Derar al Manaseer (Director Strategy & Investment, ADNEC), Christian Gerdau (CIO, Messe München) and Kevin O’Donoghue (HR Director, RX Global) discussed today’s challenges and mid-term strategies. Also taking place for the first time, a designated speed networking session made sure first timers as well as Congress veterans got to know a number of new people ahead of the main programme.
Through a mix of session formats, delegates could engage directly in topics of specific relevance to them. The xChange stage provides an additional segment with presentations from destinations and event tech companies.
UFI members can access all the talks and presentation in the members section of the UFI website.
Sustainability continues to drive a lot of UFI’s activities. Alexander Alles, Executive Director of the Joint Meetings Industry Council, and UFI CEO Kai Hattendorf could report on the Roadmap of the Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative, which had just been presented by both on them and many industry leaders at the COP27 Global Climate Conference in Sharm El Sheikh on 11 November.
Many UFI members have been among the first industry groups joining the pledge, and the Congress honoured their engagement. UFI is proud to be one of the more than 400 industry actors supporting the pledge.
The 89th Global Congress included many networking opportunities and special moments. The UFI Sports Club offered running, pilates on the beach, and Omani yoga. The Grand Night Out took place outdoors under the stars at magical Turtle Bay, and included many local cultural experiences. The Post Congress Day tours took around 200 participants to the Grand Mosque, the Muscat Souk, and to selected other sites of the Sultanate.
At the close of the Congress, Michael Duck, EVP at Informa Markets, formally took over the office of UFI President for the year to come. Addressing the global UFI community, he says: “This industry of ours is a ‘catalyst. It is a wonderful way to bring people and communities and our hopes and aspirations together. I am hugely honoured to be in this position as your president, and I will ensure that I will work hard with the UFI team and the board to bring back our industry from the challenges of covid and other economic and geopolitical matters which have affected both our business and personal lives.“ Michael succeeds, Monica Lee-Müller, Managing Director of Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Limited. In 2023, Michael and Monica will also serve as a part of UFI’s Trio, the incoming, present, and immediately past Presidents of the association, along with incoming President Geoff Dickinson, CEO of dmg events.
Jamaica’s 2023 cruise-shipping season promises to see a major turnaround following the pandemic period. The arrival of the Wonder of The Seas – the world’s largest cruise ship – at the Falmouth Port on December 1, marked a key milestone towards this development.
Currently on a seven-day Western Caribbean cruise, the Wonder of the Seas was greeted with much fanfare on its arrival at the Falmouth Pier. From having a live reggae band, the coconut vendor, craft traders and duty-free merchants, visitors were greeted to “everything Jamaican”, interacting throughout the day with locals and with many vowing to return for longer stays.
Wonder of the Seas, which had its maiden voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to the eastern Caribbean on March 4, arrived in Falmouth four days after sailing from Port Canaveral, Orlando, Florida, on November 27. The 18-deck cruise ship has capacity for 6,988 guests and 2,300 crew members.
The inaugural visit by the near 9,000-passenger and crew Royal Caribbean flagship vessel is just a prelude to the return of normality in the cruise sector. Jamaica remains the most exciting port of call in the region and will be getting a lot of calls going forward.
There is the allure of the attractions plus Jamaica’s reputation for clean water as major pull factors, noting that major companies such as Carnival, MSC, Norwegian and Disney have all made commitments alongside Royal Caribbean to send their “biggest and best” ships to Jamaica.
Along with Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Port Royal and Port Antonio, all the ports of call will be seeing their fair share of traffic between 2023 and 2024 thanks to full cooperation and participation from the local stakeholders, including the residents, the police, and the leaders of the public and private sectors.
IBTM World, which this year explored the connection between events and culture, closed today (1 December 2022) with over 100,000 business meetings having taken place and over 10,000 attendees gathering in Barcelona for the three days of the event.
IBTM World 2022 investigated how the technology we use, the experiences we create, and the destinations we visit create limitless cultures for businesses and incredible potential for events. Over 2,200 exhibiting companies from 150 countries around the world were in attendance, including the CVBs of Spain, Ireland, Brussels, Croatia, The Czech Republic, Canada, Malaysia, Jordan, Bahrain, Canada, Miami, Las Vegas and Boston, as well as Meliá Hotels and Barceló Hotels.
Over 3,500 high quality buyers were present, with prestigious corporate, association and agency Hosted Buyers attending, including European Union of Medicine in Assurance and Social Security (EUMASS), Pfizer, COSMOPOLIS, International Stereoscopic Union, SAUDI Telecom Company, UNICEO (United Network of International Corporate Events Organisers), The British Pain Society, Maritz Global Events, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, citigroup inc., and CWT Meetings & Events. Commenting on their experience at IBTM World, Zinhle Nzama, Acting Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the South African National Convention Bureau said: “One of the key takeouts so far is collaboration and partnerships. We have had conversations with other convention bureaus from the continent on how we can partner to keep
business in the region, before it goes out into the world. A lot of the meetings that have taken place on the stand have resulted in business leads. We continue to see how face to face interactions are imperative in business events.”
Matthias Widor, Cluster General Manager, Kigali Marriott Hotel / Four Points by Sheraton, said: “It’s so good to have face-to-face meetings again, especially after the last two and a half years. The quality of buyers is very high, and we were able to sign business on the show floor with further warm leads to follow up. Attending IBTM World is important to create confidence in the industry and to sell a new and exciting destination like Rwanda is easier to do in person. We will definitely come back and recommend it to colleagues too.”
Ron Williams, Business Development Manager, TBEX Conferences LLC, said: “IBTM is one of the best shows I have ever attended. You can meet with the people you want to meet with and have spontaneous meetings with people you didn’t get a chance to make an appointment with. People are relaxed and it’s easy to get around, plus it’s in Barcelona which is amazing!”
Cynthia Vercruysse, Manager Marketing Fairs and Events, Ansell, said: “I am truly amazed by the organisation of this event. It brings together so many interesting destinations, venues, experienced people and insightful information all in one place.”
Brendan Gormley, Events Manager, Events Manager, BBC, said: “A great range of destinations to meet with. I found the organisation to be very smooth and the city of Barcelona very welcoming. I had so many back-to-back meetings which has been great.”
This year The Association Leaders’ Forum and The Corporate Experiences Day both took place in exciting venues in Barcelona. The Corporate Experiences Day, a tailored day of learning for Corporate Buyers, provided an interactive look at the latest technology and sustainability developments within the events industry. The Association Leaders’ Forum, curated by Stylianos Filopoulos, International Associations Expert, considered the role that associations play in our changeable world.
In partnership with ACS, IBTM World’s Knowledge Programme was well-attended with interactive sessions focusing on the event’s core theme of ‘culture creation' including session tracks on connections, business, careers, brands and experiences. During IBTM World, several sessions revealed the latest market trends and insights, including the Global Meetings & Events Trends report presented by AMEX. In addition, the annual IBTM World Trends Watch report, presented by its author, Alistair Turner, MD of Eight PR, explored how current world events are shaping culture, influencing both the events we create, and the people that attend them. A preview of the 2023 Trends Report is now available for download on the IBTM World website.
The highly anticipated Stand Awards returned this year with awards going to Visit Norway / Norway Convention Bureau who won the award for Best Stand Feature; Graduate Hotels / Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts took home the award for Best Stand; Menorca Island DMC was awarded Best Culture Campaign; Abu Dhabi received the award for Best Large Stand and Atout France was awarded Best Stand Personnel. During the event, IBTM announced that it has signed a new three-year contract with Barcelona Convention Bureau and Fira de Barcelona that will see IBTM World take place in the city up to and including the 2025 edition. The new contract builds on the existing 18-year relationship between the three organisations, with the next edition confirmed at Fira Gran Via for 28 – 30 November 2023.
Commenting on the close of the event, David Thompson, IBTM World Event Director, said: “IBTM World 2022 has been a fantastic success, surpassing all our expectations with more quality oneto-one business meetings taking place per attendee than in 2019. It was brilliant to receive feedback on the show floor that there is so much appetite for doing business that many exhibitors and buyers have already scheduled additional meetings to take place in the coming weeks. There has been a real sense of excitement and we look forward to returning to Barcelona in 2023.”
Hyatt Regency Trivandrum announced the induction of some of the best hospitality professionals in the industry prior to their launch in the capital city of Kerala. The team has been carefully selected on the basis of their previous experiences in various organizations, delivering their customers with only the best service possible.
Rahul Raj joined Hyatt in 2019 and brings with him 20 years of hotel experience with prestigious groups like Oberoi Hotels, Taj Group, and Marriott Hotels & Resorts.
Speaking about the appointments, Rahul Raj, the General Manager of Hyatt Regency Trivandrum said,
"I am very excited to be a part of a team with seasoned hoteliers. With seamless services and energizing experiences, this team is confident to deliver delightful hospitality at Hyatt Regency Trivandrum."
The extended leadership and operations team at Hyatt Regency Trivandrum includes Senthil Kumar - Executive Chef, Santoshi Rawat - Housekeeping Manager, Sonia D’Cunha - Human Resources Manager, Alkhamar Abdukunju - Food & Beverage Manager, Argha Dutta - Front Office Manager, Sunil Nair - Financial Controller, Cyril Purushothaman - Chief Engineer, and Sarath Babu - Safety & Security Manager.
Pratyush Mohapatra joins the Kandima Maldives krew as the Director of Marketing Communications and PR. He graduated from the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition at Pusa, New Delhi, with a Degree in Hotel Management and Catering Technology. Pratyush has over six years of experience in the field of marketing and started his career in hospitality at The Westin Hyderabad in 2015. Pratyush has since worked in various luxury five-star resorts and most recently served as the Director of Marketing at JW Marriott Mauritius, The Westin Turtle Bay and Le Meridien Ile Maurice. With a can-do attitude in growing both as a professional and a person, he strives to curate brand activations and foster public relations for the benefit of the property.
As the new head of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations at the stylish Kandima, Pratyush is looking forward to embracing and amplifying the offerings of this unique island destination. With a keen focus on innovative brand campaigns, meaningful amplification stories and synergized collaborations, he envisions the journey at Kandima to be a game-changing success story.
I am proud to welcome Pratyush to our island destination and look forward to working with him. With his vast experience, knowledge in the various marketing fields and great enthusiasm, I believe he will play a vital role in taking our kool island (desti)nation to new heights. stated Jean-Louis Ripoche, Kandima Maldives General Manager.
The Exhibition World Bahrain is the newest convention and exhibition centre in the region, and the largest in the Kingdom of Bahrain. With ten halls, multiple exits and entrances, storage facilities, and wide-ranging services, the centre’s strong capacity will enable it to host several events and exhibitions simultaneously, making it an attractive location for local, regional, and international exhibitions. His Royal Highness highlighted the importance of competitiveness as a fundamental element of the Kingdom’s economy, which has bolstered investments, promoted economic progress, and created quality opportunities for citizens.
HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad noted that tourism remains a leading economic sector, adding that thesector growth has been a key driver of the Kingdom’s comprehensive development, led by His Majesty the King. His Royal Highness extended his congratulations to His Majesty the King on the launch of the new state-of-the-art convention centre, noting that this achievement is a culmination of steps taken by the Kingdomforefather, HH the late Amir Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, and the efforts of the late premier HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister paid tribute to Team Bahrain’s efforts and determination to achieve the Kingdom’s wideranging economic goals that aim to further current and future development endeavors. His Royal Highness indicated that the launch of the Exhibition World Bahrain is a further
milestone in the Kingdom’s economic development, emphasizing its role in advancing economic competitiveness and positioning the Kingdom as a major global destination for regional and global conventions.
A presentation was then given in which HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad was briefed on the EWB halls and amenities, as well as the innovative and world-class services it will provide to users, event organizers and visitors. For her part, the Minister of Tourism, HE Fatima bint Jaffer Al Sairafi, extended her gratitude for His Royal Highness’s ongoing support to the Kingdom’s tourism sector, highlighting the Kingdom’s longstanding history in being a destination linking the east and west for trade, which has furthered its position as a global tourist destination.
HE Al Sairafi noted that the inauguration of the Exhibition World Bahrain reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to expanding crosssector development in line with Bahrain sustainable development goals.
The Exhibition World Bahrain’s conference centre features a main hall that can accommodate approximatel four thousand people and can be divided into three separate halls equipped with the latest technical services to host international conferences and events. It also consists of a number of other halls for medium and small-scale conferences and meetings.
Team Thailand presented its 2nd country presentation to be the host of Specialised Expo 2027/2028 to the Bureau of International Exposition (BIE) and its 170 member countries during the 171st Annual Meeting (171 st BIE General Assembly) in Paris, France.
The 2nd country presentation focused on the policy support,detail of thematic subjects of the expo and master plan and conceptual design of the expo site, including expected deliverables.
In the presentation, Thailand has stressed its readiness in all dimensions. Starting with confidence building message of the Prime Minister, General Prayut Chan-ocha, he accentuated the country’s readiness by highlighting that the organisation of Specialised Expo 2028 Phuket Thailand will serve as an international platform that will create cooperation in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).
It is in line with the Thai government’s Bio-Circular-Green or BCG Economic Model.
H.E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, a leader of Team Thailand assured BIE member countries that the organisation of Specialised Expo 2028 Phuket Thailand will create tangible benefits for the global community, especially a platform for changes and cooperation at the policy level along with inspiration for the new generation.
He focused on Thailand standpoint in creating a Harmony Index for quality of life standards and driving the concept of caring for the world in a sustainable way. These will be undertaken through key campaigns, ‘Planet Care Practice’
and ‘Nature First Mindset’, which will lead to sustainable consumption and production.
Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB emphasised the importance of organising the expo under the concept of “Future of Life: Living in Harmony, Sharing Prosperity” The concept is aligned with Thailand’s policy and aspiration in reflecting the world issues in all dimensions, particularly the issues of People, Planet and Prosperity. These three areas will affect the creation of a sustainable future (Sustainable Living). In so doing, every sector from young generation to local communities will be involved.
Mr. Yossapon Boonsom, a representative of the group of architects, who is involved in the unique conceptual design of expo space. The key concept is Flow of Nature aiming at maintaining as much green space as possible. In so doing, nature-friendly technology will be used to develop the area so that it becomes Carbon Neutral Pilot Project and “The First Expo in the Forest”. It will showcase the co-existence of forested area, water body and the sea, emphasising the main theme “Future of Life: Living in Harmony, Sharing Prosperity”.
Miss Annada Lakkhana, Phuket Young Ambassador, a 12- year-old schoolgirl, the youngest presenter, representing the new generation (Future Generation), voiced their opinion on the global problems that arise.
The girl represents the power of the new generation ready to grow and drive and build a sustainable global community together.
The final vote of 170 BIE member countries to select the host destination will take place in June 2023. In order to win the votes, Thailand Candidature Committee has already agreed with the plans and activities, developed in line with BIE terms and conditions, to garner vote support from BIE members and will execute the plans and carry out the activities fully from now on. Thailand Candidature Committee, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health, comprises the Ministry of Public Health, who will be a host organisation of the expo, Phuket province as a host city, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who will play a role in securing vote support on behalf of Thailand, the Ministry of Commerce who is the official Thai member of BIE, and TCEB, who is a national bidding organisation.
Thailand believes that the organisation of the Specialised Expo 2028 Phuket Thailand in Phuket which is a city that is ready to be a model for sustainable living will be beneficial at all levels. It will be the first expo in Southeast Asia and South Asia and will be an opportunity for participants to connect with the dynamics of this rapidly growing region. Importantly, if Thailand is chosen to host the Specialised Expo, Thailand will be the platform for participating countries to present their innovations to drive society sustainably, and also a platform for cooperation and sharing between countries in all dimensions, especially the use of space after the event which will become a global medical hub according to the original development plan of the project as approved by the Thai cabinet.
Singapore is ready to welcome back Big MICE Events, and the destination is becoming the first choice of Corporates from India to organize their next MICE event in the city.
Singapore is open to all world travelers without quarantine and no mask mandate, making it a worry free place to travel and organize events with ease.
Singapore has already welcomed 1.5 million visitors in the first half of 2022 and is expected to achieve 4 to 6 million tourists in 2022(Source STB). MICE is a strong contributor to Singapore economy with a contribution of close to 0.8 per cent to Singapore GDP and generating 34000 job prior to covid outbreak..
Singapore, well known for sustainability initiatives and has been awarded with various accolades for the same. Sustainability is one of the top priorities for many Corporates in india and Singapore comes as a first choice to them.
Singapore is on the recovery path for its Mice events, after almost two years. SBI Life Insurance organized an incentive trip from India to Singapore, which turned out to be one of the largest incentive groups hosted in Singapore this year, where 2,405 business travellers visited Singapore. SBI Life Insurance incentive trip was supported by Business Events in Singapore (BEiS), an assistance scheme by STB that encourages the business events industry to innovate and anchor quality events in Singapore.
SBI Life Insurance Group appreciated the services rendered to them by STB in making their event worth remembering. The feeling and views of participants were captured in this beautifully curated video clip, do check out what participants has to say about Singapore…
Plan your next Big MICE event in Singapore today
In November, a few members of KINEXIN(IICC Operating Company) and KINTEX attended the ICCA Congress in Poland and met Mr Chander Mansharamani, the Managing Director of Alpcord Networks, on-site. While we came to believe that India is now ready to realise its potential in the global convention industry, we also left with a lasting impression that we would like to see more Indian PCOs and event management companies participate in the annual congresses of such global associations of our industry. As we have constantly expressed our opinion, contrary to the fast-developing side of India, the marketing activity for the nation in the global arena still has a lot to be desired. In addition, we now firmly believe that the congress topics featured in international associations such as ICCA and UFI should now be shifted and more focused on India.
India is undoubtedly a country rich in human resources. Indian academic societies and industry associations are very active nationwide and even globally, and the number of professional members of such organisations is overwhelming. With relations to international association conventions and academic congresses, which directly affect international rankings for cities and countries from ICCA and UIA, one can confidently say that India is very competitive over the other countries.
The Government of India announced the National Strategy for MICE Industry 2022 earlier this year, which, among other vital plans, laid out a roadmap to creating numerous new State and City MICE Bureaus to work with current organisations such as ICPB. The new National Strategy is just in time as global conventions are returning in a post-pandemic world, and new dedicated conference and tradeshow venues such as IICC are emerging and expanding throughout India. The ideal formula for the exponential growth of global conventions in India seems complete; the passion of the Government of India, a substantial number of academic societies and industry associations in India, and the emergence of new international standard venues.
Conventions and exhibitions are symbiotic by nature; the development of one will only lead to the other booming. India’s increased activity in the global convention industry will only lead to a further blooming of the Indian exhibition industry and India becoming the Regional Hub of international trade and MICE industries. India is geographically connected by rapidly growing countries (in terms of GDP per capita) such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, China, Russia and others, much like how numerous countries surround Germany. India is assuming the role of a leader within the region as well. According to our research, the neighbouring countries of India are expressing interest in India’s new venues, tradeshows and conventions for regional trade and corporate investment purposes. What seems a bit urgent for India’s MICE industry at this point would be to promote and market India’s unprecedented opportunities globally – to proactively position India as the Tradeshow & MICE Hub of Asia.
The International Congress and Convention Association - or ICCA -expresses confidence in the capacity of Thai MICE industry and Bangkok as a successful host of the 62nd ICCA Annual Congress 2023, with the expected 1,000 attendances. Established in 1963, ICCA is the global association leader for international meetings. With the goal to support and develop the international meetings industry, the organisation has over 1,000 members representing both public and private sectors from 91 countries and territories across the globe.
On the occasion of the memorandum of understanding signing for Thailand to host ICCA Annual Congress 2023 in Bangkok between Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and ICCA, Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, stated that “the signing, witnessed by the representative of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), takes place during ICCA’s inspection trip of the venue and infrastructure in Bangkok between 5 and 9 December. The MOU is, thus, reflecting the readiness of Thailand and Bangkok in hosting the event of the global association for international meetings. We aim to make the 62nd ICCA Annual Congress 2023 a carbon-neutral event to affirm Thailand’s determination in championing sustainability and to highlight Bangkok’s latest success in environmental credentials for the meeting industry after it won the Most Improved Award from the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) 2022 during the 61st ICCA Annual Congress in Poland in November this year. With over 1,000 members from 91 countries and
territories across the globe, the hosting of the ICCA Annual Congress will spotlight Thailand as the ideal destination for international conventions in both quantitative and qualitative terms. The congress will create revenue, economic and social impacts as well as contribute to the potential of Thailand in hosting international conventions. Currently, TCEB has schemes to promote international meetings, schemes to support bidding, initiatives that create business opportunities, new international markets and overseas alliances, including capacity-building programmes for Thai associations and suppliers.”
The ICCA Congress 2023 will be the third edition held in Thailand and the second being hosted in Bangkok. The framework of collaboration for the congress between TCEB and ICCA entails Bangkok serving as a host city and TCEB acting as a local host responsible for public relations of the congress and appointing the local organising committee, which comprises Thai organisation members of ICCA, alliances from both public and private sectors, related entrepreneurs and associations. The committee will be involved in planning and making preparation for all stages of the congress organisation.
The ICCA Congress 2023 is scheduled during 12-15 November 2023 in Bangkok. The registration will be opened in March 2023. The expected number of attendants is 1,000, comprising 800 foreigners and 200 Thai visitors. The congress is expected to generate 85 million baht in revenue, contribute 47 million baht to gross domestic products (GDP) and create 2.92 million baht in tax revenue with public relations value for Thailand at 300 million baht.
Mr. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), remarked that ICCA is delighted to bring the 62nd ICCA Congress to Bangkok, Thailand next November. Thailand offers the global meetings industry a purposeful solution and host to some of the leading congresses in the world. The strategic efforts of TCEB in building the portfolio of the meetings industry in Thailand is applaudable. Thailand and TCEB are long standing partners of ICCA and we have been working together on many global initiatives and the congress will be one of the key highlights.
“Having spent a few days on the site inspection, I am confident that Bangkok as host city will set an awe-inspiring background for the congress. We cannot wait for our global community to gather at the incredible Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) and experience everything a world-class international event offers. ICCA’s presence in the capital represents a milestone in the ‘Bangkok Vision 2032’ programme, which is a truly ambitious re-imagining of what this magical city can offer the world. The anticipation is building, and we look forward to collaborating with our friends and colleagues at the Thailand Convention Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) with real hope and excitement. With sustainability at the heart of all our efforts, we shall work tirelessly to ensure congress delivers content, cultural experiences, networking, and of course, new business opportunities for our members. And perhaps most importantly, we believe the 62nd ICCA Cong\ress will leave a worthy legacy for the people of Bangkok and the business events community as a whole.”
is rich in performing arts that feature Thai identity, including traditional Thai dancing, Thai folk music, contemporary shows, Thai boxing and many more. The personnel of public and private sectors are eager to welcome the ICCA delegation and all distinguished guests. Bangkok is ready in all aspects to enable ICCA to set a standard and become memorable for all participating parties.”
Mr. Sanon Wangsrangboon,
Governor of Bangkok, said that “Bangkok is the economic center blessed with rich diversity, ranging from multicultural vibes, street food to 6-star fine dining by celebrity chefs, historical sites, contemporary architecture, convention venues, function rooms, art and cultural centres, museums to many other multi-purpose spaces offered by both public and private sectors. Even better, Bangkok
Furthermore, Thailand will be serving as a host of the first Asia Convention Alliance Association Forum (#ACAAF1) during ICCA Congress 2023. It will be the first task of the partner group of Asia Convention Alliance (ACA). The aim is to foster knowledge exchange between the executives of associations acting as a host of international conventions. They are invited by member organisations of the four territories forming ACA - Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea and Taiwan. The forum is also expected to help expand the alliance network for international convention promotion. It is forecast that the forum will create the opportunities to attract at least 4 international meetings to be held in rotation among the four member territories of ACA.
The 24th Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology Congress (“APLAR 2022”), where attracted 700 delegates, including about 400 experts, speakers and delegates from overseas, was held successfully at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (“HKCEC”) from 6-9 December 2022. The four-day congress featured a full slate of speeches, workshops and conferences as well as an exhibition showing latest rheumatology technology and industry trends.
APLAR 2022 is the first physical large-scale international congress to have taken place in HKCEC since the pandemic, marking yet another important step in the reopening of Hong Kong’s borders to exhibition and convention participants worldwide. In addition to keeping the organiser updated on the Hong Kong Government’s antiepidemic and social distancing measures, HML Event managers provided solution-based advice and services to help overseas delegates efficiently fulfil the “0+3” requirements while ensuring the health and wellbeing of all those attending the congress. Measures were wide-ranging, from venue disinfection and provision of special dining arrangements to the setting locations for of a mobile specimen truck for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.
Following the virtual Congress 2020 and hybrid Congress 2021, Professor Debashish Danda, President of APLAR and Dr Ronald ML Yip, Congress Chair of APLAR 2022 Hong Kong Congress, were excited to see the event return to a physical format. “Thanks to HML’s support, we were able to host delegates from countries and regions around the world in a face-to-face setting at the HKCEC. The HML team’s flexibility, professional advice and coordination were exceptional, as were the planning process, execution and delivery.”
Ms Monica Lee-Müller, Managing Director of HML, said she feels very confident about the opportunities that lie ahead for the convention and exhibition industry. “Our experiences with the pandemic and the overwhelmingly positive response from APLAR 2022 attendees demonstrate clearly that online conferencing technologies cannot fully replace physical meetings. APLAR 2022 is also a stellar showcase of Hong Kong’s resilience and versatility compared to other regional cities, one that HML can present to overseas organisers of major conferences as we head into 2023.”
With a full programme of activities and feasts to enjoy, Finolhu Baa Atoll invites guests to celebrate a “cabin by the sea-turnedcarnival” festive season on the barefoot chic resort that puts a playful twist on luxury.
While Finolhu offers its guests a whole host of fun activities and culinary specials throughout the year, the festive season gets underway with a Celebration Cocktail and Festive Tree Lighting party on 21 December. The excitement starts to build on 24 December with a Festive Trivia Game. As the sun sets on Christmas Eve, a Festive Cocktail Party and Kids & Teens Fashion Show take place, followed by a Festive Gala Dinner featuring a special selection of traditional favourites, local specialities and festive treats.
On Christmas Day, guest can enjoy seasonal favourites at the Festive Day Special Lunch. Starting at 5:00 pm., the Santa Arrival Parade features music, food and Santa’s entrance along with his helpers, as they hand out gifts to all the children on the island. This special day ends with the must-not-miss Edible Cinema, where guests are invited to participate in a unique movie experience that includes aroma, texture and taste.
A Festive Feast of Culinary Treats
Food plays an important role throughout the seasonal celebrations. Aside from Gala Dinners and special feasts for Christmas, Orthodox Christmas and New Year, Finolhu hosts a variety of culinary nights across
the festive season. Each Tuesday, guests are invited to explore the exciting favours of the Middle East and North Africa on Arabian Night. Couples in particular should not miss the Caviar and Oyster Nights, when air-flown caviar is paired with luxurious champagne, carefully selected by the resort’s Sommelier.
For the young ones, too, there are plenty of food-based activities to keep their flavour buds excited and their minds stimulated with opportunities to learn how to make everything from holiday-themed pancakes, muffins and cookies to Italian pizza and even a traditional Maldivian dish.
While the magic of the holiday season is felt by all, it is an especially delightful time for children. To ensure maximum enchantment and wonder for its young guests, Finolhu has arranged a stimulating variety of fun activities throughout the festive season. Under the fantaSEA theme, the Kid’s Mermaid Experience gives the little ones the chance to enter the fantaSEA world and become a mermaid. Young guests can also join the Treasure Hunt with the resident Marine Biologist, when they will seek out treasures hidden around the island, or take the Pirate Cruise and Treasure Hunt for more fun and adventure. Taking adventure to a new level, the Night Camping and Bonfire activity allows young guests to experience stargazing, participate in games and enjoy delicious snacks under the stars.
Perhaps more than anything, the festive season is a time for family and there are lots of activities designed to keep families playing together at Finolhu. Watch out for the Family Fun Challenges and the chance to enjoy some fun in the sun in friendly competition. The resort lives up to its famous island playground reputation with Family Fun Pool Games and regular Family Beach Volley Competitions.
It's not just families and kids who get to play at Finolhu. Everyone has the chance to join in the festive fun and games. From a Festive Triathlon and a High Intensity Workout for the more athletic guests to Fun Olympic Games, Aqua Aerobics, Stand Up Paddling Races, Balance Board Challenges, Kayak Competitions, Mini Golf Contests and even Kite Flying, there really is something to get everyone playing at Finolhu this festive season.
For those who like to take things at a slower pace, Finolhu offers a choice of wellness activities. Guests can join the regular Sun Salutations to awaken body, mind and soul, or learn how to cool the body and calm the mind during the Moon Salutations. The Pranayama and Cleansing Meditation sessions offer the chance to release muscle tension, reconnect body and mind, and find inner peace by combining physical poses, controlled breathing and meditation. Yoga enthusiasts are spoiled for choice with Hatha and Ashtanga Yoga sessions as well as Yogalates and Kids Yoga activities.
The Countdown to the New Year begins with a Bubble Pool Party for the young ones, followed by a New Year’s Eve Cocktail Party for guests of all ages. The New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Countdown to 2023 combine great food with spectacular entertainment. As guests tuck into a sumptuous buffet of international delicacies, fresh seafood and festive favourites, world class performers provide the entertainment. While DJ Jorge Montiel keeps the party flowing all night, he is joined by international singer Andre Espeut and French pop band, the Gypsy Queens.
Finolhu is also delighted to welcome world-renowned event entertainers Area 51 as they create a carnival-inspired theme show of international artists performing fire shows, acrobatics, and circus acts that include the Viva Brazil Samba Show, and performer for the stars, Tibor, also known as Lord of Fire. The evening’s performance reaches its climax with a full cast show leading up to the highly anticipated Countdown.
Shopping has a therapeutic effect on the human mind as it helps to elevate one’s mood and gives her/him to feel contented.
So, for all shopaholics out there, if you are planning a trip to Germany soon, don’t forget to check out Outletcity Metzingen.
Outletcity Metzingen is the only place in the world that gives the feeling of walking amongst the great designers themselves. As Germany’s first outlet destination, Outletcity is an authentic and urban experience distinguished by its award-winning architecture. With 500 premium and luxury brands in store and online, along with a comprehensive range of services and tourist offerings, the factory outlet centre ranks among the shopping capitals of the world. Around 4,2 million customers from 185 countries visit Outletcity every year. Digital elements, including the online shop, the Outletcity Metzingen app and the Outletcity Club, blur the boundaries between the in-store and digital retail experience in a holistic and customer-centric approach.
Over 150 premium and luxury brands call Outletcity Metzingen home, including brands like Burberry, Fendi, Gucci, MCM, Michael Kors, Nike, Prada, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and the world’s largest BOSS Outlet. The true-to-the-original interiors of the many flagship outlet stores confirm Metzingen as a City of Fashion for guests from all around the world. The affordable designer trends are as international as the cosmopolitan guests, representing 185 nations in a city which speaks one language: fashion.
The incomparable metropolitan feeling is topped only by the fantastic exclusive designer outlet prices.
As a City of Fashion, Outletcity Metzingen serves a variety of culinary highlights to suit everyone’s taste. The interplay between fashion and cuisine exceeds all expectations: the ambitious Chalet Chic in Almresi
meets internationally renowned restaurants and cafés like Starbucks or Marché Mövenpick. In Outletcity Metzingen, good taste isn’t just a question of fashion. The culinary establishments not only provide a welcome retreat where you can take a break from shopping, but satisfy the need for aesthetics and cuisine equally.
It is more than just a shopping trip. With an overnight stay in one of the many hotels in and around Metzingen, it becomes a luxury retreat. For those who wish to extend their stay in our small town just 30 km from Stuttgart, there is a rich selection of tourist attractions in the region that makes turning a city trip into a getaway vacation. Thanks to exclusive benefits on top, you’ll even get the VIP treatment.
Outletcity Metzingen – Shopping thrills and beyond
There is only one city that is as dynamic and varied as all the seasons of the year combined: Outletcity Metzingen is a city full of fascinating and diverse experiences from shopping and sightseeing to wellbeing 365 days a year. The region surrounding the Swabian Alb mountains, where Outletcity lies nestled, invites you to get to know the most beautiful side of southern Germany.
The festive time of the year is coming to Outletcity. It’s time to celebrate the year’s end in glamour! Feel the mood in our sea of lights, Christmas trees and wintery huts. Don’t forget to add a crowning touch to your shopping success with a visit to the new champagne bar.
alert: Outletcity Metzingen- An amazing place
shop at. Visit, indulge in and savour an unforgettable experience
