![\"Margaret](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Margaret-Mann-Convention-Manager-Japan-Convention-Bureau.jpg\" "\\"Margaret")
On 4th February 2021, the EU CVB Network hosted a Virtual Happy Hour for a group of Professional Congress Organisers. It was one in a series of virtual networking sessions that the Network has hosted in the last couple of months. It was attended by some of the most influential people in the industry from AIM Group International, Kenes Group, K.I.T. Group and MCI Group.
\n\u2018\u2019I could feel the strong combination of collaboration and knowledge sharing of this new dynamic network. A group of valuable CVBs committed to exploring and enhancing innovation facing the new challenges of PCOs and associations,\u201d says Patrizia Semprebene Buongiorno, Vice President AIM Group International.
\nThe EU CVB Network consists of seven convention bureaux representing the cities of Florence, Gothenburg, Ljubljana, Lyon, Rotterdam, Salzburg and Val\u00e8ncia.
\n\u00a0Discussions about forming a collaborative convention bureau network started a couple of years ago, between a group of destinations sharing common characteristics. While the destinations sometimes compete for the same meetings, they recognised the benefits of working in collaboration with each other. It was with a community spirit they got together last year, and with a strong belief that by working together and generously sharing knowledge, experiences and best practice, they would all benefit, and so would their clients.
\n\u201cThe EU CVB Network is a great new initiative. Destinations are cooperating rather than competing which can create new opportunities for event planners. The small group allows for personalised interaction and can only add value when looking for future destinations.
\nIt already triggered a couple of opportunities,\u201d says Valerie Thiollet, Team Manager, Specialty Congresses Department, at the European Society of Cardiology.
\nThe Network offers organisers of international meetings the opportunity to get in touch with seven cities at once. The destinations share many common characteristics, not only when it comes to compact city centres and centrally located meeting facilities. They all have a strong collaboration with the local community, a focus on sustainability and innovation and they offer a personal approach and a commitment to engage with associations and PCOs in the process of redesigning meeting solutions in a post-Covid era. Their geographical spread means they can suit a European association\u2019s rotation pattern and be suitable for multi-hub events, as all destinations have invested in the technological infrastructure required to meet the needs of tomorrow.
\n\u201cI was very excited to hear about the new EU CVB Network. It is really fantastic to have such a collaboration between great meetings destinations that can support PCOs in the new norm of our meeting industry,\u2019\u2019 says Ori Lahav, Vice President Client & Operations Kenes Group and President IAPCO – International Association of Professional Congress Organisers.
\nThe Network’s first joint event took place in Brussels in March 2020. It attracted great interest amongst Brussels-based association representatives. With the corona crisis, the collaboration moved online. The destinations share experiences on a regular basis and the Network has been an important support system in a difficult time. Apart from hosting virtual networking events, the Network has held several virtual business leads exchange sessions, with successful outcomes.
\n\u00a0\u2018\u2019The EU CVB Network has provided great opportunities for me to exchange ideas and share experiences with other associations. The Network also opens new ways for me to get to know other locations better, to have a direct contact and built-in trust. It saves me a lot of time and communication in the research to find a suitable destination and venue for our events. The Network builds on experience and the destinations support each other without competing. The CVBs and convention centres are already informed about our association from past events in an EU CVB Network destination and can build their offer on it and, at the same time know what our focus is. For me as an event organiser, that is a big plus,\u2019\u2019 says Melanie Decker, Director Events & Exhibitions at Parenteral Drug Association Europe.
\nLike many others, the EU CVB Network has had to postpone some of its face-to-face activities in 2021, but it is planning to host another joint physical event for associations and join the main MICE events throughout the year. In the meantime, the Network is actively working on future association meetings and to create new business opportunities for international congresses.
\nTo get in touch with the EU CVB Network, please contact one of the convention bureau representatives:
\n\n
The post Collaboration Before Competition \u2013 Meet the EU CVB Network appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.
\n", "content_text": "The EU CVB Network introduces itself to the top players of the international meetings industry with a series of virtual events. An opportunity to present the benefits of the collaborative convention bureau network to associations and PCOs.\nOn 4th February 2021, the EU CVB Network hosted a Virtual Happy Hour for a group of Professional Congress Organisers. It was one in a series of virtual networking sessions that the Network has hosted in the last couple of months. It was attended by some of the most influential people in the industry from AIM Group International, Kenes Group, K.I.T. Group and MCI Group.\n\u2018\u2019I could feel the strong combination of collaboration and knowledge sharing of this new dynamic network. A group of valuable CVBs committed to exploring and enhancing innovation facing the new challenges of PCOs and associations,\u201d says Patrizia Semprebene Buongiorno, Vice President AIM Group International.\nThe EU CVB Network consists of seven convention bureaux representing the cities of Florence, Gothenburg, Ljubljana, Lyon, Rotterdam, Salzburg and Val\u00e8ncia.\n\u00a0Discussions about forming a collaborative convention bureau network started a couple of years ago, between a group of destinations sharing common characteristics. While the destinations sometimes compete for the same meetings, they recognised the benefits of working in collaboration with each other. It was with a community spirit they got together last year, and with a strong belief that by working together and generously sharing knowledge, experiences and best practice, they would all benefit, and so would their clients.\n\u201cThe EU CVB Network is a great new initiative. Destinations are cooperating rather than competing which can create new opportunities for event planners. The small group allows for personalised interaction and can only add value when looking for future destinations.\nIt already triggered a couple of opportunities,\u201d says Valerie Thiollet, Team Manager, Specialty Congresses Department, at the European Society of Cardiology.\nThe Network offers organisers of international meetings the opportunity to get in touch with seven cities at once. The destinations share many common characteristics, not only when it comes to compact city centres and centrally located meeting facilities. They all have a strong collaboration with the local community, a focus on sustainability and innovation and they offer a personal approach and a commitment to engage with associations and PCOs in the process of redesigning meeting solutions in a post-Covid era. Their geographical spread means they can suit a European association\u2019s rotation pattern and be suitable for multi-hub events, as all destinations have invested in the technological infrastructure required to meet the needs of tomorrow.\n\u201cI was very excited to hear about the new EU CVB Network. It is really fantastic to have such a collaboration between great meetings destinations that can support PCOs in the new norm of our meeting industry,\u2019\u2019 says Ori Lahav, Vice President Client & Operations Kenes Group and President IAPCO – International Association of Professional Congress Organisers.\nThe Network’s first joint event took place in Brussels in March 2020. It attracted great interest amongst Brussels-based association representatives. With the corona crisis, the collaboration moved online. The destinations share experiences on a regular basis and the Network has been an important support system in a difficult time. Apart from hosting virtual networking events, the Network has held several virtual business leads exchange sessions, with successful outcomes.\n\u00a0\u2018\u2019The EU CVB Network has provided great opportunities for me to exchange ideas and share experiences with other associations. The Network also opens new ways for me to get to know other locations better, to have a direct contact and built-in trust. It saves me a lot of time and communication in the research to find a suitable destination and venue for our events. The Network builds on experience and the destinations support each other without competing. The CVBs and convention centres are already informed about our association from past events in an EU CVB Network destination and can build their offer on it and, at the same time know what our focus is. For me as an event organiser, that is a big plus,\u2019\u2019 says Melanie Decker, Director Events & Exhibitions at Parenteral Drug Association Europe.\nLike many others, the EU CVB Network has had to postpone some of its face-to-face activities in 2021, but it is planning to host another joint physical event for associations and join the main MICE events throughout the year. In the meantime, the Network is actively working on future association meetings and to create new business opportunities for international congresses.\nTo get in touch with the EU CVB Network, please contact one of the convention bureau representatives:\n\nFirenze Convention Bureau Ilenia Pasi: pasi@conventionbureau.it\nGothenburg Convention Bureau, Ulrika Scoli\u00e8ge: scoliege@goteborg.com\nLjubljana Convention Bureau, Tatjana Radovic: radovic@visitljubljana.com\nLyon Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Faustine Maugat: fmaugat@lyon-france.com \nRotterdam Partners Convention Bureau, Maaike Hamann: Hamann@rotterdampartners.nl\nSalzburg Convention Bureau, Elisabeth Kassanits-Pfoess: pfoess@salzburgcb.com\nValencia Convention Bureau, Manuel Ferris: ferris@visitvalencia.com\n\n \nThe post Collaboration Before Competition \u2013 Meet the EU CVB Network appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.", "date_published": "2021-02-11T17:01:48+01:00", "date_modified": "2021-02-11T17:01:48+01:00", "author": { "name": "Mirjana Novitovic", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/author/officebs/", "avatar": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/slika-.jpg" }, "image": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/EU-CVB-Network-Happy-Hour-PCOs-4.2.2021.jpeg", "tags": [ "convention bureau", "EU CVB network", "meetings industry", "virtual events", "Convention Bureaus", "Hot topics", "MUST READ", "NEWS", "News and events", "WHERE AND WHY" ], "summary": "The EU CVB Network introduces itself to the top players of the international meetings industry with a series of virtual events." }, { "id": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/knowledge-japan-s-forte/", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/knowledge-japan-s-forte/", "title": "Knowledge \u2013 Japan\u2019s Forte", "content_html": "The national unemployment rate falls below four percent. Children in Japan are encouraged to transfer the skills they acquire to their peers, which helps them to remember 90% of the curriculum. In addition, after each class children thank their teachers for the knowledge
\nthey were passed on. This just might be the reason why as many as 15 Nobel Prizes found their home in Japan.
In Japan, competence is highly regarded, and mutual respect and esteem are part of the culture. All this helped to Japan taking the lead in many fields, including the MICE industry. In light of this, we had the pleasure to discuss this year\u2019s ICCA results, state-of-the-art technology in event planning, and plans for the future with Margaret Mann, Manager at the Japan Convention Bureau in London.
\nJapan is a well-respected globally as a leader in a diverse range of industries and academic fields. Its reputation as a knowledge hub makes it an attractive destination for associations from all fields seeking to expose their membership to new ideas and inspiration from Japan\u2019s pool of knowledge and talent. If you look at the ICCA rankings, you\u2019ll also notice that while Tokyo ranks highest in the ICCA rankings, Japan has three cities in the top 100 and nine cities in the top 200 globally. This illustrates the strength of Japan\u2019s regional cities and showcases the diverse options that Japan can offer associations.
\n1. Knowledge: Japan\u2019s academic and industry reputation is a huge advantage for associations. Japan is home to high concentrations of academic and research institutions with
\nadvanced R&D capabilities that can support events with respected speakers, inspirational
\ntours of local industry, and high level knowledge exchange.
\n2. Culture: Japan\u2019s unique culture contributes to its attractiveness as a destination for association meetings. Experiences a different culture is still a key reason why people travel to attend conferences. Attending a conference in Japan is a rare opportunity to experience things that cannot be found anywhere else in the world; from unique performances at gala
\ndinners to interactive sessions during coffee breaks, Japanese culture can be incorporated
\nthroughout a meeting program to attract higher delegate levels.
\n3. Infrastructure: Japan has 12 global MICE cities which have been recognized by the government as having the infrastructure and connectivity to host international meetings and events. Meeting planners have a diverse portfolio of purpose-built convention centers and high quality hotels to choose from. With five international hubs and many other regional international airports, access from around the world is convenient by long-haul standards, and the high-speed shinkansen (bullet train) system connects all major cities making domestic travel easy.
\n4. Experience & Expertise: Japan was one of the first Asian countries to establish a convention bureau. The Japan National Tourism Organization works in coordination with the local experts of our municipal convention bureaus to help support meeting planners to maximize the value Japan as a destination can add to their events. Each of our twelve global MICE cities have a professional convention bureau who work closely with our highly experienced DMCs and PCOs.
![\"Kiyomizudera](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Kiyomizudera-Temple-Autumn-in-Kyoto-credit-JNTO.jpg\" "\\"Kiyomizudera")
I don\u2019t think technology will ever replace face-to-face meetings, but I think the most successful technology will enhance engagement before, during and after meetings. This might be through wearable technology, like the human body communication devises launched
\nby Panasonic at least year\u2019s CEATEC, or perhaps through AI or interactive apps. Japanese tech companies are always coming up with creative solutions that the industry needs can develop into practical applications.
In addition to the software that is developed to encourage the smooth organization of events, many Japanese venues are using modern technology to encourage sustainable meetings. For example, venues like the PACIFICO Yokohama have pioneered technology partnerships with local universities to improve sustainability. Japan also develops many of the top technology trade fairs and conferences in the world, which helps encourage the adoption of new technology.
\n![\"Makuhari](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Makuhari-Messe-credit-JNTO.jpg\" "\\"Makuhari")
Japan welcomed a record 24 million visitors in 2016 and we aim to increase that to 40 million by 2020, the year Tokyo will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The meetings industry plays a key role in this goal. Cities throughout the country are continuing to invest in the meeting industry, with new venues, transportation infrastructure and applicable technology. Further increasing the wealth of options for meeting planners throughout Japan, new convention centers and venues are currently in the works for Yokohama, Nara, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, and subtropical Okinawa.
\nAfter successfully working with the government to implement fast-track immigration lanes for conference delegates, improve tax exemption programs for visitors and relax visa requirements, the Japan National Tourism Organization is also working closely with our cities to open up important cultural properties for use as unique venues to showcase Japan for meeting delegates.
\nThe post Knowledge \u2013 Japan\u2019s Forte appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.
\n", "content_text": "Japan. Land of the Rising Sun. With a population of around 130 million people, the country boasts a literacy rate at near 100%. Trains run at speeds of up to 300 km/h, cell phones are used as credit cards (osaifu-keitai), and many restaurants have robots serving their patrons.\nThe national unemployment rate falls below four percent. Children in Japan are encouraged to transfer the skills they acquire to their peers, which helps them to remember 90% of the curriculum. In addition, after each class children thank their teachers for the knowledge\nthey were passed on. This just might be the reason why as many as 15 Nobel Prizes found their home in Japan.\nIn Japan, competence is highly regarded, and mutual respect and esteem are part of the culture. All this helped to Japan taking the lead in many fields, including the MICE industry. In light of this, we had the pleasure to discuss this year\u2019s ICCA results, state-of-the-art technology in event planning, and plans for the future with Margaret Mann, Manager at the Japan Convention Bureau in London.\nMargaret Mann, Convention Manager, Japan Convention Bureau\nThis year\u2019s ICCA statistic report shows that Japan and Tokyo are very high ranked. Could You please comment those results?\nJapan is a well-respected globally as a leader in a diverse range of industries and academic fields. Its reputation as a knowledge hub makes it an attractive destination for associations from all fields seeking to expose their membership to new ideas and inspiration from Japan\u2019s pool of knowledge and talent. If you look at the ICCA rankings, you\u2019ll also notice that while Tokyo ranks highest in the ICCA rankings, Japan has three cities in the top 100 and nine cities in the top 200 globally. This illustrates the strength of Japan\u2019s regional cities and showcases the diverse options that Japan can offer associations.\nWhat do you consider as a four main advantages of Japan as a destination for achieving such a result?\n\n1. Knowledge: Japan\u2019s academic and industry reputation is a huge advantage for associations. Japan is home to high concentrations of academic and research institutions with\nadvanced R&D capabilities that can support events with respected speakers, inspirational\ntours of local industry, and high level knowledge exchange.\n2. Culture: Japan\u2019s unique culture contributes to its attractiveness as a destination for association meetings. Experiences a different culture is still a key reason why people travel to attend conferences. Attending a conference in Japan is a rare opportunity to experience things that cannot be found anywhere else in the world; from unique performances at gala\ndinners to interactive sessions during coffee breaks, Japanese culture can be incorporated\nthroughout a meeting program to attract higher delegate levels.\n3. Infrastructure: Japan has 12 global MICE cities which have been recognized by the government as having the infrastructure and connectivity to host international meetings and events. Meeting planners have a diverse portfolio of purpose-built convention centers and high quality hotels to choose from. With five international hubs and many other regional international airports, access from around the world is convenient by long-haul standards, and the high-speed shinkansen (bullet train) system connects all major cities making domestic travel easy.\n4. Experience & Expertise: Japan was one of the first Asian countries to establish a convention bureau. The Japan National Tourism Organization works in coordination with the local experts of our municipal convention bureaus to help support meeting planners to maximize the value Japan as a destination can add to their events. Each of our twelve global MICE cities have a professional convention bureau who work closely with our highly experienced DMCs and PCOs.\n\nKiyomizudera Temple Autumn in Kyoto, credit JNTO\nIn your opinion, what is the next big technology trend in event industry?\nI don\u2019t think technology will ever replace face-to-face meetings, but I think the most successful technology will enhance engagement before, during and after meetings. This might be through wearable technology, like the human body communication devises launched\nby Panasonic at least year\u2019s CEATEC, or perhaps through AI or interactive apps. Japanese tech companies are always coming up with creative solutions that the industry needs can develop into practical applications.\nSince Japan is the country known for its Hi-Tech approach, can you share with us what are the most common use of modern technologies at events in Japan?\nIn addition to the software that is developed to encourage the smooth organization of events, many Japanese venues are using modern technology to encourage sustainable meetings. For example, venues like the PACIFICO Yokohama have pioneered technology partnerships with local universities to improve sustainability. Japan also develops many of the top technology trade fairs and conferences in the world, which helps encourage the adoption of new technology.\nMakuhari Messe, credit JNTO\nCould You tell us about the future plans?\nJapan welcomed a record 24 million visitors in 2016 and we aim to increase that to 40 million by 2020, the year Tokyo will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The meetings industry plays a key role in this goal. Cities throughout the country are continuing to invest in the meeting industry, with new venues, transportation infrastructure and applicable technology. Further increasing the wealth of options for meeting planners throughout Japan, new convention centers and venues are currently in the works for Yokohama, Nara, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, and subtropical Okinawa.\nAfter successfully working with the government to implement fast-track immigration lanes for conference delegates, improve tax exemption programs for visitors and relax visa requirements, the Japan National Tourism Organization is also working closely with our cities to open up important cultural properties for use as unique venues to showcase Japan for meeting delegates.\nThe post Knowledge \u2013 Japan\u2019s Forte appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.", "date_published": "2017-12-04T12:19:46+01:00", "date_modified": "2017-12-04T12:19:46+01:00", "author": { "name": "Milica Novak", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/author/milicanovak/", "avatar": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Milica-Novak.jpg" }, "image": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Sensoji-Temple-in-Tokyo-credit-JNTO.jpg", "tags": [ "congress organisation", "convention bureau", "culture", "icca statistic", "infrastructure", "japan", "knowledge", "new technologies", "tokyo", "Interviews" ] }, { "id": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/challenges-for-the-new-coming-10-years/", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/challenges-for-the-new-coming-10-years/", "title": "Igor Kovacevic, Serbia Convention Bureau \u2013 Challenges for the New-Coming 10 Years", "content_html": "![\"Igor](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/igor.jpg\" "\\"Igor")
10 years ago, Tourism Organization of Serbia (TOS) has decided to form a special department which will be focused on a strategic win-win tourism product of Serbia, which
\nshould follow the international standards of destination management. Since then, Serbia Convention Bureau functions as an integral part of the TOS, and most importantly, is an integral part of all strategic and operational activities of the TOS.
Biro has been recognized by the national associations, unions, alliances, eminent experts, doctors, researchers, professors and professionals as an entity that helps them unreservedly in the process of candidacy for organizing international congresses in Serbia, and, thus, creates the possibility for them to present local expertise, knowledge and innovation to their counterparts from abroad in Serbia itself. In this way, the activities of the Bureau become one of the elements of creating a knowledge based society.
\nThe basis of all activities is a platform of public-private partnership, as without communication and partnership with private sector and our congress industry (hotels, PCO and DMC agencies), the results would not have been so significant. 10 years ago, except for inherited convention facilities, Serbia had a low base grounds. As the industry evolved, as the new capacities opened and the existing ones renovated, thus the market was growing, and thus the Bureau moved on in its activities. Without mutual support, dialogue and constructive criticism, congress tourism of Serbia would not today be one of the leading products. The relation of cooperation and co petition within Serbia and individual destinations, a relationship of mutual trust and respect among all stakeholders of the value chain of congress experience is something felt by the foreign congress organizers and the clients, and the ground on which we must continue to build the visibility in foreign market.
\nPast period shows the continuity of activities, which is very important for a public institution. A great number of things was done, and many things are yet to be done. I am very proud to have destination management activities performed in the Bureau fully designed according to international standards and global practice, and in no way different from the activities of our colleagues from some of the most successful European and world destinations. Those are focused on the principles of proactive sales and emphasis of candidacy.
\nAlthough we have limited resources on disposal (especially human ones), the standard of quality, sales and destination communication is something recognized and appreciated by the customers. When a small destination like Serbia can compete the great \u201cplayers\u201d in the
\nglobal market by the quality of its relation and the product, then it represents a responsibility for us to do even better in the future in order to keep the standard at that level. As for certain issues, such as the number of candidatures submitted per employee, or the number of successful candidatures per employee, our Bureau is the leading one in the world.
Also, since last year, together with our partners from the convention industry, we are beginning to be more active in the corporate market. We can safely say that joining the resources and contacts ended up in good results. In the past 10 years, the convention industry and the Bureau managed to bring Serbia back on the map of the international convention market. 10 years ago, there were no sign of us, clients knew nothing about our capacities, and, nowadays, we are proud to candidate for the biggest events, compete with the world\u2019s leading cities, and finally, organize the most prestigious world and European congresses, and, for those few days, Serbia becomes a center of the world, Serbia is then number 1 in a given field.
\nIt\u2019s really a great feeling when months and years invested in a candidacy, together with our professors, doctors and experts, are presented to the world. And if we get the nomination, then you know it\u2019s the right thing to do. Even when we lose, mainly in favor of larger and
\nricher destinations, I am satisfied, because the representation itself meant getting out of the comfort zone and contesting in the conditions in which you know are moving from a low starting point.
![\"\"](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/bigstock-Business-People-Meeting-Semina-77299193.jpg\")
What were the greatest challenges for the Convention Bureau?A great number of professional challenges. What strategically and operationally realizes the TOS throughout the year, and therefore the Bureau as well, is a continuous improving of the image got by Serbia in foreign markets. Although the convention market seems to be low saturated, it is very difficult to find space for a new destination and gain the trust of the client
\ntherein.
It is very good that the quality of service of our hotels,PCO, DMC and AV companies is at a high level, as it is something expected by the customers and no longer questioned. Now we are entering the second phase of image creating on the basis of recognition of unique experiences and adventures offered by Serbia.
\nWhich are the activities that the Convention Bureau of Serbia is the most focused on?
\nThe activities of the Convention Bureau of Serbia are aligned with the annual plan of the TOS,
\nbecause it is necessary to achieve synergistic effects of the overall promotion of Serbia. On the other hand, we comply the activities of the Bureau with the plans of the convention industry as well, taking into account the strong mutual support. The most intense activity in terms of budget refers to the performance at the fairs, and, since last year, the performance concept is improved in every way, and what makes us happy is around 300 meetings realized during the fairs.
The activities of candidacy ranks the Bureau among the most advanced, and only last year almost 40 candidatures began, 20 positively confirmed, and in this year we already have 10 new candidatures and 4 confirmations. It is necessary to emphasize the organization of destination inspections for international associations and corporate clients, and, only last year, in cooperation with partners, the Bureau hosted 250 clients.
\nCurrently we expect the decisions for international congresses which could potentially bring about 100,000 overnight stays in Serbia and revenues of around 35 million euro. The process of standardization of PCO and DMC agencies will also be realized by the end of this
\nyear, as it is the one of the final stages of establishing a destination and convention industry. We continue to develop relationships with leading AMC and global PCO companies, at the same time raising visibility to local experts who are active in international associations.
The post Igor Kovacevic, Serbia Convention Bureau – Challenges for the New-Coming 10 Years appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.
\n", "content_text": "Igor Kovacevic, Convention Bureau, Tourism Organization of Serbia\nThis year, the Convention Bureau is celebrating 10 years of work. How did it all begin? When you look back, what do you consider the most important thing done in the past period?\n10 years ago, Tourism Organization of Serbia (TOS) has decided to form a special department which will be focused on a strategic win-win tourism product of Serbia, which\nshould follow the international standards of destination management. Since then, Serbia Convention Bureau functions as an integral part of the TOS, and most importantly, is an integral part of all strategic and operational activities of the TOS.\nBiro has been recognized by the national associations, unions, alliances, eminent experts, doctors, researchers, professors and professionals as an entity that helps them unreservedly in the process of candidacy for organizing international congresses in Serbia, and, thus, creates the possibility for them to present local expertise, knowledge and innovation to their counterparts from abroad in Serbia itself. In this way, the activities of the Bureau become one of the elements of creating a knowledge based society.\nThe basis of all activities is a platform of public-private partnership, as without communication and partnership with private sector and our congress industry (hotels, PCO and DMC agencies), the results would not have been so significant. 10 years ago, except for inherited convention facilities, Serbia had a low base grounds. As the industry evolved, as the new capacities opened and the existing ones renovated, thus the market was growing, and thus the Bureau moved on in its activities. Without mutual support, dialogue and constructive criticism, congress tourism of Serbia would not today be one of the leading products. The relation of cooperation and co petition within Serbia and individual destinations, a relationship of mutual trust and respect among all stakeholders of the value chain of congress experience is something felt by the foreign congress organizers and the clients, and the ground on which we must continue to build the visibility in foreign market.\nWhich is the issue you are the most proud of?\nPast period shows the continuity of activities, which is very important for a public institution. A great number of things was done, and many things are yet to be done. I am very proud to have destination management activities performed in the Bureau fully designed according to international standards and global practice, and in no way different from the activities of our colleagues from some of the most successful European and world destinations. Those are focused on the principles of proactive sales and emphasis of candidacy.\nAlthough we have limited resources on disposal (especially human ones), the standard of quality, sales and destination communication is something recognized and appreciated by the customers. When a small destination like Serbia can compete the great \u201cplayers\u201d in the\nglobal market by the quality of its relation and the product, then it represents a responsibility for us to do even better in the future in order to keep the standard at that level. As for certain issues, such as the number of candidatures submitted per employee, or the number of successful candidatures per employee, our Bureau is the leading one in the world.\nAlso, since last year, together with our partners from the convention industry, we are beginning to be more active in the corporate market. We can safely say that joining the resources and contacts ended up in good results. In the past 10 years, the convention industry and the Bureau managed to bring Serbia back on the map of the international convention market. 10 years ago, there were no sign of us, clients knew nothing about our capacities, and, nowadays, we are proud to candidate for the biggest events, compete with the world\u2019s leading cities, and finally, organize the most prestigious world and European congresses, and, for those few days, Serbia becomes a center of the world, Serbia is then number 1 in a given field.\nIt\u2019s really a great feeling when months and years invested in a candidacy, together with our professors, doctors and experts, are presented to the world. And if we get the nomination, then you know it\u2019s the right thing to do. Even when we lose, mainly in favor of larger and\nricher destinations, I am satisfied, because the representation itself meant getting out of the comfort zone and contesting in the conditions in which you know are moving from a low starting point.\nWhat were the greatest challenges for the Convention Bureau?\nA great number of professional challenges. What strategically and operationally realizes the TOS throughout the year, and therefore the Bureau as well, is a continuous improving of the image got by Serbia in foreign markets. Although the convention market seems to be low saturated, it is very difficult to find space for a new destination and gain the trust of the client\ntherein.\nIt is very good that the quality of service of our hotels,PCO, DMC and AV companies is at a high level, as it is something expected by the customers and no longer questioned. Now we are entering the second phase of image creating on the basis of recognition of unique experiences and adventures offered by Serbia.\nWhich are the activities that the Convention Bureau of Serbia is the most focused on?\nThe activities of the Convention Bureau of Serbia are aligned with the annual plan of the TOS,\nbecause it is necessary to achieve synergistic effects of the overall promotion of Serbia. On the other hand, we comply the activities of the Bureau with the plans of the convention industry as well, taking into account the strong mutual support. The most intense activity in terms of budget refers to the performance at the fairs, and, since last year, the performance concept is improved in every way, and what makes us happy is around 300 meetings realized during the fairs.\nThe activities of candidacy ranks the Bureau among the most advanced, and only last year almost 40 candidatures began, 20 positively confirmed, and in this year we already have 10 new candidatures and 4 confirmations. It is necessary to emphasize the organization of destination inspections for international associations and corporate clients, and, only last year, in cooperation with partners, the Bureau hosted 250 clients.\nWhat are the plans for the future?\nCurrently we expect the decisions for international congresses which could potentially bring about 100,000 overnight stays in Serbia and revenues of around 35 million euro. The process of standardization of PCO and DMC agencies will also be realized by the end of this\nyear, as it is the one of the final stages of establishing a destination and convention industry. We continue to develop relationships with leading AMC and global PCO companies, at the same time raising visibility to local experts who are active in international associations.\nThe post Igor Kovacevic, Serbia Convention Bureau – Challenges for the New-Coming 10 Years appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.", "date_published": "2017-06-16T09:59:30+02:00", "date_modified": "2017-06-16T10:59:21+02:00", "author": { "name": "Miona Milic", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/author/miona/", "avatar": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG-20240224-WA0003-e1728981138373.jpg" }, "image": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/bigstock-Blurred-motion-of-business-peo-170110046.jpg", "tags": [ "convention bureau", "Tourism Organization of Serbia", "Interviews", "NEWS" ] }, { "id": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/m-i-c-e-hockey-bar-open-at-ibtm-world-2015/", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/m-i-c-e-hockey-bar-open-at-ibtm-world-2015/", "title": "M.I.C.E. Hockey Bar Open \u2013 Tomorrow at IBTM World 2015", "content_html": "Have you ever thought that the meetings industry is a sort of sports with its own challenges, team play, records and breakthrough? Just as in any sports, we set goals, take time for training, follow rules, get frustrated and inspired, win and lose, fall and rise again to reach the highest grounds.
\nThis year Saint Petersburg Convention Bureau is inviting you to join our team at IBTM World 2015!
\nIce Hockey World Championship comes to Russia in 2016, and Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities. It\u2019s not that long until that ice and heart breaking competition will be started. Ice hockey is a passion, excitement and positive emotions. So we are happy to share our expectations of the forthcoming event and bringing a piece of that celebration to you!
\n![\"Piter\"](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Piter.jpg\")
M.I.C.E. Hockey Bar is a place to pay tribute to our beloved game! We are going to bring back most memorable moments from the history of the Championship and make bets on where the trophy is going to travel to after the final. We will also make sure that you will get your own memorabilia of the M.I.C.E Hockey Bar visit. Come and test your team spirit with us!
We start at 4:00 pm, November 17th, stand H30.
\n
The post M.I.C.E. Hockey Bar Open – Tomorrow at IBTM World 2015 appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.
\n", "content_text": "Have you ever thought that the meetings industry is a sort of sports with its own challenges, team play, records and breakthrough? Just as in any sports, we set goals, take time for training, follow rules, get frustrated and inspired, win and lose, fall and rise again to reach the highest grounds.\nThis year Saint Petersburg Convention Bureau is inviting you to join our team at IBTM World 2015!\nIce Hockey World Championship comes to Russia in 2016, and Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities. It\u2019s not that long until that ice and heart breaking competition will be started. Ice hockey is a passion, excitement and positive emotions. So we are happy to share our expectations of the forthcoming event and bringing a piece of that celebration to you!\nM.I.C.E. Hockey Bar is a place to pay tribute to our beloved game! We are going to bring back most memorable moments from the history of the Championship and make bets on where the trophy is going to travel to after the final. We will also make sure that you will get your own memorabilia of the M.I.C.E Hockey Bar visit. Come and test your team spirit with us!\nWe start at 4:00 pm, November 17th, stand H30.\n\nThe post M.I.C.E. Hockey Bar Open – Tomorrow at IBTM World 2015 appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.", "date_published": "2015-11-16T10:37:38+01:00", "date_modified": "2017-12-20T13:39:16+01:00", "author": { "name": "Miona Milic", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/author/miona/", "avatar": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG-20240224-WA0003-e1728981138373.jpg" }, "image": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Piter.jpg", "tags": [ "convention bureau", "Hockey Bar", "ibtm", "ibtm2015", "MICE", "saint petersburg", "News and events" ] }, { "id": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/meeting-destination-germany-with-economic-and-scientific-expertise/", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/meeting-destination-germany-with-economic-and-scientific-expertise/", "title": "MEETING DESTINATION GERMANY WITH ECONOMIC AND SCIENTIFIC EXPERTISE", "content_html": "![\"Mr](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/kongresni_biro_nemacke_1.jpg\" "\\"Mr")
Germany is the leading conference location for international associations in Europe and the second worldwide (according to ICCA). The reasons for Germany\u2019s sustained success as a conference and meeting destination is a combination of several factors.
\nThe country has outstanding infrastructure, an excellent transport network and a wide variety of venues.
\nMany of these venues, in locations such as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Dresden and Leipzig, are award-winning and leaders in their field.
\nGermany offers superb value for money and local expertise in key economic and scientific sectors.
\nAccording to the Meeting & Event Barometer 2012, 82% of meeting organisers predicted that the availability of industry expertise in the surrounding area will become increasingly important in the future when choosing a conference venue.
\nF![](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/kongresni_biro_nemacke_2.jpg\")
or example, international organisations are increasingly looking for convention locations where their sphere of interest is represented by highly respected companies, research institutes, initiatives and opinion-formers. As well as valuable contacts, this ensures that there is a lively exchange of views and suitable ancillary activities.
In other words, the focus is on conference and convention locations where there is specialist knowledge and industry expertise.
\nThe GCB has identified six main areas of expertise: medicine and healthcare (including fields such as medical technology and the healthcare industry), transport and logistics (including automotive engineering, transport system engineering and aerospace), chemicals and pharmaceuticals (including disciplines such as life sciences and biotechnology), technology and innovation (from mechanical engineering and IT to microelectronics and nanotechnology), energy and the environment and financial services.
\nGermany\u2019s expertise in key industries is a central factor in the country\u2019s high ranking as a meeting and convention destination. These areas of skill enable international meeting planners to maximize the impact and effectiveness of their meetings and conventions by sourcing local relevant speakers or organising site visits.
\nAlmost half of meeting and event organizers now prefer suppliers with a certified sustainability-management system. German suppliers are well-placed to meet the increasing demands with almost 40% of venues in Germany having implanted sustainability-management systems.
\n![\"\"](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/nemacki_kongresni_biro_10.jpg\")
The country has an easily accessible venues, eco-friendly transport and sustainably-run congress centres and hotels. German congress providers integrate climate-friendly measures in their entire preparation, implementation, and follow-up work for events such as eco-friendly travel and accommodation, locally sourced food and much more.
In addition, the GCB has been awarded a grant to train meeting planners in a first-of-its-kind green meeting certification program.
\nThrough a number of initiatives, the GCB and the European Association of Event Centres (EVVC), are ensuring that the sustainability agenda becomes even more established within the events sector.
\nThis was demonstrated at the second green meetings and events conference, founded by the GCB and EVVC, which has already become an important forum for debate between the events industry and government. One concrete outcome already delivered as a result of the conference is a sustainability code for the events industry, drawn up jointly by the members of the GCB and EVVC and available to download as a brochure at www.fairpflichtet.de.
\nVia this website, \u201csustainable business leaders\u201d can sign up to sustainable economic, ecological and social business practices, with the option of regularly reporting back on their progress in implementing the code. More than 370 businesses in Germany, Austria and Switzerland have so far signed up.
\n![\"\"](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/kongresni_biro_nemacke_51.jpg\")
The German Convention Bureau undertook a global meetings study entitled \u201cMeetings and Conventions 2030: A study of megatrends shaping our industry.\u201d The findings indicate technology in work and life, globalisation and other major trends which are transforming the meetings industry.
We envision this megatrends study helping players in the industry develop a future-oriented strategy that can generate business and economic success.
\nThe comprehensive study revealed the following top five megatrends:
\nTechnology in work and life: More than 41.6 % of respondents identified technology in work and life to be very influential in the future of the meetings business.
\nGlobalisation and internationalisation: Approximately 28.6 % felt very strongly that globalisation will have a major impact. Individuals will need to be more aware of nuances among country cultures, preferences and lifestyles as well as speak multiple languages.
\nMobility of the future: Getting to and from events easily and comfortably and with the smallest possible ecological footprint will continue to be an important aspect of event planning.
\nSustainable development: Sustainability will remain a guiding principle to influence all areas of meeting planning, from construction and renovation of venues, to transportation, food and entertainment.
\nDemographic change, feminisation and diversity: Demographic change was cited by 18.2 % of respondents as \u201cvery strong.\u201d As more women travel the meetings circuit, features such as additional security for women traveling alone and child care, among others, will need to be considered.
\n![\"\"](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/kongresni_biro_nemacke_62.jpg\")
5. Future plans and actions?
\nGermany is well placed to meet the needs of the increasing amount of business visitors with a host of new venues and infrastructure in development including Kap Europa Conference center, Messe Frankfurt\u2019s new venue in Frankfurt\u2019s central Europa district set to open later this year.
\nGCB\u2019s Meetings and Conventions 2030 research ensures meeting and event planners are well-equipped to meet the future requirements of business visitors.
\nThe GCB will be showcasing its huge variety of venues and new offerings at IMEX Frankfurt 2014 (20th \u2013 22nd May). As the largest exhibitor at IMEX and strategic partner for the event, the GCB is set to present more than 200 exhibitors on Germany\u2019s stand.
\nThe post MEETING DESTINATION GERMANY WITH ECONOMIC AND SCIENTIFIC EXPERTISE appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.
\n", "content_text": "1. Could you present us Germany as a meetings destination in few points?\n\nMr Matthias Schultze, Managing Director of the GCB German Convention Bureau e.V.\nGermany is the leading conference location for international associations in Europe and the second worldwide (according to ICCA). The reasons for Germany\u2019s sustained success as a conference and meeting destination is a combination of several factors.\nThe country has outstanding infrastructure, an excellent transport network and a wide variety of venues.\nMany of these venues, in locations such as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Dresden and Leipzig, are award-winning and leaders in their field.\nGermany offers superb value for money and local expertise in key economic and scientific sectors. \n2. GCB suggests conference locations according to the industry expertise of the organizers. Could you tell us more about this?\nAccording to the Meeting & Event Barometer 2012, 82% of meeting organisers predicted that the availability of industry expertise in the surrounding area will become increasingly important in the future when choosing a conference venue.\nFor example, international organisations are increasingly looking for convention locations where their sphere of interest is represented by highly respected companies, research institutes, initiatives and opinion-formers. As well as valuable contacts, this ensures that there is a lively exchange of views and suitable ancillary activities.\nIn other words, the focus is on conference and convention locations where there is specialist knowledge and industry expertise.\nThe GCB has identified six main areas of expertise: medicine and healthcare (including fields such as medical technology and the healthcare industry), transport and logistics (including automotive engineering, transport system engineering and aerospace), chemicals and pharmaceuticals (including disciplines such as life sciences and biotechnology), technology and innovation (from mechanical engineering and IT to microelectronics and nanotechnology), energy and the environment and financial services.\nGermany\u2019s expertise in key industries is a central factor in the country\u2019s high ranking as a meeting and convention destination. These areas of skill enable international meeting planners to maximize the impact and effectiveness of their meetings and conventions by sourcing local relevant speakers or organising site visits.\n3. What are the activities of GCB in making Germany also a green destination for meetings?\nAlmost half of meeting and event organizers now prefer suppliers with a certified sustainability-management system. German suppliers are well-placed to meet the increasing demands with almost 40% of venues in Germany having implanted sustainability-management systems.\nThe country has an easily accessible venues, eco-friendly transport and sustainably-run congress centres and hotels. German congress providers integrate climate-friendly measures in their entire preparation, implementation, and follow-up work for events such as eco-friendly travel and accommodation, locally sourced food and much more.\nIn addition, the GCB has been awarded a grant to train meeting planners in a first-of-its-kind green meeting certification program.\nThrough a number of initiatives, the GCB and the European Association of Event Centres (EVVC), are ensuring that the sustainability agenda becomes even more established within the events sector.\nThis was demonstrated at the second green meetings and events conference, founded by the GCB and EVVC, which has already become an important forum for debate between the events industry and government. One concrete outcome already delivered as a result of the conference is a sustainability code for the events industry, drawn up jointly by the members of the GCB and EVVC and available to download as a brochure at www.fairpflichtet.de.\nVia this website, \u201csustainable business leaders\u201d can sign up to sustainable economic, ecological and social business practices, with the option of regularly reporting back on their progress in implementing the code. More than 370 businesses in Germany, Austria and Switzerland have so far signed up.\n4. The GCB did a study of megatrends in field of meetings industry until 2030. Could you share with us some of them?\nThe German Convention Bureau undertook a global meetings study entitled \u201cMeetings and Conventions 2030: A study of megatrends shaping our industry.\u201d The findings indicate technology in work and life, globalisation and other major trends which are transforming the meetings industry.\nWe envision this megatrends study helping players in the industry develop a future-oriented strategy that can generate business and economic success.\nThe comprehensive study revealed the following top five megatrends:\nTechnology in work and life: More than 41.6 % of respondents identified technology in work and life to be very influential in the future of the meetings business.\nGlobalisation and internationalisation: Approximately 28.6 % felt very strongly that globalisation will have a major impact. Individuals will need to be more aware of nuances among country cultures, preferences and lifestyles as well as speak multiple languages.\nMobility of the future: Getting to and from events easily and comfortably and with the smallest possible ecological footprint will continue to be an important aspect of event planning.\nSustainable development: Sustainability will remain a guiding principle to influence all areas of meeting planning, from construction and renovation of venues, to transportation, food and entertainment.\nDemographic change, feminisation and diversity: Demographic change was cited by 18.2 % of respondents as \u201cvery strong.\u201d As more women travel the meetings circuit, features such as additional security for women traveling alone and child care, among others, will need to be considered.\n\n\n5. Future plans and actions?\n\nGermany is well placed to meet the needs of the increasing amount of business visitors with a host of new venues and infrastructure in development including Kap Europa Conference center, Messe Frankfurt\u2019s new venue in Frankfurt\u2019s central Europa district set to open later this year.\nGCB\u2019s Meetings and Conventions 2030 research ensures meeting and event planners are well-equipped to meet the future requirements of business visitors.\nThe GCB will be showcasing its huge variety of venues and new offerings at IMEX Frankfurt 2014 (20th \u2013 22nd May). As the largest exhibitor at IMEX and strategic partner for the event, the GCB is set to present more than 200 exhibitors on Germany\u2019s stand.\nThe post MEETING DESTINATION GERMANY WITH ECONOMIC AND SCIENTIFIC EXPERTISE appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.", "date_published": "2014-04-02T14:31:16+02:00", "date_modified": "2016-12-12T16:57:04+01:00", "author": { "name": "Svetlana Gavric", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/author/ceca/", "avatar": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Ceca.jpg" }, "image": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/kongresni_biro_nemacke_2.jpg", "tags": [ "convention bureau", "gcb", "germany", "meetings industry", "Convention Bureaus" ] }, { "id": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/destination-that-works-together-a-winning-combination/", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/destination-that-works-together-a-winning-combination/", "title": "Destination that works together \u2013 a winning combination", "content_html": "![\"Ulrike](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Ulrike-von-Arnold-Deputy-Director-of-VCB.jpg\" "\\"Ulrike")
The \u00a0(VCB) was established in 1969 with the assistance of the municipality of Vienna and the Vienna Chamber of Commerce.
Eleven congress specialists work to acquire congresses, corporate conventions and incentives worldwide. For over 30 years, the office has built up an enormous database of facts and figures: a conventional \u201cbusiness database\u201d pales into insignificance by comparison.\u00a0 Vienna is the city which international associations use most for their conventions.
\nThis beautifull city is per years on the top of ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association) ranking list of the most popular destinations/cities for international association meetings in the world.
\nFor this issue of the SEEbtm magazine, we have honour to speak with Mrs Ulrike von Arnold, Deputy Director of VCB, and to share with our readers some of her valuable experience in this industry.
\n1. To be Convention Bureau of the city which is No 1 for congresses and conventions in the world, must be, at least, very satisfying. What is qualification for success in attracting and hosting international events?
\nAccessibility of the destination is a major point, combined with a good meeting infrastructure for hosting international meetings. Not to forget, we often need Austrian members within the various Societies, interested in stepping forward and willing to BID for the congress.
\n![\"Austria](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Austria-Center-Vienna.jpg\" "\\"Austria")
2. What are the main advantages for Vienna as a congress city?
Vienna is a compact city, (easy to access from all major European cities) – \u00a0no long distances, an excellent public transport system \u2013 \u00a0where all 3 convention centers are direct connected to the well functioning underground system.
\n3. Should destination hide its weaknesses or not?
\nGood question but let me tell you, you can not hide weaknesses. It is important to be honest and transparent. You have to tell the truth about traffic, transfer times, accessibility and hotel structure in your destination. Associations talk to each other associations and exchange information on venues and destinations.
\n4. As a Convention Bureau, you managed to make very important agreement for meeting planners \u2013 75 hotels and PCOs agree to the same rules in one contract! Could You tell us something more about this?
\nWe try to make the work of a meeting planner easy in our destination, and one goal we had was, to implement an agreement where ONE contract can be used for contracting the major hotels in Vienna!!! Our planners are very happy with this agreement as it is time saving and easy. And it also shows that the destination works together in order to attract international meetings.
\n5. Your main competitors are Paris and Barcelona. Do you cooperate with these cities? In which way is possible to cooperate with your main competitors in terms of long term success of both side?
\n![\"Vienna](\"https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Vienna-Convention-Bureau-team.jpg\" "\\"Vienna")
We have an excellent co-operation with Barcelona. As a matter of fact Barcelona and Vienna exhibit together for example in China, Peking (CIBTM) and also last year Barcelona and Vienna did sales calls in India.
It is a win-win situation, we save exhibition costs, and let the client decide which country she/he will chose for\u00a0 future events.
\n6. Can you single out some international event on which you are particularly proud of?
\nWe are especially proud of international meetings when they come back to Vienna, because this tells us that the meeting was successful. For example the WAN-IFRA exhibition and
\nCongress has taken place in Vienna and will be back again\u2026
\n7. Once you said that your dream is to make Vienna city center without traffic. Are there any indications that your dream will be soon fulfilled?
\nThis is a political decision and the idea is in my head, I do not know if it ever will happen, but it would be wonderful!!
\nThe importance of international congresses as the strongest selling type of congress can be seen in total induced economic and tax benefits. In 2009, 556 international congresses accounted for 22% of the total of 2,569 congresses and corporate events held in Vienna. This relatively low percentage, however, generated 79% of the total added value induced by the congress industry with a value of EUR 581.58 million.
\nThe total induced tax effect of congresses and corporate events in 2009 of EUR 202.80 million was 12% above the previous year\u2018s figure. In the year of the economic crisis, Vienna benefited from national and international congresses and corporate events totaling EUR 24.55 million. The Vienna congress industry secured a total of 14,548 permanent jobs in the year 2009.
\nThis means that in 2009, the Viennese meeting industry achieved the second best result since 2003, only slightly below the record year 2007.
\nWith Vienna\u2019s excellent position in the international congress business, in particular thanks to the long-term, systematic acquisition work done by the Vienna Convention Bureau, the Viennese congress industry remained almost untouched by the economic crisis.
\nThe post Destination that works together – a winning combination appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.
\n", "content_text": "Vienna is a compact city, (easy to access from all major European cities) – no long distances, an excellent public transport system \u2013 where all 3 convention centers are direct connected to the well functioning underground system.\nThe \u00a0(VCB) was established in 1969 with the assistance of the municipality of Vienna and the Vienna Chamber of Commerce.\nEleven congress specialists work to acquire congresses, corporate conventions and incentives worldwide. For over 30 years, the office has built up an enormous database of facts and figures: a conventional \u201cbusiness database\u201d pales into insignificance by comparison.\u00a0 Vienna is the city which international associations use most for their conventions.\nThis beautifull city is per years on the top of ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association) ranking list of the most popular destinations/cities for international association meetings in the world.\nFor this issue of the SEEbtm magazine, we have honour to speak with Mrs Ulrike von Arnold, Deputy Director of VCB, and to share with our readers some of her valuable experience in this industry.\n1. To be Convention Bureau of the city which is No 1 for congresses and conventions in the world, must be, at least, very satisfying. What is qualification for success in attracting and hosting international events? \nAccessibility of the destination is a major point, combined with a good meeting infrastructure for hosting international meetings. Not to forget, we often need Austrian members within the various Societies, interested in stepping forward and willing to BID for the congress.\n2. What are the main advantages for Vienna as a congress city? \nVienna is a compact city, (easy to access from all major European cities) – \u00a0no long distances, an excellent public transport system \u2013 \u00a0where all 3 convention centers are direct connected to the well functioning underground system.\n3. Should destination hide its weaknesses or not? \nGood question but let me tell you, you can not hide weaknesses. It is important to be honest and transparent. You have to tell the truth about traffic, transfer times, accessibility and hotel structure in your destination. Associations talk to each other associations and exchange information on venues and destinations.\n4. As a Convention Bureau, you managed to make very important agreement for meeting planners \u2013 75 hotels and PCOs agree to the same rules in one contract! Could You tell us something more about this?\nWe try to make the work of a meeting planner easy in our destination, and one goal we had was, to implement an agreement where ONE contract can be used for contracting the major hotels in Vienna!!! Our planners are very happy with this agreement as it is time saving and easy. And it also shows that the destination works together in order to attract international meetings.\n5. Your main competitors are Paris and Barcelona. Do you cooperate with these cities? In which way is possible to cooperate with your main competitors in terms of long term success of both side? \nWe have an excellent co-operation with Barcelona. As a matter of fact Barcelona and Vienna exhibit together for example in China, Peking (CIBTM) and also last year Barcelona and Vienna did sales calls in India.\nIt is a win-win situation, we save exhibition costs, and let the client decide which country she/he will chose for\u00a0 future events.\n6. Can you single out some international event on which you are particularly proud of? \nWe are especially proud of international meetings when they come back to Vienna, because this tells us that the meeting was successful. For example the WAN-IFRA exhibition and\nCongress has taken place in Vienna and will be back again\u2026\n7. Once you said that your dream is to make Vienna city center without traffic. Are there any indications that your dream will be soon fulfilled? \nThis is a political decision and the idea is in my head, I do not know if it ever will happen, but it would be wonderful!!\nVienna Meetings Industry Report 2009\nThe importance of international congresses as the strongest selling type of congress can be seen in total induced economic and tax benefits. In 2009, 556 international congresses accounted for 22% of the total of 2,569 congresses and corporate events held in Vienna. This relatively low percentage, however, generated 79% of the total added value induced by the congress industry with a value of EUR 581.58 million.\nThe total induced tax effect of congresses and corporate events in 2009 of EUR 202.80 million was 12% above the previous year\u2018s figure. In the year of the economic crisis, Vienna benefited from national and international congresses and corporate events totaling EUR 24.55 million. The Vienna congress industry secured a total of 14,548 permanent jobs in the year 2009.\nThis means that in 2009, the Viennese meeting industry achieved the second best result since 2003, only slightly below the record year 2007.\nWith Vienna\u2019s excellent position in the international congress business, in particular thanks to the long-term, systematic acquisition work done by the Vienna Convention Bureau, the Viennese congress industry remained almost untouched by the economic crisis.\nThe post Destination that works together – a winning combination appeared first on SEE Business travel & meetings magazine.", "date_published": "2011-08-18T11:27:24+02:00", "date_modified": "2016-12-06T16:50:13+01:00", "author": { "name": "Miona Milic", "url": "https://www.seebtm.com/en/author/miona/", "avatar": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG-20240224-WA0003-e1728981138373.jpg" }, "image": "https://www.seebtm.com/wp-content/uploads/Vienna-Convention-Bureau-team.jpg", "tags": [ "convention bureau", "MICE", "vienna", "Vienna Convention Bureau", "Experts opinions" ] } ] }