INDUSTRY NEWS
INDUSTRY NEWS
New research backs up wider benefits of events
New research by Business Events Sydney ( BESydney ) has further demonstrated that business events , including international conferences and symposia , offer delegates unrestricted exposure to innovative ideas and opportunities to develop new knowledge and skills .
Part of the Beyond Tourism Benefits series , the new Conferences : catalysts for thriving economies study by the University of Technology Sydney also supported that face-to-face networking opportunities can spark global collaboration , which in turn can progress into new products and services .
The report concludes that there are four main dimensions to the legacy of business events , and each dimension comprises specific elements that contribute the real value of business events to communities – innovation ; collaboration ; sector development ; and attraction of global talent .
“ Our series of studies confirms the immense value that is generated from multiple face-to-face interactions – interactions in which delegates co-create value together ,” said BESydney CEO Lewis-Smith .
“ Business events mobilise exchanges and collaborations that form the foundation of innovation , economic development and societal change – all catalysts for a thriving economy and prosperous community .”
Adelaide Convention Bureau smashes records
The Adelaide Convention Bureau has recorded a 39 per cent increase on the previous year and sets a new record for the 42-year old company .
In the past 12 months , the Bureau has won business for South Australia worth $ 210 million in economic benefit giving a 108:1 return on investment on total operating budget to members . Adelaide has secured 120 events over the last year , which will see 51,000 delegates head to the city .
Funding boost for Canberra Convention Bureau
Canberra Convention Bureau is set to continue to grow the business events sector in Canberra following a funding boost from the ACT Government .
“ We commend both major parties for their announcement of funding to enable the Bureau to continue its valuable contribution to the growth of the Canberra economy by encouraging organisations to choose Canberra as their business events destination ,” said Michael Matthews , CEO of Canberra Convention Bureau .
Canberra Convention Bureau exceeded its 2015-2016 assigned targets by securing $ 46.1 million in future confirmed business events for the region . With the new direct international flights by Singapore Airlines , the Bureau is generating interest from Asia- Pacific destinations and with increased funding is well positioned to achieve its four year target of exceeding $ 52 million annually in estimated economic benefit for the ACT region .
“ Our success would not be possible without continuing support from Government and through partnerships with a very engaged business events community in the Canberra region ,” said Matthews .
“ The calibre of delegates and keynote speakers presents a fantastic opportunity for South Australia ,” said Damien Kitto , CEO of Adelaide Convention Bureau .
“ The Bureau ’ s fantastic result this year is the result of our strategy toward nationally and internationally marketing SA to business event organisers , it is an incredible effort by the small but highly effective Adelaide Convention Bureau team .”
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Dubai to host BestCities Global Forum
BestCities Global Alliance has announced the program for its flagship annual event , the BestCities Global Forum , taking place in Dubai from December 4-8 , 2016 . The Forum will be hosted in partnership with Dubai Business Events and Professional Convention Management Association .
CINZ welcomes new board members
Four new members have been elected to the Conventions and Incentives New Zealand ( CINZ ) board . CINZ chief executive Sue Sullivan ( pictured ) welcomed new faces Julie White , Tracey Thomas , Sue Duncan and Jake Downing , while Gillian Officer was re-elected for the Platinum category .
ICCA signs new ‘ Association Relations Partners ’
Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau , Monaco Convention Bureau and Tourism New Zealand have signed up as new International Congress and Convention Association ( ICCA ) Association Relations Partners .
London sees event boost post Brexit
London ’ s convention bureau , London & Partners , has experienced a major increase in enquiries this summer following the UK ’ s decision to leave the European Union . Between June and September this year , London ’ s CVB received a 41 per cent jump in enquiries compared to the same period last year .
New Terminal 4 Connector at LAX
Millions of Los Angeles International Airport ( LAX ) passengers will now reach their connecting flights more quickly and conveniently following the completion of a new Terminal 4 Connector , which connects the airport ’ s south side terminals – Terminals 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , and 8 – with the Tom Bradley International Terminal .
www . cimmagazine . com Convention & Incentive Marketing , Issue 7 , 2016 7