nternational Confex , the largest MICE event in the UK , is returning to ExCeL London 12-13 May 2021 and will once again lead the way in terms of its world class conference programme and inspirational venue , destination and supplier exhibitors .

Of the 8,000 + event planners who attend International Confex year on year , an average of 52 %, representing an annual spend of over £ 2.7bn , are looking for international venues and destinations with , according to post-show research , particular emphasis on northern Europe and south east Asia .

The International Hub at International Confex offers event planner visitors the opportunity to discover destinations and venues across the globe for convention , tradeshow and incentive business and will host talks and Q & A sessions offering insight and thought leadership on event capability , advise on geo cloning and delegate hosting from a range of international destination experts .

There will also be speed networking sessions for event planners looking to meet international venue , hotel and destination representatives , to ask further questions and build connections .

Additionally , in the Association Event Theatre , James Latham of The Iceberg will be hosting a panel with Sarah Fleming of Sarah Fleming Associates to discuss ‘ The Rise of Intellectual Capitalism ’, a discussion on the growing trend towards destination / association alignment in sectors which can contribute towards the mission / purpose of an association congress , and the legacies which are derived from them .

In answer to concerns over Covid restrictions that may still be in place for the show dates , Duncan Custerson , event director , comments : “ We anticipate that with testing more readily available and the vaccine rolling out in stages , travel in general

will be less restricted by May 2021 . That said , we have a contingency plan and our appointment setting and live stream set up will allow for delegates to meet representatives in an on-stand lounge with screen with head height speakers . This will allow for UK visitors to engage with international representatives regardless of any Covid hangover . It will also be a useful showcase of a hybrid solution from partner Skyline Whitespace .

“ International Confex offers valuable content and networking opportunity for event planners across the globe and those delegates unable to travel will be able to access popular session content on demand in a virtual tour . The event is not just about the practicalities of event planners sourcing new suppliers , it is a hub for innovation and inspiration for 2021 and beyond and will be the place where our industry unites and looks to the future .”

“ The International Hub at International Confex offers event planner visitors the opportunity to discover destinations and venues across the globe for convention , tradeshow and incentive business .”