Business Events Adelaide has made a number of key appointments and internal promotions, as part of a revitalised organisational structure.
The newly-promoted director of national bidding and events, Marcia Mudge, will be supported by three experienced business development managers. Rechelle Hatcher joins the team to take over the New South Wales region, Mark Burns will manage the Victorian market, while Paul Shaw has been appointed to oversee the Rest of Australia and New Zealand.
From left: Marcia Mudge and Mark Phelps
The international association business development team has been bolstered by the recruitment of Marc Leopold as business development manager, while long serving domestic business development manager Edgar Navarro-Perez becomes senior international business development manager.
Business Events Adelaide’s commitment to the growth opportunities offered internationally is further demonstrated by its strong presence in Asia, with director of Asia Helen Xu joined by Jessie Yu in promoting Adelaide as the ideal corporate incentive destination.
The global effort will be led by Mark Phelps, who has stepped up to become director for international bidding.
Supporting the new business development structure is a reinvigorated approach to research, led by Andrew McKenna as research manager. Courtney Wilkinson also joins the team in the role of business development associate, bringing with her experience of events, sponsorship and marketing.
The Philippine MICE Conference (MICECON) returned to Clark after a decade, marking a successful three-day event from July 10-12, 2024.
Organised by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, Clark Development Corporation (CDC), and various stakeholders, MICECON 2024 attracted over 820 delegates from various business events sectors and academic institutions to the SMX Convention Center Clark.
MICECON 2024 delegates
Themed M.I.C.E. XD: Xperience Diversified, the conference emphasised embracing new ideas and technologies in the business events industry. Among the session topics were artificial intelligence technology, crisis recovery and reputation management, and inclusive event planning.
During the conference, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) also shared plans for three new hotels to bolster accommodation options, as well as develop dedicated business events venues in current properties.
For larger events, a new five-hectare convention and cultural centre with a capacity of 15,000 attendees is on the horizon. Connectivity will also see a boost, with the continued expansion of Clark International Airport’s flight connections, and the ongoing development of a train system connecting Clark to neighbouring regions. The first phase of this train system is expected to be completed by 2026.
During the opening ceremony, TPB’s chief operating officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles also launched the MICE Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart programme, showcasing the country’s commitment to the sector.
In full support was the Department of Tourism (DOT) secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. Citing Clark’s status as a tourist and MICE destination, Frasco stated: “The Philippines is not only able to host conventions; it is also able to offer pre- and post-tours that you will find nowhere else in the world.”
Frasco further underscored Clark’s capacity to hold large-scale conferences. “Clark’s selection as the host of MICECON 2024 is a recognition of its readiness and potential as a premier MICE destination. The Clark Freeport Zone’s accessibility, state-of-the-art conference venues, and comprehensive support services are very well prepared to welcome all the participants of MICECON 2024.”
While over half of travel buyers consider their travel policies very effective, two-thirds of travellers still book outside of the travel policy
While many business travellers know of and often refer to their company’s travel policy, there is still a gap between policy awareness and policy compliance, according to a recent BCD Travel survey of more than 1,200 business travellers worldwide.
The survey looked at changes in travel policies and traveller satisfaction with current regulations.
While over half of travel buyers consider their travel policies very effective, two-thirds of travellers still book outside of the travel policy
Travel policy awareness
In a corresponding April survey of some 200 travel buyers, BCD found that two-thirds of travel buyers consider their travel policy to be extremely or very effective.
On the surface, this statistic seems to hold when business travellers are asked about their company’s travel policy. The survey shows that more than 95% of travellers know where to find the travel policy, and nine out of 10 have consulted it (with a quarter doing so frequently). Eight out of 10 travellers have consulted their travel policy within 12 months. And half are satisfied with the policy.
“Based on our survey results, travellers in North America (NORAM) are less inclined to consult their corporation’s travel policy compared to travellers from Asia Pacific (APAC) and Europe,” said Craig Bailey, president, Americas at BCD Travel. “This could result in more out-of-policy bookings. While these bookings create extra costs and, in some cases, risk issues, the lack of awareness around policy changes could also hurt the organisation’s overall goals, for instance, regarding sustainability.”
One factor contributing to this behaviour may be the frequency of travel policy communications. A quarter of APAC travellers reported receiving communications about their travel policy often compared to only 15% of NORAM travellers.
Out-of-policy bookings
The survey shows that more than two-thirds of travellers deviate from their company’s travel policy. Most often, this is due to client meetings requiring out-of-policy transportation or accommodation or booking conference and event accommodations with non-preferred suppliers. As a result, travelling employees often need additional approvals for non-compliant bookings.
Companies can boost travel policy compliance through employee involvement and engagement.
Desire for flexibility
Over one in five travellers said their company’s travel policy is not responsive to traveller needs or is too restrictive. Three in 10 want more flexibility when booking either transportation or accommodation. A quarter said they’d benefit from increased spending limits and additional air ancillaries. One in five are interested in more policies for traveller well-being.
“When you understand your travellers’ needs, you can make impactful changes to your policy. A simple and effective way to do that is through surveys,” Bailey said. “While of course you must set limits that align with the company goals, a good travel policy sets its travellers up for success. This, in turn, helps the company stay within both its budget and keeps lines of communication clear.”
Low impact on job acceptance
While only eight per cent of surveyed travellers admit the travel policy influenced their decision to take their job, a quarter acknowledge that it influences their willingness to stay with the company. The travel policy’s impact varies by region – again supporting the need to understand travellers’ specific needs and beliefs. Almost half of APAC travellers say the policy is likely to affect their decision to stay with a company while 27% of EMEA and 21% of NORAM travellers say so.
“Sharing your travel policy with new hires during the onboarding process is key,” said Bailey. “They’re excited and eager to learn. Take advantage of that and stress the importance of your travel policy to new employees. Explain what it is, how it relates to company goals, and why it’s important to comply with the policy. It’s not just about cost savings, but also about duty of care and sustainability.”
Hong Kong hotel and serviced residence brand, Lanson Place Hospitality Management Limited (Lanson Place), has reopened its flagship Causeway Bay property, following a 16-month-long, HK$400 million (US$51.2 million) refurbishment.
The completed renovations encompass all 188 rooms and suites, now transformed into contemporary spaces imbued with French-inspired design elements. Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the rooms in natural light and offer views of the surrounding Causeway Bay district. The meeting areas, the 24-hour fitness centre and the laundry room, were also revamped, and an all-day Salon Lanson has been added to complement the facilities.
Lanson Place Causeway Bay
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Lanson Place Causeway Bay
Catering primarily to corporate and bleisure travellers – especially those working in the commercial districts of Causeway Bay, Central, Admiralty, and Quarry Bay – the property has implemented a multi-pronged marketing strategy to capitalise on Hong Kong’s business events recovery.
Danny Tse, area general manager of Lanson Place Causeway Bay, told TTGmice: “Our team has participated in various networking events and industry gatherings, including tradeshows, events organised by chambers of commerce, and industry conferences. These events have facilitated connections with potential clients, event organisers, and industry partners.”
Tse further highlighted the proactive identification of potential clients within their target sectors, both locally and internationally. The outreach includes on-site visits to showcase the hotel’s transformation, as well as virtual tours for overseas-based clients.
To bolster its appeal to event planners, Lanson Place is currently running a meetings offer valid until September 30, 2024. Meeting room bookings during this period will include complimentary cocktail receptions, along with a waived minimum charge to enhance flexibility for smaller events.
When asked about the current state of Hong Kong’s business events industry, Tse said that it is “gradually recovering post-pandemic”.
He commended the Hong Kong SAR government’s “unwavering efforts” to promote the city as a leading business events destination, and also emphasising the importance of attracting large-scale events.
“For example, relocating the Rugby Sevens event to the larger Kai Tak Sports Park, scheduled to open next year with a capacity of 50,000 seats, could effectively demonstrate Hong Kong’s ability to host high-profile events,” added Tse.
IBTM Asia Pacific will be held in Hong Kong (pictured)
IBTM World organiser, RX, has announced the international and regional chapter associations – ICCA Asia Pacific, MPI and IAPCO – as its supporting partners for the inaugural IBTM Asia Pacific, which will take place from March 19-20, 2025 at the AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong.
IBTM Asia Pacific will be held in Hong Kong (pictured)
Over 250 buyers, as well as 1,500 visitors from over 20 countries within Asia Pacific are expected to be in attendance. The event will comprise two days of pre-scheduled one-to-one business meetings, education and networking.
The Asia Pacific MICE market is one of the most dynamic in the world and is forecast to become a major player in 2024 and beyond. The region’s business events industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.6 per cent to reach US$441.1 billion by 2025. The growth of the industry is underpinned by investment in infrastructure and new airline routes, making the region more accessible.
GMC 2024 will help promote and raise the standards of the culinary profession in Thailand and Asia Pacific
IMPACT Exhibition Management and Hong Kong’s International Association of Gourmet Master Chefs and Hospitality Executives (GMC) have combined forces to organise the first Grand Finale of the Gourmet Master Chef Global Challenge 2024 (GMC 2024).
It will be held in Bangkok, Thailand, on October 22, 2024, at the Lenôtre Culinary Arts School Thailand. Established in 2023, the only Lenôtre culinary academy outside of France, offers advanced short trainings, diploma long courses and masterclasses.
GMC 2024 will help promote and raise the standards of the culinary profession in Thailand and Asia Pacific
This international culinary challenge will feature three competition categories, Student, Professional, and Grand Master. The organisers will also introduce a special Celebrity & Master Chef category to highlight the hospitality and culinary sector.
As part of the event, there will also be a Global Hospitality Summit Forum that covers two topics, Good F&B brings mega dynamic in global tourism, and Thai food as Thailand’s soft power.
Participating delegations and judges will also embark on a Thailand Michelin Tour, and visit selected Michelin-star establishments in Bangkok.
Supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thailand’s National Food Institute, China Dongguan Municipal Government, and China Dongguan Hengli Town Government, the Grand Finale of GMC 2024 will feature over 42 international competing teams. They will compete in front of over 30 international chefs and a jury panel, which includes Michelin-star chefs Cheng Kam Fu from Hong Kong, Koo Kwok Fai from Singapore, and Nooror Steppe from Thailand.
Since 2010, GMC grand finales have attracted chefs and participants from around the world, with over 3,500 attendees. This year’s GMC grand finale will be held outside of Hong Kong and China for the first time.
Wellington will host the World Congress of the International Federation for Home Economics (IFHE) in 2028, the first time the event will been held in New Zealand.
The congress will take place at Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre, and is expected to attract more than 700 world experts across academia, community services, agricultural extension, businesses, government, and health services, to the city.
An aerial view of Wellington city
The winning bid was led by Sarah Wirth, HOD technology at Samuel Marsden Collegiate School, vice president of IFHE Pacific, and executive member of the Home Economics and Technology Teachers’ Association of New Zealand. Business Events Wellington and Tourism New Zealand Business Events supported the bid.
The IFHE has had consultative status at the United Nations for more than 70 years, with its work supporting UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Wirth indicated that hosting the federation’s world congress will be a “great showcase” of the New Zealanders who educate individuals and communities on critical issues including sustainable living, health, nutrition, family well-being, and economic empowerment.
Hosting the congress in New Zealand also provides an opportunity to bring together delegates from Pacific nations, providing diverse perspectives and shared expertise.
The event was last held in the Oceania region in 2012, when it took place in Melbourne.
Amari Bangkok prioritises sustainable meetings and practices
Coffee breaks at Amari Bangkok feature locally sourced, organic coffee and healthy snacks
Amari Bangkok is ISO 20121 certified for sustainable event management
Meetings and events often generate a significant impact on the environment. However, Amari Hotels and Resorts, part of the ONYX Hospitality Group, is setting a new standard by minimising its impact through a comprehensive sustainability strategy
As the first hospitality management firm in the Asia Pacific region to commit to a long-term partnership with UNESCO for Cultural Sustainability, ONYX Hospitality Group integrates sustainable practices across its operations. These include energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and ambitious goals like achieving carbon neutrality and net-zero operations.
At the forefront of the Group’s sustainability efforts is Amari Bangkok. The five-star, 564-room hotel is the flagship of the Amari brand, and provides upscale accommodation in the central Ratchaprasong area of downtown Bangkok.
Minimalist meetings
Amari Bangkok’s meeting facilities comprise 18 function rooms and the Bangkok Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 1,200 guests.
The hotel is ISO 20121 certified for sustainable event management, ensuring that all event practices are ethical and environmentally friendly.
To combat food waste, the hotel’s Second Life Food initiative repurposes surplus food from events into new dishes, providing guests with unique culinary experiences while minimising waste. Coffee breaks feature locally sourced, organic coffee and healthy snacks, and leftover food is donated to local schools and centres in collaboration with SOS Thailand.
Event attendees can also look forward to wellbeing activities such as revitalising yoga sessions or participate in Green Pulse, the hotel’s mindfulness and environmental awareness programme.
In December 2023, ONYX Hospitality Group hosted an event for World Wildlife Fund to showcase its sustainability practices through comprehensive waste reduction strategies. These practices will first be adopted by Amari Bangkok before being rolled out to other properties.
Shortly after, Amari Bangkok welcomed UNESCO in February 2024 for a seminar called Sustainable Gastronomical Experience in UNESCO Locales, that focused on the pathways toward a sustainable culinary business environment in the region.
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Meetings at Amari Don Muang Airport Bangkok are organised with sustainability at the forefront. For instance, surplus food is repurposed into creative new dishes or donated
Water is served in glass bottles while stationery is available on request, to reduce wastage when having meetings
These practices also extend to the brand’s other Bangkok hotel, Amari Don Muang Airport Bangkok. Connected to the airport itself, the 429-room hotel features an 800-capacity ballroom and eight function rooms.
As part of its sustainable practices, meeting rooms have linen-free set ups, use LED lights, and offer glass bottled water. Stationery is available on request and eco-friendly packaging is used for items.
Promoting local
ONYX Hospitality Group’s sustainability efforts extend beyond the environment. It integrates cultural experiences into guest stays, promoting heritage preservation and community engagement as part of its guest experience. Its Opportunity, Nature, Youth, and Collaboration framework supports local communities and fosters environmental awareness. It partners with local businesses and communities to foster cultural understanding and support local economies.
Merusaka Nusa Dua boasts magnificent seafront views along Bali's Nusa Dua beach
The Mengiat Ballroom can host over 1,000 guests, making it perfect for large-scale conferences, corporate events, and weddings.
The Lobby Garden makes for a stunning backdrop for outdoor events
The main garden can host 1,500 guests, and provides a lush setting for gala dinners, receptions, and grand celebrations
Located on the serene shores of Bali’s southeastern end, Merusaka Nusa Dua stands out as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).
Combining world-class amenities with stunning natural beauty, the resort is designed to cater to both leisure and business travellers, offering a blend of relaxation and productivity.
Unmatched venues for every occasion
Merusaka Nusa Dua boasts a range of versatile venues inspired by the beautiful beaches of south Bali. The Mengiat Ballroom, named after the picturesque Mengiat Beach, is a grand space capable of accommodating over 1,000 guests, making it perfect for large-scale conferences, corporate events, and weddings.
For more intimate gatherings, the resort offers several other fully-equipped meeting rooms — Balangan, Pandawa, Suluban, Sawangan, and Padang-Padang. These rooms can be arranged in various styles including classroom, u-shape, or theatre, ensuring flexibility for any event needs. Additionally, the Melasti VIP Room provides an exclusive space for distinguished guests to relax and prepare.
Cutting-edge facilities
Each meeting room is equipped with the latest technology to support seamless presentations and communications. High-speed Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, and professional support services ensure that every event runs smoothly. Whether hosting a high-stakes business meeting or an elaborate themed function, Merusaka Nusa Dua provides the tools and expertise to make every event a success.
Breathtaking outdoor venues
For those looking to host events with a touch of nature, Merusaka Nusa Dua offers stunning outdoor venues. The Main Garden can host more than 1,500 guests, providing a lush, expansive setting for gala dinners, receptions, and grand celebrations.
Ja’Jan by The Sea Garden, with its panoramic sea views, offers a picturesque backdrop for weddings and cocktail parties, whereas the Lobby Garden is ideal for private or personal events, offering an intimate setting surrounded by tropical beauty.
Tailored experiences
At Merusaka Nusa Dua, every event is tailored to meet the specific needs and desires of the host. The experienced event planning team works closely with clients to create bespoke experiences that leave lasting impressions. From large-scale conferences to intimate weddings, each event is executed with meticulous attention to detail.
A sanctuary for leisure and business
Beyond its exceptional event facilities, Merusaka Nusa Dua provides a tranquil retreat for guests. The beachfront location allows visitors to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Bali. Luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and a range of recreational activities ensure that both business and leisure travellers have an unforgettable stay.
Merusaka Nusa Dua is more than just a venue; it is a sanctuary where business meets paradise. Its unique combination of advanced facilities and stunning natural settings makes it the ideal choice for MICE events in Bali. Whether planning a corporate retreat, a conference, or a special celebration, Merusaka Nusa Dua promises an extraordinary experience.
Meet the team at IT&CMA 2024
Merusaka Nusa Dua will be joining IT&CMA from September 24 to 26, 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand. This prestigious event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry leaders and explore our offerings in person. Meet the team at the event to discuss opportunities on how to make your next event truly exceptional.
Welcoming visitors from diverse backgrounds, MCET is committed to providing safe spaces to connect and engage
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust (MCET), operators of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre have launched a new Accessibility Action Plan.
The Plan focuses on four key goals; improving employment opportunities for people with disabilities; improving access to goods, services and facilities at MCEC and Nyaal Banyul; collaborating with event organisers to ensure everyone can meaningfully participate and engage in events; and changing discriminatory attitudes, behaviours and practices.
Welcoming visitors from diverse backgrounds, MCET is committed to providing safe spaces to connect and engage
According to the World Health Organisation, 16 per cent of people worldwide have a severe disability, while almost 20 per cent of Australians have a disability according to the Australian Human Rights Commission. This is a significant number of people who experience barriers to accessing public spaces and events.
As such, the Accessibility Action Plan addresses physical and non-visible barriers.
For example, MCEC has a range of accessible features available to support visitors with mobility needs, vision impairment and assisted hearing.
MCEC’s new website launched last year was designed with inclusivity in mind, complying to WCAG 2.0 Level AA Accessibility Guidelines, and providing information about accessible features as well as virtual tours of the venue, allowing visitors to explore, navigate and plan their visit. Over the next three years, MCET has committed to further enhancing accessibility at the venue.
Construction of Nyaal Banyul, which is set to open on the Geelong waterfront in 2026 is currently underway. MCET is working closely with the Victorian Government and the consortium led by Plenary Conventions to ensure Universal Design principles are embedded throughout the venue, ensuring accessible gathering spaces for all who visit.
In addition, the Positive Impact Guide was launched last year to provide event organisers with tangible resources to embed corporate social responsibility into their events. The guide includes information on accommodations that can be made to support attendees, as well as partnerships with leading disability service providers, Travellers Aid and Alkira.
MCET’s Accessibility Action Plan was developed with input from people with lived experience along with expertise from accessibility consultants in the tourism industry. This included support from the City of Melbourne Business Capacity Program.
The Accessibility Action Plan has also been designed specifically with accessibility and reasonable reading levels in mind, and is available in Plain Language and Easy English formats on the website.
The newly-opened Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok anchors the One Bangkok development with cosmopolitan elegance. Featuring the city's largest ballroom and a spectacular new penthouse suite, it delivers exceptional hardware and deeply authentic, soulful service for business and leisure travellers alike
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