ICC Sydney doubles economic contribution and footfall in a year

September 4, 2023

Tradeshow-at-ICC-Sydney — An event at ICC Sydney. Photo credit: ICC Sydney

International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by ASM Global, has reported that it has attracted over one million visitors and delivered A$600 million (US$387.5 million) in visitor expenditure across 500 events, following the release of its 2022/23 Annual Performance Review.

This is up from 470,000 visitors and an economic contribution of A$190 million in FY2021/22, and ICC Sydney is on its way to delivering A$1 billion in economic contribution within the next five years.

An event at ICC Sydney. Photo credit: ICC Sydney

ICC Sydney CEO and ASM Global (APAC) group director of convention centres, Geoff Donaghy said the efforts of the team to build its ranks, partner with organisers on successful events and prioritise social impacts were recognised by event planners, the business events industry and community alike.

“Despite the headwinds we faced to scale and train our delivery teams to match business demand, we are proud to have reported 99 per cent client satisfaction, 96 per cent delegate satisfaction and 83 per cent team member engagement during the period,” Donaghy said.

Over the year, ICC Sydney hosted a healthy calendar of domestic and consumer events and a rising number of international events including 18 international conventions, 106 national conventions, 54 exhibitions, and 84 live entertainment events helping the venue team to exceed its revenue and profit targets for FY2023 – all while supporting a range of social causes and community programmes.

Overall, international event bookings and international delegate attendance is expected to take another two to three years for all markets to fully stabilise.

Recently, ICC Sydney also launched its Accessible and Inclusive Events Guide, providing guidance and resources for event planners to help organise events that are able to cater to everyone.

“We are also on track to deliver all of the objectives of our second Reconciliation Action Plan and our Legacy Program, which aims to build opportunities for local First Nations, creative industries, entrepreneurial businesses as well as students – and reduce and report on the carbon footprint of our clients’ events at ICC Sydney,” Donaghy added.

The new financial year will see ICC Sydney hosting international events such as the FDI World Dental Congress in September, World Organisation of Family Doctors conference in October, and the 23^rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work in November.

The Business of Events and IBTM World confirm partnership

By TTGmice

September 4, 2023

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IBTM-World-2022 — The Business of Events will curate the Impact Stage Destinations stream at IBTM World

The Business of Events, an independent Think Tank for the UK events sector, has announced IBTM World as its latest partner.

As part of the agreement, The Business of Events will take on a key role in coordinating the Destinations stream on the Impact Stage at IBTM World’s Barcelona event, set to take place from November 28-30, 2023.

The Business of Events will curate the Impact Stage Destinations stream at IBTM World

The stage will feature thought-provoking discussions, insightful panels, and engaging presentations led by industry experts, all contributing to the collective effort to enhance the impact of events on destinations worldwide.

Destinations and convention bureaux are actively encouraged to submit their content proposals for consideration on the Impact Stage.

Vasyl Zhygalo, RX portfolio director, IBTM World, said: “The partnership between The Business of Events and IBTM World is a key collaboration aimed at further enriching the event management landscape. The Business of Events, known for its commitment to advancing and advocating the significance of events as a powerful economic driver, aligns seamlessly with IBTM World’s mission to inspire and empower event professionals.”

Martin Fullard, director, news & content, The Business of Events, added: “By combining our expertise and resources, both organisations will elevate the understanding of the influence of events on economies, cultures, and societies. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and creating memorable event experiences that resonate far beyond the event itself.”

Meet sustainably at the Sofitel Singapore Sentosa & Spa

By TTGmice

September 4, 2023

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The Sofitel Singapore Sentosa & Spa has recently launched a Green Meeting Package.

Priced at S$125++ per person for half a day (US$92.30++), or S$150++ per person for a full day, both packages include the use of one main meeting room, morning and afternoon coffee breaks, lunch, stationary, lunch, a flipchart, and the usage of a built-in LCD projector and screen. The prices are subject to 10 per cent service charge and prevailing GST.

A meeting room with natural light at Sofitel Singapore Resort & Spa

As part of its Green Meeting Package, the Resort offers three coffee break menus, made with ingredients sourced from local farms as well as produce grown locally on the Resort.

Some of these dishes include Portuguese Egg Tart with locally farmed eggs, Chia Seed Pudding garnished with locally farmed mint and Vegetable Wrap with Sweet Chilli and Local Basil, made with mushrooms and basil that are both locally farmed.

Besides locally farmed produce, the Resort also offers more environmentally friendly ingredients, such as Impossible Meat. The plant-based patty is used in a slider and topped with locally farmed lettuce.

Outside of the meeting rooms, participants can engage in team-bonding activities that have a sustainable element, such as a mixology workshop at LeBar, where they can learn how to make the Sentosa Sling, using lemon leaves harvested from the Resort’s lemon garden.

Participants can also indulge in sustainable cocktails at LeBar such as The Urban Decay and Carbon Eclipse. These two cocktails are made using ecoSPIRITS, a closed-loop distribution system that nearly eliminates packing waste in the premium spirits supply chain.

Carbon Eclipse is made using ecoSPIRITS Rosemary Stem Tequila, Pineapple Core, Mango Juice and Egg White, while The Urban Decay is made using ecoSPIRITS Jackfruit Seed-infused Gin, Orange Skin and Black Lemons. Each cocktail saves 150g of carbon emissions.

A Green Mark-certified building, green features at the Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa include the installation of LED lights throughout the property which help reduce energy consumption and improve energy savings. In addition, water-efficient fittings have been implemented throughout the Resort, leading to better water efficiency.

The Straits Ballroom and Saffron Ballroom at the Celebrations and Events Centre, as well as a majority of the meeting rooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors, that allow plenty of natural light to fill the space. On sunny days, meetings can be held comfortably without the need for artificial lighting, thereby reducing energy consumption.

ALL Meeting Planner members get to enjoy five per cent off their next booking for Meetings & Celebrations packages. They can also enjoy double Reward points on any meetings and events they book, hold and pay by December 31, 2023. Reward points earned can be redeemed for complimentary resort stays, or to offset future meetings and celebrations.

ICCA takes its 63rd annual congress to Abu Dhabi

By TTGmice

August 31, 2023

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From left: ICCA's Senthil Gopinath; and Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism's Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry

ICCA has announced that the 63^rd ICCA Congress from October 20-23, 2024, will be heading to Abu Dhabi, UAE.

The event will be held at the 133,000m² Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), and will contribute to Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030 which sets out a clear strategy around sustainability, education, and career growth; especially for young professionals entering the business events industry.

Senthil Gopinath, ICCA, CEO, said: “ICCA recognises how Abu Dhabi understands the transformative role major international events can play, and how delegates gathered from across the globe can meet, share, and learn in a spirit of openness and possibility. With a focus on sustainability and celebrating the potential of what can be achieved when we work together – and after delivering a quite superb proposal – the 63^rd ICCA Congress staged in this very modern metropolis promises to be a landmark event.”

Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, director general for tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, added: “It is an honour to be able to host the ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi, which demonstrates the emirate’s growth as a MICE destination. This win has been possible due to the collective support from key stakeholders such as ADNEC, as well as other local and regional partners.

“Through our commitment to forging strategic partnerships, we have positioned Abu Dhabi as a dynamic hub where businesses prosper, and innovation thrives. By offering a wide array of distinct venues, hotels and year-round cultural, leisure and entertainment options, we deliver travel and business experiences for all our MICE visitors.”

Capri By Fraser, Phnom Penh celebrates grand opening

By TTGmice

August 31, 2023

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Frasers Hospitality, a member of Frasers Property, has opened its maiden property in Cambodia, the 86-unit Capri by Fraser, Phnom Penh.

The property offers a versatile mix of studio and one-bedroom units to meet the needs of business travellers on short or long stays.

It also features hallmark facilities of Capri by Fraser which include The Den, a social hub for guests to chill out and network, a state-of-the-art 24/7 gym, the Spin & Play self-service launderette with interactive games, Caprilicious, the all-day dining restaurant and Drinx, a rooftop bar that offers cocktails with views of the city centre.

Frasers Hospitality currently has a portfolio of 20 properties with over 4,500 units across eight gateway cities in South-east Asia. In addition to the Capri by Fraser, Phnom Penh, Frasers Hospitality has two more projects in Phnom Penh in the pipeline.

Making a comeback

By TTGmice

August 30, 2023

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Event brief
The Young Living Asia Pacific Convention 2023 marked the first in-person APAC convention for Young Living Essential Oils since the pandemic.

Young Living selected Singapore as its destination of choice for the four-day event to provide a vibrant, meaningful, and culturally rich experience to its brand partners from its Asia-Pacific community.

Approximately 1,500 brand partners and staff spanning 13 destinations attended the Convention, flying in from South-east Asia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, and the US.

“After so much time apart, we were eager to bring people together and needed a location that had clear border measures post-pandemic and was centrally located in Asia Pacific. From the moment we explored our options, we knew it had to be Singapore due to its hub status and strong reputation as a top MICE destination. The city is easily accessible, making it conducive for our brand partners coming from all over Asia Pacific to meet and conceive new ideas and partnerships,” said Boyd Price, regional president of Young Living Asia Pacific.

Planning for the event took a full year and was led by a core team of Young Living staff spanning three markets.

Event highlights
The event took place over four days from March 16-19, 2023, at Resorts World Sentosa.

The theme for this year’s event was Ignite, which encouraged Young Living’s brand partners to connect with like-minded people and be a beacon for them in its passionate community of oilers, wellness enthusiasts, and business experts.

Most of the meetings and experiential activities were held at Resorts World Convention Centre. Various workshops focused on business-specific training topics and provided a first-hand look at the company’s new line of products. There were also experiential activities, including an aroma gong bath and raindrop spa, using Young Living’s proprietary Raindrop Technique.

The gathering concluded with speeches from the executive leadership team, including Mary Young, CEO of Young Living, as well as a special recognition gala dinner. Held at the Gardens by the Bay Flower Field Hall, the dinner was attended by close to 500 brand partners and guests, and the evening was all about celebrating their achievements and recognising their impact on others in the community.

In addition to the set itinerary, guests also had time to explore Singapore on their own alongside their business engagements, from enjoying the garden displays at the Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay to trying Singapore’s hawker food. They were encouraged to discover different parts of Singapore and share their online content in a way that showcased the uniqueness and diversity of the city.

The Young Living Asia Pacific Convention 2023 was the company’s largest and most talked about Asia-Pacific Convention in years, and is a harbinger for bigger things to come.

Challenges
With evolving post-pandemic travel requirements, organising the event involved several logistical challenges. Forecasting event attendance, planning for accommodations, and overall logistics were complicated by different border measures for the attendees as countries were just reopening their borders for travel.

As a workaround, Young Living created a core planning team with staff across three markets to manage these aspects more efficiently. By leveraging its vast event-planning experience and global savviness, Young Living was able to stay nimble throughout the planning process and execute a successful event.

Event Young Living Asia Pacific Convention 2023
Organiser Young Living
Venue Resorts World Sentosa
Dates March 16-19, 2023
Attendees 1,500

Bohol’s allure as a business events destination gains momentum

By Rosa Ocampo

August 30, 2023

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Tagbilaran,-Bohol — Business events helped to jump start tourism recovery in Bohol; Tagbilaran, its capital city, pictured

Business events, such as incentive trips and international conferences, are helping to hasten the recovery of Bohol’s tourism industry, where interest in the Filipino province has risen since its hosting of PHITEX (Philippine Tourism Exchange) in 2020.

When international borders first opened in 2022, South Korea was the first to start sending incentive groups to Bohol, which helped most of the resorts and hotels recover from the pandemic-induced closure, shared Margie Munsayac, vice president sales and marketing, Bluewater Resorts.

Business events helped to jump-start tourism recovery in Bohol; Tagbilaran, its capital city, pictured

South Korea has now become a top source market for Bohol, with five airlines flying direct from South Korea to Panglao. To further bolster this inbound market, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) will be conducting a MICE Roadshow in South Korea this coming October.

Aside from South Korea, Munsayac also shared that Taiwan has been sending groups of all sizes to Bohol.

Other upcoming business events heading to Bohol include the Philippine Green Building Council conference in September; as well as the international start-up conference Geeks on a Beach, and 6^th PTTA Asia Conference on martial arts, both of which will take place in November.

Mary Ann Ong, general manager inbound, Bridges Travel and Tours, agreed that Bohol is emerging as a hot destination for corporate events. In fact, her company is deciding whether to take a 600-pax incentive group in November to Boracay or Bohol.

As to why Boracay or Bohol, Ong explained that the incentive group members wanted to stay together, and among the larger resort destinations, only the two destinations could accommodate such a large group at one time.

Although business may be booming, Bohol is experiencing a shortage of large-scale venues and hotels. Fortunately, there are plans afoot for infrastructure development, Joanne M Pinat, officer in charge, Bohol Provincial Tourism Office, disclosed. For example, the old airport site in Tagbilaran is being eyed for a 1,500-pax convention centre.

Currently, the largest business events venue in Bohol is the 1,000-pax Convention Centre within the Henann Resort Alona Beach complex, which also boasts a 400-key resort. Also located within the Henann Resort Alona Beach is the 210-key Henann Tawala Resort, which opened only last year.

More hotels are set to come online next year, such as the 188-key South Palms Resort Panglao Bohol – MGallery, part of the massive Panglao Shores tourism and lifestyle development, which will also feature event venues and more hotels.

Recently in June 2023, Cebu-based property developer AppleOne and JW Marriott inked a deal to build a five-star hotel in Panglao.

Wellington prepares for 40 upcoming conferences

By TTGmice

August 30, 2023

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Takina — Tākina, Wellington's newest conference and exhibition centre

New Zealand’s capital Wellington is looking forward to welcoming more than 40 notable multi-day conferences over the next few months.

The national and international conferences are expected to attract more than 18,000 delegates, with delegate spend in the city expected to exceed NZ$25 million (US$14.7 million)

Tākina, Wellington’s newest conference and exhibition centre

This will include the 36^th International Symposium on Superconductivity, taking place at Tākina in November. Drawn to the city by Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington’s international reputation in superconductivity research, it is the first time the event will take place outside of Japan.

Bid champions at the university also played an integral role in bringing in the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Australasian College of Sport and Exercise Physicians; and the Asia Pacific Society for Physical Activity Conference to the city in the same month.

The International Zoo Educators Conference, hosted by Wellington Zoo, was originally due to come to the city in 2021 – but was postponed due to the pandemic – and will now take place this October.

With the recent opening of Tākina, Wellington is also playing host to some of New Zealand’s largest national conferences including the Water New Zealand Conference & Expo, expected to attract more than 1,000 delegates along with a large trade exhibition. This conference has never taken place in Wellington before as there was no venue large enough to accommodate it.

Gillian Blythe, chief executive of Water New Zealand, stated: “The opening of Tākina has enabled us to bring multi-streamed programmes and exhibition events to Te Whanganui a Tara Wellington. I am delighted to be inviting delegates and exhibitors to Tākina for the Water New Zealand Conference & Expo 2023 in October, and Stormwater 2024 in May 2024.”

Other major national conferences include the New Zealand Dental Conference and New Zealand Game Developers Conference, expected to attract more than 800 delegates.

Business Events Wellington’s manager, Irette Ferreira, noted: “It has been a busy and brilliant month in Wellington and now we’re looking forward to business events bringing a broad range of experts to our city across a range of sectors. Hosting these events kickstarts opportunities for knowledge sharing and wider positive social impacts that will benefit Wellington and New Zealand.”

Increase in budgets, expansion of formats to shape events industry

By TTGmice

August 30, 2023

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Corporate meetings — Despite rising costs and inflation, 48 per cent of event professionals plan to increase their total volume of events in 2023

The expansion of events across various formats, an increase in events budgets, and the continued focus on sustainability are some trends that will likely impact event planners in the months forward, according to the Cvent Event Industry Report 2023 – Asia Edition report.

According to the report, virtual events have seen a significant increase of 46%, with in-person events following closely at 36%. Webinars and hybrid events have also seen growth at 35% and 32% respectively. This data confirms that event planners are prepared to expand events across various formats, and suggests that these formats will continue to be an integral part of strategic event programmes.

Despite rising costs and inflation, 48% of event professionals plan to increase their total volume of events in 2023

The report also indicates that 50% of respondents plan to increase their total events budget this year. While cost control remains the top priority, organisations are willing to spend wisely to best capitalise on the powerful role events play in bringing people together to build community and drive business growth.

Despite budget constraints, the report’s findings indicate that organisations are willing to spend more in key areas, with event promotion and marketing topping the priority list, followed by more event technology. Given efficiency, brand awareness and attendee satisfaction are the top factors governing in-person and hybrid events, it makes sense that event organisers are looking to leverage technology that can help them streamline processes, engage attendees, and amplify their event marketing efforts.

In addition, sustainability continues to remain in focus with 78% of respondents claiming to have a sustainability target for their events and 76% willing to track event/attendee carbon footprint to become more sustainable.

Will Kataria, Cvent’s senior director & country head – Singapore, said: “As the events industry undergoes rapid transformation, event tech providers must showcase their reliability, unique features, and competitive pricing to attract organisations with limited budgets and uncertain markets.

“Despite this, organisations are expressing a willingness to invest in event technology, particularly in Asia, where there is an increasing demand for hybrid events and event websites and registration solutions. As sustainability becomes a priority, organizations are actively seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. In this crucial moment, the Cvent Event Industry Report Asia edition offers valuable insights into the latest industry trends and developments.”

The full report can be downloaded here.

Cvent commissioned Censuswide, an independent research company, to survey over 100 senior event planners and marketers in Asia (Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia) across a broad range of industry sectors. This survey was conducted in April 2023.

Photo of the day: MBEW plants seeds of compassion

By TTGmice

August 30, 2023

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Amid the busyness of Malaysia Business Events Week (MBEW) 2023, the spirit of corporate social responsibility (MyCSR) shone brightly through two impactful initiatives.

Several attendees participated in a life-saving Blood Donation Drive, extending a lifeline to those in need, while a Tree Planting Activity involving 100 trees took root at an ecotourism attraction, Taman Alam, Selangor, for others.

These MyCSR activities during MBEW 2023 embody the heart of collaboration and compassion, leaving an indelible mark of positive change within and beyond the event’s horizon.

“We are delighted with the overwhelming response and active participation from delegates and strategic partners. The tree planting campaign and blood donation drive exemplify our industry’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond business gatherings,” said Saraya Arbi, interim chairman of Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau.

She continued: “Together, we’ve proven that business events are not only a platform for growth but also an opportunity to nurture a better future. Through these initiatives, we have collectively shown that business events can be a force for good, contributing to both environmental sustainability and community welfare. Let’s continue to sow the seeds of goodwill, embracing the power of collective action.”

ICC Sydney doubles economic contribution and footfall in a year

The Business of Events and IBTM World confirm partnership

Meet sustainably at the Sofitel Singapore Sentosa & Spa

ICCA takes its 63rd annual congress to Abu Dhabi

Capri By Fraser, Phnom Penh celebrates grand opening

Making a comeback

Bohol’s allure as a business events destination gains momentum

Wellington prepares for 40 upcoming conferences

Increase in budgets, expansion of formats to shape events industry

Photo of the day: MBEW plants seeds of compassion

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