Global convention industry consulting firm, GainingEdge, has launched a new internal unit, GainingEdge Analysis & Research (GEAR), with a mission to expand and improve the quality of research available to international convention destinations. GEAR will focus on issues of destination competitiveness, new forms of market intelligence and new insights into the dynamics of the global meetings industry.
GainingEdge CEO, Jon Sivertson, said the vision for GEAR is to fill a research gap in relation to both the convention industry and the association community.
“Our industry has never really had a dedicated research unit” Sivertson said. “We were struck by the lack of real quantitative analysis available to support quality decision-making processes. We want GEAR to make a real difference for both the meetings industry and associations. We want GEAR to be the go-to when people are focused on facts-based decision making.”
Long-time GainingEdge consultant, Milos Milovanovic, has been tapped to head-up GEAR. He said GEAR came out of a journey that began in 2018 with the publishing of the first annual International Convention Destination Competitive Index, the 3rd edition of which was released in December 2020. He said GEAR’s next contribution will be “cutting edge” research into the “intellectual capital” of convention destinations around the world.
“I think our next report will have a big impact on destinations and how they go about pursuing international conventions,” he said. “We’ve done a deep dive on the leadership of 3,500 international associations and developed a database of association board members and the cities where they live. From this research, we will be helping cities to understand how well they are doing in terms of the number of their local leaders who are active members in governing bodies of international associations.
Milovanovic said the upcoming report would help cities understand how well they are leveraging their influencers to secure conventions.
“We want to help them in their recovery strategies as they pursue future growth” He said. “Intellectual capital is a main driver of how conventions decide where to meet. We want to help destinations to understand how well they are harnessing that intellectual capital and to find quick pathways to the people they need to engage in the process of securing conventions.”
GainingEdge is a global specialist consulting firm advising the tourism and business events industry and associations since 2004. It provides a data-driven approach to market synthesis and on strategic recommendations that are specific, practical, and actionable.
GainingEdge has offices in Melbourne, Kuala Lumpur, Paris, The Hague, Johannesburg, Dubai, and Vancouver.
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For further information contact: Jon Sivertson, CEO Phone: +1 604 360 4633 (Canada) Email: jon@gainingedge.com
GainingEdge, has launched a new internal unit, GainingEdge Analysis & Research (GEAR), with a mission to expand and improve the quality of research available to international convention destinations.
Thailand’s strategies to boost International Exhibitions Source: Edited excerpt from Travel Daily News Date: 20 January 2021 Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) aims to be more segmented in its international exhibition promotion in 2021 giving high priority to 12 key industries to strengthen national development and put emphasis on the Asian market.
Asia-centric approach to increase online and offline trade shows to maintain Thailand’s position as a centre of international exhibitions in Asia.
Attracting new shows and clustering events, such as conventions and festivals whose content is aligned with the shows
Creating opportunities in potential regions, for example, Thailand LOG-IN Events planned for Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).
Collaborating with government agencies to promote large-scale trade shows and conventions under “One Ministry, One Expo” concept.
Promoting innovation and technology to enhance visitors’ experience through an online platform, create business opportunities, and lower physical touching points at the shows.
Hong Kong adapts online-offline program for business events in Q1 and Q2 of 2021 Source: Edited excerpt from CIM Date: 12 January 2021 The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will reconfigure its industry trade fairs and conferences in the first half of 2021 as part of its ongoing efforts to find ways to help Hong Kong companies continue doing business during the pandemic. In addition to enhancing its hybrid model that combines online fairs with physical fairs and symposiums, the HKTDC will also organise new local exhibitions and hold a number of its key international conferences online, including those targeting the finance, creative and marketing sectors.
Penang Convention Bureau hosts virtual roadshow Source: Edited excerpt from Impact News Date: 25 January 2021 Malaysia’s Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) recently conducted its 4th Annual Penang Roadshow in India for travel agents in 4 prominent cities of Kochi, Chennai, New Delhi and Mumbai. This year’s show was carried out fully virtually followed by a Penang Night special dinner hosted for the Indian travel agents. The virtual show had a total of 25 registered sellers from Penang and the larger Malaysia travel and business events industry, and welcomed more than 200 buyers in total.
AUSTRALIA
Tasmania’s COVID-19 Safe Events Framework Source: Edited excerpt from CIM and Business Tasmania Date: 12 January 2021 The Tasmanian Government has launched A Framework for COVID-19 Safe Events and Activities in Tasmania to support event organisers to plan and hold larger-scale COVID-19 safe events from December 2020. Depending on the risk profile of the event, it will be classed as Level 1, 2 or 3, and different controls will apply depending on the level. The Framework applies to gatherings that exceed the ordinary gathering limits.
New South Wales unveils Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 Source: Edited excerpt from CIM Date: 19 January 2021 New South Wales has outlined a strategy to host more major events as it looks to transform the state into the largest tourism hub in the Asia-Pacific. The Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 aims to aid recovery and turbocharge visitor economy growth through securing world-class events, boosting regional visitation and building new tourism icons and visitor experiences for the future. Developed by Destination NSW the strategy will also focus on the day trip market, worth an estimated AUD 10 billion (USD 7.7 billion) by 2030, and grow opportunities in regional NSW, with the aim of returning visitation to pre-pandemic levels by 2024. The Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 can be found here.
EUROPE
Germany launches Response Room Source: Edited excerpt from German CVB Date: 14 January 2021 The German Convention Bureau (GCB) launched its open innovation platform “Response Room”, initiated in cooperation with PCMA and the IMEX Group. The platform offers a global, interdisciplinary forum to innovate business events. The partners are looking to build a global community of meeting planners, organisers, suppliers, and event participants to jointly develop new solutions and innovative business models.
Scotland’s USD 7.27 million Pivotal Event Businesses Fund Source: Edited excerpt from KONGRES and VisitScotland Date: 20 January 2021 At the end of last year, the Scottish government announced that the business events sector was to receive £6 million (USD 7.27 million) from the £104.3 million (USD 126.48 million) Scottish Government package for tourism and hospitality businesses across the country. The Pivotal Event Businesses Fund, to be delivered through VisitScotland, will be prioritised towards those businesses that can evidence and demonstrate they play a pivotal role across the events industry in Scotland and are in financial difficulty as a direct result of COVID-19.
Austria’s USD 364.8 million meetings protection plan Source: Edited excerpt from M & IT and Vienna CVB Date: 14 January 2021 Under an approved EUR 300 million (USD 364.8 million) protective shield, the Austrian government will cover financial damage resulting from events being cancelled or restricted due to COVID-19. The Austrian guarantee of liability gives event planners planning security. Starting January 18, 2021, applications can be submitted via the Austrian Hotel and Tourism Bank (ÖHT). The first eligible event date is March 1, 2021. Applications can be submitted through June 15, 2021.
Our summary of how destinations are responding to the COVID-19 outbreak. We hope this bulletin will help you in planning your own mitigation and recovery strategies.
GainingEdge, a global leader specializing in providing advice to the business events industry, is pleased to be supporting ICCA’s recently launched ICCASkills certification programme.
The new certification programme was announced by ICCA on 11 January to provide an opportunity for its membership and the industry to meet the challenges of new business models, enhance professionalism and improve standards in the industry. GainingEdge is leveraging its deep industry expertise and knowledge to guide the development of the ICCASkills programme with our strategic advice, as well as logistical and operational support.
Jon Sivertson, CEO of GainingEdge, said: “GainingEdge is delighted to be continuing our long-standing involvement with ICCA by providing assistance for this extremely important programme. Our team has extensive global experience in education and training, including managing and moderating the ICCA Association Executive Seminar on a regular basis. Helping elevate the industry to higher levels has always been GainingEdge’s mantra.
Certification will enable individuals in the global business events industry to improve their talents through rigorous learning, thereby contributing to their organisation’s success. We very much appreciate to be involved in shaping an innovative and unique certification programme. We believe our insights will ensure ICCASkills certification to flourish.”
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For further information contact: Jon Sivertson, CEO Phone: +1 604 360 4633 (Canada) Email: jon@gainingedge.com
GainingEdge is pleased to be supporting ICCA’s recently launched ICCASkills certification programme.
PRESS RELEASE Global convention industry consulting firm, GainingEdge, has released its third annual Competitive Index of international convention destinations. The 2020 edition extends the listing to the world’s top 101 cities – those which have hosted 87 or more international conventions over the past three years as reported by the International Congress & Convention Association… Continue reading 2020 Competitive Index Offers Advanced Tools for Destination Competitive Analysis
Singapore’s roadmap for the business events industry Source: Edited excerpt from MICENET and Visit Singapore Date: 9 October 2020 Singapore Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS) together with Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Enterprise Singapore (ESG) have launched the Events Industry Resilience Roadmap (IRR), which provides guidance on safety measures and best practices in line with the gradual resumption of business events. It presents three strategic objectives:
Helping the industry to implement best-in-class standards under STB’s Safe Business Events Framework;
Creating agile business models with a focus on hybridisation;
Developing pathways for professional development in the new way forward.
The IRR also includes guidelines on SG SafeEvent Standard which is a mark of assurance that an event meets the requirements for safety, compliance and wellbeing in a COVID world.
Singapore rolls out pre-event testing Source: Edited excerpt from M & C Asia Date: 21 October 2020 To speed up the return of large-scale business events in Singapore, the Minister of Health announced a pilot program for pre-event COVID-19 testing where attendees of selected events will be tested either at the event venue or a separate testing facility. Only participants who test negative will be allowed into the event.
Japan to host virtual fam trips Source: Edited excerpt from Mix Meetings Date: 15 October 2020 Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) is offering an online fam trip as part of its convention bureau’s hosted buyer programme. Meet Japan, being held fully virtually from January 26 to February 4, 2021 is designed to help international associations and PCOs learn more about the country’s convention cities and to connect with local meeting professionals. Attendees will choose 2 out of 4 cities to virtually visit.
Kobe announces support packages for hybrid events Source: Edited excerpt from CIM Unity and Meet in Kobe Date: 28 October 2020 At the annual “Meet in Kobe” meeting which was held as a hybrid event this year, Kobe Convention Bureau announced its new support package for hybrid meetings held in Kobe starting October. The support package includes organizational support and financial support of up to 5 million JPY (US$ 47,795) for international conventions and up to 2 million JPY (US$ 19,118) for domestic conventions.
Hong Kong launches hygiene framework for the business events and tourism Source: Edited excerpt from M & C Asia Date: 9 October 2020 Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) in partnership with the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA) has rolled out a set of standardised hygiene protocols for tourism and business events-related businesses in an effort to restore confidence among travellers. The protocol will roll out in two phases and is similar to Singapore Tourist Board’s SG Clean Initiative.
Thailand unveils operational plan for FY2021 Source: Edited excerpt from Travel Daily News Date: 15 October 2020 Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has revealed its operation plan for the fiscal year 2021, focused on recovery for Thailand’s business events industry and strengthening the industry’s fundamentals for sustainability. Guided by the concept “New Normal MICE – Sustainable Growth”, the plan comprises four strategies:
Promoting domestic MICE
Attracting international events
Implementing innovation
Developing a robust MICE ecosystem
TCEB has allocated 10-million baht (US$ 321,027) in its budget for the first quarter of the FY2021 (October – December) towards the promotional campaign “Thailand: A Safer Place for Meetings”. The campaign aimed at encouraging the public and private sectors to use business events activities as a means to distribute income to local communities.
Thailand’s continued focus on innovation Source: Edited excerpt from Travel Daily News Date: 27 October 2020 Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has launched the third edition of ‘Thailand MICE Startup’. The competition, aimed at boosting Thailand’s post-COVID-19 competitiveness, pairs start-ups or tech entrepreneurs with business event entrepreneurs to compete for the best innovation for the business events industry. So far, there are 23 applicants who are required to form a team to develop innovations or solutions that can address the pain points faced by business events entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The competitors are required to partner with a business events entrepreneur to ensure the practicalities of the innovations.
AUSTRALIA
Tourism Australia inspires event planners with 8D Source: Edited excerpt from M & C Asia Date: 14 October 2020 Tourism Australia has launched an 8D immersive campaign featuring six videos highlighting some of Australia’s most iconic spots, in a move to inspire event planners for future business events. Unlike other destination marketing campaigns by tourism bodies worldwide, Tourism Australia is the first to use 8D audio to deliver the sound engineering treatment so listeners experience a three-dimensional effect via their headsets.
Planners can find the six Audio Escape videos via the Business Events Australia website.
Tasmania’s support package for the business events sector Source: Edited excerpt from CIM Date: 19 October 2020 Tasmania has announced grants from AU$ 5,000 (US$ 3,517) to AU$ 100,000 (US$ 70,340) to support local small businesses that provide critical event support infrastructure and other services that are essential to the running of events.
Sydney launches new brand campaign for the business events sector Source: Edited excerpt from CIM Date: 27 October 2020 Business Events Sydney (BESydney), backed by the New South Wales Government and the tourism industry, has launched the “It’s got to be Sydney” campaign to position Sydney as the number one Australian destination for business visitors – and focuses on the domestic market to ensure Sydney is the top pick as businesses plan upcoming busines events. The campaign is filled with optimism for a new COVID-19 safe future and connects planners and suppliers via a dedicated microsite.
EUROPE
UK launches “Events. Reimagined” campaign Source: Edited excerpt from KONGRES Date: 29 October 2020 VisitBritain have launched the new international recovery campaign, ‘Events. Reimagined’, as part of their international hosted buyer partnership with The Meetings Show. The new ‘Reimagine’ campaign is to help buyers creatively reimagine the future of events in the UK, and take this opportunity to reboot, refresh and reimagine their future business events.
Austria’s EUR 300 million (US$ 350.4 million) support package Source: Edited excerpt from KONGRES and Pro Media news Date: 15 October 2020 The Austrian parliament recently agreed on a EUR 300 million (US$ 350.4 million) financial support package for business events organisers. If an event is subject to restrictions or is cancelled, the organiser’s liability will be limited by the Federal government. This also applies to organizers from other EU countries who hold their event in Austria.
Our summary of how destinations are responding to the COVID-19 outbreak. We hope this bulletin will help you in planning your own mitigation and recovery strategies.
Hong Kong launches USD131 million subsidy scheme for business events Source: Edited excerpt from CIM and TTG MICE Date: 29 September 2020 On October 3, the Hong Kong Government launched the Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme worth HKD1,020 million (USD131 million) to help ease financial burdens on the local convention and exhibition industry and help it attract domestic and overseas exhibitors, buyers and conference delegates to Hong Kong. The Subsidy Scheme offers to cover a 100 per cent venue rental cost for organisers of exhibitions and international conventions held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and AsiaWorld-Expo.
Hong Kong focuses on regional source markets Source: Edited excerpt from M & C Asia Date: 16 September 2020 Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is working on re-engaging and attracting event planners from regional source markets as well as having discussions with other destinations on forming travel bubbles, lending confidence to the business events sector’s recovery. HKTB is also working on Open House Hong Kong – a co-platform between the government and trade partners serving to inform international visitors and planners of the destination’s COVID-19 safe status, together with a host of attractive offerings and experiences.
AUSTRALIA
Shoalhaven’s AUD170,000 support package Source: Edited excerpt from CIM Date: 25 September 2020 Business events in Shoalhaven which have been postponed or cancelled due to COVID-19 have been given grants worth a total AUD170,000 (USD121,714) to help them in recovery. The funds are from the AUD10 million (USD7.2 million) Regional Tourism Bushfire Recovery Grants program, which was set up to support events of all types in fire-affected regions.
EUROPE
Poland’s “Safe MICE Venue” certification Source: Edited excerpt from KONGRES and Poland Convention Bureau Date: 24 September 2020 During Meeting Week Poland, Polish Tourism Organisation and Poland Convention Bureau launched the “Safe MICE venue” programme intended to provide business travellers, meetings and events customers and professional congress organisers with access to information about venues capable of delivering services in accordance with regulations of Chief Sanitary Inspectorate and Ministry of Development.
GLOBAL RECOVERY RESOURCE
AIPC, UFI and ICCA release second Good Practice Guide Source: Edited excerpt from TTG MICE and MeetExpo Date: 16 September 2020 AIPC, the International Association of Convention Centres; ICCA, the International Convention and Congress Association; and UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, have joined forces to release Good Practice Guide: Addressing COVID-19 Requirements for Re-Opening Business Events – Version 2. The Guide, focused on the reopening for phase, builds on the first report published in May and includes 12 mini case-studies and learnings from business events which successfully too place during July and August 2020 around the world.
Air Canada offers free COVID-19 insurance for international travel Source: Edited excerpt from ETurbo News Date: 18 September 2020 Air Canada announced that it is including complimentary COVID-19 emergency medical & quarantine insurance for Canadian residents booking round-trip international flights. The coverage, available for new bookings made in Canada from September 17 until October 31, 2020, inclusive, provides emergency medical and quarantine insurance designed to give customers added confidence when booking flights and travelling abroad.
Our summary of how destinations are responding to the COVID-19 outbreak. We hope this bulletin will help you in planning your own mitigation and recovery strategies.
Empowerment. Inclusion. Access. These are 3 words that will no doubt resonate with Association leaders, staff and members as these have been values espoused as core to the services and functioning of Associations.
With the proliferation of digital engagement adopted by Associations since COVID-19 disrupted our traditional means of engagement and interaction, these 3 words have acquired a new level of importance.
The evolution of digital has been experienced as a key disrupter to Associations – it has challenged their traditional revenue sources and impacted on the organization and operations of events, educational programmes, publications, membership and HR. However, Associations have now started to see the benefits of digital as an enabler. The move towards digital which has proliferated during the COVID-19 pandemic, has allowed Associations to broaden their networks, deepen their connections and most crucially it has facilitated accessibility of associations to previously under-served and under-represented communities – including those with disabilities.
According to the 2011 World Report on Disability by the World Health Organisation/World Bank, there are an estimated 1 billion persons with disabilities worldwide. That same report shows that whilst employment rates vary across countries, “the bottom line is that, all over the world, a person with a disability is less likely to be employed than a person without a disability, often much less so”.
Despite legislation on diversity in the workplace, people with disabilities still do not experience the same access to work opportunities as do their counterparts without disabilities.
The role and the responsibility of Associations here is clear. Inclusive and equitable quality education and the promotion of life-long learning opportunities for people with disabilities is fundamental. Without their full inclusion, efforts to achieve the societal transformation envisioned in the UN SDGs will stall. As industry representatives, associations are in a pivotal position to lead and stimulate the development of a more inclusive workforce.
So how can Associations help move the needle towards empowering those with disabilities? How can they contribute to a more inclusive and accessible workplace?
As a point for departure, Associations can start by identifying participation gaps within their existing networks and develop a clear strategy for both stimulating and supporting greater inclusion of people with disabilities across all their programme of activities- both offline and online.
Whilst seeking to understand and address the issues and challenges raised by those already within their networks who have disabilities, they also need to engage with those who remain on the outside of their networks and seek to understand what keeps them there.
Certainly, the inevitability of digital as a permanent feature of associations moving forward creates an opportunity to systemically embed accessibility within their operations. This will also require the supplier community from technology companies to exhibition centers to be ready to provide associations with the solutions they need in order to develop disability-inclusive responses to all their services and events moving forward.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR CHLOE MENHINICK
Chloé Menhinick is the Partner for Association Consulting at GainingEdge with 15 years’ experience in the Associations industry. She is an Active Member of UIA and a Board Member of the European Society of Association Executives (ESAE) where she also co-chairs the Communications & Membership committee.
Inclusive and equitable quality education and the promotion of life-long learning opportunities for people with disabilities is fundamental. As industry representatives, associations are in a pivotal position to lead and stimulate the development of a more inclusive workforce.
Businesswomen wearing office suits and masks, meeting and walking together in city, talking, discussing project. Medium shot. Business during epidemic concept
22 September 2020
Which destinations are open and how are they handling the return of the MICE sector faced with risks of second waves of infections and lockdowns? Less than 10 destinations with effective suppression are fully open for large scale events without capacity limits. But others are lining up.
Reliant on travel and large gatherings, the MICE sector is considered high-risk during the pandemic and remains mostly shut. 41 EU countries have open borders for travel, yet events are restricted.
Covid-19 continues to intensify in many emerging and developing economies. Borders in over 100 destinations including Canada, Australia and India remain completely closed to visitors.
A consensus is emerging that even with our optimism for a vaccine we will not be Covid-free before 2022. We face a long transition phase that is uncertain and volatile before we reach the New Normal. The pace of recovery will vary across regions and segments.
Which destinations are open for MICE events?
It is estimated that over 40 countries are open for events but most have capacity limits and other restrictions.
Country China Taiwan Hong Kong Korea New Zealand Malaysia Thailand
Japan Netherlands
Germany
United Kingdom
Singapore UAE
From May May May May May June June
June July
September
October
October October
Capacity no size limit no size limit no size limit no size limit no size limit up to 250 people no size limit but maximum 20,000 sqm up to 5,000 people limit subject to social distancing capacity limit subject to social distancing capacity limit subject to social distancing capacity up to 250 people limit subject to social distancing capacity
What does MICE activity look like in the open destinations?
Destinations that are widely open are those that have Covid under control. Even then, they face the risks of second waves of infections and re-imposition of lockdowns.
China and South Korea returned by hosting major domestic construction and automotive expos of 62,000 and 45,000 visitors respectively in May.
First in, first out of Covid, China, supported by the world’s largest domestic market is clearly leading the return of the MICE sector in terms of level of activity. Shenzhen World alone has hosted numerous events with total visitors through its door since Covid reaching 1 million.
Supported by large domestic catchments, consumer expos are leading the return. Trade expos and Government meetings are also showing good form. Local corporate meetings and conventions are only just gaining confidence. Confidence for international conventions is unlikely until vaccination, treatment or effective suppression is achieved. Open borders alone will not restore confidence for the cautious international consumer.
Some of the high profile expos on reopening include:
The 2020 Hunan Auto Show, 20 April – 5 May with 62,000 visitors, daily cap 8,000 – Hunan International Convention and Exhibition Center, China
MBC Construction Expo, 8-11 May with 45,000 visitors – KINTEX, Korea
The 98th Hong Kong Wedding Fair May 22-24, 400 booths and daily cap of 3,000 visitors – Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Hong Kong
Taipei International Graphic Arts Exhibition, 30 July – 3 August with 80,000 visitors – Taipei World Trade Center, Taiwan
Germany has led Europe’s return of large scale events with the Caravan Salon Expo held 5-13 September at Messe Dusseldorf attracting 107,000 visitors with a daily cap of 20,000. This is seen as the first large scale expo with international (EU) attendance.
2020 SEMICON Taiwan scheduled for September is the first comprehensive hybrid trade show with international participants.
Venues in these markets are writing the playbook for hosting in-person events in a pandemic with extensive new protocols like pre-registration, temperature checks, face masks, gloves, elevated hygiene, social distancing, and density monitoring.
Virtual and hybrid events are filling some of the void. It is difficult to determine how much demand for virtual events is driven by the free access, try-out, lack of physical options, and downtime. Drop out rates on virtual events are high, but surely the consumer behavior being acquired will help rapid improvement of digital platforms.
China’s Canton Fair in June was the first large scale expo held entirely on a virtual platform, supported by Tencent. It attracted 25,000 virtual exhibitors but closed with mixed reviews.
Virtual platforms have an enviable window to enhance their offer as a serious commercial option if it is to retain a fair share of the gains made during this covid-normal phase.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR ROD KAMLESHWARAN
Rod leads the Convention and Exhibition Centre Development advisory team at GainingEdge. His expertise is in the development and asset management of hospitality assets – convention & exhibition centres, hotels, and casino integrated resorts. A specialist in mixed-use developments, Rod has advised government and private sector clients on projects with a completion value exceeding US$20 billion. Rod was previously at PwC and IHG.
We take a look at the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the business events sector. A consensus is emerging that even with our optimism for a vaccine, we will not be COVID-19 free before 2022. Read Rod Kamleshwaran’s take on the return of the MICE sector in a world that is faced with risks of second waves of infections and lockdowns.
Korea’s business events association partners with PCMA on training Source: Edited excerpt from AMI Magazine Date: 25 August 2020 PCMA and the Korea MICE Association have announced a two-year strategic agreement, aimed at equipping their members for life after COVID-19. A key component of the partnership will focus on the delivery of PCMA’s Digital Event Strategist (DES) course in Korea as well as other training programs to help meeting professionals adapt to the new business environment.
Penang’s digital marketing support for the business events industry Source: Edited excerpt from M & C Asia Date: 1 September 2020 Other than the Privilege Penang enhanced support program which was launched in June, the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) has provided social media support for Penang hotels to promote their offerings during and after Malaysia’s lockdown.
Seoul hosts virtual fam for business events media Source: Edited excerpt from TTGmice Date: 14 September 2020 Seoul Tourism Organization (STO) hosted its first virtual media familiarisation programme for journalists specialising in business events on September 17 and 18. The virtual fam comprised of five ‘venues’, each representing the varied charms of Seoul – a conference hall where journalists can access educational sessions; a virtual Seoul promotional booth; a lounge area for network opportunities; workshop; and a virtual theatre to watch business events-related city showcases.
AUSTRALASIA
Perth’s convention bureau to fund delegates at domestic events Source: Edited excerpt from TTGmice and AMI Magazine Date: 24 August 2020 Business Events Perth has unveiled a new funding initiative to encourage organisations to hold business events locally. Funding of up to AUD30 (USD21.50) a delegate is available, with total funding support determined by the event duration and number of delegates attending the event in-person. The State Government has also launched a AUD5.5 billion (USD4.01 billion) WA Recovery Plan to help Western Australia emerge from COVID-19, which includes AUD150 million (USD109.5 million) to support the tourism industry.
Australian government program to fund up to 50% of business events costs Source: Edited excerpt from Business Events News Date: 11 September 2020 Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison announced AUD50 million (USD36.6 million) in support for Australia’s business events industry. The new Australian Business Events Grants Program will see organisers of meetings, conventions, incentive and exhibitions able to apply for upfront grants to cover up to 50% of their costs (between AUD10,000 {USD7,320} and AUD250,000 {USD183,039}). The funding is part of the Government’s AUD1 billion (USD731.98 million) COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund which supports sectors severely impacted by the pandemic.
New Zealand’s Regional Events Fund Source: Edited excerpt from TTGmice Date: 11 September 2020 The New Zealand government has announced a support package of NZD50 million (USD33.3 million) to promote domestic tourism through business events. The injection will go to nine major regional groups across the country via the Regional Events Fund. The fund is an addition to the government’s previously announced Domestic Events Fund, in which 20 of the 200 events receiving support were conferences and business events.
Business Events Sydney launches online foresight series Source: Edited excerpt from micenet and BESydney Date: 15 September 2020 BESydney has released an online initiative entitled “Anticipating Tomorrow: Global Insights Series” which brings together leading researchers, business pioneers, groundbreakers and Government to share expert insights from around the globe. The series connects information, ideas and people, including the role that global conferences can play in helping Australia build back stronger and prosper again.
Canberra employs use of “Smart Badge” for business events safety Source: Edited excerpt from HQ – The Association Magazine Date: 9 September 2020 Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Chief Minister confirmed support for the delivery of new contact tracing and social distancing technology, Smart Badge, to help Canberra attract new business events to the region in the current environment. The funding is part of ACT Government’s new Tourism and Hospitality Package. The wearable ‘badge’ – worn as a watch, lanyard or helmet clip – is registered to the wearer by a QR code and maps their location within the set area of an event. The Smart Badge technology will be available free-of-charge to meeting planners with a confirmed event in Canberra.
EUROPE
Slovenia’s “Safe and Healthy Meetings & Events” certification Source: Edited excerpt from KONGRES Date: 26 August 2020 In an effort to bring back live events and help restart the meetings industry, Slovenia has launched a standardisation process for event organisers and venues in Slovenia. The “Safe and Healthy Meetings & Events” certification issued by the Slovenian Convention Bureau in cooperation with the National Institute of Public Health of the Republic of Slovenia, is based on a comprehensive guide that includes measures and recommendations for reducing health risks connected to the spread of COVID-19. To qualify for the certificate, organizations have to comply with 65 different measures in order to guarantee maximum safety of attendees.
Dublin’s recovery plan Source: Edited excerpt from HQ – The Association Magazine Date: 7 September 2020 Dublin’s plan for future events will focus on association conferences and the support they offer to them directly, to their PCOs, the conference ambassador and most importantly how they can help build legacy from their events.
NewcastleGateshead convention bureau launches social media campaign Source: Edited excerpt from Exhibition News Date: 1 September 2020 Venues, hotels, and event service providers from across North East England have come together to launch a new campaign, #ItsTyneToMeetAgain, to help support the recovery of the business events industry within the region. Organized by NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau, the grassroots social media led campaign focuses on employees in the sector creating video and photography via their smartphones to promote events spaces, the staff working there and the measures they have taken to ensure staff and visitor safety.
Germany categorizes tradeshow attendance as “essential travel” Source: Edited excerpt from UFI LinkedIn page Date: 1 September 2020 The German Ministry of Interior, has categorised entering the country to attend a trade show as “essential travel”, a move that demonstrates the critical role exhibitions play in economic recovery post-COVID. Trade fair participants from all countries can enter Germany to attend trade shows, subject to them having valid visas where needed.
MIDDLE EAST
Abu Dhabi successfully delivers COVID-free sanctuary Source: Edited excerpt from CIM Date: 31 August 2020 In a recent event at the Emirate, Abu Dhabi created a world-class ‘safe zone’ for approximately 2,500 people over five weeks on Yas Island, which was locked off and completely secluded from the rest of the Emirate for the five-week period. In line with the principles of the “Go Safe” certification programme, the health and safety procedures undertaken by event staff were extensive and included COVID-19 testing every 72hrs and 14-day isolation periods. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) plans to evolve this concept for the return of tourism and other events in the coming months.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Convention centers in Las Vegas, Florida and Chicago receive GBAC Star accreditation Source: Edited excerpt from NorthStar Meetings Group Date: 10 September 2020 The Global BioRisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of the worldwide cleaning-industry association ISSA, has unveiled a new certification to help the meetings industry rebound from the coronavirus crisis. More than 3,000 facilities in 66 countries are seeking GBAC Star accreditation. This includes convention centres, hotels, convention and visitor bureaus, and even airlines and airports.
Facilities will gain accreditation when they show they are implementing the industry’s highest standards of cleaning for COVID-19, and are safe to welcome guests and hold events. The program is backed by 10 industry organizations, including the International Association of Venue Managers, International Facility Management Association, International Association of Exhibitions and Events, Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association and the Go LIVE Together Coalition.
GLOBAL RECOVERY RESOURCE
COVID-19 impact map Source: Edited excerpt from TTGmice Date: 2 September 2020 International SOS has launched a new map representing the impact of Covid-19 on health, security and logistics for domestic operations, aimed at helping multinational organisations navigate the pandemic. The COVID-19 Impact Map complements International SOS’ suite of risk analysis maps, including Security, Medical and Road Safety.
The scales in the map represent the following business operations impacts due to Covid-19:
Myanmar’s white paper on the priorities for restarting tourism Source: Edited excerpt from TravelDaily News Date: 31 August 2020 Myanmar Tourism Marketing (MTM) with the support of the Development Partners Myanmar Centre for Responsible Business, Hanns Seidel Foundation and Myanmar Responsible Tourism Institute, has released a White Paper that is intended to provide guidelines and principles for the recovery of the tourism sector. The White Paper outlines seven recommendations:
Put Safety First
Promote Domestic Tourism
Adopt a Phased Approach for Reopening to International Travel
Improve Destination Management and Market Segmentation
Revise the Current Approach to Marketing and Promotion
Build a Supportive Business Environment
Invest in Human Resources – Managing Talent During and After COVID-19
UNWTO Tourism Recovery Tracker Source: Edited Excerpt from UNWTO Date: 16 September 2020 World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has developed the first comprehensive tourism recovery tracker worldwide, monitoring a number of relevant indicators throughout the recovery of tourism.
Our summary of how destinations are responding to the COVID-19 outbreak. We hope this bulletin will help you in planning your own mitigation and recovery strategies.
Version 2 AIPC, the International Association of Convention Centres; ICCA, the International Convention and Congress Association; and UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, have joined forces to release Good Practice Guide: Addressing COVID-19 Requirements for Re-Opening Business Events – Version 2. The Guide, focused on the reopening for phase, builds on the first report published… Continue reading Addressing COVID-19 Requirements for Re-Opening Business Events
