Strategic Alliance of the National Convention Bureaux of Europe meets in Iceland

Last week, the eleventh meeting of the Strategic Alliance of the National Convention Bureaux of Europe was held at the Hilton Reykjavík Nordica Hotel. The Alliance aims to boost partnership between convention bureaus within Europe to maintain and strengthen its long-term standing as the number one meeting destination in the world.

Presidential residence

The meeting was kicked off with a visit to the presidential residence at Bessastadir. The President of Iceland, Gudni Th. Jóhannesson welcomed the group to Iceland and shared with the delegates what he believes are the country's competitive advantages when it comes to hosting international meetings and conventions. Thorsteinn Örn Gudmundsson, Managing Director of Meet in Reykjavík, the official Convention Bureau for Reykjavík City and surroundings, said that he was honoured to host the biannual meeting of the alliance. “The MICE sector in Iceland has been growing at 14.4% (average annual growth rate) since Harpa Concert Hall & Conference Centre opened its doors in 2011. The growth has been faster than we anticipated. It is therefore precious for us to get the opportunity to share our story and learn from our European counterparts. Plus, we Icelanders always enjoy showcasing our destination. We at Meet in Reykjavík or our country's president are no exception.”

European National Convention Bureaux

European National Convention Bureaux that are included in the alliance are: Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Latvia, Scotland ,Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.