Brexit supporters were promised the worst, with the British economy in particular expected to suffer as a result of being excluded from the European Union. The opposite is true. London's Convention Bureau is even boasting that it has recorded record levels of demand for the organisation of MICE (Meetings, Incentive, Convention, Events) events. And it is delighted with this " Brexit enquiry boom "...
Between June and September, London & Partners saw the number of applications increase of 41% compared to the same period in 2015. The attractive value of the pound is probably no stranger to this sudden popularity. The Executive Director of the ExCeL London conference centre confirms that " The weaker pound has been positive for our North American customers. Many of them have contacted us to arrange early payment for their event in order to take advantage of the preferential exchange rate. "explains James Rees.
However, on closer examination, the London authorities owe this spectacular increase primarily to the domestic market. Admittedly, demand from the United States and the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) market increased significantly - by 22% according to the London Convention Bureau. But this is nothing compared to the 83% of increases recorded on the domestic market.
London is and will remain open for business
" It's been a busy summer for our teams, and we're delighted to see that London is more attractive than ever to meeting organisers. "says Deborah Kelly, Business Development Manager at the London & Partners convention office. " The [UK] capital is a leading destination for business events and the results of the UK's EU referendum won't change that. London is a leading hub for sectors such as technology, life sciences, finance and the creative sector. London is and will remain open for business "she concludes.
