What is London's strategy for developing the MICE sector despite Brexit?
Barbara Jamison - We are waiting for clarification of the visa issueThe government needs to clarify this point as quickly as possible. It's very important, whatever the sector of activity: fintech, medical-related technologies, the creative professions, etc. We're focusing on universities and research. We're looking to support event organisers in medical services. We don't want to lose that because of the Brexit. We believe that the dynamic will now be driven more by the cities. Instead of the bad press about jobs leaving London for Paris, we are focusing on collaboration between cities. In fact, the Mayor of London visited Paris some time ago to conclude an agreement with his counterpart Anne Hidalgo, with whom he enjoys very good relations. We are looking to developing new forms of cooperation between citiesWe're also keen to develop trade to create jobs, especially since the Brexit. Paris is very active in attracting new events, but we prefer to see the French capital as an ally rather than a competitor.
How do you explainincrease in MICE requests registered in London in the wake of Brexit?
B. J. - As the exchange rate between the pound and the euromany organisers turned to London, because the destination became more affordable. But that's not the only reason. The city has new infrastructures dedicated to the meetings & events sector: the museum's new section Tate Modernthe new Design Museumthe Printworks and its former modular warehouses, or the new street food market Giant Robot at Canary Wharf...
Is the hotel sector experiencing the same dynamic?
B. J. - That's right: new hotel projects are being launched, such as the Four Seasons Trinity SquareThe Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, the Manhattan Loft, the Lalit... Most of them also offer new restaurants with renowned chefs. Many of these new establishments have preferred not to be classified, in order to be able to meet the expectations of companies in terms of " compliance" . However, we are no longer seeking to promote London in terms of the number of rooms, but rather to offer infrastructures that are truly adapted to each type of event. Every event that we manage to attract to London has its own specific requirements. positive impact on employment.
How is the London events industry evolving?
B. J. - We have succeeded in perpetuating some very interesting events, in particular the London Technology Week which has been running for four years now. The theme changes every year, attracting participants from a wide range of sectors, who attend a wide variety of events in different types of venues. This creates a very positive dynamic, with an angle that approaches that of a festival combining music, arts and meetings, and enlivened by many satellite activities. We're looking to integrating the knowledge economy and the event economy. That's what the industry is waiting for. In fact, there were almost 50,000 participants at the last event. We are also trying to extend the geographical coverage of this type of event, to encourage participants to getting out of the city centre. Our aim is for the Meetings & Events industry to benefit the whole of London and all Londoners.
What does the French market represent?
B. J. – It is the biggest in Europe in terms of the number of visitors, whether tourists or professionals. It even doubled the American market in 2014. We enjoy working with French agencies because they are particularly creative. We would like to host even more French events. Their collaboration with local teams can give rise to some great projects.
Paris is set to host the 2024 Olympic Games. How did the 2012 Olympics change the MICE landscape in London?
B. J. - With the 2012 Olympic Games, London has acquired new facilities that are now helping us in the business tourism sector. To attract top-class events, you need the right infrastructure. The Games have made a major contribution to this. They have also brought about a change in mentality, by bringing a certain "newness" to the city. open-mindedness which makes it easier to organise "experimental" activities. Permits are easier to obtain, and infrastructures are more adaptable.
Are you optimistic about the months ahead?
B. J. - Yes, we're optimistic because we've won bids for major congresses, events organised for the long term. Some players have been a little put off by the uncertainties surrounding the UK, but on the whole these conferences have remained loyal to us. We're going to have to continue to fight to win the loyalty of our partners, and get the message across that London remains an open and welcoming destination.
