Interview with Ian Cummings, Vice President EMEA, CWT Meetings & Events

78 % of meeting organisers in Europe still prefer large cities

What are the main trends highlighted by your survey?

Ian Cummings - Although safety and security remain a priority when planning any meetings and events activity, it appears that the terrorist attacks in the UK, France, Spain and Germany in 2016 and 2017 have not significantly impacted demand in Paris, London, Barcelona and Berlin. On the other hand, non-traditional event venues, such as sports arenas, are exploiting the revenue opportunities offered by the MICE sector and thus widening the choice for organisers. Finally, 78 % of meeting organisers in Europe continue to prefer large cities for their meetings. It should be noted that Eastern Europe offers good value for money, with hotel rates forecast to fall by 1.9%.

What will be the repercussions of the likely Brexit?

Ian Cummings - Border control in the UK is one of the concerns. Stricter measures will inevitably lead to queues at airports. Paris and other major MICE destinations could lose events planned in the UK if it becomes difficult for participants to enter the country, especially from Asia. For the time being, the situation remains uncertain.

What changes have you seen in your ranking of the 10 most attractive cities in 2019?

Ian Cummings - The rankings reveal four new entries: Vienna, Stockholm, Hamburg and Frankfurt. The holding of major meetings in the pharmaceutical sector and Russia's hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2018 have had an impact on the attractiveness of Moscow, which ranks second. However, Paris, Barcelona and Berlin remain very popular.

Is Greece still attractive?

Ian Cummings - As Greece has made progress towards political stability, we are seeing a return in demand for Athens and many islands such as Mykonos have become incentive destinations. These are alternatives to Ibiza, the south of France and other Mediterranean destinations.

Germany is the world's leading conference destination.

Ian Cummings - It's great to see Germany proving so popular! While Frankfurt and Berlin remain key destinations, we are seeing much more competitive offers from cities such as Hamburg and Cologne.