The International MICE Geography Show, an international forum on business, convention, and incentive tourism, concluded in Moscow on October 26. The total number of participants exceeded 1,050, including over 100 exhibiting companies, industry service providers, and over 300 client companies.
IN On the first day of the event, corporate clients and MICE agencies from Russia met with service providers, including those from abroad, at a workshop at the Ritz-Carlton, Moscow. At the educational conference at Soglasie Hall on the second day, the application of cutting-edge technologies in the industry and Moscow's potential as a business tourism hub were discussed. International experts shared their international experience in organizing business events. Participants shared their impressions at the closing ceremony in Loft Hall.
International guests noted that the workshop was a great opportunity to expand their network by meeting representatives from a wide range of regions in a single day, learning about their preferences, and offering their services to a clearly interested audience. Foreign MICE service providers noted that Moscow and other Russian regions are becoming increasingly attractive markets for them, and that the Russian capital also impresses with its hospitality. They praised the dynamic development of Moscow's infrastructure and the city's service capabilities.
A survey conducted during the event revealed that three-quarters of respondents regularly host events in the Russian capital, with events ranging in size from 50 to 1,000 people. Another 14% had not yet worked as organizers in Moscow but would like to gain that experience.
The growing level of service in Moscow is guaranteed, on the one hand, by government support, and on the other, by a high level of competition, as demonstrated by participants in the panel discussion "Moscow as a Center of Attraction for Events" on the second day of the event. Participants noted that service in Moscow is available 24/7, and that you can find anything you want in Moscow at any time. Speed of service is an important factor for both organizers and business travelers.
Experts note that Moscow's development in this area is somewhat hampered by the lack of comprehensive information about its potential among representatives of other Russian regions and international market players. Hosting the World Cup has had a positive impact on the image of Moscow in particular and Russia as a whole, and this trend should be supported by participation in international events, the experts believe.
Private businesses can also play a significant role in this process, promoting not only themselves and their services, but also the destination. Moscow has great potential, and business events here allow us to showcase the city's capabilities and provide a platform for MICE experts to exchange experiences, as the industry is very dynamic and highly dependent on the "human factor." It's important that, in addition to the appropriate infrastructure, the city has the appropriate level of specialists who know how to effectively utilize it.
The IMG Show is an annual international forum bringing together business travel service providers and corporate buyers. The event is supported by the Moscow City Tourism Committee and coordinated by the Association of Business Travel (ABT-ACTE Russia).
Source: news.turizm.ru