views SHAREDcompetitiveness collaboration meetings networks innovation sustainability globalisation Welcome to the Black Sea & Balkans Conference World Summit 2020, and your companion for the event, Shared Views
The summit was conceived to connect the region, build bridges for international business and create new ideas for cross-border MICE projects With this publication we hope to give you a little window into the opportunity to be found in this rapidly evolving varied region. The countries, cities and surrounding business opportunities are the result of a mix of strategic visions that place the development of priority sectors at the fore, namely tourism, energy, culture, IT, automotive and creative industries. We also explore some of the key global issues affecting the MICE industry today. From the means by which we entice new business, to the emerging trends that are shaping our events, and the educational resources that enable us to match the aspirations of the regions with a level of service and competency that unlocks their full potential. Our corner of Europe does not always get the attention it may deserve, so it is a real honour to welcome such an array of distinguished guests and we hope that this rare chance to see first-hand some of the projects we are championing in this part of the world will be something you take home and consider for years to come. We are all very proud to welcome you, one and all.
From the Organisers Big Interview EU Strategy Book Preview
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Talking Point Regional Profiles Technology Watch
There’s a new book for the MICE industry doing the rounds. We speak to author and summit speaker Rob Davidson about why we should be turning its pages.
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b uild SHARED strategyclustereconomic EAM value big T brand Calling the Global events community initiativeidentitymarketing SHARED views Publisher: Consulting Cluster Veritas Ltd 34, Bogatitsa Street, Office A-01 team Sofia, Bulgaria www.veritascluster.com people Editor: Teodora Jilkova Contributing Editor: Antony Reeve-Crook industries
one Art Director: Dimitar Spasov
companies Graphic Design: Asia Damova Prepress, print and production: New Campaign international members Contributors: Simon Naudi, Rob Davidson, Igor Kovacevic, Antony Reeve-Crook Welcome to our special conference companion, Shared Views, our platform for sharing knowledge, inspiration and ideas. European Commission I would like to use this opportunity to officially welcome you to the Black Sea & Balkans Conference World Summit 2020, and to thank Azerbaigan CVB, ICT Cluster Burgas, Istambul CVB, clustereconomic build everybody who has contributed towards the success of this wonderful Sochi CVB, Thessaloniki CVB event. As organisers, we are proud of turning an idea into reality – and for AM The copyright to the design and content of the publication strategy us this is not just another meeting. We are thrilled to welcome such a ‘Shared Views’ is owned by Consulting Cluster Veritas. No distinguished international delegation and we are grateful to have the part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior value TE local support, whether public or private sector, association-based or big events promotional. permission of Consulting Cluster Veritas. marketing Our community is clearly growing; the community of those who want All entries and images have been supplied by the companies to follow the latest trends, to explore new ideas, to stay competitive. and contributors listed on Page 3 of this publication and while Our Community is certainly getting stronger; the community of those initiative who believe in the power of face-to-face communication, who believe great care has been taken to ensure that the details are correct, in the meetings industry and love creating, attending, and working for neither Consulting Cluster Veritas nor the production house events. accepts responsibility for any error, omission or claims made in We have already ventured beyond regional and national thinking. the publication, or at the Black Sea & Balkans Conference World We are ready to connect and exchange ideas with our neighbours, we identity Summit 2020. are already searching for new models that can help us all to position the region more visibly on the global events map. We have world-leading thinkers and practitioners joining us in Varna to discuss the whole range of issues around events marketing, unique venues and the future of our industry; from theory right team through to concrete examples. We hope that this conference publication also showcases examples of best practice, provoking new conversations and encouraging new networks. Of course, our collection of edited articles is just a taster of what is to www.cwsummit.com come, as the main meetings course is in Varna. We hope it whets the appetite and helps to build that valuable community that we are all constructing around important, shared values. #BSBCWSummit2020 Teodora Jilkova, WWW.VERITASCLUSTER.COM For and on behalf Consulting Cluster Veritas and organising team of Black Sea & Balkans Conference World Summit 2020 www.agenda-bg.com
SHARED views Big Interview 5 Serving up Burgas for business Shared Views caught up with the Mayor of Burgas, Dimitar Nikolov, to find out his plans for the future of business events in Burgas. If people only had time to visit one city in Bulgaria, why should they see Burgas?
MAYOR NIKOLOV: Burgas is a romantic, inspiring modern city. Situated near the picturesque Black Sea coast, tucked away between three beautiful lakes. It is a charming city for strolls, for sea and yachting tourism, for unforgettable experiences and memories. A 18 years of experience in business consulting city with artistic and Bohemian charm that offers a rich cultural Narrow specialization in developing ERASMUS +educational program of festivals, and sports projects and for financing largescale sporting events street acts and numerous exhibitions. Burgas has kept its authenticity, yet it also carries the Increasing market presence in Romania, Macedonia and Turkey related to the development spirit of a dynamic MAYOR NIKOLOV: Burgas The key to the Burgas has the largest European city; which is has a tradition in fishing city’s economy is the oil refining company in and management of educational and sports initiatives why it is attractive for and fish-processing, food- development of our the Balkans, the major processing, ship repair, Industrial Zones. In fuel supplier to Bulgaria business. The priority wagon-building, oil- Industrial and Logistics and one of the largest in terms of the concept processing and chemical Park (Phase 1) we have employers. Nationally represented - Offices in Varna, Burgas and Sofia of city development is industry, production of 35 investors, mainly the implementation of cables and steel elements. from the food industry, What would attract smart urban solutions Due to our favorable hydraulic systems overseas businesses in line with the green geographical location, well- production, logistics to invest or set up in Intensive innovation activities related to the use of high technologies in sports Burgas? policy pursued by the developed infrastructure and high technology. A research and production Municipality of Burgas. and the availability of all types of transport, there facility for aircraft engine MAYOR NIKOLOV: Living An attractive city that Active member of the Bulgarian Association are many transport and parts is also being built conditions, investment you will surely want to logistics companies in there. The capacity in education and human of Management Consulting Organizations (BAMCO) come back to. Burgas, and in the last is running out, so we resource development, years the IT industry are now developing an well-established transport What emerging and started to grow. In the last Industrial and Logistics connectivity, availability established industries four years, the ICT sector Park (Phase 2) near our of suitable plots, quick Contact us: are there to be found in acquired office space and largest housing district, administrative procedures area over 9,000 sqm. Meden Rudnik. and services, easy [email protected] +359 52 828 132 + 359 888 844 269 Burgas? Cont. on p. 7 BULGARIAN SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES PROMOTION AGENCY SHARED views Big Interview 7 access to information. events and conferences. How have you seen the How does the city In recent years we have The city also offers city change in the past market itself to made a lot of investment opportunities for meetings 10-20 years? overseas business in infrastructure and and conferences varying event organisers? education and we are from 450 seats in the MAYOR NIKOLOV: We are one of the very few university buildings, opening new schools, new MAYOR NIKOLOV: The Bulgarian cities with a Smart center with a branches of universities; marketing strategy of conference hall of 190 The Bulgarian Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency (BSMEPA) is an renovated schools and we are building new Burgas Municipality is kindergartens. We have seats, as well as extremely kindergartens; we are changing according to the administrative structure to the Minister of Economy of the Republic of Bulgaria, which carried out the difficult comfortable halls in the expanding industrial trends in this sector. For implements the state policy for promoting entrepreneurship, development, and procedures for changing hotels Primorets, Aqua zones; the port is years, we have not only internationalization of SMEs. BSMEPA provides to Bulgarian SMEs information and the purpose of real estate and Mirage. advertised the city as a The newest jewel of the developing new terminals; in our industrial zones, traditional destination for consulting services, organizes training courses and webinars and implements promotion city is the Burgas Congress the city is growing and and we offer plots on summer tourism, but we activities in supporting the increase of SMEs’ competitiveness. Center. This modernistic rejuvenating. Burgas which investors can also look for opportunities building is located in the can be seen in the pages immediately start to attractive public area to expand the off-season of some of the most realise their intentions. In of the port. It includes a tourist activities. The BSMEPA supports the innovative development and the digital transition of Bulgarian SMEs prestigious publications terms of serving business, multifunctional hall for existing infrastructure through: we provide any necessary up to 500 people, office and has won awards as a and profile of the city space, research facilities information to speed up beautiful and intelligently are a good base for the and more. The center will • National Innovation Fund the process of decision- developing city. As Mayor, development of weekend making for investment be open year-round also I look to the future, and as venue for exhibitions, and event tourism. The • Voucher scheme for the provision of securities services on the capital market and for recruitment. together with my team concerts and a variety of Municipality of Burgas The Burgas schools and public events. In 2020 the we strive to realise many actively participates • Voucher scheme for the provision of ICT services to SMEs universities are flexible multifunctional Arena ambitious projects, but in tourism forums and and can quickly adapt Burgas will open with we also try to lay the looks for partnerships • Eurostars 2 program their programmes to 7,000 seats, which apart foundations of other with other organisations, match the needs of from sport and cultural strategic projects that will associations and media In the field of internationalization, BSMEPA: the business. events, can host large develop in perspective and related to the realisation Burgas is a developing concerts. have enormous potential. of business events. • Has launched the National Export Portal: www.export.government.bg city, wide open to novelty and innovations. • Organizes trade missions, B2B forums in Bulgaria and abroad and business matchmaking events What infrastructure • Organizes the participation of Bulgarian companies at major international trade fairs and conferences is there available for business events/ This initiative is realized under the Project № BG16RFOP002-2.052-0002 „SMEs participation at conferences/trade international fairs, exhibitions, conferences in the country and abroad” with the financial support shows? of the Operational Programme “Innovations and Competitiveness” 2014-2020, co-financed by MAYOR NIKOLOV: In the European Union through the European Development Regional Fund. recent years, the efforts of the administration and business in Burgas have created favorable conditions and new opportunities for the European Union development of event European Regional BULGARIAN SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES tourism. It is also a Development Fund PROMOTION AGENCY priority in the new municipal budget. The Flora Exhibition Center was completely renovated www.sme.government.bg www.facebook.com/bsmepaofficial linkedin.com/company/bsmepa-official to accommodate cultural #MeetingsBulgaria
SHARED views EU Strategy 9 BULGARIAN CONVENTION BUREAU P T Smart Specialisation in the EU inistries The inputs of linking Social Economy & Smart Specialisation unicipalities Smart Specialisation is a strategy developed in the EU to enable growth and jobs in European regions, based on the Locally based activities and egional evelopment gencies identification of local competitive advantages and growth economic resilience Pro essional ongress organisers markets. Through its partnership and bottom-up approach, Smart Specialisation could very much benefit from P s smart specialisation brings together local authorities, incorporating Social Economy into its strategy, as this academia, business spheres and the civil society, working field mainly focuses its work on activity sectors that for the implementation of long-term growth strategies cannot be relocated easily and rely a lot on human capital supported by EU funds. Strategic sectors of growth are (employment). therefore identified, for targeted research and investment. It can play a key role especially in less developed regions Smart specialisation encourages collaborative work and can and regions in industrial transition which require specific ssociations result in the building of clusters. attention with regard to human capital, skills development Smart Specialisation targets diverse sectors, including and inclusive innovation processes. 3D printing, medical technology, farming, solar energy, sustainable buildings, high-tech…and more. Innovation and new synergies to estination anagement EU Strategy create action ompanies s The incorporation of social innovation and Social Economy Since 2011, the European Commission has been providing enterprises into Smart Specialisation has also an added advice to regional and national authorities on how to value in bringing new methodologies to address the social develop, and implement their smart specialisation challenges. It brings in new ideas, new economic models, and strategies. Over 120 of them have been developed under the enhances social capital by incorporating more actors, and irlines 2014-2020 Cohesion Policy. emphasising the importance of democracy and participation Smart Specialisation is now part of the Horizon2020, as a of workers, new business management models, and n ustry uppliers tool to strengthen economic resilience and boost economic vocational training. growth. A new wave of pilots is to be launched in 2018-2019 Social Economy is a concrete application of the Quadruple specifically targeting transition regions and encouraging Helix approach to Smart Specialisation: it does not only interregional partnerships. include enterprises, academics and public authority into the otels wit meeting acilities ibition ongress enters Social Innovation is a new priority for the Smart economic development, but also the civil society. Specialisation strategy and the Horizon2020 agenda, and as Furthermore, social innovation has put in place new open such is progressively being integrated into the programmes, and innovative ecosystems, focused on the co-creation with many opportunities to assert a strategic place for of new tools and solutions by users, that carries a lot of OUR SERVICES Social Economy actors. Specific targeted sectors include: opportunities for clusters and regions to thrive. As an ‘new products and services meeting social needs’, child care, example, Living Labs have spread across the EU and focus healthcare, education, environmental issues…etc. on bringing together multiple stakeholders on a number Providing information and advice on the choice of venue, Intermediation in the relations with of topics to find commonly built solutions. (CF: European accommodation, transportation and all other related the local businesses and establishing Network of Living Labs, events created in co-operation with Two approaches incorporate public authorities: hackathon…etc.) services to plan and smoothly execute your event; contact with domestic public institutions; Social Economy into Smart
Presenting and establishing contacts Supporting business trips and Specialisation with local service providers - PCOs, DMCs, missions for on-site inspection; Either the regrouping of social economy actors and Tour Operators and others; enterprises into a common sector. This entails mutualised resources and means of action in a sector of specialisation such as employment and inclusion through economic Bid support; Providing free of charge marketing materials activity, cultural and creative industries, eco-friendly and guides to help visitors and delegates. activities, circular economy…etc. (Such an approach has BECOME A MEMBER been put in place by PTCE in France, or for instance Cultural Co-operatives in Italy, for the management and promotion of the cultural heritage). Or, the direct incorporation of social innovation Contact us: methodologies and technical inventions/tools into the 1, Bulgaria Sq., www.bgcb.eu bulgarian-convention-bureau +359 899 82 65 02 activities of existing smart specialisation areas and clusters. Building of National Palace of Culture, Multiple examples can be found on ECCP. Sofia, 1463, Bulgaria BulgarianConventionBureau [email protected] + 359 2 91 66 77 1 Cont. on p. 11 SHARED views EU Strategy 11
Examples and good practices The “John Atanasoff” Innovation Forum and all other event venues on the territory of Other initiatives: specialised Lapland and Navarra Sofia Tech Park, like the Labs and the Incubator building, are clusters of Social Economy already established as ones of the France: Pôles Territoriaux de Coopération Economique (PTCE) Arctic Smartness – Lapland: leading and preferred locations PTCE is a grouping of enterprises of the social economy This is a programme to develop the region’s position in for organizing events with focus on a precise territory in order to work in synergies. Local exploiting the Arctic natural resources; while delivering on technology, entrepreneurship, authorities work with research institutions on the solving sustainable development, by the settling of circular economy science, education, innovation, of common territorial issues, through social innovation, ecosystems in rural areas. digitalization, health and medicine. mutualised means and co-operation. Part of the programme for Lapland is dedicated to the A number of international and PTCE have been created via the 2014 framework-law on organisation of dynamic and self-sustained rural areas, thanks local companies, government Social Economy. The difference with other clusters is that to the creation of villages and agro-centres co-owned by local institutions and non-governmental those poles are mainly constituted by actors of the social people, farms and firms specialised in locally based hubs of organizations are choosing the economy, namely associations (57%). production of food and energy. Forum and Sofia Tech Park On the rural level: PTCE are mostly oriented towards the Further development attached to Social Economy in to present the results of their re-organisation of sectorial activities thanks to relocation of Lapland include job creation and work integration, thanks activities, to discuss new ideas production, transformation, distribution, and re-dynamisation to co-operatives and other social enterprises employing and projects, to share experience of the branch through innovation, training, and cultural/ local people with handicaps or disadvantaged backgrounds. and good practices, to create new promotion work. Social Economy in Lapland also enables the sustaining and collaborations, to hold trainings Activities are centralised: on eco-activities, reinforcement development of rural areas by providing social services and consultations. Sofia Tech Park is the organizer of the annual International Conference of employment and securing professional paths, cultural and including health and care for the elderly…etc. Sofia Tech Park has received an excellent rating and many references - ISupersonic. The purpose of the forum is to enable a meetup and creative industries, sustainable food and agriculture, Navarra S3: by lots of organization with which we have collaborated, on the quality interaction between leading investors, entrepreneurs, academics, and services. of the event organizing service. Over 200 events with more than 150,000 researchers and people with innovative ideas and set-of-mind, thus A Smart Specialisation and interregional co-operation participants have been held at the Sofia Tech Park during 2019, out of creating a platform for presentation, support and encouragement of Examples of French Clusters: (VANGUARD initiative). Part of the programme specialised in which 66 took place in the “John Atanasoff” Innovation Forum. Sofia Tech entrepreneurial Bulgarians. The first Investum Supersonic event took place Urban cluster: Lille-MétroPôle-Solidaire, launched by Lille the development of green activities and ecology. Park hosts, co-organizes and organizes important events such as: Sofia in 2019 on which representatives of Bulgarian and international investors city council and managed by the cluster InitiativeetCité. It There is a new settling of priorities for 2030, with special Cyber Sec 2019; Automotive Design - Pininfarina Design; Tradition and reviewed the current investment climate in Bulgaria and presented an represents a regrouping of various organisations into a co- concern for five development themes, including: Innovation; Investum Supersonic 2019; Educate to Create 2019 - Impact analysis of start-up projects which the local business is looking for creation/collaboration working the space. • Cohesive Navarra, socially and territorially, as a final of Artificial Intelligence on Higher Education; QA: Challenge Accepted to provide them support and investment opportunities. The panel with La Grappe is a consultancy services (financial engineering objective of the strategy. 5.0; Total Chaos 2019; jPrime Conference 2019; dev.bg All in One; The the leading Bulgarian and the international lecturers, who shared their commercialisation services) incubator of innovating projects • Healthy Navarra, with healthy products and services, taking Digital World Today and Tomorrow Conference; Sofia Science Festival; experience on how to overcome the financing and the scaling barriers, working on the city’s social and political priorities. It provides care of people. Biotech Atelier 2019; Science Bricks; SecurIT; European Scientists was of major interest. In 2020, Supersonic expands and divides into direct gateways with sub-sectors of excellence in the region • Sustainable Navarra, environmentally responsible and Night; Occupational Bazaar; International Biomedical Congress Sofia several tracks: Inventum Supersonic, Investum Supersonic, Expo Made (new technologies, media…etc.). efficient in the use of resources. and many more. in Bulgaria 2.0, Young Inventors and more. Rural Cluster: Figeacteurs (Lot - 46) has activities centred • Industrial & Competitive Navarra, increasing productivity on two main topics: 1. Relocation of agricultural production with 4.0 technologies. Integrating and boosting people’s talent, via the re-integration of production cycles by diverse and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. social enterprises (mutualised agricultural grounds for In the pursue of this objectives, Navarra has settled a list experimentation and integration of workers; transformation of principles that place social cohesion, co-operation and of garden products and distributing them via a platform), and social economy high on the agenda, and places its activities the distribution and settling of ‘territorial catering services’; in fields where social enterprises are key actors nowadays: including post-production and anti-waste initiatives. creative industries, comprehensive tourism, environmental Energetic Transition: that is local authorities, investing bodies management, food tech (with regards to the circular economy). and energy distributors working to create locally based energy sources (solar panel, micro hydraulic central, woodtech). Cont. on p. 13 SHARED views EU Strategy13
Additional information Rural clusters are not only developing economic activities, but assert themselves as key actors for delivering services for enterprises’ workers in the territories and re-creating social links. They, therefore, contribute to counter-balancing the depopulation dynamics and migration to the cities by providing satisfactory living conditions for local workers.
In the case of Figeacteurs, at the disposition of their members, they offer: caretaker services, nursery, provisioning of mobility services (six electric car rental enterprises), accompaniment of local youth and project holders into the professional local ecosystem, events (‘apéro entreprises et territoires’ to connect enterprises and their territory)…etc.
http://www.figeacteurs.fr/
There are other examples in a variety of sectors, incuding: - Pole Laine de Saugues: http://www.lelabo-ess.org/IMG/pdf/fiche_ descritpive_pole_laine_de_saugues.pdf - La Coursive Boutaric (Dijon): http://www.la-coursive.fr/ (specialising in the cultural and creative industry). - Domb’Innov: https://www.dombinnov.fr/
Mediterranean: CITEK Action Plan for the integration of tSocEco into S3 There is not yet a pilot for the CITEK plan, however some of the participants of the research wish to engage in the development of Smart Specialisation plans and they say they have the structure to support it:
http://www.oxalis-scop.fr/ http://www.cnaemiliaromagna.it/chi-siamo.php
Incorporating Social Innovation into What can the EU do in favour of Smart broader Smart Specialisation topics Specialisation in Social Economy?
A couple of regions referenced on the ECCP (European Recall the development of social innovation approach into Cluster Collaboration Platform) incorporate social innovation the ECCP work, especially since they respond to regional and social economy principles on certain themes of actions development priorities on many subjects. for Smart Specialisation: Healthcare (especially on ‘Silver Encouraging trade and social and economic co-operation economy’ and all themes related to the care for elderly to create poles of innovative research and activity in order to people), Food Tech, but also creative industries are especially respond to social needs (a study has been launched on the well represented. topic and will be presented during a conference next July) Future Position X – Sweden: Specialised on Geo Health European Social Economy Regions 2018: This will see the (an area of study of the intersections between health, human launch of a pilot of regional conferences on Social Economy well-being and environment.) The aim is to link actors to in territories, with specific themes related to territorial create smart cities and better environmental conditions for issues and opportunities, with the will to better connect all, linking science, public health and social innovation. actors on the field and create synergies to boost innovation Transylvania Lifestyle – Romania: High tech culture on the local level; (closing date for applications was 28th and entertainment, creative industries at the service of February). This can trigger opportunities for building social cohesion and better living; developing research clusters of Social Economy. and innovation, for the valorisation of traditional creative industries and their use in sustainable entrepreneurship and Sources: Réseau DIESIS, Le Labo de l’ESS, CITEK, ECCP, use in new sectors of growth. Smart Spé communications…etc. SHARED views Talking Point14 SHARED views Talking Point 15
The future of the events industry Bringing about lasting change Assuming we incorporate all name but one example, where the Simon Naudi, CEO of Answers Training International outlines his thoughts on Business leaders, strategists and of these new challenges into our management team did nothing business strategy – will that be the future of the events industry. consultants are full of advice and ‘wrong’ and yet clearly failed to see suggestions. Current thinking is we enough or is that just a 21st century the changes happening all around need to increase and also balance sticking plaster to apply over the them, that would consign them Conferences, Exhibitions and Event organiser, a conference producer cracks? Is it time to change our our portfolios across industries and to the history books. Do we look Venues have all changed over the or indeed a speaker at such business model? Indeed do we know regions. Sustainability, recyclability around us and misjudge potential last few decades. From The Great events. Ask any speaker how what that should look like? and re-purposing are escalating and drivers that potentially could Exhibition in 1851 business has their audience has changed in One can look outside our industry positioned at the top of the agenda. undermine our industry or do we changed, together with technology the last decade and they will tell for inspiration and ideas. When all see changes as inevitable and focus and the platforms we use today you they often look down not on Hybrid events are increasingly is said and done, depending on your to trade. It’s interesting to look a sea of nods, smiles and raised popular. Trust is now much more view we are a product or service on keeping our heads above the back over the last 170 years and eyebrows but on the ghostly important for research but also provider; so how do other product water line? reminisce of how things were, glow of delegates and attendees for data storage/usage and its and service providers cope with One thing is sure – the future is where we are now and where we lit by their mobile phones and implications for the professional the challenges? exciting but we need to keep our are likely to be heading. You don’t laptops. Public speakers used trust of individuals, brand integrity Most of us are familiar with eyes as open as our responsiveness have to be a ‘futurist’ or a psychic to to judge their audiences by nods as well as organisations. the cautionary tales of Kodak to and willingness to change. predict what the next decade or two and smiles and now will hold for us. One simply has to their approval is marked by look at our customers and visitors how few are electronically to see that their buying habits have engaged elsewhere. changed. Their options for and ways In order to survive we have of doing business, their attention seen cloning, geo cloning spans and their appetite for instant and franchising. Content is invariably have become gratification are all increasing or developed to within an inch of invariably have become congresses and conventions. decreasing in differing degrees. what’s possible. Trade events congresses and conventions. The question remains, once More importantly their expectations and consumer events are closer The question remains, once we have geo-cloned ourselves are developing at such a rate it is than ever and in some cases we have geo-cloned ourselves out of existence, overflowing sometimes a challenge to respond hybrids. Venues are expanding, out of existence, overflowing with content and the currently in a timely manner. refurbishing and multiplying like with content and the currently emerging markets have emerged This impact will affect us all – topsy. Exhibitions have migrated emerging markets have emerged and matured, then what? whether we are a venue, and event to ‘events’ and conferences and matured, then what? creative event outdoor recreation labs center SHARED views Book Preview 17 Painting the big picture There’s a new book for the MICE industry doing the rounds. We asked its author c r e a t i v e h u b Rob Davidson why we should be turning its pages. Other books authored by Rob Davidson:
Marketing Destinations co- and Venues for concept working recording Conferences, studio Conventions and store coffee Business Events
Winning www.missia23.com Meetings and Events for Your Venue
Business Travel
“In many ways, this book and the important “It is ideal for people “It was fun and is the first createch hub in Bulgaria, led by Ligna Group. is my gift to the industry SMERF segment of the seeking new ideas and fascinating to research and that I have devoted my market (social, military, a fresh overview of this write Business Events, and It offers opportunities for development and training of creative professionals from life to for 20 years,” says educational, religious and industry - the ‘big picture’ I hope that those preparing professor Rob Davidson, fraternal events). of all the opportunities for a career in our industry, as well as those already MD of MICE Knowledge Each chapter takes for planning successful different disciplines such as design, photography, cinema, media production, employed in it, will enjoy and professor of MICE an in-depth look at the business events that management at four achieve their objectives in reading it as much as I defining characteristics technology, marketing and PR among others. The main goal of the creative space European universities. a sustainable, ethical way, enjoyed writing it,” “It is based on my own of each sector, offering while making full use of says Davidson. expert advice on how such is to connect the Bulgarian creative sector with the rest of the industries and to knowledge as well as the latest developments in guidance from respected events should be planned information technology,” professionals who are in order to ensure their he explains. provide international exposure of Bulgarian talents. The Bulgarian participation in active in each of the success. They are followed The book, Davidson’s sectors covered. In fact by others that look at fourth, is aimed at managers Eurovision 2020 is the first international project of MISSIA23, which brings together it could not have been destination marketing in all sectors of the MICE written without their (the role of convention industry, as well as for professionals from the TV, music and communication industries in Bulgaria and valuable advice and bureaus), sustainability, university students taking support.” technology, ethics, courses in this subject Europe. The Bulgarian artist VICTORIA is signed by Ligna Studios, part of Ligna Group, Davidson’s book, Business education and training or considering the MICE Events, was launched at for business events. The industry as a career option. Case studies centre IBTM World in Barcelona book contains detailed and will represent the country in front of 200 million people from all over the world and brings together a around companies case-studies from all complete analysis of including Siemens, watching the show live from Rotterdam on 12, 14 and 16 May 2020. the principal sectors of over the world, offering Sage, Goodyear, Investec, our industry: corporate examples of best practice associations including the meetings, incentive travel, and valuable insight from G20 and UFI, and spans to association conferences, experienced managers countries including Serbia, political events, awards working in each type of Croatia, Canada, Germany ceremonies, exhibitions business event. and the UK. SOFIA AT A GLANCE TOURISM
Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its history dates Sofia is no longer a business destination only. Due to the systematic effort back several millennia. Today, Sofia is Bulgaria’s capital, the and investments in the city’s urban environment and cultural sites, Sofia financial, educational, cultural and business centre and the is becoming an increasingly attractive tourist destination. The key to this biggest city-economy in the country. success is the unveiling of the cultural and historical heritage in recent years, as well as Sofia’s key strategic location and good connectivity. Sofia’s economy is growing at a rapid pace: the city provides the highest standard of living in the country. For the past 10 years, Sofia has been one of the European cities with the highest GDP per capita growth. Sofia accounts for 40% of the nation’s GDP and 1/3 of the country’s export. Sofia was among the TOP 5 European Since 2010, the number of nights spent in cities with the highest growth of foreign Sofia increased by 122% and the number of tourists – by 110%. Annually, around tourists for the period 2009 – 2017, with The city has a mature IT ecosystem, producing 16% of the 60% of Sofia’s visitors come from abroad, an average growth of 9% per year. and around 2/3 of the number of nights city’s exports. Many of the IT companies in the city develop are spent by foreigners. products and R&D activities. Sofia has a growing automotive • Sofia welcomed 1 384 963 tourists and became second in Europe with a sector and is working on the development of new industrial 15.2% growth of international visitors in 2018. zones. The city has one of the most vibrant start-up • Since 2015, the number of passengers serviced at Sofia Airport doubled, ecosystems in CEE. Sofia is also on the global map when it reaching the record-high 7.1 million passengers in 2019. comes to creative industries such as film, CGI visualization • There is a renewed interest form hotel investors: the number of 5-star and game development. rooms will double by 2021. The investments are expected to gradually shift to the 3- and 4-star segment. INVESTMENTS • The congress and MICE tourism in Sofia are developing and offering more and more high-tech, diverse, outside-the-box events. This growth is In recent years, Sofia has developed as an extremely expected to further increase in the coming years. attractive place to invest. The work that is being done in • Due to the growth of the IT, innovation and startup ecosystems, Sofia Golden Sands Resort, Complex Kamchia, Sofia brought the city to leading positions in both national hosts large international conferences and festivals and attracts business 9007 Varna, Bulgaria 9135 Varna, Bulgaria and international rankings in terms of employment, tourists from all around the world. Tel: +359 52 356 108 Tel: +359 88 247 4707 infrastructure security, quality of life, good education, [email protected] [email protected] successful business endeavours and tourist growth. SMART CITIES AND DIGITALISATION Investors are attracted by Sofia’s location, good connectivity, Sofia is focused on implementing innovative solutions in the city Bulgarian Sun Hotels & Resorts SHC Kamchia but most of all, by the qualified and highly-educated governance and urban development. population. Sofia acts as a magnet for talent. Twenty-three of In 2019, Sofia Municipality, represented by Sofia Investment Bulgaria’s 51 universities are located in Sofia, with close to Agency, completed the Digital Transformation Strategy for the City verlooking t e lack ea embe e in t e tran uillity o Complex "Kamchia" a uni ue international center or e ucation 100 000 students. of Sofia (DTSS) – a document created under the Digital Cities t e lus natural park hotels Apollo Golden Sands 4*+ an culture recreation sports ealt business an congress tourism Challenge project by the European Commission and with the By the end of 2018, Sofia attracted half of the cumulative Helios Spa 4* remain loyal to t e spirit o ulgarian participation of over 100 local stakeholders. The mission of the wit over 1 years o e perience an tra itions T e comple is foreign investments in Bulgaria, totalling EUR 13 billion, or ospitality Apollo Golden Sands 4*+ wit 19 rooms an locate 25 km sout o arna close to t e uni ue nature reserve Strategy is to enhance the local tech ecosystem by turning the city EUR 9 800 per resident, three times the average for the into a market for the digital products created in Sofia. Helios Spa 4* wit 2 4 rooms are part o t e bran amc ia an e tensive clean beac es on t e ulgarian seasi e country. A big share of the investment is directed to high “Bulgarian Sun Hotel and Resorts” T e otels are ome o in peace an uiet o ancient orest it in t e comple are Hotel value-added sectors. Sofia aims to encourage projects in the One of the first successful steps in implementing the DTSS was the Aphrodite Beauty Spa & Health Clinic one o t e largest in "Longoz" , Village "Pirin", children's camp "Raduga" and "Black", field of R&D, biotech, creative industries, high value-added establishment of a new Department and a new Deputy Mayor ulgaria spa an wellness centres wit 35 lu uriously Sports Complex "Kamchia", Medical Center "Zdravec", training - manufacturing and technologies for sustainable city position in Sofia Municipality, responsible for digitalisation, innovation and economic development. esigne in ivi ual treatment rooms educational center "Yuri Gagarin" which houses Private development, tourism. secondary school "Yuri Gagarin" an aerospace center wit a The new Department was established in 2020 to support Sofia’s planetarium uni ue or ulgaria amp it eater wit 2 seats development as a modern, smart, digital, innovative, and technologically advanced city, a preferred destination for business The future of Sofia is to develop as a modern, inno- and life. vative, digital, green and smart city; an attractive The new Department will consolidate and guide all of the city’s and preferred place to start and grow a business digital and smart city projects and will continue to support by local and foreign companies. high-tech and R&D investors in Sofia. It will focus on increasing the number and quality of municipal e-services, open data and smart city projects implementation.
Sofia Investment Agency (Invest Sofia) is the investment promotion and business development agency of Sofia Municipality. We support Sofia in creating, attracting, retaining and inspiring local and international businesses and talented professionals that will help turn the city into a centre of innovation for high value-added industries. SHARED views Snapshots from our Events 20 SHARED views Regional Profiles 21 Going digital to make a return to the top After half a decade of decline, Istanbul is swinging for a Top 10 spot with the help of a new marketing campaign and a targeted TripAdvisor campaign.
Congress tourism began to modernism with the traditional, trust travel platforms such as increase in 2019 in Istanbul and Istanbul welcomed more than TripAdvisor and social media MICE activity in the city will 13 million international guests comments and tips more continue to increase rather than in 2019, hosting the highest than traditional destination slowing down. ICVB says it will number of international visitors advertisement. This explains take its place in the top 10 once in five years. why ICVB took over the more in the coming years. Digital transformation official Istanbul destination pages’ content and account Buoyed buy a new marketing As the world’s largest travel campaign ‘More Than A management, and now plans platform, TripAdvisor influences to create regional/themed Destination… The Business. the decision-making process of guides to restaurants, venues The History. The Journey’, more travelers than any other and hotels in the city. Istanbul attended IBTM World resource. The ICVB has just Istanbul’s brands, products, 2019 with its own destination signed a partnership to manage and events will be promoted stand for the first time. Istanbul Istanbul’s official promotion in the very best way on Convention and Visitors Bureau pages on TripAdvisor for one social media-integrated (ICVB) now plans to attend all year. The pages will be managed pages, and the city also international tourism and MICE by One Istanbul, the city’s official plans to announce its digital trade shows with Istanbul’s digital brand and destination transformation all over the very own destination stand. marketing programme. world with TripAdvisor A metropolis blending Ninety-two per cent of tourists targeted ads.
Capturing imaginations on the Caspian Iconic venues and a tradition of hospitality combine to create an ideal destination for events.
An Eastern country with a architectural masterpieces. and is widely considered to UNESCO as a part of humanity’s Western outlook, Azerbaijan Two world-class venues stand be among the world’s most cultural heritage. has an exceptional combination out, both for their futuristic memorable buildings. Both Other global hospitality brands of antiquity and novelty with designs as well as their ability unique structures are ideal include the grand ballrooms of many sites of interest. The to accommodate sophisticated congress venues and their Fairmont Baku, Four Seasons capital, Baku, is fed by more large-scale international adjacent locations allow them Hotel, JW Marriott Absheron than 70 flights across Europe, congress events. to join forces when needed, to Baku, Hilton Baku – all located Asia, the Middle East and The Baku Convention Centre host larger guest groups from in Baku city centre with the United States. The city and its impressive open-plan all over the world. exceptional connectivity. offers world-class conference space offers unobstructed Other important venues Azerbaijan is a country of facilities, luxury hotels, state- views across the city’s greatest include Gulustan Palace, built great ambition, diverse culture of-the-art venues and authentic architectural masterpiece: for a high-profile visit by then and world-class infrastructure. cultural experiences. the Heydar Aliyev Centre. Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, Its rich cultural heritage and Baku also has a wide selection Designed by world-famous and the International Mugham welcoming spirit and modern of conference facilities, some architect Zaha Hadid, the Centre, the home of Azerbaijan’s city life will be sure to leave a of which are iconic and centre is the crown jewel of national mugham music, lasting impression on attendees remarkable 21st-century Baku’s architectural treasures which has been recognised by at any congress guest. Subscribe must-have for free online: SHARED views Regional Profiles 23 www.exhibitionworld.co.uk Where culture means business Publications www.c-mw.net Greece’s second largest city is bringing its part to the fore in search of new event planners.
Thessaloniki is Greece’s second now visible in the city as MICE Thessaloniki features three conferences in 2018, from 111th largest city, with a continuous tourism creates jobs, stimulates main venues, with interesting in 2013. history of 2.300 years and economic development and options for the meeting Our initial goal from the very for any a strategic location at the provides those goods and planners and charming beginning was to promote a crossroads of East and West, services that help make our city venues and surroundings partnership approach with for event attendees. The key stakeholders, to unite providing an easy access to the an attractive and welcoming Thessaloniki Convention and venues, hotels, universities Balkans, the Middle East and destination. Cultural Center, the ‘Ioannis and suppliers and to ensure south eastern Europe. It’s obvious that city is international It pitches itself as the perfect Vellidis’ Congress Center that events are ably planned changing and the real estate destination for the meeting and the historical Olympion and delivered, running business presents fertile industry to connect with Theater, home to the smoothly whilst maximizing ground for major investment Thessaloniki Film Festival, opportunities. Nowadays, with culture: planners can selected opportunities. Boutique hotels constitute a cultural triangle a proven track record of hosting from a range of historic, high- event are springing up all over the for the city, with meeting world-class conferences and quality venues, while attendees city center and small hotels and facilities in privileged events, Thessaloniki delivers and delegates can enjoy a locations. Whether it is a an exceptional delegate walk to the waterfront or a studios in abandoned buildings revitalize the neighborhoods. complex of buildings along experience. glimpse the main attractions An added competing edge is Significant developments in the waterfront or a charming and capture the easy going historical building at the the fact that one of the largest professional the city’s infrastructure such as atmosphere and charm of heart of the city, each shows organizers of exhibitions, the expansion of Thessaloniki the city. great promise for an event’s congresses and cultural events Even in a challenging Airport with a new terminal and success. in Southeastern Europe has economic climate, MICE the construction of the metro According to ICCA the city its headquarters in the center tourism in Thessaloniki is will transform Thessaloniki has significantly improved of the city thus combining developing into a bright spot. into a modern hub for the south its position, ranked 53rd at business inside its premises The results of this growth are eastern Balkans. a European level with 29 and leisure right outside. SHARED views Regional Profiles 25 Partnership approach in destination development Igor Kovacevic, CEO OF Serbia Convention Bureau (part of NTOS) and Deputy Chair CEC, ICCA on adopting partnerships for effective destination promotion.
Any destination is able to intelligence, as well as with Convention Bureau (as part of attract international meetings financial resources that enable it NTO Serbia) had over 900 clients and events clients. What to go after key segments. on site-inspections and FAM makes a difference between This relation is of supreme trips. This could not be done successful and not-so-successful importance. Without such without strategic and operational destinations is that destination’s cooperation and support, support from key hotels, DMCs development approach. The destinations will never achieve and PCOs. All of us provided moment key stakeholders quality development. Convention human resources, budgets and understand that the first and bureaus and meetings know-how in order to attain those foremost thing we sell is the stakeholders work together to synergetic effects that could not destination and the experiences make partnerships with academic be reached through individual that destination offers, the sectors, since without professors, activities. marketing game becomes easier. doctors and researchers, the Convention bureaus should be international association market Partnership in practice seen as a leader in destination cannot be tackled. development. But as an umbrella It is very important in all In the last four years, the organisation, their key task is to partnerships to set the criteria Serbia Convention Bureau include private-public-academic and standards for working (as part of NTO Serbia) partnerships in the process of together. The meetings industry, had over 900 clients on proactive destination sales and led by convention bureaus, should site-inspections and FAM development. This means that have clear standards that will trips. This could not be the national or local government help provide a higher quality of done without strategic and cannot do anything without services and service providers. operational support from the strategic and operational At the same time, each partner key hotels, DMCs and PCOs. support of private stakeholders working on that destination’s Each party provided human such as hotels, DMCs and PCOs. development should have equal resources, budgets and Private stakeholders need to rights and obligations. know-how in order to attain approve convention bureau Allow me to give you an synergetic effects that could direction as well as support it example of this in practice. In not be reached through with information and market the last four years, the Serbia individual activities.
Drawing crowds with natural diversity Interest in Sochi is growing steadily in both Russian and international markets, its landscape for major events enriched by hosting the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Business tourism is one of the planning and hosting of events. convention and meeting venues Its city-wide park features key priorities on the agenda for Sochi CVB president Sergei and a well-developed transport a diversity of plants, and Sochi, one of Russia’s leading Shuklin says the bureau is system, Sochi now has hotels exemplifies the rich climatic destinations for business constantly working on the operated by world-renowned diversity – alpine snows just meetings and events. The city is principal challenge of attracting brands, restaurants with exquisite a short distance from seaside an all-season destination for the major international events. “In cuisine and even seasonal subtropics, all situated on the order to improve the situation events industry in Russia, and a charter flights to international Black Sea coast in the foothills of further, we need to consolidate all worthy place for business events destinations. the Western Caucasus. of any scope. players in the market of business Sochi’s modern infrastructure tourism in Sochi, compile a sits in harmony with varied comprehensive proposal, and natural attractions, a combination establish a so-called one-stop- that is proving to be a great asset shop for customers who would in staging remarkable events. like to stage their events in And the Sochi Convention & our city, including access to Visitors Bureau is the interface for information on venues and sites, market players and stakeholders estimated costs and prices. interested in the development “Sochi Convention & Visitor of events. Its goal is to attract Bureau will become a source for major business conventions this information. Our city has and assemblies of Russian and all opportunities and very good international associations, prospects for becoming the main corporate events and conferences, domestic and inbound business incentive programmes and tourism destination in Russia in travel. The bureau takes the the near future”, said Shuklin. city’s natural advantages and In addition to having the promotes it creatively; in the spirit necessary infrastructure for of genuine southern hospitality staging conventions, events, combined with advanced know- exhibitions at international how of business meetings and the standards, such as a choice of SHARED views Regional Profiles 27 From the slopes to the plenary hall Bulgarian mountain resort destination Borovets is gearing up for business events, trading its lift pass in for a delegate badge.
The first mountain resort on the The emblematic and recently travelled guests also requires the presenting opportunities that will Balkan peninsula dates back to the renovated ski-in/ski-out Hotel best in business. Michelin-star last long in the memory. end of the 19th century, when the Rila welcomes a high volume chefs, such as Hotel Rila’s head summer residence of the Bulgarian of international MICE travelers chef Veselin Kalev, are onboard monarch at the time –Kniaz alongside its leisure guests 365 to transform the destination into Ferdinand and several hunting days a year, the crowd taking an up-and-coming gastronomic lodges were built there in 1896. advantage of a modern conference hotspot. Using seasonal local Little did he know that a century center for up to 1300 delegates, products, traditional recipes and and a quarter later this resort 450 elegant rooms and five modern culinary techniques, chef for the Bulgarian elite would dining outlets. The largest hotel Kalev is now truly changing the be preparing itself to receive conference center in the area offers taste of the resort. the crème de la crème from nine multifunction meeting rooms, This repurposing of the suited for large-scale international international industry destination has also led to an meetings and incentives, as well as and academia. increase in occupancy in the intimate social events. An attractive winter sports The decision to move away period formerly known as low centre with ski slopes, lifts from seasonal business has had season. Borovets now enables and emblematic alpine-style a positive impact on local talent the type of adventures that meet hotels, based on the French development, ensuring full-time the demand of the experience- Les Arcs model, in recent years employment, a dynamic working seeking traveler. From winter Borovets has benefited from environment and outstanding sports to mountain biking in substantial investment in large opportunities for career summer, from rock climbing scale meetings and conference progression. challenges to international yoga facilities, transforming the Developing the destination to festivals, from Scouts’ camps to mountain resort into an all- the tastes of the MICE industry’s social responsibility workshops, seasons active destination. naturally demanding and well- Borovets prides itself on SOFIASOFIA HOTELHOTEL BALKANBALKAN
ANAN ICONICICONIC LANDMARK LANDMARK OF OF SOFIA SOFIA SHARED views Talking Point 29
InIn the the heart heart of of the the Bulgarian Bulgarian capital, capital, within within a awalking walking distance distance from from its its business business and and commercial commercial Landing the Big Shows districtsdistricts andand the the Government Government Offices, Offices, Sofia Sofia Hotel Hotel Balkan, Balkan, a aLuxury Luxury Collection Collection Hotel, Hotel, is isrecog recog- - nizednized as as the the city’s city’s grand grand hotel. hotel. It Itfeatures features 185 185 beautifully beautifully appointed, appointed, soundproofed soundproofed guest guest rooms, rooms, Cities and national destination bureaus are missing a trick. Antony Reeve-Crook, director of WhereMarketsMeet luxuriousluxurious brand brand new new rooms rooms and and magnificent magnificent suites suites withwith stunning stunning views views over over the the city. city. Sofia Sofia Hotel Hotel looks at how to really win the attention of global organisers. BalkanBalkan offers offers its its guests,guests, bothboth businessbusiness and and leisure, leisure, an an exceptional exceptional experience experience of ofBulgaria’s Bulgaria’s finest finest cultureculture and and service. service. Its Its several several stunning stunning venues, venues, luxurious luxurious ballrooms, ballrooms, conference conference halls halls are are perfect perfect often derived from the tourism forfor your your most most important important meetings meetings and and special special events, events, from from small small gatherings gatherings to toconferences conferences with with ministry, and the marketing “Conferences and 15001500 guests. guests. naturally aligns with this. But those that do adopt the conventions bring people in, fill hotels and make retailers TheThe fully fully renovated renovated ostentatious ostentatious Restaurant Restaurant “Labels” “Labels” offers offers the the best best ingredients ingredients for for an anexception exception- - industrial approach are reaping the rewards. Thailand, which happy. Exhibitions typically alal diningdining experience, experience, a a fine fine mixturemixture between between Continental Continental cuisine cuisine and and the the renowned renowned Bulgarian Bulgarian actively promotes and supports take place every year. And traditiontradition in in hospitality hospitality and and smart smart service. service. The The new new Lobby Lobby Bar Bar “Basilica” “Basilica” with with its itsart art deco deco elements elements growth in 12 industries aligned as they grow, the number of isis an an elegant elegant and and tempting tempting venue venue where where you you can can relish relish your your morning morning coffee, coffee, midday midday lunch, lunch, after after with its economic growth, is exhibitors, personnel and workwork drink drink or or have have your your business business meetings. meetings. targeting organisers according to international visitors grow. the event portfolios they manage. Exhibitions provide greater SofiaSofia HotelHotel BalkanBalkan is is partpart ofof MarriottMarriott International International and and it itbelongs belongs to toThe The Luxury Luxury Collection Collection brand, brand, And the approach is paying value.” off, Thailand witnessed 14 a curated ensemble of the world’s most iconic hotels. As such it participates in the Marriott Loyal- a curated ensemble of the world’s most iconic hotels. As such it participates in the Marriott Loyal- international launches last year tyty Program Program with with which which every every guest guest or or event event organizer, organizer, if aif amember, member, can can earn earn and and redeem redeem points, points, a record high for the Thailand Michael Duck enjoyenjoy elevated elevated Elite Elite benefits benefits andand consistent consistent Elite Elite status status recognition recognition across across all allMarriott Marriott brands. brands. Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), made all the FeelFeel the the authentic authentic spirit spirit of of Bulgaria Bulgaria and and create create beautiful beautiful memories memories in inthis this emblematic emblematic hotel. hotel. more interesting by the fact these events are in industries The fact of the matter is that not traditionally associated with for any conversation to begin, the industrial and commercial 5 Sveta Nedelya Square, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria Thailand, such as aviation and 5 Sveta Nedelya Square, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria logistics, digital, biotech and opportunity in that city must T +359 2 937 8008 E [email protected] T +359 2 937 8008 E [email protected] medical tourism. first be realised. The needs of an www.sofiabalkan.comwww.sofiabalkan.com It also helps to attract regional exhibition organiser’s customers business from neighbours that are can only be met by a city that fits less likely to attend for purposes the correct profile. of tourism alone. Exhibitors The question organisers ask from the surrounding region, the themselves as a business is no Association of South East Asian different to any other: ‘What do Nations (ASEAN) rose 61 per cent our customers really want?’. in 2019, with visitors from the Adopting a more sophisticated While exhibition organisers may Create an industrial case region increasing by 92 per cent approach and giving the organiser sit within the MICE family, in for your city – demonstrative of a previously what they need could ensure this truth they are a very different Providing verifiable government neglected desire to trade. growth occurs in your city. beast. They see destinations not data on trends, growth and as postcards, but as directories; or market opportunity would negate ticker tape full of insight into the the need for this costly practice, markets these cities contain. and in doing so allow a city to The decision of where to stage entice organisers that may be a trade show or convention is not considering – or not considering one an organiser takes lightly. – their city or venue as a potential Choose wisely and they may destination for their exhibition. create a successful event that Sound logical? Then you may grows in size and stature year- be surprised to hear it is rarely on-year, bringing thousands of the case. professionals and millions of Some time ago I spoke to the dollars of investment to a city, Executive VP of leading organiser cementing it as a hub for the UBM Asia (now Informa Markets, industries it attracts. Choose Asia), Michael Duck. He told me poorly and they may have to destinations fall short of the mark fold, or start the process over when it comes to presenting his elsewhere at great expense. company with the local market intelligence it requires to consider About 1000 locations on the territory of Available with a cable for any So it follows that organisers invest a lot of time and money launching or acquiring a show. Burgas and Varna smartphone type when it comes to selecting “Presently no destination a destination. Some employ presents specific information. Usually we employ a third-party the talents of a third party to research team to delve into the conduct this research, others go national or regional market through the rigmarole of setting to indicate possibilities and up an exploratory team in a competition” he said. “Those such Easy, fast and convenient rental Return the power bank to the location of temporary office to do the due as Hong Kong, which has good diligence in-house. your choice information, are few and However, in either of these far between.” cases, the prospect of completing That was three years ago. this task for every shortlisted And things are slow to change. destination is often financially Reasons include the fact funds prohibitive and impractical. to attract business events are SMARTBOX AVAILABLE SOON ON SHARED views Technology Watch 31 Partnering over Digital Burgas is exploring collaboration through digitalisation.
The Southeast Digital Innovation Hub, or DigIhub, is a joint initiative of organisations from the public, private, non- governmental and the educational sectors, is in process of realization in Burgas. Its mission is to facilitate the effective digitalisation of the working processes, to support business representatives in the region in their introduction and implementation of digital technologies and intelligent systems, and for offering of services with higher quality. It will aid joint initiatives, contribute to the realization of joint projects for digital transformation of the business, and in doing so boost the technological and innovative potential of the region. DigIhub’s activity focus includes the following thematic areas: • Blue economy – tourism management, integration of tourist products in a regional chain of attractions • Green mobility – logistic, supporting services connected mainly with the automobile transport • Intelligent carbon neutral development – data management and implementation of technologies for a safe, healthy and sustainable living and marine environment, and resource efficiency.
The art of virtual event planning Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia on its latest development, an innovative platform allows for smart planning of your event. Looking for effort by avoiding the need for show the client what his hall will state-of-the-art audio and a top venue site inspection and by facilitating look like on the day of the event. video equipment. to host communication with the venue. Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia’s All this your next The hotel’s team has developed Millennium Milestone Convention spells out conference the application Millennium Center uses Smart 3D Event at myriad or workshop Planner downloadable free on Planner and on more than 5,000 choices for an in Sofia? The city’s alternative Apple Play and the Google Play sqm. It features 14 multifunctional unforgettable locations have been expanded, offering great opportunities for Store. Every event organizer can halls with natural daylight and event in Sofia. you to research. One refreshingly innovative event-planning platform, Smart 3D Event Planner, is the gem of Sofia’s newest hotel of excellence, Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia. The platform is complete with 2D and 3D plans, and with a virtual tour with various space design options. As an event manager you are free to create personalized diagrams for arrangement in the hall, and even rearrange furniture. The software is fully fit for personalized experience and smart enough to give a convincing visual idea of how your event will look. Needless to say, this novel platform saves a lot of time and Welcome to Bansko! SHARED views Forthcoming Events 33 Important Dates for Your Calendar Sofia Travel Fest Sofia - Lumiere Cinema - NDK S a Travel Fest From Travellers for Travellers. 07 Mart 2020 https://sofiatravelfest.bg/
Travel Academy Sofia - Sofia Tech Park 03-04 April 2020 EThe Annual Tourism https://travel-academy.org Conference Hotels Night Sofia, Plovdiv, Tarnovo, Burgas, Нощ НА Varna, Ruse, Bansko, Pamporovo, September 2020 Borovets 4**** Apart Hotel Хотелите Hotels around Bulgaria https://hotels-night.bg/ See your city through the eyes of the tourist. Your ideal place for winter vacation & summer relaxation. Career Show 2020 Sofia - Arena Armeec Your inspiration for incentive trips, events and team buildings. The leading career fair for qualified 10 September 2020 candidates. 200+ employers, 3000+ attendees, 40+ additional www.careershow.bg activities. Hotel & Tourism Sofia - National Palace of Culture (NDK) Investment Forum Hotel & Tourism Investment 7–8 October 2020 Forum (HTIF) is a unique http://htif.eu gathering of industry influencers and practitioners as well as key experts in tourism and hospitality active or interested in the Bulgarian market. Travel Expo Sofia - National Palace of Culture (NDK) 27-28 November 2020 Exhibition of Bulgarian Tourism (B2C event) https://travel-expo.bg/
Sofia Tech Park, Innovation Supersonic 2020 Forum “John Atanasoff” Break the barrier Open all-year-round! www.supersonic.bg [email protected] www.maria-antoaneta.com +359 88 89 36 966 Welcome to Burgas History Burgas is a crossroad of ancient civilizations since ancient The city of Burgas is the administrative center of the largest times. A prehistoric village existed here and it was a center of tourist region in Bulgaria as it is located on the Southern salt and copper trade and production. The ancient Thracians Black Sea coast. Burgas is one of the fastest developing selected it for their first trading spot ‘emporio’, which was also cities in Bulgaria. Its geostrategic location makes it one of used as a link between the Greek settlements on the West the country’s most important economic centers, as well Coast of the Black Sea. A few centuries later the Romans built a fortress nearby with a port as their gate to the rich lands of as a developing tourist destination. The city is a natural Thrace. The fortress was knows as Burgos, Pirgos in Greek or commercial and transport hub – an important gate to the Foros in Italian. continent. The Burgas International Airport handles more than 2.8 million passengers annually and the port is among the most favorable on the Black sea coast. Walking down Burgas city center feels like stepping Climate into the past – car-free pedestrian area with the low-rise buildings in the Neoclassical and Rococo style of another The climate is temperate time. However, the stroll between bohemian cafes is continental; influenced by the actually a walk along one of the most high-tech public Black Sea and three lakes. The spaces in Europe. The old-style streetlamps with round place offers summer days with tabletops offer ports for charging computers, mobiles, pleasant temperatures and cameras, electric bikes and wheelchairs, and also emit the afternoon breeze, long autumns, free Wi-Fi covering the area. mild winters and colorful spring times. The number of sunny days during the summer varies between 24 and 27 per month. The average summer temperature is around 26 degrees.
Geography Tourism
The Gulf of Burgas is the largest bay of the Western Black Sea More than 40 per cent of the mass tourism in Bulgaria competitions. It has 1,200 seats for spectators and additional Coast, outlined with long beach strips of fine sand, a gradually happens in the Burgas region. The natural resources of seats for disabled persons to access easily. The complex also deepening sea level, calm and clean water, light and pleasant Burgas are undoubtedly one of the reasons why the city is a offers a public area with tennis courts, a three-pitch sports breezes. In the middle of the dark blue waters of the bay the preferred place for tourism and recreation. The tourists can court, gym, a steam room and sauna as well as a recreation small volcanic island of St. Anastasia captures the eye and choose between visits to the Island of St. Anastasia, places area with outdoor activities: yoga, aerobics, climbing and makes it obvious why it is referred to as the most romantic for sport, recreation and entertainment, time for good food football, dancing and more. place in the area. and coffee, and of course – with a sea view. The futuristic sports complex Arena Burgas will open in The well-developed transport infrastructure connects the Aquae Calidae is a place that brings together the millennial the summer 2020, offering a venue with 7,000-seat capacity, history thanks to the local mineral water springs, known city with the rest of the country and continental Europe by indoor track, conditions and technical equipment for for its highly valued healing properties and temperature of highways, railways, sea and air. The distance from Burgas to organizing local, national and international competitions 41,5oC. It attracts visitors with a variety of opportunities for the capital – Sofia, is 389 km and to the second biggest city – in various types of sports, mobile stands, training blocks, relaxation and entertainment, offering time to grab a coffee Plovdiv – 272 km – all of which is connected by the Trakia conference rooms and more. Highway. Another advantage is the proximity to megapolis and learn about the habits of different cultures. Park Arena complex houses the most modern swimming The new Congress Centre of Burgas is a venue for Istanbul and its new International airport – 325 km. Through large events. The halls offer 500 and 200 seats, modern the city pass many roads from the national and international pool in Bulgaria. With a depth of two to three meters and equipment, meeting space, service and leisure space. Expo road networks. Burgas is a logistical hub fur the Pan-European a length of 50 meters, the pool meets the requirements of center Flora, the Cultural Center Sea Casino and NHK all Transport Corridor 8, which provides a link between the the International Swimming Federation and the European Adriatic and the Black Sea coasts. swimming league. It hosts swimming, water ball and offer additional opportunities for organizing events and synchronous swimming events as well as international conferences in the city. #BSBCWSummit2020