The EU CVB Network Promotes its Cities in Brussels to European Associations


Photo credits: © Guido Pijper

 

The event took place at the Gédéon Restaurant in the Museum of Art and History in Brussels, offering an opportunity for associations to connect, share ideas, and strengthen relationships with association peers and destinations from across Europe. Guests were treated to a range of European Christmas traditions and flavours, creating the perfect setting for both professional and social exchange.

 

As Susan de Bièvre, Managing Director of the Network for Advancement of Transfusion Alternatives, aptly put it: "Networking is absolutely key to success in everything and we not only see destinations, we see colleagues, and you're mixing both sides for business. So, for me, it’s time very well spent".

 

The EU CVB Network is a collaboration of eight European cities: Florence, Gothenburg, Ljubljana, Lyon, Porto, Rotterdam, Salzburg, and Valencia. The event highlighted the unique benefits of working with these cities, where associations can engage with eight destinations at once, all offering extensive experience and expertise in hosting international conferences.

 

Armelle Liénard, Society Administrator of the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis, highlighted the event's efficiency: "For two hours, we’ve been able to talk to people representing many CVBs which we don't do often. At these events, you are usually meeting just one or two destinations, so this was very efficient”. It was also an opportunity “to see how different associations work, creating and managing events, with PCOs, without PCOs, etc."

 

The key strength of the EU CVB Network lies in its unwavering belief in close collaboration, both within the network itself and with associations and partners in each destination. Member cities share common traits, such as compact city centres, centrally located meeting facilities, and a strong focus on smart tourism, sustainability, and innovation. These convention bureaux pride themselves on being door openers to their destinations, committed to ensuring seamless and successful events for associations.

 

The networking lunch also provided a platform for associations to share their experiences and challenges. Daniele D'Onofrio, Advisor and Communication Manager at the International Motor Vehicle Inspection Committee, commented: "With one shot we had the chance to talk with several destinations and find what we're looking for. At the same time, we can ask for feedback from other associations: You’ve been there. How was it? How easy was it to organise your event there?”

 

As a result of the event, many exciting opportunities for future collaboration were identified, reinforcing the EU CVB Network’s commitment to providing valuable support and creating lasting connections for associations working with these eight destinations.

 

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