MONTREAL, May 14, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Montréal ranked first in North America for the number of meetings organized in 2012 by international associations, according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), finishing ahead of other major U.S. and Canadian cities, including New York, Boston, San Francisco, Washington, San Diego, Chicago, Vancouver and Toronto.
The result of a concerted effort by the Palais des congrès de Montréal and its Ambassadors, Tourisme Montréal, and their partners, Montréal's standing within the ICCA rankings speaks to the city's ability to accommodate the needs of major international associations in terms of infrastructure, welcome and attractions.
The Number One meeting place for major international meetings held in Montréal, the Palais des congrès draws thousands of business tourists each year, thus continuing to entrench its position as a global leader in the tourism industry.
"The figures to date speak volumes! Montréal is a dynamic, forward-looking city that major international associations undeniably find attractive as a host destination," indicates Marc Tremblay, President and CEO of the Palais des congrès. "The ICCA 2012 rankings are another huge win for the city! Tourism is, of course, a highly competitive sector, but Montréal, the Palais and the local industry as a whole once again showed we can deliver a unique experience for delegates that distinguishes us from the rest."
"International conventions help drive the economy and tourism, and are therefore vital to the city. Representing incredible opportunities for delegates from all over the world to share ideas, practices and innovations, these meetings are also a chance to showcase Montréal's know-how and creativity," emphasizes the Honourable Charles Lapointe, President and CEO of Tourisme Montréal. "We are so proud that Montréal is being recognized as the leading business tourism hub in North America!"
"We would like to congratulate everyone who worked together to position Montréal as the North American leader in the ICCA 2012 rankings. This proves we have everything major international associations look for in a host city and province," declared Pascal Bérubé, minister for Tourism.
For the 2012-2013 financial year, the Palais des congrès hosted a total of 11 international conventions and 20 Canadian conventions, generating in the process nearly $118 million for the city's economy.
About the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA)
ICCA represents the main specialists in organizing, transporting and accommodating international meetings and events, and comprises over 950 member companies and organisations in 88 countries worldwide. ICCA specializes in the international association meetings sector, offering unrivalled data, communication channels, and business development opportunities.
For more information, visit: www.iccaworld.com
About the Palais des congrès de Montréal
The mission of the Palais des congrès de Montréal is to attract and host conventions, exhibitions, conferences, meetings and other events. A public institution with a commercial vocation, the Palais generates major economic spinoffs for Québec and has contributed proudly for nearly 30 years to sharing knowledge and enhancing Montréal's international reputation as a first-rate destination.
For more information, visit: www.congresmtl.com.
About Tourisme Montréal
Tourisme Montréal is responsible for providing leadership in the concerted efforts of hospitality and promotion in order to position the destination on leisure and business travel markets. It is also responsible for developing Montréal's tourism product in accordance with the ever-changing conditions of the market. For more information, please visit www.tourisme-montreal.org.
For more information, visit: www.tourisme-montreal.org
SOURCE: Palais des congrès de Montréal
Source:
Chrystine Loriaux, Adm.A., B.A.A.
Director, Marketing and Communications
Société du Palais des congrès de Montréal
Phone: 514 871-3104
For information:
Jimmy Laforge
Advisor, Communications and Public Affairs
Société du Palais des congrès de Montréal
[email protected]
Phone: 514 871-5807
Alexandra Graveline
Manager - Corporate Public Relations
Tourisme Montréal
[email protected]
Phone: 514 844-3558
Share this article