IAPCO represents a total of 180 registered member offices of professional congress organisers (PCOs) from 45 countries, all of whom specialise in the organisation and execution of congresses, conferences and business meetings of every size and variety. As the only German partner destination, Frankfurt is now one of the major focal points for international association conventions. This strategic collaboration enhances IAPCO's robust presence in Frankfurt, building upon an existing partnership with Messe Frankfurt, the renowned trade fair, congress and event organiser.
The close cooperation with PCOs helps to support the aims of the “Frankfurt MICE 2030” initiative, a special collaboration that includes the Frankfurt Convention Bureau, DEHOGA Hessen, Messe Frankfurt Venue GmbH and the Frankfurt Hotel Alliance (FHA). The common goal of this initiative is to make Frankfurt more visible and more attractive for international event organisers.
“We see our networking collaboration with international PCOs as a massive advantage in promoting our destination. What’s more, we are equally sure that all sides will profit from this partnership. Many international industry professionals are already aware of Frankfurt’s suitability as an event location, being the host city of IMEX while also offering event planners many important locational advantages, such as Frankfurt Airport. We want to show the world that there is a liveable and loveable city behind the business hub of Frankfurt, a city that is well worth discovering,” states Jutta Heinrich, head of the Frankfurt Convention Bureau. “Together with Messe Frankfurt, which became an IAPCO venue partner in 2023, we look forward to supporting all of the association’s members with professional assistance and advice whenever they require it.”
Commenting on the new partnership, IAPCO President Sarah Markey-Hamm said, “We are excited to welcome Frankfurt Convention Bureau as a new IAPCO Destination Partner. Frankfurt's vibrant culture, cutting-edge infrastructure, welcoming business environment and commitment to sustainability make it a perfect destination for international conferences and events. This partnership will allow us to connect our members with this dynamic city and create exceptional event experiences for their clients.”
IAPCO CEO Martin Boyle, responsible for managing the association’s relationship with destinations, noting the importance of Frankfurt joining the IAPCO Community said, “We recognise the vital role that destinations play in the success of business meetings and events. Expanding our partnership framework in Frankfurt, a global hub for events, is a strategic move for IAPCO. While Messe Frankfurt's expertise in trade fairs is invaluable, we're excited to formally partner with the Frankfurt CVB, adding their deep destination understanding and support to our members' diverse needs."
The very first opportunity for IAPCO members to meet the Frankfurt Convention Bureau personally will be at the 54th IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly, to be held in Ljubljana this year from 28th February to 02nd March.
Press release IAPCO Deepens Frankfurt Commitment with New Destination Partnership
