Organised by VisitBritain, this MeetGB event was the first of its type, with the aim of promoting destinations around the UK to those looking to bring events in the future.
As the official, free venue-finding service for spaces at the University of Cambridge, its Colleges, hotels and other unique properties in and around the city, Meet Cambridge had a virtual branded stand and pre-booked one-to-one meetings with buyers from North America, Europe and the UK over two separate days.
Judith Sloane, Manager at Meet Cambridge said: “This was a first for VisitBritain and for us and such a great way to bring everyone together in these challenging times.
“It enabled us to talk to a wide range of buyers who were interested in bringing their events here in future years, including medical and pharmaceutical conferences, incentive experiences and trade missions.
“Our message – and the theme of the event – was very positive. Whilst our venues are not currently open, we can still help buyers to consider the city for future years. We made some excellent contacts and have already had positive feedback from those we spoke to, with follow-up meetings in the diary to discuss Cambridge with those we didn’t get to speak to at the event itself.”
Kerrin MacPhie, Head of Business Events from VisitBritain added: “MeetGB Virtual has been designed to educate buyers on the UK’s outstanding business events offering. The virtual experience provided event professionals with the opportunity to connect and forge relationships with UK suppliers and discover the high-calibre destinations, venues and incentive products available across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
“At MeetGB Virtual, VisitBritain was delighted to include Cambridge in our portfolio of suppliers and this magnificent city is a key example of the world-class destinations the UK has to offer. MeetGB Virtual gave event professionals the opportunity to learn about this historical and vibrant location that is ready to welcome events when the time is right.”
Cambridge was recently ranked in the top ten by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) for its successful hosting of international events during 2019.
Image: Judith Sloane, Manager at Meet Cambridge, talks to international buyers at the virtual MeetGB event organised by VisitBritain.