The city was also recently named as the host for the 2012 Olympic Games. “In the run up to the 2012 Games, it is vital that we build up relationships and ensure that the C&I market is aware and takes advantage of the opportunities that the Games represent,” says
Visit London head of business tourism and convention services Tracy Halliwell.
And, once the corporate sponsors are announced in a few months time, more opportunities will become available.
“Announcements will be made shortly and, when they are, these companies will be looking to raise their own profiles and hold numerous events in London prior to the Games,” she says.
EMERGING MARKETS
While 2012 is hogging the limelight, the whole team at Visit London is keen to stress to organisers that they should not wait years to tap into the capital’s huge potential.
According to Visit London UK sales manager Zanine Adams, “The international perception of London is on a high right now and we are pushing more into the emerging markets to raise our profile.”
Last month, the NFL announced that the Miami Dolphins will play the New York Giants at London’s Wembley Stadium in October this year. It is predicted that tens of thousands of Americans will travel to the capital for the game.
Another opportunity to target international event organisers comes in the guise of the
MPI Convention, which will be hosted by Excel London in March next year.
Around 500 meeting planners and suppliers are expected to attend. According to Visit London commercial director David Hornby: “The timing could not be better for London to showcase its newest venues including Wembley Stadium, the O2 and the Power Station.”
However, he feels that too much of the capital’s potential still goes untapped. To rectify this, two new venue guides have recently been launched. The first focuses on Westminster and features everything from famous landmarks to hidden gems.
The second emphasises how the Thames can form a stunning backdrop for events, featuring venues such as Somerset House.
