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The Associations World Congress (AWC) took place in Antwerp from 12 until 14 March. A unique opportunity to market Antwerp as an attractive convention destination to international associations.
The 500 participants in the AWC included more than 250 key figures of international associations. These decision-makers choose where major business conventions are organised. Many of these associations operate in the medical industry, whereas other associations have ties with the steel, gas and dredging industry.
The participants were able to attend several inspiration sessions on relevant issues in the convention industry during this three-day convention, which took place in the Flanders Meeting & Convention Center Antwerp (FMCCA). They found out more about how to use social media during conventions, how to motivate volunteers and the importance of sustainability for the industry.
The participants were also given the opportunity to discover Antwerp as a destination. On Wednesday and Thursday, they toured several tourism highlights and visited business-related initiatives in the city, such as the Rubens House, DIVA, the Port House and the UA Business Club. Several awards were presented during the gala dinner in Horta, with the Flemish Masters (and the upcoming Antwerp Baroque 2018 city festival as a theme).
The participants were also very positive. Christopher Combemale, CEO of the Direct Marketing Association (DMA), had the following to say:
“Through the talks and films I learned much more about Flanders and Antwerp. The conference centre is especially impressive. All of our hosts from Antwerp and Flanders Tourism have been great.”
Drilona Shtjefni, who won the “Young Association Executive of the Year” award for the European Biomass Industry Association, said;
“Amazing venue, inspiring attendees: overall a great atmosphere. Definitely an event not to be missed.”
Frances van Klaveren, Regional Activities Manager of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, was also very enthusiastic:
“I had a lovely time in Antwerp. I think the convention centre was one of the best I have been to. The setting, the convenient location, the standard of the catering and the facilities were all top notch. And the zoo and general setting really added to the character. Overall I would love to go back and make sure to have some more time to explore the city.”
The event was jointly organised by VISITFLANDERS, Visit Antwerp and the FMCCA. These organisations will do everything they can in the future to approach interested associations and convince them to organise their future conventions in Antwerp.