UFI Joins Forces with EMECA to Form European Exhibition Industry Alliance
June 18, 2012
EMECA, the European Major Exhibition Centres Association, and UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, have signed an agreement to create the European Exhibition Industry Alliance.
This new alliance will bring together Europe’s leading exhibition associations in a coordinated effort to promote awareness of the vital contribution that the exhibition industry plays to economic development and job creation, according to UFI officials.
At the top of the EEIA’s action list is the promotion of the exhibition sectors’ common interests towards the framework setting authorities in the European Union.
“The exhibition industry is making a vital contribution to Europe’s growth agenda, and we need to make sure this is much more clearly understood across the EU,” said Arie Brienen, UFI President.
He added, “It makes sense that the key industry groups should work together to present a single face and single voice to ensure that we’re heard in Europe. UFI has members in 24 of the 27 EU member countries, while EMECA represents the largest and most powerful exhibition centres across the region.”
The EEIA mandate calls for the alliance to actively present a strong and clear voice on all exhibition industry related issues to the European Commission, the European Parliament and other important European stakeholders.
Dr. Piero Venturelli, EMECA president, added, "EMECA is very happy to join forces with UFI. The European trade fair sector is a key player in the international exhibition market. Our 19 EMECA members are proud to be part of this exciting new venture. With our office in Brussels, we are already in the heart of Europe. Together with UFI, we will be even stronger.”
EMECA and UFI will cooperate closely to develop the work scope of the new Brussels-based industry alliance.
The EEIA will monitor EU issues and inform members about relevant developments. The fostering of a European operational environment favorable to the exhibition industry sector is the alliance’s ultimate objective.
With a start date of July 1, it is anticipated that EEIA will be fully operational before the final quarter of 2012.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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