The Boards of Eventia and BACD - the British Association of Conference Destinations - are discussing the possibility of a merger which has the potential to create a powerful organisation that would benefit the entire industry.

Each Board is working on a proposition which will be put forward to members for voting shortly.

Combining the resources of these two major industry bodies would mean greater benefits for both sets of members.

Eventia and BACD already offer a range of training and support options through a variety of educational and networking events – benefits that would be greatly enhanced if offered through a single major industry group.

Each association also has strong ties to Government. Speaking with a united voice would only strengthen the impact of messages put forward, raising the profile and the voice of the industry as a whole.

Eventia grew from the merger of the ITMA and the CEA in January 2006 and its creation reflected the broadening of industry activities and responsibilities which now include multi-faceted meetings and conferences, live events, production and reward programmes as well as the more traditional corporate hospitality events, consumer events and B2B activities.

Eventia supports its wide membership and offers a variety of networking opportunities, education options, social events, good practice guidance and benchmarks.

Comments Nigel Cooper, Eventia Board member and Divisional Managing Director for the Travel & Events Division within Motivcom plc:

“This is a great opportunity for the industry. I’m looking forward to finalising our discussions and to creating a new and powerful group that will really raise our voice and profile not only to our community of events, meetings and travel professionals but also to businesses in the UK and the rest of the world.”

Currently BACD exists to help British destinations generate conference business through a range of marketing activities, information sharing, collaboration and education. With a higher proportion of UK-managed events remaining in the UK, a joining of the two groups would mean that British destinations in particular can be promoted even more positively to the wider business community.   

Comments BACD Chairman Hamish Reid:

“One of BACD’s major roles is to build business for Britain, increasing the volume and value of business being won by members. Another important aim is to act as a cohesive force and clear voice within business tourism, forging strategic alliances with like-minded organisations nationally and internationally and playing a leading role in the future development of the conference industry.

“The possibility of a merger between Eventia and BACD is a natural progression for us and offers enormous potential.”

Izania Downie, Executive Director of Eventia, adds:

“There is a real synergy in terms of what our two organisations do.  Both Eventia and BACD have dedicated memberships and committed Boards which are both forward-looking and flexible, and our individual skills also complement each other well. I am looking forward to working with BACD to create a united, trusted and influential industry association. Joining these two unique groups together presents amazing possibilities.”