In early July, 175 buyers and suppliers of the meetings, incentives and conferences industry met in Madrid, Spain for the 2004 Executive Summit, a networking and educational conference, led by Global Events Partners (GEP).

“There was a lot of enthusiasm for increased business but a caution because of the new ways of doing business. The advent of procurement managers, outside communication companies and other third parties have resulted in significant changes in the way business is being conducted within our industry today,” said Chris White, Chairman and CEO of GEP.

GEP sponsors the Executive Summit each year, bringing together the owners of Destination Management Companies (DMCs) from over 50 destinations, 20 of which are US destinations, and their top clients.

Tracey Brenneman, Senior Sales Manager of GEP partner, PRA Destination Management remarks, “As the primary liaison between Global Events Partners and our firm, I returned from the recent Summit in Madrid with a new energy and excitement! The open and honest exchange of ideas, thoughts, challenges and solutions between partners is like nothing we've experienced in the past! It was absolutely fresh and invigorating to be among a cadre of true DMC professionals and meeting planners and to have everyone's focus on the same target - the development of stronger partnerships through an educational and motivational experience.”

This year 50% of the clientele originated from European countries. Those in attendance agreed that the networking opportunities were the most important aspect of the program.

“The contacts and conversations that I had have far and forever reaching effects. Post the event I have signed letters of intent with operations already and have many more discussions that I am trying diligently to pursue. The only thing the conference did not provide for was extra time to follow up with the myriad of opportunities presented,” states Gareth Heyman, Vice President, Global Sales & Operations, of US based MorSports & Events, Inc. Educational sessions provided case studies, alternative pricing models, best practice and the sharing of creative ideas.

The 2004 GEP Executive Summit was hosted by CREATUR, GEP’s partner in Spain. Afternoon activities included tours of the world famous- Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofia Museums. The Hotel Ritz Madrid, an Orient-Express Hotel, and the Westin Palace (host hotel of the Summit) hosted spectacular evening events featuring live jazz, as well as a flamenco show.

Kim Bradford, Director of Incentive Travel Sales of Orient-Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises, states, “I was highly impressed with your overall organization of the Summit, your clientele level, partner participation, and agenda throughout the weekend which was ideal for networking and getting to know the hotels and destinations. I have been to many events over my 26 years in the hotel and travel business and yours stands at the very top in quality and professionalism.”