Delegates from sixteen countries converged in Florence, Italy for the first annual Site EMEA Forum. Developed by Site members and the Site Italy Chapter, this event focused on the specific business needs, trends and perspectives for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
The 2011 event surveyed many topics relevant to the motivational events and incentive business today, with the highlight being a buyers panel moderated by Site Past President Padraic Gilligan, Vice President Ovation Global DMC. This open forum allowed conversations to come alive, especially when the topic of sourcing and managing DMC relationships was introduced. Some other concepts discussed included: while the way we do business has shifted, nothing has changed in why we exist — business still see incentives as relevant and important retention and engagement strategies; incentive programs today must absolutely be aligned to the business case of the corporate client; we must all be ready to manage a blended strategy where meetings and educational sessions are included in the incentive program; partners must be transparent about what they are offering and what they are charging; industry partners must demonstrate value around risk assessment services and plans; and relationships remain the most powerful tool to attracting and developing new business.
Delegates at the 2011 EMEA Forum opening evening at the stunning Palazzo Vecchio
Plans are in development for the 2012 installment of the Site EMEA Forum. If your destination is interested in hosting this or other Site events and activities, please contact Site’s Managing Director Allison Summers at asummers@siteglobal.com.