The 59th ICCA Congress – a unique global hybrid experience – was a huge success and testament to the power of the business events industry and showcased what the future of meetings might look like as we move forward into an era that embraces technology more and more. The “hub and spoke hybrid” concept was first created in March 2020 but as a never-been-done-before event, support and collaboration was needed to bring the new and innovative ideas to life.
ICCA partnered with Maritz Global Events due to their global footprint, industry experience and signature Design Studio by Maritz Global Events – the agency that brings the strategic perspective of powerhouse consulting to the world of meetings, events and human-to-human experiences.
ICCA realised early on that we needed to completely deconstruct and redesign the traditional congress to match the new vision. Maritz Global Events was more than ready to step up and jump in with us to accomplish this on an extremely tight timeline. Their design process and “journey” led us to the multi-week, multi-channel concept filling out the hub and spoke concept into a bold, experience rich reality. Their expertise was essential in building a strong digital presence and forward thinking, creative solutions throughout the process, including bringing in speakers from outside of the industry.
In terms of technological expertise in order to deliver this event professionally across the world, DRPG was selected to manage production, and build a custom designed platform where live broadcasts were streamed, and engagement and networking opportunities were made available to participants. DRPG’s 20 years of virtual experiences and broadcast expertise guarantee the latest digital technologies, in-house broadcast equipment and state-of-the-art studios.
The ICCA Congress was broadcast live from DRPG’s UK headquarters whilst simultaneously streaming the regional hub programmes including that of the host city Kaohsiung.
DRPG’s contribution was beyond the pure production element. Their market leading innovation and capability blended seamlessly with a rigorous and robust, well-honed methodology to rehearsals, testing and all of the elements that remain unseen to the audience. This was particularly valuable as ICCA embarked on an inaugural broadcast event and a new way of communicating with its membership.
We must also recognise the dedication of this years’ host destination, Kaohsiung City Government, for their efforts to ensure the events’ success and embracing the new hybrid format. They are part of ICCA Congress history and will leave a legacy in the Kaohsiung Protocol.
ICCA would like to thank all sponsors and our host destinations for their contribution and believing in this years’ Congress format. Without these key partnerships and the industry as a whole, the event wouldn’t have been possible.
Host Destinations:
Business Events Sarawak
Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau & South Africa National Convention Bureau
Luxembourg Convention Bureau
Malaga Convention Bureau- Costa Del Sol Andalucia
Ottawa Tourism
Saudi Convention & Exhibition General Authority
Seoul Tourism Organisation & Plus Seoul
