MeetEngland, the business events brand of VisitEngland, alongside leading English convention bureaus, hosted its annual European trade mission in Geneva, Paris and Brussels on 1-4 July 2025.
The MeetEngland team were joined by representatives from London Convention Bureau, Manchester Convention Bureau, Meet Bristol & Bath, Conference Leeds and Experience Oxfordshire Venues.
Across the three days, they hosted international associations and professional congress organisers (PCO’s) who work within key growth sectors such as medical, life and social sciences, professional and business services, conservation and clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and the creative industries.
Local UK ambassadors including ambassador Simon Manley at the British Embassy Residence in Geneva, minister and deputy head of mission Andrew Dalgleish at the British Embassy Offices & Garden in Paris and ambassador Anne Sherriff at the British Embassy Residence in Brussels officially welcomed attendees at each of the networking events.
Each event offered opportunities for the PCO’s and associations to engage with attending convention bureaus, spotlighting the critical role they play in securing future events in England with each city offering tailored support alongside access to extensive sector and academic networks, and regional and national stakeholders.
Paul Black, head of business events, said: “Our European trade mission enables us to deepen engagement with this sector and support in the creation of new bid opportunities, foster new partnerships, and position cities across England as premier destinations for future congresses.”
Richard Moss, business visits and events manager at Manchester Convention Bureau added: “By engaging directly with international trade associations and PCOs, we champion collaboration, exchange bold ideas, and position our city as a vibrant hub for innovation and partnership.”
The European mission is part of an annual calendar of international activity organised by the MeetEngland team to facilitate platforms for English convention bureaus to meet and do business with international associations, meeting, incentive, and event planners from high volume and developing international markets.
