The prestigious World Travel Awards 2024 ceremony held in Berlin, Germany, witnessed a significant Irish triumph. The Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD) emerged victorious, securing the coveted title of Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre for the year. This well-deserved recognition underscores Dublin’s growing reputation as a premier destination for business conferences and highlights The CCD’s exceptional facilities and commitment to exceeding expectations.
Dublin Shines on the World Stage
This award extends beyond The CCD itself, bringing international acclaim to Ireland as a whole. Other Irish businesses shared the spotlight:
Teeling Whiskey Distillery: This iconic distillery received the coveted title of Ireland’s Leading Whiskey Distillery Tour.
Luttrellstown Castle Resort: Recognized for its luxurious experience, Luttrellstown Castle Resort was named Europe’s Leading Luxury Wedding Resort.
Guinness Storehouse: A Dublin landmark, the Guinness Storehouse secured the title of Europe’s Best MICE Event Venue (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
This collective achievement reinforces Ireland’s position as a compelling destination for business tourism, offering a unique blend of historic charm, modern infrastructure, and world-class hospitality.
Industry Recognition and a Warm Acceptance Speech
The World Travel Awards announcement on March 6th, 2024, was met with great enthusiasm within The CCD. Stephen Meehan, Chief Executive at The CCD, proudly accepted the award on behalf of the entire team:
“I’m very pleased to accept this award tonight on behalf of all of my colleagues in The CCD. This award, in particular, is always special as it’s voted for by our industry professionals and consumers. Together with the team back in Dublin, I would like to thank everyone who voted for us.”
Mr. Meehan further emphasized the collaborative spirit that fuels The CCD’s success:
“Ireland remains a top business tourism destination and at The CCD, we are working on events right out to 2030. We know that success happens because of the collaboration of the entire industry, as well as the continued attractiveness of Dublin and Ireland as a great place to do business.”
A Legacy of Excellence: The CCD’s Track Record
Since opening its doors in 2010, The CCD has established itself as a leading force within the European conference venue landscape. Here’s a glimpse at their impressive trajectory:
Over 1.1 Million Guests: The CCD has welcomed a diverse range of guests from around the globe, exceeding 1.1 million visitors to date.
2,200+ Events Hosted: This remarkable number showcases The CCD’s capacity to host a wide variety of conferences and events.
Thriving 2024 Calendar: The upcoming year promises to be another busy one for The CCD, with significant events already scheduled, including the Women in Project Management Summit, the 16th European Glaucoma Society Congress, and the Internet Engineering Task Force 121.
These achievements demonstrate The CCD’s dedication to providing exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for conference organizers and attendees alike.
Facing Competition and Reaching for the Global Stage
The competition for Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre 2024 was fierce. The CCD surpassed other prestigious venues across Europe, including:
- Austria Center Vienna (Austria)
- Fira Barcelona (Spain)
- Scandinavia XPO (Sweden)
- Grimaldi Forum (Monaco)
Emerging victorious from this competitive pool further underscores The CCD’s commitment to excellence.
Now, The CCD sets its sights on an even grander prize – the prestigious title of ‘World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre 2024’ at the upcoming World Travel Awards ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does winning Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre award signify for The CCD?
This award recognizes The CCD’s outstanding facilities, exceptional service, and dedication to exceeding client expectations. It also highlights Dublin’s growing appeal as a premier conference destination.
Q: What are some factors that contribute to The CCD’s success?
The CCD’s success stems from a combination of factors, including:
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Experienced and dedicated staff
- Collaborative approach with the wider Irish tourism industry
- Strategic location within Dublin, offering easy access for international guests
Q: Is Dublin a good location for hosting international conferences?
Absolutely! Dublin offers a multitude of advantages for international conferences:
- Accessibility: Dublin is well-connected by air, with a major international airport offering convenient travel options from around the world.
- Accommodation: The city boasts a wide range of hotels, from luxurious five-star properties to budget-friendly options, catering to diverse travel needs.
- Activities: Beyond the conference venue, Dublin offers a vibrant cultural scene, historical attractions, and exciting nightlife options for attendees to explore during their downtime.
