Madrid, unique experiences that bring business meetings to life

The promotion strategy of MCB has taken into account two principal lines of action to ensure the Spanish capital stands out from its competitors, without losing its essence as a city or changing the way in which it understands the tourism market.

The hope of becoming a sustainable destination

Combining city and sustainability may seem absurd, and even more so if we are talking about tourism and event organising.

However, in order to raise awareness and help minimise the impact this industry has on Madrid, MCB has published a guide to sustainable MICE practices in addition to launching the digital platform, PLUS Legacy with US, at the end of last year. The aim of these efforts is to start working on all event aspects concerning sustainability, the environment, finances and society in the capital, the minute the event is confirmed. PLUS recommends achievable action points, such as “paperless is more” and the use of locally sourced products, putting event organisers on the right path towards reducing their carbon footprint and offsetting their impact, as well ensuring that their event is in line with the UN’s 2030 Agenda. The tool also features a catalogue of sustainable services and products within the MICE industry in Madrid.

Low-emission zones; regulations to minimise the environmental impact of major events such as the city’s Air Quality Plan; the promotion of electric transport and electric charging stations; making urban spaces pedestrian-friendly; and creating a metropolitan forest around the city are just some examples of how Madrid is becoming more humane and emerging as a potential destination for many event organisers (more than 80% according to a study by AMEX) that are concerned about sustainability.

A legacy for the future

However, this driving force for sustainability would not be complete without a further push. Behind both the mission and vision of MCB is a true commitment to the city, which goes beyond attracting business for purely economic reasons. The legacy that meetings and conferences held in the city leave behind is something MCB has been working on for years. Their aim is for these events to leave a positive, long-lasting footprint on Madrid that benefits its citizens and/or its natural environment.

Specifically, conferences and corporate events are in a position to contribute to improving the quality of life of citizens through a wide range of actions which are promoted through convention bureaus in collaboration with local stakeholders.

The destination as an experience

Every corner of the city of Madrid is steeped in history, tradition and culture, and is waiting to be discovered by visitors who seek truly different experiences. Think artisans and their unique spaces, perfect for making an event or meeting unforgettable: from the Royal Tapestry Factory, with three centuries of history and expertise, to the studios and workshops of the city’s artisans as well as centuries-old establishments, Madrid is bursting with endless options for visitors to truly feel like locals and experience the city’s characteristic, buzzing lifestyle.

When talking about unique experiences in the city, we can’t forget the latest hotels to open their doors, such as the recently inaugurated Madrid Edition or the JW Marriott which launches in a few months, just like the new Real Madrid stadium. These openings will help secure Madrid’s position as one of the most promising leaders in international meetings tourism.

A leading position that is upheld by the city’s success at the World Travel Awards in the Meetings & Conference Destination category, winning four consecutive editions of the award as well as five wins at the European edition.

Landscape of Light

One of the more recent additions to Madrid’s catalogue of unmissable experiences unique to the city is the area known as Landscape of Light, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2021. It encompasses Paseo del Prado and El Retiro Park and the area surrounding them which includes more than eighty monuments and buildings belonging to major Spanish cultural institutions, such as the Casa América, the Cibeles Palace (home to the City Council), the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Prado Museum, all of which can host events and meetings. These are unique locations, characteristic to Madrid, that bring something new to business meetings, helping them to come alive!

Contact:

Madrid Convention Bureau

Plaza Mayor, 27- 4º

Madrid (Spain)

info.mcb@esmadrid.com

esmadrid.com/mcb

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