Barcelona is preparing to host one of the most important events in the global gaming industry. In this interview, we talk to the management of FIRA DE BARCELONA about the challenges and opportunities represented by the arrival of ICE and how Barcelona is positioning itself as a benchmark in the sector.
With more than a century of experience and an exhibition area of almost 400,000 m², Fira de Barcelona is positioned as one of the main players in the trade fair sector in Europe. The capacity to organise more than a hundred events annually, attracting millions of visitors, demonstrates its experience in the management of large-scale events. In addition, the economic contribution is significant, exceeding 4.7 billion euros per year and generating more than 35,000 jobs.
Jacqueline Mecinas (JM): How was the arrival of the proposal from ICE to hold its big event in Barcelona after its historic visit to London?
Fira de Barcelona (FB):
‘ICE's proposal was received with great enthusiasm at Fira de Barcelona. Barcelona. Barcelona has a long history of organising major international events of major international events, and the arrival of ICE consolidates our position as a leading our position as one of the leading cities in the congress and convention sector. congresses and conventions. However, it is important to note that the competition for this type of event is high worldwide. Barcelona won out thanks to a number of factors, such as our infrastructure, experience, connectivity and the ability to offer a unique experience to attendees.
JM: And has the general press shown any interest?
FB: ‘Yes, interest in the arrival of ICE has been very high, both locally and internationally. local and international level. The mainstream media have been very interested in this event, which media have echoed this event, which shows the relevance it has for the city. the city. Barcelona is known for its ability to organise large events, and ICE is no exception. events, and ICE is no exception. In addition, the gaming sector generates media interest, and the holding of this event in our city helps to position Barcelona as an important city contributes to positioning Barcelona as an attractive destination for this type of industry.
JM: Why do you think Barcelona won the competition to host ICE over other cities such as Paris?
FB: ‘Barcelona offers a unique combination of factors that make it particularly attractive for events like ICE. especially attractive for events like ICE. Our city has
first-class infrastructure, with modern and spacious exhibition centres, a wide range of hotels and spacious exhibition venues, a wide range of hotels and excellent connectivity.
In addition, Barcelona is a cosmopolitan city, with a wide range of cultural and gastronomic offerings cultural and gastronomic offer, which makes it a very attractive destination for visitors. for visitors. On the other hand, our experience in the organisation of large congresses and conventions, as well as our commitment to commitment to sustainability were key factors in our choice of Barcelona.
JM: Where would ICE rank among the most important events for Fira de Barcelona?
FB: ‘ICE is currently positioned among the top five most important events for Fira de Barcelona in terms of magnitude and relevance for Fira de Barcelona. It is a event that attracts a significant number of visitors and generates a major economic impact. visitors and generates a significant economic impact. Undoubtedly, its its growth and consolidation in our trade fair calendar are a priority.
JM: Will the authorities live up to the importance of this fair?
FB: ‘We trust that the local and national authorities will recognise the strategic importance of ICE for the city and the country. strategic importance of ICE for the city and the country. The gaming sector sector is a dynamic and growing sector, and events like ICE contribute to position contribute to positioning Barcelona as an international benchmark. However, the level of involvement of each administration will depend on its priorities and the will depend on its priorities and available resources. At Fira de Barcelona, we are working closely with all the institutions to guarantee the success of this event and to make the most of the opportunities it of the opportunities it offers’.
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