The Palais des congrès de Montréal presented its results for the first quarter of 2013, which was marked by a substantial increase in the organization’s sales performance compared to the same period in 2012. The Palais confirmed 105 events for the coming years, an increase of six per cent over 2012-2013. Of these, a total of 18 international and national conferences were confirmed, representing an increase of 50 per cent and a new high since 2006. These 18 major events represent an economic impact estimated at nearly $68 million, given that they will bring more than 36,000 delegates and participants to Montréal. These agreements, confirmed in partnership with Tourisme Montréal, will translate into more than 75,000 hotel room nights booked city-wide.
In terms of trade shows, eight major events have reserved more than 2 million in square feet, a 33 per cent increase in the number of events and nearly 48 per cent increase in surface area. These shows will host nearly 15,000 participants and generate nearly $16 million in economic benefits, which represents an increase of more than 10 per cent compared to 2012.
Overall, conventions and trade shows confirmed during the first quarter will generate more than $83,000,000, an increase of 101 per cent compared to the same period last year.
“These impressive results clearly show that the sales performance renewal plan is working and that development and promotional efforts make the difference,” explains Marc Tremblay, President and CEO of the Palais des congrès de Montreal. “The trade show market, which represents significant potential for years to come, has performed well and the stellar work of our teams proves that the organization has made the right decision to focus on developing this segment. The economic and intellectual benefits it has generated are also good for the entire province,” adds Mr. Tremblay.
With regard to major events held over the quarter, there were a total of 19 conferences and 14 exhibitions, which represents close to 169,000 delegates and participants. On the whole, the events held have generated more than $84 million in benefits for Montréal. Among the conventions, the The 21st International Congress on Acoustics was hosted thanks to the involvement and commitment of Dr. Michael R. Stinson, Executive Ambassador of the Palais des congrès de Montréal.
Annual number of agreements confirmed for the years to come (April 1 to June 30, 2013)
- International and national conferences: 18
- Estimated room nights: 74,498
- Estimated economic benefits: $67,566,185
Projected results from conventions hosted (April 1 to March 31, 2014)
- International and national conferences: 40
- Estimated room nights: 178,131
- Estimated economic benefits: $162,922,562
