It's about keeping Cork meeting

“The business tourist contributes 3 times more to the local economy than the leisure tourist and many business tourists are now beginning to extend their stay by 2-4 days, giving local tourism around the county a welcome added boost.”

Those were the words Evelyn O’Sullivan, Manager of Cork Convention Bureau ahead of its 8th annual business tourism showcase taking place today, Thursday.

Called Keep Cork Meeting, it will bring together a range of tourism service providers and event management experts to offer practical support and advice to those interested in bringing business tourism to the county.

From accommodation to dining options, sight-seeing and venue hire, those attending will have the opportunity to speak with each of the providers about their ideas and requirements.

Cork Convention Bureau and Failte Ireland will also be on hand to talk through the supports available to organisers in an effort to improve businesses levels post Covid-19 as well as the increased financial supports available for international delegates.

Ms O’Sullivan added: “Cork excels at international conferences, in sectors such as agriculture, STEM, space and maritime. We want to grow that further and also expand into other sectors. We would encourage people of all areas and disciplines to come along to talk about their idea to bring an event to Cork.

“Whether it’s for 30 people or 3000, a range of supports are on offer. Event wise, we cater for all interests, be it an international meeting of a volunteer organisation or special interest group, a sporting event, a business or educational conference. Over the years we’ve had some fascinating events,” she said.

In 2022, more than 40 business events, from symposiums to large international conferences and global summits, brought an estimated 9,000 delegates to Cork, 80% of whom were international visitors. The value was estimated to be worth €14.4 million to the local economy.

Visit Cork, the official tourism body for the Cork region with responsibility for attracting leisure (Pure Cork) and business tourists (Cork Convention Bureau), has a key focus on showcasing the region as a sustainable tourism destination.