This Month we get to know better Exponor - Porto International Fair:
What was your motivation to join ICCA?
Joining ICCA will bring Exponor a wealth of opportunities for networking, professional development, and industry insights. We are aiming at gaining access to a global community of industry experts and event organizers. Hopefully this will bring us new partnerships, collaborations, and business opportunities on an international scale.
Another important motivation was the valuable educational resources, training programs, and workshops that are available.
In the end, it’s a chance to be part of a vibrant community of like-minded professionals working towards advancing the international meetings and events sector.
Tell us your story. How did Exponor - Porto International Fair get started?
We began organizing exhibitions as part of AEP (Portuguese Business Association). Since the late 80’s we have a venue and, apart from still having our own portfolio of events, we also host several exhibitions, event and congresses.
What sets Exponor - Porto International Fair apart?
We are the biggest exhibition grounds in the northwestern Iberia. We are strategically located 10 min. from the airport and 10 min. from Porto city centre. We have a variety of spaces to serve the industry, from big halls to auditoriums and several meeting rooms. Furthermore, the 2500 parking spaces are a big differentiation from the competition.
What is your favourite success story from your organisation?
The resilience showed in overcoming the pandemic and bringing the company back on track.
What can we expect to see from Exponor - Porto International Fair in the future?
We are aiming in growing our portfolio, but also hosting more events, with a particular emphasis on Congresses and Meetings, something we are still not very strong. We want to grow in the MIC of MICE.
Which trends do you see in the Association Meetings?
There could be many trends we as an industry should be aware, but I would bring up 3:
- Personalization, where we must focus on personalizing the attendee experience to cater to individual preferences and interests.
- Sustainability, implementing eco-friendly initiatives, such as reducing waste, promoting recycling, choosing sustainable venues, and incorporating environmentally friendly practices throughout the event planning process.
- Technology Integration into all aspects of the organization, that can lead to more hybrid events and meetings.
What is an industry challenge your organisation is facing currently?
We are struggling with the lack of workers in several of our suppliers which can in the end affect our performance and what we can deliver to our clients. Also, if I take the previous point, the integration of technology (and its adoption) and making our venue greener, is also very difficult. I would say that the clients and attendees want to be greener, but they do not want to make any effort towards it. We need to keep on changing mentalities on this subject.