Clare Amsel, Director of Conferences Megaron Athens International Conference Centre

23/11/2010

“Media tend to focus on very isolated incidents, which do not provide an accurate picture of how it really is”

During the last few months, Athens was severely affected by the downturn. Many people demonstrated in the streets against the harshness of political climate. BWMN asked Clare Amsel about the consequences of this crisis on the meeting industry and the activity of the Megaron.

BWMN: How did these events impact the MICE industry and the image of the destination?

The current challenging economic climate did see some demonstrations taking place in Athens but other European cities face the same challenges. Media also tend to focus on very isolated incidents, which do not provide an accurate picture of how it really is. Megaron is right in the centre of the city and our normal operation has never been affected at all.

BWMN: In terms of figures, did the Megaron manage to maintain business for 2009/2010?

Yes we did maintain business and we are looking forward to a major increase in our business for 2011, which is set to be a great year for us. Added to that, enquiries and bookings for international conferences continue to be strong for the future.

BWMN: How did the Megaron react to boost business?

I don’t think we ever stop trying to boost business! We focus on having a broad geographical spread in all of our marketing activities, which includes participation in major trade exhibitions such as IMEX and EIBTM, having a strong web presence on major industry search sites, such as Bedouk, and a focused advertising campaign.

BWMN: Can you tell us about the new assets of the Megaron as a wolrdwide leading venue for meetings?

At the beginning of the summer, we opened our very expansive landscaped gardens, which can be enjoyed on a daily basis, given that Athens has around 300 days of sunshine a year. By very expansive, I mean they can hold around 5,000 people. During daytime the gardens are open to the public and after sunset they can be used for private events.

Apart from the fact that we can of course arrange functions in the gardens, situated right at the top of them, with sweeping views across Athens, we’ve opened our new restaurant “Fuga”, whose consultant chef and resident chef both carry a two Michelin star pedigree.

www.megaron.gr