Denise Tacon, General Manager, VICC,

commented on the MICE market, “The fluctuation of the economy, overall, has impacted the number of arrivals of conference delegates as it encouraged heightened interest in virtual participation options, through enhanced technology environments. While business volumes, month by month, compare differently from one year to the next, they have resulted in similar financial outcomes by the end of the year. The growth in the industry is making upward strides now and while the Vancouver Island Conference Centre has seen some growth year-overyear in domestic markets, to date it has not seen the same from the international market so far. The trends for 2013 have depicted more challenges for operators to forecast group activity based on shorter booking windows and higher reductions in attendance. Technology, including increased Wi-Fi demand and live-streaming capabilities, are becoming more of an industry norm, enhancing connectivity, while offsetting travel costs or issues with access to the island. Guests are looking for a solid quality product in return for their dollar today and convention centres must deliver this to stay competitive and sustainable. The Vancouver Island Conference Centre has recognised these elements as patterns for the forthcoming climate in meetings, incentives, conferences and the events environment by adjusting and providing for these demands.”