Conference attendees are staying in the city for longer when compared to the same time last year according to the latest figures.
NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau, part of NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI), figures have revealed that so far this year, those visiting the city as part of a conference or business event are staying in the city 27.78% longer than during the same period in 2023.
This follows an upwards trend which, according to the latest STEAM data published by Destination North East England in June, has seen the number of overnight visitors to the region (including both business and leisure travelers) grow to beyond pre-pandemic levels.
This year has seen the likes of the British Society of Gerontology (BSG) Conference and the 2024 annual conference of the International Society for the Study of Narrative take place in the city.
Caroline Reed, Senior Manager – Business Events, NGI, said:
“Conferences bring hundreds of overnight visitors to Newcastle and Gateshead who spend around four times more than domestic leisure visitors, and this has a big economic impact on the city.
“We know that Newcastle and Gateshead is a destination that you need to experience in order to fully grasp its brilliance. These figures reflect what we increasingly are hearing from conference organisers, that once delegates come here, they want to stay for longer, or return as a leisure visitor.
“We work with NGI’s consumer marketing team, and other regional businesses and stakeholders to provide delegates with the tools and inspiration they need when visiting and to extend their trip. We provide itineraries, social programmes and special offers for conference attendees to tap into the trending ‘bleisure’ market and ensure delegates enjoy the unique experiences we have to offer.”
NGI continues to work with regional partners and stakeholders to maximise the region’s visitor economy and convert valuable business travelers to leisure visitors.
Sophie Richardson, Hotel Manager, Motel One, said:
“At Motel One Newcastle, we are pleased to observe the significant impact that extended and larger conferences are having on both the city and our hotel. Feedback from delegates has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their admiration for Newcastle’s vibrant culture, rich history, and warm Geordie hospitality.
“To further enhance their stay we provide guests with comprehensive city guides, tailored offers, and curated local insights, encouraging them to explore and fully experience the city’s many attractions. By extending their time in Newcastle, delegates are not only enriching their own visit, but also contributing positively to the local economy.”
Hosting a conference in Newcastle or Gateshead? Visit meetnewcastlegateshead.com to find out what support you can get.