Working together to bid for and secure new international association conferences in Aberdeen, P&J Live and the Aberdeen Convention Bureau have successfully secured a number of major international conference wins. These are set to bring thousands of delegates to the region in 2023, with further events planned for future years such as the International Association of Sedimentologists Conference in 2024 and the International Conference on Public Communication, Science and Technology in 2025.

All taking place at Aberdeen’s P&J Live in 2023, The International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) European Symposium, International Higher Education Teaching and Learning Association Conference (HETL), the 13th International Gut Microbiology Symposium, the European Association of Fish Pathologists (EAFP) Biennial Conference 2023, and the European Society of Clinical Pharmacy (ESCP) Conference, are among some key highlights.

Steven Daun, Head of Association Sales at ASM Global, manager and operator of P&J Live, said: “The International Association sector was severely impacted by the pandemic. I’m thrilled to now see the return of these international events to Aberdeen thanks to our academic partnership.

“For the last 18 months, we have been working collaboratively with Aberdeen Convention Bureau and the team’s Ambassador Programme to attract international events to the city, influencing the growth of Scotland’s visitor economy. The Ambassador programme is a network of local academics and professionals who volunteer their time to help bid for conferences and is a key network to ensure we are showcasing the world leading research that is carried out within the research institutions in the area, to a global audience.

“Not only do these conferences have a direct and positive economic impact on the region, but they also provide a platform where leaders share best practice, new ideas and engage in healthy debate. These events can help change local and national communities for the better and therefore helps to make Scotland a first-choice destination for quality, value and memorable experiences. We’ve got a fantastic region and state-of-the-art venue to showcase, and its superb to see that all this hard work is coming to fruition.”

Professor Pieter Van West from the University of Aberdeen and host of EAFP 2023 said: “Bringing EAFP to Aberdeen allows us to showcase our leading research to a global audience and highlight the work within the region. It will be the first time we’ve met since the pandemic in Aberdeen and the huge support from P&J Live and the Convention Bureau will allow us to host a very successful event later this year.”

Nikki Pearce, CPD and Events Services Manager at the University of Aberdeen added: "The benefits of bringing international conferences to the Northeast are considerable, not only do these events highlight the University's research and academics' expertise but also bring other specialists in the field to the area - allowing networking and engagement with local academics as well as public audiences. All of which helps to raise the profile of the University, research field and individuals involved. Add in the regional benefits of economic impact and the opportunity to promote the region as a destination for leisure, potential students, and future employees.

"Working in partnership at P&J Live and VisitAberdeenshire allows us to support our academic colleagues throughout the University and gives us the best chance to develop winning bids and host successful events in the city."

Millie Clarke, Head of Business Development, VisitAberdeenshire, said: “The Aberdeen Convention Bureau, part of VisitAberdeenshire, worked with its partners to relaunch the Aberdeen Ambassador Network in 2022. By bringing together academics, business professionals and venue leaders in one team, together, we’re able to identify and secure future business for the city. We work closely with the network of Aberdeen Ambassadors to influence decision makers and positively promote the region as a destination for conference events.

“Aberdeen Convention Bureau also acts as a facilitator to social venues and local businesses, to ensure event attendees enjoy a full delegate experience, from initial welcome to departure.”

For more information on the host venue, P&J Live, visit: www.pandjlive.com

To find out more about the Aberdeen Ambassador Network and how to get involved contact: [email protected]