ABPCO aim to build membership in 2015 with five key pillars

The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) is seeking to continue its strong growth using five key pillars, which were outlined at its recent AGM.

Its business plan is based on key areas which will be at the core of all its activities including membership, accreditation, content/research, external voice/profile and education.

One of the association’s main aims is to increase the number of individual members, especially those working in the association, membership and not for profit sectors.

“The growth we are experiencing as an association has been good but we are actively seeking new members in 2015, particularly in-house PCOs.” comments Nicole Leida, joint-chair of ABPCO. “They play a vital role within their individual organisations but we recognise that they may not see themselves as being a part of the meeting and events industry. We have many examples of in-house PCOs who are currently members of ABPCO and we want to see this number grow, so many more can benefit from membership of a professional organisation.

“ABPCO is also keen to uphold the levels of quality it has become known for. All membership applications are reviewed by the accreditation committee and this ensures standards are maintained. ABPCO has a solid business base already but we look forward to welcoming new members into the organisation to further strengthen our position within the industry.”

The AGM also marked the induction of ABPCO’s new board. Nicole concludes: “Our new board members bring with them a fresh approach and new ideas on how ABPCO’s goals can be achieved. We will continue to act for the benefit of our members through all of our activities as we seek to strengthen our position in the industry.”

As well as outlining success and future plans, the recent ABPCO AGM enabled members and professionals to participate in industry debate with the Right Honourable Nick de Bois MP serving as a keynote speaker urging the industry to engage more with the Government in an effort to attract new investment.

ABPCO is the UK’s leading organisation for professional conference and event organisers, industry associates and those studying for, or seeking a career in the conference and meetings industry. For more information about ABPCO visit www.abpco.org