The renowned ICE gaming exhibition, currently hosted in London, is undergoing a bidding process for its future iterations starting from 2025. The decision to relocate arose due to alleged cost difficulties for attendees, following the UK’s separation from the European Union. Four cities have emerged as strong contenders to host the event: Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, and London itself. The bidding process, which aims to reflect the best interests of stakeholders and the industry, will conclude later this year, with a final decision expected in the third quarter.
Evaluating the Shortlisted Cities:
The bidding process for ICE has shortlisted Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, and London as potential host cities. Each of these cities possesses unique characteristics and advantages that make them attractive options for hosting the event. By delving into the strengths and attributes of each city, stakeholders can assess which destination best aligns with the objectives and requirements of ICE.
1.1 Barcelona:
Known for its vibrant culture, Barcelona offers a thriving gaming industry and a strategic location for international attendees. Its rich history, modern infrastructure, and accessibility make it an enticing choice.
1.2 Madrid:
As the capital of Spain, Madrid boasts a strong gaming ecosystem and a central location within Europe. The city’s exceptional hospitality facilities and established convention infrastructure position it as a competitive contender.
1.3 Paris:
With its global reputation for tourism and innovation, Paris stands as an iconic destination for hosting events. The city’s thriving gaming community, coupled with its world-class venues and cultural allure, make it a compelling choice for ICE.
1.4 London:
Despite calls for relocation, London remains in contention due to its longstanding history of hosting ICE and its prominent position within the gaming industry. The city’s diverse business environment, connectivity, and existing infrastructure may give it an edge over other contenders.
Customer-Centric Approach in the Bidding Process:
Clarion Events Group, the organizer of ICE, emphasizes a customer-centric approach in the bidding process. Stakeholders and industry participants will play a vital role in identifying their preferred strategic path. This inclusive approach ensures that the final decision aligns with the needs and interests of the gaming community.
Equimore’s Expertise in Overseeing the Selection Process:
Equimore, an experienced organization overseeing the bidding process, will lend its expertise to evaluate the potential host cities. With their knowledgeable team, Equimore will assess various factors such as infrastructure, accessibility, accommodation, local support, and the overall suitability of each city to host such a significant gaming exhibition.
Impact on the Gaming Industry:
The selection of the future host city for ICE carries implications for the gaming industry as a whole. The chosen city should not only maintain the event’s central role in creating opportunities and prosperity but also demonstrate leadership in the sector. By fostering an environment conducive to networking, business growth, and innovation, the host city can attract global gaming businesses and contribute to the industry’s advancement.
Preview of ICE London:
Looking ahead to the upcoming ICE London event, we had the opportunity to speak with Alex Pratt, Managing Director of Clarion Events Group. Pratt shares insights into what attendees can expect from this year’s show, including the latest trends, product showcases, and networking opportunities. ICE London continues to serve as a crucial platform for gaming professionals, facilitating collaborations and providing valuable industry insights.
The bidding process to determine the future host city for ICE is underway, with Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, and London vying for the opportunity. Each city possesses distinct advantages, and the ultimate decision will consider stakeholders’ interests and the gaming industry’s needs. With a customer-centric approach and Equimore’s expertise, the selection process aims to identify a city capable of hosting an event that fosters growth and prosperity for gaming businesses worldwide. As the industry eagerly awaits the outcome, ICE London promises to deliver another exceptional experience, showcasing the latest developments in the gaming sector.