AIPC members are invited to the new IMEX Place Leaders Forum (formerly the Policy Forum) taking place on Tuesday May 19 during IMEX Frankfurt.
The Forum brings together senior business event decision-makers with place leaders to explore the role of business events in shaping the destination economy.
Its expanded scope reflects a broader ambition: to unite the full spectrum of destination decision makers around integrated place leadership, an approach that has become essential for long-term success and resilience
Natasha Richards, IMEX’s Director of Impact & Industry Relations, explains:
“We’ve enhanced the Forum to reflect how destinations must operate today—focused on action, not just conversation. New governance models are emerging and decision makers need clearer evidence, deeper insight and stronger cross sector partnerships.
“Cities and countries now operate in complex environments where economic development, talent, investment, culture and livability all overlap. Business events play a critical role in this mix—not just economically, but by delivering multiple positive impacts within research, innovation, health, sustainability and community well-being.
“The Forum brings together place leaders and event strategists to unlock this shared value.”
AIPC members can actively shape the agenda by taking part in the Open Forum and by bringing their local policymakers into the room. The program includes curated dialogues for municipal and regional leaders as well as national government representatives.
New white paper—contributions invited
In partnership with Professor Greg Clark CBE and The Business of Cities, IMEX is preparing a new white paper which will inform discussion at the Forum.
The Destination Economy, Place Leadership and the Strategic Role of Business Events draws on voices from both inside and outside the industry, responding to the shift in how cities compete for talent, investment and innovation.
To support the development of the new white paper, AIPC members are encouraged to share case studies (deadline: March 27) that demonstrate how the destination economy is advancing in their locality. The final paper will be released in early summer 2026.
The Place Leaders Forum is organized in collaboration with the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC), City Destinations Alliance (City DNA), Destinations International, German Convention Bureau (GCB), the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), the Strategic Alliance of the National Convention Bureaux of Europe and U.S. Travel Association, under the auspices of Events Industry Council (EIC) and the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC).
- Further details about the new Place Leaders Forum are here
- For questions about the Forum or white paper, email: Placeleadersforum@imexevents.com
- IMEX Frankfurt 2026 takes place at Messe Frankfurt, May 19–21. To register, click here
