Birmingham has done it again – stepping confidently onto the global stage as the UK’s number one regional hotspot for meetings and conferences, a proud moment that speaks volumes about the city’s energy, resilience, and readiness for the future.
Newly released data from global events tech platform Cvent shows Birmingham has climbed the rankings to become the UK’s top regional meetings destination, beating out major European cities like Zurich, Stockholm, and Hamburg. With over $18 billion worth of conference business tracked through Cvent platforms, this achievement is more than a badge – it’s a strong indicator that Birmingham is open for global business.
And that’s not all! According to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Birmingham has made one of the most dramatic leaps in its history – climbing a staggering 87 places to land at 125th in the world for international conferences.
That’s the city’s best standing since 2017, driven by 20 high-level association meetings that brought global attention to the region. So, what’s fuelling this rise?
According to officials, it’s the city's strong roots in sectors like medical science and technology. Nearly half of the international meetings in 2024 were tied to these world-class fields – a testament to the West Midlands’ growing reputation as a centre of research, innovation, and collaboration. But beneath the stats lies a powerful story of people, place, and pride.
“Birmingham is an events city,” said Councillor John Cotton, leader of Birmingham City Council. “We have varied venues and passionate people who consistently put on a great show for delegates and leave a lasting impression.”
This people-powered momentum is backed by tireless efforts from the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) – the team behind the Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau. From IMEX Frankfurt to The Meetings Show in London and IBTM World in Barcelona, they’re flying the flag for the city across the globe, attracting events that bring not just ideas, but real economic impact.
Katie Trout, Director of Destination, Marketing & Insight at WMGC, highlighted the bottom line: “The West Midlands’ conference and events sector is big business – worth nearly £2 billion in direct spend,” she said.
“Attending international exhibitions remains the most effective way to spark new partnerships and create fresh opportunities for our region.” At IMEX Frankfurt this year, the team – led by new strategic head Linda Best – noted rising interest from organisers in places as far-flung as Australia, Spain, the US, and Indonesia, many drawn by Birmingham’s unique blend of business infrastructure and rich cultural story.
And the momentum is set to continue.
Major events already scheduled for the region before the end of 2025 include the International Conference on Data Science and Advanced Analytics (DSAA), the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology Annual Meeting, and the first-ever World Screen Tourism Summit, all happening at the University of Birmingham or ICC Birmingham.
From the vibrant streets of Centenary Square to the global halls of science, Birmingham is not just welcoming the world – it’s showing what’s possible when community, business, and belief in potential come together.
One thing is clear: Birmingham is not just in the conversation — it’s hosting it.
