ICCA, the International Congress and Convention Association, welcomed a record number of new members in August, processing 14 successful applications from organisations and companies in a month which is traditionally quiet.

CEO Martin Sirk said he expected 90 new members in 2011: “I’m certain this (growth) can be attributed to the continued attraction of the international association meetings market, and the relevance of ICCA’s tools, database and business opportunities which are aimed precisely at this resilient segment.”

New members include Township Patterns, a South African social enterprise which employs previously disadvantaged women to produce eco-friendly conference products; the Oman Ministry of Tourism; leading Chinese meetings industry publisher MICE China; and the Grand Hotel Palace in Thessaloniki, Greece.

Pictured: ICCA CEO Martin Sirk