European Society of Cardiology members are beating a path to ExCeL London for one of Europe’s largest medical congresses, which is expected to welcome up to 35,000 delegates from 100 countries.
The five-day congress, which opens tomorrow (29 August), is the largest event to be staged at the venue since the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games. It will feature more than 180 exhibitors and 500 expert sessions.
“In 2012, we were delighted to announce that London would be the host city for ESC 2015 and are hugely excited that it is almost upon us,” said James Rees, ExCeL London executive director. “ExCeL was purposefully designed to host events of this magnitude and the huge numbers they need to accommodate.”
During the 100,000sqm event’s eight-day build, about 500 contractors set up 20,000 chairs, installed more than 600 signs and assembled 23,000 lunch bags. Meanwhile, food and beverage teams are preparing to cater for more than 1,000 functions.
“We continue to make multi-million pound investments to enhance and improve the experience for delegates with recent innovations including upgrades to our complimentary Wifi, a refurbishment of our meeting rooms and a brand new retail and catering experience,” Rees added.
Becky Graveney, head of associations, London & Partners, said she was confident the event would advance London’s position as a leading destination for congress events.
“In the world of congresses, hosting ESC 2015 is equivalent to hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Graveney said.
ExCeL London and London & Partners teamed up with the British Heart Foundation and King’s Health Partners to launch the London Heart Trail last week, a city-wide awareness campaign to support the congress.
The walking trail, accompanied by an app, encourages participants to complete challenges and unlock clues to win prizes.
Photo: Birthday Clare, courtesy of ExCeL London
