Collaboration took centre stage in Lyon as the EU CVB Network organised, for the first time, a workshop bringing together eight European destinations and eight international associations, with the support of the Lyon Convention Bureau.

The EU CVB Network connects destinations with similar profiles that often compete for the same international congresses. Rather than focusing solely on competition, the network promotes cooperation, knowledge sharing and closer relationships between destinations, with the aim of creating new opportunities for international meetings and congresses across Europe.

Representing Porto and North of Portugal - Convention & Visitors Bureau, Patrícia Morris, Convention Bureau Coordinator, took part in a programme that included one-to-one meetings between destinations and associations, a technical visit to Lyon and its Congress Centre, and a session dedicated to new trends and solutions in event catering.

For Patrícia Morris, the workshop was “a truly fruitful gathering, where we exchanged ideas, shared different perspectives and built an incredible connection”, highlighting the importance of creating “a truly collaborative network — one that champions best practices, professionalism and sustainability, going far beyond simply showcasing new destinations.”

This first edition in Lyon marks the beginning of a new format that will travel across the destinations within the EU CVB Network, creating more opportunities to share knowledge, develop meaningful connections and support the creation of memorable congresses.