Global Association Picks Cambridge for 100th Conference
Multiple venues
With the theme of ‘A Century of Progress in Seed Quality Assurance’, the association used several venues: the Cambridge Union Society for the conference sessions and The Guildhalls and Christ’s College for dinners.
Olga Stoeckli, Events, Membership & Documentation Manager for ISTA said: “We wanted to mark the 100th anniversary of our association in 2024 by holding events in both Cambridge and Northern Ireland in early July. Cambridge was where ISTA began its journey in 1924 and this centenary conference succeeded in attracting 198 delegates from 45 countries worldwide.
Proactive suggestions
“Early on we worked closely with Meet Cambridge who delivered an excellent service for which we were very grateful. The team responded quickly and were very proactive with lots of great ideas to enhance the meeting.
“For us it was very important to work with a professional conference organiser and to benefit from local support from suppliers. Opening Doors & Venues provided a very high standard of service. They were well organised, available to answer queries and communicated regularly with us throughout the planning and the event itself.
Legacy
“As this was a centenary event, we wanted to include a legacy element and decided on a tree planting ceremony at the grounds of NIAB to mark such a special occasion. Many of the delegates also took the opportunity to enjoy the Cambridge experience with punting on the Backs.
“The conference was a success with positive feedback from delegates, 75% of whom rated it ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’. The location certainly contributed to a memorable event for those attending.”
Image credits: ISTA
