A DEDICATED conference centre in the heart of Edinburgh is celebrating 10 years of hospitality – in which time it has transformed the University of Edinburgh into the best campus conference setting in the UK.
Exactly 10 years ago, Edinburgh First opened the University of Edinburgh’s John McIntyre Conference Centre (JMCC) in response to growing demand for a year-round venue devoted to conferencing.In its decade-long lifespan, the JMCC has turned one of Scotland’s oldest universities into a destination conference venue, bringing 137,524 delegates from all over the world to the capital city.
It is its excellent facilities and warm Scottish hospitality which saw Edinburgh First crowned Commercial University of the Year at the nationwide College and University Business Officers (CUBO) awards this year.
The centre has played host to events from all backgrounds, be it robotics, genetics or particle research. Next month however, the focus will be solely on what has been achieved in the ten years since first opening its doors.
Claire Pryde, Head of Conferences and Events, Edinburgh First, (above) said: “We view the JMCC as our trusted workhorse, delivering incredible benefit to the University and to Edinburgh.
“For day-to-day conferences that need a functional space, nothing comes close to the JMCC.
“While it provides an exceptional venue, we are also working behind the scenes to accommodate and cater to hundreds of people at one time.
“The facilities available and the centrality of the location means it’s the perfect spot to welcome delegates from all over the world to meet in our vibrant capital city.”
The JMCC has opened, not only its doors, but Edinburgh’s too for many delegates who perhaps had never made the journey to Scotland’s capital before. Nestled at the foot of Arthur’s Seat and merely a short walk from some of Edinburgh’s biggest landmarks, the JMCC finds itself in the perfect location for showcasing the best of the capital.
Edinburgh First boasts two year-round, recently refurbished hotels, one of which is located in the same grounds as the JMCC, meaning that visitors can feel at home as they stroll from their room to conference proceedings to the bar and restaurant, with the confidence of 24-hour security.
Guests also benefit from onsite car and coach parking, including a huge electric vehicle charging provision with 18 newly installed points as well as a Tesla Destination Charger.
There are 11 meeting rooms available at the JMCC (with a further 16 in other venues on the Pollock Estate) and multiple catering options – meaning everyone is taken care of.
Claire added: “We like to think we go above and beyond for delegates and provide a full-service event – where they can make use of all the formal facilities but also enjoy a peaceful location and a roof terrace for relaxing.
“It is this unique offering that sets us apart in Edinburgh and has allowed us to operate in the market for as long as we have.”
For more information please call 0131 651 2189 or visit the website www.edinburghfirst.co.uk or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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