It was at a promotional event in the U.S that Irish Destination Management Company (DMC) Odyssey International first encountered their client, a well-known American financial company.
“We met this client several times over a number of years, but we always faced resistance when we tried to plant the idea of Ireland for their next annual meeting,” recalls Odyssey International Managing Director Kevin Shannon. “Their firm belief was that Ireland was simply not high end enough to maintain the high standards of past programmes.”
Never one to shirk a challenge, Kevin and his team put forward a convincing case for the country, highlighting its many unique experiences and offerings, as well as its world-class facilities and infrastructure. Eventually a site inspection was booked with the assistance of the Meet In Ireland team, who provided crucial corporate supports at the right time.
One of Ireland’s biggest selling points is its wealth of authentic experiences and activities. From day one of the site inspection, Odyssey International’s client was immersed in activities, events and live entertainment, designed to truly showcase the culture, landscape and people of Ireland. The opportunities for inventive delegate programmes quickly became obvious, as did the plentiful supply of great destinations and purpose-built venues — so much so, that the client happily accepted the Irish bid for 2015.
The knock-on effect of this successful meeting for the DMC has been huge — the tight-knit nature of the U.S meeting planner community means that positive word-of-mouth feedb
ack is crucial. Since 2015, Odyssey have received a number of enquiries and bookings from other meeting planners responding to the client’s recommendations.
Years later, the client’s satisfaction with the work of Odyssey International still speaks volumes: “Odyssey International doesn't just get the job done; they get it done seamlessly and with a smile. From inception to completion, an experienced and knowledgeable team is always working to ensure your attendees are receiving the best. In my opinion, it's been our best program yet.”
Finally, in the client’s own words, Ireland as a destination is incredible. “Couple the island's charm with some of the most delightful people you'll ever meet, and you have a recipe for success.”