Vancouver is internationally known as one of the most sought-after event destinations – something that is in no small way due to the opening of the Vancouver Convention Centre’s West Building, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary today (April 3).
The convention centre’s West building tripled the facility’s capacity, allowing the space to welcome over nine million guests worldwide and generate over $2.4 billion in direct spending for British Columbia.
“The Vancouver Convention Centre is an asset that British Columbians can all be proud of,” said Ian Aikenhead, chair of BC Pavilion Corp.
“The impact of this award-winning facility reaches all corners of the province – from the significant economic activity generated by attendees, to the growth, opportunities and development that come from the myriad of events hosted.”
The building has hosted 5,561 events over the past decade, ranging from the acclaimed TED conference to computer graphics conference Siggraph, to consumer trade shows across all industries.
The centre is also a leader in environmental efforts, being the world’s first double Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) platinum-certified convention centres. The living roof is home to over 150 species of insects and the facility has recycled over 157 million litres of blackwater.
“Over the years, Vancouver has become synonymous with green spaces, breathtaking scenery and as a destination where people can recharge their creative engines,” said Ty Speer, president and CEO of Tourism Vancouver.
“The city is known to inspire, and the Vancouver Convention Centre is the foundation where delegates from different global communities – networks of expert educators, scientists and creators – can gather to collaborate on new opportunities and seek out their own inspiration.”
The centre plans to continue bringing more events to Vancouver and is booked through until 2027, including the 2025 Convention of Alcoholics Anonymous, expected to draw 48,000 delegates from around the world.
