MICE Destination

Kempten

Germany

Kempten, located in the Allgäu region of southern Germany, is a picturesque city known for its rich history, charming atmosphere, and proximity to the Alps. While Kempten is not typically recognized as a major global hub for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism, it does offer a unique and intimate setting for business events, leisure travel, and the integration of both.

Here's a closer look at Kempten's offerings in the context of MICE tourism, business events, and leisure travel:

1. MICE Tourism in Kempten

While Kempten may not be as large or well-known as cities like Munich or Berlin in the MICE industry, it is gaining recognition as a destination for smaller, more intimate business events and conferences. The city's appeal lies in its tranquil atmosphere, modern facilities, and proximity to beautiful natural landscapes.

• Event Venues: Kempten offers several venues suitable for MICE activities. The BigBox Allgäu is one of the region's leading event venues, capable of hosting conferences, trade fairs, concerts, and various other events. With its modern infrastructure and flexible space, it can accommodate both small meetings and large conferences.

• Accessible Location: Kempten is well-connected to major transport hubs in southern Germany. Its location near major highways (A7) and proximity to Memmingen Airport makes it easy for delegates to travel to and from the city. Additionally, the city's proximity to Munich allows it to tap into the broader business and tourism networks in the region.

• Local Amenities: The city is equipped with modern hotels, restaurants, and conference facilities that cater specifically to business travelers. Many hotels in Kempten offer business services such as high-speed internet, conference rooms, and event hosting facilities.

• Incentive Programs and Team Building: Kempten’s surrounding natural beauty offers plenty of options for incentive trips and team-building activities. Business travelers can enjoy various outdoor activities in the Allgäu Alps, such as hiking, skiing in the winter, or enjoying wellness retreats and spa resorts. The combination of nature, local history, and modern venues makes Kempten an attractive option for incentive travel programs.

2. Business Events in Kempten

Kempten is an excellent location for small to mid-sized business events due to its peaceful environment, ease of access, and excellent facilities. Businesses looking for a destination for corporate meetings, seminars, and conferences will find Kempten offers an ideal balance between business and leisure.

• Corporate Conferences and Seminars: Kempten’s conference venues are well-suited for professional events such as product launches, executive meetings, and workshops. The Allgäu Conference Centre and local hotels with conference facilities provide a quiet environment for focused business interactions, while still being close enough to the attractions of the city.

• Trade Fairs and Exhibitions: While Kempten may not have the scale of larger trade fair cities, it does host smaller regional trade shows and exhibitions that can attract a niche audience. The BigBox Allgäu regularly hosts trade fairs, exhibitions, and community events that bring together regional businesses and stakeholders.

• Networking Opportunities: Being a city with a growing local business community, Kempten offers opportunities for networking, especially for businesses in the tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors. Smaller gatherings often lead to deeper, more meaningful connections, which is appealing to many businesses that prefer personalized networking events.

3. Leisure Travel in Kempten

Kempten has much to offer for leisure travelers, from its natural surroundings to its cultural landmarks. The city’s combination of relaxation, history, and accessibility to nearby tourist attractions makes it a great destination for leisure travelers looking to combine business and pleasure.

• Historic Sites and Cultural Heritage: Kempten is a city steeped in history, with several cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the Kempten Archaeological Park, the Allgäu Museum, or the stunning St. Lawrence Church. The city’s rich history and beautiful architecture provide an ideal backdrop for tourists seeking cultural immersion.

• Natural Beauty: For nature lovers, Kempten offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly hiking and skiing. The Allgäu Alps are just a short drive away, offering spectacular views and recreational options for leisure travelers. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and exploring the picturesque lakes, while in the winter, skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports draw visitors to the area.

• Wellness and Relaxation: Kempten is also home to wellness centers and spas, offering visitors an opportunity to relax after a busy day of business meetings or exploring the city. Bad Wörishofen, a nearby spa town, is renowned for its therapeutic thermal baths, which attract wellness tourists.

• Proximity to Other Attractions: Kempten’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider Allgäu region. Nearby destinations such as Neuschwanstein Castle, Lake Constance, and the Bavarian Alps are easily accessible for day trips. These destinations provide visitors with additional leisure travel options after their business events in Kempten.

4. Combining Business and Leisure: Bleisure Travel

Given Kempten’s diverse offerings for both business and leisure, it’s a great destination for bleisure—a growing trend where business travelers extend their trips to enjoy leisure activities. The peaceful setting of Kempten, with its access to nature, culture, and wellness, makes it an ideal location for bleisure tourism.

• Work-Life Balance: After a day of meetings or conferences, delegates can take advantage of the surrounding natural beauty, explore Kempten’s historical landmarks, or visit a local spa to unwind. This blend of business and leisure makes Kempten an attractive location for professionals seeking a more balanced experience.

• Team Incentive Travel: Kempten’s natural surroundings and outdoor recreational activities make it a perfect location for companies offering incentive programs. Groups can participate in hiking, mountain biking, or other outdoor activities as part of team-building exercises, followed by relaxing in a wellness center to reward their efforts.

5. Sustainability in Tourism

Kempten, like many smaller cities in Europe, is increasingly focusing on sustainability in its tourism offerings. This includes encouraging environmentally conscious travel, promoting green hotels and venues, and supporting sustainable tourism initiatives.

• Eco-Friendly Venues and Events: Kempten's modern conference venues and hotels are gradually adopting eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction, and the use of sustainable materials for event setups. These practices align with global trends in MICE tourism, where environmental impact is a growing concern.

• Green Travel and Activities: Kempten promotes the use of public transportation and offers eco-friendly travel packages that encourage sustainable tourism, from eco-hiking tours to cycling trips. The region also benefits from its proximity to pristine natural environments, where eco-tourism activities like hiking, bird watching, and sustainable agricultural tours can be part of the leisure experience.

Conclusion

While Kempten may not be a major international player in the MICE tourism scene, it offers unique advantages for business travelers and leisure tourists alike. Its blend of modern conference facilities, historical charm, and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for smaller-scale conferences, business events, and incentive travel programs. The city's peaceful ambiance, combined with its proximity to the Alps and various cultural attractions, creates an ideal setting for a combination of business and leisure travel.

For businesses seeking a more intimate and personalized setting for their events, Kempten provides a perfect backdrop. Furthermore, with the rising trend of sustainable tourism, the city is increasingly becoming a destination that appeals to environmentally conscious travelers looking to balance work with relaxation. Whether for a conference, incentive trip, or a relaxing getaway, Kempten offers something special for all types of travelers.