Glasgow reports record breaking year for conference business

Glasgow's reputation as a leading national and international destination for conferences has been cemented by the latest statistics on the value of this important part of the city's economy.

Article Source: Glasgow Convention Bureau
Last Updated: 12 May 2025 14:38

Figures released by Glasgow Convention Bureau for April 2024 - March 2025 not only highlight a significant increase in the number of delegates at business events in the city but also reveal a record-breaking spend by delegates.

Over the 12 months, Glasgow hosted over 430 conferences, welcoming more than 140,000 delegates who contributed more than £153m benefit to the local economy – a £10m increase on the previous year’s results.

Head of Tourism and Conventions at Glasgow Life, Aileen Crawford said: “Glasgow’s record-breaking year is a powerful testament to our city’s global reputation as a world-class conference destination. This success reflects the strength of our Team Glasgow approach, the dedication of our partners, such as the SEC, hotels, conference venues and our local academic community, alongside the appeal of our welcoming city. We are proud that Glasgow continues to attract prestigious academic meetings that bring lasting economic and social impact.”

The positive impact of the city’s partnership approach to attract Business Events is endorsed by partner organisations.

Glasgow’s Scottish Event Campus Director of Conference Sales, Kathleen Warden, said: “The team at the SEC has been laser-focused on bringing the very best of UK and international conferences to the city in partnership with Glasgow Convention Bureau and our city stakeholders. We are immensely proud to have played a key role in such as successful year of business.

“Among the events hosted at the campus was the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology contributing over 35,000 delegate days and Diabetes UK – which has hosted at the venue many times – and the Interpol General Assembly, which once again put Glasgow at the centre of the world’s media. Our conference business ensures the longer-term economic prosperity of the city and our knowledge economy, and we’re thrilled to have business secured as far as 2029.”

Conference organisers share their experience of meeting in Glasgow:

Sam Wass, Professor of Early Years Neuroscience, University of East London said: “Hosting the International Conference on Infant Studies (ICIS) in Glasgow was an extraordinary experience. The 2024 gathering was one of the most vibrant and globally connected in our society’s history. Welcoming researchers, clinicians, and students from over 40 countries, we’ve shared groundbreaking work and forged a global network that is more united than ever in supporting the wellbeing of children and families around the world.

“The research presented—on topics ranging from brain development and early language learning to the impact of caregiving and culture—has been inspiring. Just as importantly, the energy and dedication of our delegates reaffirmed that the future of infant studies is in deeply thoughtful, curious, and compassionate hands.”

Anam Khan, Exhibition and Conference Event Manager for the All-Energy event held in Glasgow in 2024, added: “The annual All-Energy Exhibition & Conference is a landmark event for the UK’s clean energy sector, and what better place to host it than Glasgow - a city at the forefront of the just transition to net zero. Over two days in May, we welcomed well over 10,000 attendees, innovators and policymakers, all committed to accelerating the shift to a more sustainable future.

“All-Energy 2024 was a true celebration of ambition, innovation, and collaboration. Across two action-packed days, the event showcased the full breadth of the energy ecosystem—from offshore wind, hydrogen and solar, to storage, smart grids, and the decarbonisation of heat, transport, and cities.

“The conversations were bold, the ideas transformative, and the buzz on the show floor was undeniable. The energy transition isn't a distant goal - it's happening here and now. Events like All-Energy prove just how powerful it can be when industry, government, and communities come together to shape what’s next.”

Professor Esther MacCallum-Stewart, Chair of Worldcon 2024, added: “Glasgow 2024, A Worldcon for our Futures welcomed over 7,000 attendees from over 50 countries to Glasgow in August 2024. The event featured five action-packed days of exhibits, talks and panel discussion linked to all aspects of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror and Gaming. Coming back to Glasgow, a city with its own legacy of resilience and reinvention, made this year’s Worldcon all the more meaningful. The warmth of the community and the energy of our volunteers and partners made this event extra special.”

Glasgow’s strength as an experienced and welcoming host city for conferences – hosting more international delegates than any other UK city outside London – include key benefits, such as:

• UK's Best Convention Bureau (M&IT Awards) offering a wide range of free support
• 13,000 bedrooms in the city centre - managed through our free accommodation booking service
• 12th most sustainable conference destination in the world (2024 GDS Index)
• Bespoke impact and legacy activities
• ‘World's friendliest city’ - Time Out Index 2022
• University city and a hub of innovation
• Easy to access and to get around
• Team Glasgow approach - city businesses working in partnership to support conference success

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Glasgow News

Buchanan Galleries Christmas Cracker takes Childrens Hospital Charity guest donations to more than 100K

Charity donations from generous Christmas shoppers at Buchanan Galleries helped amass an impressive £66,000 during the festive season alone!

Mowgli Street Food Introduces the new 600 calorie Lite Tiffin

Healthy, hearty and great value at just £15 per person - Mowgli's new Lite Tiffin launches this January.

Return to Middle Earth as The Lord of The Rings Trilogy celebrates its 25th anniversary at Vue

One of the most iconic and beloved fantasy trilogies of all time, The Lord of The Rings, is returning to the big screen at Vue venues across Scotland, as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Scottish actor Joe McFadden to lead acclaimed stage adaptation of The Shawshank Redemption at the Theatre Royal Glasgow

The Theatre Royal Glasgow is delighted to announce that The Shawshank Redemption, the acclaimed stage adaptation of Stephen King's 1982 novella, will come to the venue in March!

16.5 million visits make 2025 best year yet for Silverburn

Silverburn has welcomed a record 16.5 million visits over the past year, marking 2025 as its busiest year to date and underlining its status as Scotland's leading shopping and leisure destination.

Scottish Ensemble spotlights future string stars with Musical Encounters

Scottish Ensemble begins an exciting 2026 with the return of their Young Artist programme, helping to develop the next generation of Scotland's young string players.

Celebrate love with your PAWfect Valentine at Dobbies Garden Centres

Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting pet parents to celebrate Valentine's Day with their beloved furry friends in selected stores across the country!

Primary schools in Scotland given chance to win specifically curated Burns Supper from Aldi

Aldi Scotland is giving primary school pupils across Scotland the chance to enjoy a truly traditional Burns Supper, complete with all the trimmings, including a bagpiper.

Glasgow International Comedy Festival launches 2026 programme with over 100,000 tickets on sale

Glasgow International Comedy Festival has announced the full programme for 2026's event with 560 shows in 40 venues across the city from 11th - 29th March, and over 100,000 tickets now on sale!

Glasgow Film Festival 2026 to open with UK Premiere of Everybody To Kenmure Street

A documentary about one of Scotland's most spontaneous and successful acts of civil resistance in recent memory will open Glasgow Film Festival's 22nd edition on 25th February!

Celebrate Burns Night 2026 at Flight Club

If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Burns Night this year, head to Flight Club!

Calling all Gingers!

The IRN-BRU Carnival is showing appreciation to any fellow fiery headed pals by offering a bonus ride voucher to anyone visiting with ginger hair on Sunday 11th January!

Everything you need to know about Celtic Connections 2026

The renowned festival which every year transforms Glasgow in January into a must-visit destination for music lovers is now just over a week away.

Zizzi launches their January Birthday Jackpot

Zizzi's January Birthday Jackpot guarantees a special gift for adults born in January, with some lucky birthday guests receiving the jackpot prize - £100 towards their bill!

Litter picking dog charity aims to remove 44 million pieces of rubbish in 2026

Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution are hoped to boost the ranks of the Paws On Plastic charity to over 30,000 in 2026!

Full casting announced for Legally Blonde: The Musical

Full casting has been announced for Legally Blonde: The Musical which will have its Scottish premiere at The King's Theatre Glasgow in April!

Brand new craft event encourages mindfulness, creativity and relaxation

Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to an afternoon of creativity, connection, and cake this January, with a brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club.

Famous faces share their DofE Award memories in celebration of their 70th anniversary

Anyone with a connection to The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is being invited to celebrate the charity's 70th anniversary by sharing their fondest DofE memories.

Silverburn expands leisure offering with new Pilates studio

Silverburn guests can kick-start their 2026 wellness journey with the arrival of the first Haus of Pilates studio.

Dry or Try January: Flight Club is your go to January social spot

Whether you're ditching the booze and going dry for a month or embracing Try January with the goal of experiencing new things, Flight Club, ticks all the boxes!

Christmas has come early! Glasgow youngster wins the entire DreamToys list in national competition

One very lucky youngster from Glasgow has been crowned the winner of an incredible festive giveaway – taking home all 15 toys featured on this year's coveted DreamToys list.

Christmas has arrived in Glasgow, The IRN BRU Carnival returns for its 106th year

Europe's largest indoor fun fair, The IRN-BRU Carnival, has opened to the public at Glasgow's SEC with its greatest show to date!

The River Inn launches dream wedding reception giveaway worth thousands

One lucky couple to win a luxury wedding reception for up to 100 guests... completely free!

Christmas Carol Goes Wrong crashes into the Kings Theatre Glasgow

Multi-award winning company Mischief return to the King's Theatre Glasgow with their new stage show – Christmas Carol Goes Wrong!

Christmas drawing by 11 year old Glasgow schoolgirl lights up the city

An 11-year-old Glasgow schoolgirl has seen her Christmas drawing light up the city after it was transformed into a glowing display as part of this year’s festive light trail.

Scottish Doctor Who actor to lead The Woman in Black at the Theatre Royal Glasgow

PW Productions is delighted to announce casting for Susan Hill's The Woman in Black, as it returns to the Theatre Royal Glasgow.

Scottish dancer to appear in The Red Shoes in first tour stop in Glasgow

The King's Theatre, Glasgow is delighted to reveal the full cast and tour dates for Matthew Bourne's double Olivier award-winning, smash hit production of The Red Shoes.

Braehead Shopping Centre is your place for festive fashion, food and fun this Christmas

Christmas is in full swing at Braehead Shopping Centre, and Scotland's leading retail and leisure destination is once again the place to celebrate the magic of the festive season!