Connect Amsterdam Winter 2022 | number 3

Connect Amsterdam WINTER 2022 | NR. 3

RAI AMSTERDAM IS OPEN AGAIN

RESPONSIBLE DATA USE IS ABOUT TECHNOLOGY AND CULTURE

LET'S GET DOWN TO BUSINESS

Contents 4

CURRENT RAI Amsterdam is open New logistics system The largest vacination venue of The Netherlands Multi-year conference plan for Amsterdam Green buffer between RAI and Wielingenstraat Construction of water terrace Strandzuid

9

NEWS FROM THE NETHERLANDS New Medical Business Park to stimulate Amsterdam life science industry 2021 rankings: The Netherlands and Amsterdam excel in technology, sustainability and quality of life

12

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Silicone Expo - Nathan Reuby

13

INNOVATION Responsible data use is about technology and culture Celebrate sustainably with organic fireworks

20

RAI IN SOCIETY Heart for people and environment RAI kitchen turns leftover chocolate letters into treat for GGD

22

HOTSPOTS Advantage for business travellers Explore Amsterdam from the water The Traveller opens new restaurant

WE ARE OPEN! That we would face a slot on events in the Netherlands towards the end of 2021 came as a surprise to us. Shortly before the announcement in December, we were still filling our halls with relevant events for a range of sectors, including water technology, health & life sciences and the creative sector. We were also just starting to see the positive effects of the many meetings and business in these sectors.

Temporarily putting a lock on business events has an enormous impact. For the sectors it serves around the world, as well as the many parties that depend on these events. It also affects our partners, our suppliers and our employees. We did not let our heads hang in the balance. We foresaw a relatively short period of 'calm' in which the government would monitor the spread of the omikron variant and the effect of the booster campaign.

This gave us the opportunity to evaluate the course of events in the last quarter of 2021 and make improvements where necessary. This period was well spent and immediately gave our people a good warm-up for events starting in the spring.

We would have preferred not to have been closed for events in the interim. Nevertheless, the reopening of the Netherlands comes at a good time. All the restrictive measures have been removed before we can welcome a large number of visitors to the RAI in March. Major events are on the programme then, such as our own Intertraffic and Amsterdam Drone Week.

Two events with a strong focus on smart mobility. From April onwards we will be welcoming the National Career Fair, Interclean, PLMA and EAU Congress to the RAI. With a late start to the event season in spring, more events have been moved to the summer period. It promises to be pretty busy months. I am really looking forward to it!

Maurits van der Sluis COO RAI Amsterdam

CURRENT

RAI AMSTERDAM FULLY OPEN AGAIN

By Katelijn Wilhelmy Covid measures will no longer apply during events with a throughput of visitors, such as trade fairs and exhibitions. All rules on the number of visitors, social distancing, admission tickets, and the wearing of mouth masks have also been abolished. There are no longer any measures during seated events, such as conferences and theatre shows. A negative Corona test certificate now only applies to other indoor events with more than 500 visitors and no fixed seating, such as indoor festivals.

The requirement to wear a mouth mask will remain mandatory within airports and public transport. This rule will no longer apply from 25 February in shops, restaurants, bars, cinemas, museums, theatres, concert halls, zoos and amusement parks.

Requirements for travelling to the Netherlands Depending on the situation in the country of departure, and whether it falls within the EU/Schengen area, some rules may still apply when travelling to the Netherlands. These rules can be found on the website of each country concerned.

"We welcome the complete relaxation of event regulations and the fact that they are once again becoming accessible to visitors," said RAI COO Maurits van der Sluis. "The RAI of course wants to continue to uphold the current hygiene rules imposed by health authorities and ensure that people are aware of them.

We will also keep a close eye on developments to ensure that RAI Amsterdam remains safe, responsible and hospitable at all times. Everyone at the RAI is looking forward to once again organising and facilitating fantastic events.

Reopening The reopening of the Netherlands comes at a good time, with measures in place to enable the RAI to welcome a large number of visitors in March. Major events on the programme are Intertraffic and Amsterdam Drone Week, both with a strong focus on smart mobility.

Starting in April, the RAI will welcome the National Career Fair, Interclean (the leading platform for cleaning and hygiene professionals), PLMA 2022 World's Private Label, and the 37th annual EAU Congress. With a late start to the event season, more events have been moved to mid-July in what promises to be a vibrant summer.

During the pandemic, RAI Amsterdam did everything possible to keep events safe within government guidelines. The hard work and creativity that goes into organising internationally recognised events in such challenging circumstances is recognised by Mash Media, with the recent nomination as "Best International Venue" in the upcoming Exhibition News Awards in London.

CURRENT

NEW LOGISTICS SYSTEM STARTED AT THE RAI RAI Amsterdam has recently started using a new logistics system. This makes it possible to better distribute the logistic traffic to and from the RAI during the day.

For the build-up and breakdown of events, all suppliers have to register online for a time slot in which they can collect or unload cargo at the RAI. This way of working offers many advantages. Wim Braakman, Manager Traffic & Logistics RAI, is enthusiastic: "The idea is that suppliers do not have to wait in line at the venue until it is their turn, but can choose a time that suits them best. By working with timeslots, we can distribute the transport better throughout the day. In this way we prevent congestion in front of the venue and work towards a good flow of logistical traffic. In doing so, the RAI also hopes to work towards improving the quality of life in the neighbourhood. "

"WE EXPECT THIS TO REDUCE THE PRESSURE OF LOGISTICS TRAFFIC IN THE VICINITY OF THE RAI AND THUS THE ADDITIONAL NUISANCE FOR THE NEIGHBOURHOOD," WIM BRAAKMAN.

Each event The new RAI Logistics Management System was made possible by Voyage Control, which operates worldwide in the event sector, among others. RAI Amsterdam has already started using this new system for a number of events. The aim is for all events that take place in the halls of the RAI to start working with this new system this year.

CURRENT

THE LARGEST VACCINATION VENUE OF THE NETHERLANDS

By Katelijn Wilhelmy Minister of Health Hugo de Jonge paid a visit to what is now called the largest vaccination location in the Netherlands: the XXL vaccination location of the health services (GGD) at RAI Amsterdam. The minister was received by Simone Kukenheim, Alderman for Care of the Municipality of Amsterdam, who previously visited the RAI for this purpose.

Minister De Jonge visited the new GGD location in the RAI, which will open on Friday 24 December, increasing the capacity to 17,000 booster shots per day. “This is really very impressive. The enormous numbers and the enormous upscaling that people are doing here in Amsterdam is really something to bow down to.

Towards the health services, the city of Amsterdam, and everyone who helps to make this possible here" said Minister De Jonge.

Multiple vaccination locations at the RAI: booster shot by appointment People who are up for the booster shot can make an appointment online. By making this appointment, the administrative work is done digitally. This speeds up the process on site, allowing capacity to be doubled compared to free entry. For the booster shot, people enter through entrance C of the RAI. As of friday the 24th of December this will be entrance F. People traveling by car can follow the signs for entrance.

Free entry remains possible for getting the first or second shot at the RAI. Testing is made possible, after making an appointment, at the pavilion in front of our complex opposite the ROC of Amsterdam. This will also remain possible at locations: Plein 40-45 and Anton de Komplein.

CURRENT

AMSTERDAM CONVENTION BUREAU DRAWS UP MULTI-YEAR CONVENTION PLAN In 2020, the strategic Long-range Plan Amsterdam Convention City 2021-2024 was approved by the municipal council. This approval means that the Amsterdam Convention Bureau (ACB) of amsterdam&partners will be implementing this plan, which is entitled 'Towards an innovative and sustainable convention city with added value for Amsterdam', until 2024. The plan aims to contribute to the development, innovation and sustainability of Amsterdam in terms of the sustainable visitor economy, visibility of congresses and social impact.

The ACB focuses on qualitative non-corporate conferences in Life Sciences, Health, AI and Tech sectors and around the theme of sustainability. In addition to attracting conferences, the connection with the city, its themes, entrepreneurs, start-ups and knowledge institutions is central, so that these types of conferences offer added value for the city and its residents in both the short and long term.

AMSTERDAM CONVENTION BUREAU The Amsterdam Convention Bureau (ACB) is the official agency for the promotion of Amsterdam as an ideal congress destination.

They work independently and offer a number of free services. They help you organise impactful conferences and meetings that add real value for participants, local businesses and residents.

CURRENT

GREEN BUFFER BETWEEN RAI AND WIELINGENSTRAAT At the end of last year the construction of a green strip along Wielingenstraat in front of Hall 5 of the RAI was started. This strip is intended to create a green buffer between Wielingenstraat and the RAI's logistics site.

The green strip in front of hall 5 was originally designed as part of a completely new layout for the RAI's logistics site.

The traffic flows on the RAI site would also be given a different route. With the complete redesign of this terrain, the RAI wanted to limit the inconvenience for the neighbourhood. However, as no commercial activities have taken place in the RAI in the past year, the RAI cannot implement this redesign for the time being.

However, in order to beautify the area in the meantime, the green strip between the RAI and Wielingenstraat will be laid out. The purpose of this strip is to create a nice green transition zone.

CONSTRUCTION OF WATER TERRACE STRANDZUID Strandzuid has received a permit from the municipality to construct an additional waterfront terrace. The so-called water terrace is the first water terrace in the form of an island and expands the terrace capacity of Strandzuid, allowing more visitors to enjoy this beautiful place.

Construction of the water terrace will start in midFebruary. Strandzuid will also build three jetties for boats, which will be located at the quay of Strandzuid.

Strandzuid is a vibrant urban beach complex, located on the RAI complex, offering informal event space and a harbour with connection to the Amsterdam canals.

news from the Netherlands

NEWS FROM THE NETHERLANDS

NEW MEDICAL BUSINESS PARK TO BOOST AMSTERDAM'S LIFE SCIENCES INDUSTRY

A dedicated hub for innovation and collaboration Construction has begun on a new Medical Business Park in Amsterdam to stimulate innovation in the life sciences and health sector.

Amsterdam University Medical Centre (UMC) and the City of Amsterdam will develop around 100,000 square metres of space in the grounds of the UMC in Amsterdam Zuidoost. The buildings will include communal lab facilities and offices where medical companies and research institutions can work and collaborate.

Dutch developer Kadans Science Partner has started work on the first building of the park, Plus Ultra Amsterdam. Set to be completed by 2023, it will be a modern, BREEM-excellent sustainability rated building.

Future labs will comply with high classification requirements and offer scope for simultaneous use by several parties.

Deputy Mayor for Economic Affairs Victor Everhardt said: “The Medical Business Park stimulates innovation in Life Sciences & Health. The area meets the increasing (international) demand for lab space. Because lab space is shared, knowledge can also be exchanged. By building the Medical Business Park, we are creating high-quality employment opportunities for the region. We are currently in talks with other parties interested in developing in the field. This illustrates the opportunities that lie in this area.”

A thriving life sciences industry The development is a boon for Amsterdam’s already thriving life sciences and health sector. The city’s high concentration of research institutions, universities and medical centres thrive on cooperation. They’re joined by businesses and startups leveraging cutting-edge technology to advance knowledge, and boosted by the presence of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). In 2021, an Elsevier report on the state of science research and innovation in 20 global cities found research from Amsterdam has the third highest scientific impact in the world.

NEWS FROM THE NETHERLANDS

2021 RANKINGS: AMSTERDAM AND THE NETHERLANDS EXCEL IN TECH, SUSTAINABILITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE Another year has come to a close with Amsterdam and the Netherlands making bigger strides than ever in business, from tech innovation to scientific impact.

We’ve rounded up the rankings and reports that defined the Amsterdam Area in 2021 and give an idea of milestones to come.

One of the safest and happiest places in the world In 2021, Time Out named Amsterdam the world’s second-best city and an “environmentally aware metropolis”. The Netherlands was also named the fifth happiest country in the world in the UN’s World Happiness Report, scoring highly in trust in public institutions, mental health and well-being, employment satisfaction and social support. Meanwhile, The Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Amsterdam the sixth safest city in the world.

A promising environment for startups and scale-ups Amsterdam held its top five position in the fDi and TNW Tech Cities of the Future ranking, which assesses cities on foreign direct investment, startup environment and innovation. The city scored highly in FDI Performance and Startup Environment, reflecting its large number of FDI projects in IT and software services and its range of financing options for startups.

Also this year Amsterdam was ranked world’s 4th best city for foreign investment, climbing four places since the previous ranking in 2018-19, and placed in the top 10 cities in Europe for scale-ups, thanks to supportive economic policies and a strong ecosystem.

NEWS FROM THE NETHERLANDS

A record-breaking year for tech Amsterdam is the fifth biggest European hub by capital invested, attracting $3.6bn in the first nine months of 2021, compared to $893m for the whole of 2020. The State of European Tech report also found Amsterdam’s tech pioneers Adyen and Mollie helped boost the Netherlands’ - and Europe’s - position as a global tech power. In 2022, Adyen is set to be the first European tech company founded post-2000 to hit the $100bn mark, making it a hectocorn.

One of the most digitally connected places in Europe The Netherlands ranked 4th in Europe in the EU’s Digital Society Index thanks to fast connection speeds and comprehensive digital infrastructure. The index found people in the Netherlands remain well above average in digital skills, and the number of trained tech specialists is steadily increasing.

A greener city Efforts continue across sectors to improve sustainability in business. Although more work needs to be done, Amsterdam is heading in the right direction. Schroders found Amsterdam’s environmental policies and ambitions are the best in Europe. Amsterdam also topped the green finance ranking this year for its sustainability-minded finance services.

Reigning world number one in English proficiency The Netherlands once again ranked the best non-native speaking nation for English language. The research from Education First finds a correlation between English proficiency and economic productivity, talent competitiveness and global innovation.

World-leading scientific impact and innovation During almost two years of a world-changing pandemic, science and technology have moved at lightning speed.

In 2021 a new report found scientific research in Amsterdam has the third highest impact in the world.

Meanwhile innovation in the Netherlands is making waves globally. The Netherlands claimed a top 10 spot in the coveted Global Innovation Index 2021, which measured countries on investments in innovation amid the toll of COVID-19, where new ideas are critical for post-pandemic economic growth.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

By Norman Lenden

NEW! In this new section we talk to various people who have a connection with RAI Amsterdam.

This time we talk to Nathan Reuby of Selected Global Events.

What do you enjoy most about being an organiser / entrepreneur?

The opportunity to put our stamp on the events industry, one where we can forge meaningful relationships and become part of the industries we are working with. A shared theme running through both of us, and which has been apparent for the 12 years that we have known each other and successfully worked together, is our constant desire for the best customer service and endless search for perfection. This ethos and culture will be reflected in our events as we strive to work closely and form genuine relationships with all of those we work with whilst meticulously ensuring world class events.

Most notably however, the success and development for the companies and industries that we work with is of the upmost importance, and, is a fundamental expectation from us as a company What do you find most challenging about your business?

As perfectionists I suppose the constant requirement for perfection is what gives me even more grey hair! Learning to maybe accept that things are sometimes out of your control is definitely something I would need to adapt to. The pandemic is of course an obvious issue for everyone associated in the events world but as we slowly start to learn to live with the virus it I believe events will begin to prosper again.

What have been your most significant failures, and what did you learn from them?

As a fairly young company none have come to light just yet. I am sure that as we progress some will present themselves though What made you decide to choose for Amsterdam as the destination for your next event?

SELECTED GLOBAL EVENTS Select Global Events are a dedicated team of event professionals with over 35 years of combined experience launching and managing B2B events globally. Attention to detail, customer service and the passion to deliver for our clients, attendees, speakers, suppliers, partners and valued staff is at the core of our commitment.

Silicone Expo Europe joins Silicone Expo USA as the world’s first dedicated commercial trade show and conference for the Silicone industry. 150+ global exhibitors from the entire manufacturing and extended supply chains (of elastomers, resins, fluids and gels) will be pitched face to face with 3,500+ buyers and delegates from a multitude of the industries served.

March 14th-16th 2023, Rai Amsterdam

Who doesn’t want to spend a few days in Amsterdam? This was the response from a number of prospects when we were undertaking our early research and gave us the confidence to consider Amsterdam. Serving 320 global destinations every day, Amsterdam offers quick and easy access for international show participants. With an abundance of hospitality offerings, 40,000+ hotel rooms and 90% of the people speaking English, Amsterdam is the perfect location to host Silicone Expo Europe.

How do you view the future of the industry you serve with Silicone Expo?

Silicones are amongst the world’s most important and adaptable materials that are used in a huge amount of industries. All around us in everyday life is a silicone based product, yet, rather surprisingly this sector did not have its own dedicated meeting place. It does now and we are so excited to work with the industry and give it the platform it deserves. The future for Silicone is bright and we are delighted to be part of it.

Innovation 'RESPONSIBLE DATA USE IS ABOUT TECHNOLOGY AND CULTURE'

INTERVIEW WITH THE LEAD DIGITAL ETHICS AT DELOITTE

INNOVATION

By Mirjam Streefkerk How do you translate the warmth of people and their values and norms into cold technology, consisting of ones and zeros? That is what digital ethics or responsible data use is all about. “To really do something with this, we need to help each other and learn from each other,” says Hilary Richters, Lead Digital Ethics at Deloitte.

Justice is the common thread in Hilary Richters’ life.

“I’ve always stood up for the people no one cared for.

And now I still do.” Because fairness is at the heart of responsible data use, she explains. With all these new technologies, data and algorithms, the human dimension must remain central.

“Many organizations understand that they have to do ‘something’ with it, but they are not doing anything yet. The common denominator is that they don’t really know how to get started. I understand this struggle. Responsible use of data is not only a major technological change. It also requires a change in culture. Many organizations have been working in the same way for tens of years and have collected data for just as long. That makes this subject even more challenging.”

In her role at Deloitte, Richters has already convinced many organizations of this truth. But as far as she’s concerned, we’re not there yet. “The subject of digital ethics blew over from academia to the corporate world a few years ago. When we started our Digital Ethics program in 2019, it was not yet a popular topic.

People thought it was a little strange. Fortunately that is different now. I see that companies do consider it an important topic. Unfortunately, I also see that this topic is not yet at the top of the priority list. Some organizations are still struggling with the ‘how’ question. But the fact that they find it important is at least a start.”

Childcare benefits scandal

Mindset: creative and innovative

Some organizations are now working on digital ethics out of their own interest. They believe that it suits their role in society to handle data in a responsible manner. Others have been awakened by the many scandals surrounding this subject. Just take the Dutch childcare benefits scandal, which has dominated the front pages in recent years. Or the reporting about algorithms that are based on historical data with many biases, which discriminate against certain target groups. “And then there are the organizations that are waiting for regulations. Because they are busy with issues that are higher on their priority list. Or because they are afraid that – if they anticipate the rules – they will set up an ethical framework that will soon not fit within the new legislation and regulations,” says Richters.

How you approach this depends on your mindset.

“You can see digital ethics as yet another limitation, but you can also look at it in an innovative way. A bit like the chef who has developed a great three course menu but also has to deal with punters who suffer from allergies. They could say: ‘Those guests needn’t come here’. Or say: ‘I won’t change anything, but I also won’t say anything about the allergens’, with a risk of people getting sick and the restaurant suffering reputational damage. Or say: ‘My goal is to provide that great taste sensation. How do I do that for the widest possible audience?’ That is creativity and innovation!”

INNOVATION

Responsible data use is above all a subject that brings opportunities. “If you as an organization use data and technology to optimally serve large groups of consumers, you can use this topic to increase consumer confidence. As an organization, you can show that you deserve the loyalty of your current and future customers. If you work for a public organization or an organization that is very tightly regulated, you probably also use data technology to stay costefficient. Even then, the trust of citizens or customers is important. If they won’t give you their trust, you cannot continue to use more extensive digitization within the organization.”

There are several ways to get started with digital ethics. “I see that good steps are being taken in all sectors. The most important success factor is that senior management puts this on the agenda. In addition, you should especially look at what suits your type of organization. Some organizations start training their employees, others immediately start thinking about how responsible data use translates into their technology-driven products.”

Tada and AMdEX The Board has also put responsible data use high on its agenda. In 2017, the Board, together with partners, already drew up the manifesto Tada. It contains the six values for a responsible digital city. “That’s a very good initiative, because you need a common language and frameworks when you talk about this topic. Therein lies a direct challenge: how can you best operationalize these six values and apply them in practice? That is exactly what I often hear from my customers. They know this is necessary, but what is the next step?”

AMdEX, another Board initiative, is one of the answers to that question. AMdEX wants to enable a secure and reliable data exchange between organizations and is investigating various use cases for this, for example in collaboration with the University of Amsterdam.

Also, KLM is currently working with AMdEX partners on how to securely share data about aircraft maintenance.

Richters therefore hopes that the Board will continue to bring people together around this subject. “Actually, there should be a platform where you always discuss the how-question. A testing ground where people can submit their questions and where they are challenged by others from the network. And that should not only concern technical issues, but also vision, governance, procedures, training and much more. The Board and the forerunners can be an inspiration for the parties in the region that are not that far yet. This way you create a snowball effect.”

INNOVATION

SPARK: CELEBRATE THE SUSTAINABLE WITH ORGANIC FIREWORKS How can we celebrate in a sustainable way? Artist Daan Roosegaarde got inspired by the magical light of fireflies and the desire to modernize the tradition of fireworks. The result is SPARK Bilbao, a poetic performance of thousands of biodegradable light sparks that float organically through the air, designed by Studio Roosegaarde. The Wellbeing Summit in Bilbao-Biscay, Spain, is the first in the world to show this innovative design for sustainable celebration, just before the Chinese New Year.

Spark Bilbao SPARK Bilbao is an alternative for traditional and polluting celebrations like fireworks, balloons, drones and confetti. The premiere of SPARK Bilbao can be watched from today on the website of studio Roosengaarde. Through a combination of design and technology thousands of light sparks made of biodegradable materials are moved soundlessly by the ever changing wind. SPARK is inspired by fireflies, flocks of birds and the starry sky. In the central park of Bilbao this approximately 50 x 30 x 50 meters large cloud of SPARK brings the visitors to wonder and reflection about the connection with themselves, each other and nature. SPARK will be exhibited in Bilbao-Biscay from 1 to 3 June 2022.

"FOR MANY PEOPLE THE CURRENT SITUATION FEELS RESTRICTIVE, AND TRADITIONAL FIREWORKS ARE INCREASINGLY BANNED. SPARK BILBAO IS A PLACE OF WONDER AND A NEW SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVE TO CELEBRATE TOGETHER." - DAAN ROOSEGAARDE

Sustainable alternative Artist Daan Roosegaarde is motivated to turn our fear of the future into curiosity by designing realistic alternatives. SPARK Bilbao invites everyone to be part of an environmentally friendly future. SPARK celebrates the interconnectedness between man and nature, and allows traditions to be preserved in a new way.

Furthermore it is a sustainable alternative for events that want to promote reflection and festivity, like the Olympic Games, the Fourth of July, New Year's Eve or other communal celebrations.

RAI in Society

RAI IN SOCIETY

HEART FOR PEOPLE AND THE ENVIRONMENT With 'Heartwarming Amsterdam', RAI Amsterdam gives its F&B organisation a human face. Local products are given an edge and what is left over after an event is given a second chance at the Salvation Army or the Food Bank. Meanwhile, the role of food in the overall exhibition experience is becoming increasingly important.

Most exhibition and conference centres outsource their food & beverage to external catering parties.

Worldwide, only three major exhibition and convention centres do the F&B themselves, including the RAI. "This offers unprecedented advantages," says ExecutiveChef Rientz Mulder. "The events world has changed a lot in the last 10 years. Food and drink have become an important part of the total experience.

Every organiser has a unique event concept, which must be reflected in the F&B. From breakfast meetings to walking dinners, gala dinners and more. Because we do everything in-house, we can move with the wishes of the client. We have developed tailor-made F&B propositions for this purpose. Our entire organisation is set up for this, with one central kitchen, four fixed satellite kitchens and a complete range of mobile equipment."

*HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) is a food safety system.

Companies that handle food use it to prevent the safety of our food from being compromised.

For each phase in the production, the company maps out what can go wrong and how this can be prevented.

RAI Amsterdam distinguishes different F&B streams and has four restaurants under its own management. This requires a tight organisation, for example in the field of HACCP*. In order to guarantee hygiene and quality, the RAI uses MyCCP. "Everything is digitalised," says Rientz. "We work with digital checklists on the iPad or phone. The temperature of freezers and refrigerators is measured automatically.

For all manual measurements, we use a Bluetooth meter.

Each measurement is registered immediately, after which you are automatically informed whether you need to take action. In this way, all steps to guarantee hygiene are actually taken. With so many F&B flows we cannot afford any mistakes, but by digitalising the HACCP the margin of error is extremely small.

This article previously appeared on Bidfood

RAI IN SOCIETY

Heartwarming Amsterdam It is a sign of the innovative spirit of an organisation that attracts over one and a half million visitors a year (preCorona). Which is not to say that the RAI does not have an eye for its own 'backyard'. With 'Heartwarming Amsterdam', the exhibition and convention centre shows its most human side. "This project started in 2010," says Rientz. "Here we work with local products or producers wherever possible. Think of goat farm Ridammerhoeve, Kesbeke and mushroom grower Mycophilia.

We like to give something back to the Amsterdam region. By choosing 'local', we keep the food miles down and support the economy. Our preference is for producers who themselves are also socially responsible.

Such as Stadskwekerij Osdorp, where people with a disadvantage on the labour market work. We also make our residual streams available to the Voedselbank (Food Bank) and the Leger des Heils (Salvation Army). Every Wednesday, for example, we deliver 80 to 100 meals for the Salvation Army's Soup Bus, and on Thursdays we sponsor lunch for the Bosshardt House in 'Noord'.

"BECAUSE WE DO EVERYTHING IN-HOUSE, WE CAN MOVE WITH THE WISHES OF THE CUSTOMER".

Finally, what does Rientz expect from 2022? "Apart from corona, I think that food and drink will play an even bigger role in the total event experience. It has developed from a side issue to the main issue. It is no longer about the food and drink in itself, but about the entire experience. It's about creating a total experience, for example with pop-up restaurants, guest chefs, baristas and dishes that tie in with the organiser's theme. theme of the organiser.

Sustainability is also playing an increasingly important role. Vega(n) is no longer put in a corner, but is fully integrated into the total food experience. The same applies to halal, kosher and gluten-free. The F&B market is becoming bigger and more complete."

RAI IN SOCIETY

RAI KITCHEN TURNS LEFTOVER GREETZ CHOCOLATE LETTERS INTO TREAT FOR GGD

By Katelijn Wilhelmy

This week, the RAI's kitchen staff, also known as the Basement Chefs, turned leftover chocolate letters from the Sinterklaas celebrations into a delicious treat for all the RAI's staff. The no fewer than 438 chocolate letters from Greetz were looking for a new destination. Thanks to the initiative Stichting Amsterdam Verbindt, the remaining letters were linked to the RAI's Basement Chefs. The question was simple: 'Can you make something from this leftover chocolate for the heroes in care?

The RAI master bakers knew just what to do. They transformed the chocolate into a delicious treat that was handed out on Thursday to all the GGD personnel working at the test and vaccination location in the RAI. In this way, not only was waste avoided, but a beautiful connection was made, with a tasty and heart-warming result that is a treat, isn't it?

Foundation Amsterdam Verbindt AmsterdamVerbindt is a movement that works towards an Amsterdam where people look out for each other and help each other. It is about offering extra opportunities to people who need them. Amsterdammers of all ages, from North to South, participate. Meeting each other and giving something back to society together.

The business community and private individuals join forces and broaden their horizons.

hotspots

HOTSPOTS

BENEFITS FOR BUSINESS TRAVELLERS Now that the Netherlands is open again and we are able to welcome (inter)national guests, we would like to draw your attention to the advantages that our partner Air France KLM can offer you.

Air France KLM Global Meetings & Events is a special programme that allows organisers of international events and participants to save on travel costs.

The programme was originally developed with the French market in mind. In recent years, it has been extended to other international markets of Air France and KLM. Together, they offer global air travel coverage. "Four years ago I was recruited to expand the programme and raise its profile worldwide," says Senior Global Account Manager Jack Urlus. "The way it works is very simple. By choosing Air France KLM Global Meetings & Events, participants in international exhibitions, events and conferences are eligible for attractive discounts of up to 15%. In addition, organisers can take advantage of the Air France KLM Global Meetings & Events rewards programme to earn free airline tickets."

Basic requirements.

The event must have at least 10 participants The event must be registered online, via the global meetings website Air France KLM must be identified as the preferred carrier in the statement.

Discount up to 15% Participants can travel at any time from 7 days before to 7 days after their event and still qualify for a discount of up to 15%.

Flying Blue members, or frequent flyers, also earn 'flying blue miles', with all the associated benefits. Up to 9 passengers can be included in one booking. And, not unimportantly, partners can also travel at the same special rate.

"The discount also applies to short stays," Urlus explains. "Most conferences last three days and two nights, and participants prefer to fly out as late as possible and then return home as quickly as possible. Compared to regular bookings, using our PR can be very advantageous. Especially when it comes to intercontinental flights."

Unique Event Code

The benefit applies to every passenger who participates in the event. As Urlus explains: "Air France KLM Global Meetings & Events is, as we say, 'From anywhere in the world to anywhere in the world'. It doesn't matter how the flight is booked: directly online through the programme or through an IATA travel agency. The discounts and conditions apply anytime, anywhere."

Organisers who register their event will receive an 'event ID' linked to their own booking page. On this page, participants can book their flight using the event code. Urlus: "The participants only have to fill in where they are coming from and when they want to arrive and depart; we already know where they are flying to. It couldn't be simpler."

It all starts on the website: www. globalmeetings.airfranceklm. com. Organisers can register their event here. They then receive a confirmation e-mail and a communication package with links and logos that can be placed on the relevant event website.

Visitors and exhibitors can book their flights directly with Air France, KLM or one of the codeshare partners (partner airlines with an AF or KL flight number) on the event website. "But, as mentioned, they can also go through a travel agent if they prefer," Urlus said.

The advantages for the organisers: the online travel tool makes booking the flight super easy and it saves the participants in travel costs. But that is not all. Urlus: "Via the booking page, the organiser has a good overview of the number of bookings. The promotional material we provide ensures that the event website has a professional look." "And, last but not least, organisers can earn free flights. For example, suppose 100 long-distance tickets are booked, then they are entitled to 5 free tickets."

HOTSPOTS

EXPLORE AMSTERDAM FROM THE WATER There is something magical about sailing through the canals of Amsterdam. Flagship Amsterdam offers intimate and small-scale boat tours with local guides who will tell you all about the history of Amsterdam. In addition, all boats are equipped with a bar so you can experience Amsterdam in a very relaxed way.

One of the hotspots worth seeing from the water is De Jordaan. In this famous working-class area, people used to live very close together, without sewers and running water. Now it is one of the most expensive neighbourhoods and very popular because of its nice bars, unique canals and stately mansions.

The Amsterdam canals are easy to reach, as you can board the boat at the StrandZuid boarding point. This is located at the rear of the RAI. A carefree trip and catching up with colleagues while enjoying the Amsterdam view.

THE TRAVELLER OPENS NEW RESTAURANT NEAR THE RAI The Traveller Zuid is a lively meeting place for local residents, entrepreneurs, students and event visitors who are welcome at any time of the . day. The Traveller is open from early morning until late at night.

The menu offers a mix of delicious traditional world dishes, prepared in a state-of-the-art open kitchen. Many dishes can be shared, as is customary in various countries. You can enjoy a tantalising breakfast, salad, bowl, lunch, share-dinner or just a bar bite taste bomb.

The extensive drinks menu also has an international flavour with "special" beers, wines from all continents, exciting cocktails, G&Ts and much more.

The Traveller South is decorated in a fresh, modern style and the atmosphere is relaxed. A grand staircase leads to the Upper Deck floor (surrounded by glass) and is for groups.

In the summer, there is room for a large terrace outside on the dynamic Scheldeplein. And every week, a DJ plays the best music during the cosy Friday afternoon drinks.

The beautiful and striking restaurant is located at the Europaplein, next to the RAI.

COLOPHON www.rai.nl welcome@rai.nl Twitter.com/RAI_Amsterdam Linkedin.com/raiamsterdam Facebook.com/AmsterdamRai Instagram.com/raiamsterdam

Publisher: RAI Amsterdam Concept & design: RAI Amsterdam Chef editorial officer: Norman Lenden Editors: Joost van Eupen, Astrid Nap, Amber Celikkol, Nils Vonder, Katelijn Wilhelmy.

Contributors: Mirjam Streefkerk, Bidfood, KLM-Air France, Flagship Amsterdam, Traveller, Amsterdam & Partners, Amsterdam Economic Board.

SEE YOU SOON IN AMSTERDAM