Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), the South Coast’s largest conference, exhibition, and entertainment venue, will return to The Meetings Show at ExCeL London on 25–26 June 2025, unveiling a new era of events excellence following a multimillion-pound transformation.

Operated by BH Live, a social enterprise and registered charity in partnership with BCP Council, the BIC has recently completed a significant refurbishment designed to elevate its status as a world-class venue for events, conferences, and exhibitions.

A future-ready venue
The extensive upgrade brings state-of-the-art digital enhancements and sustainability-focused infrastructure to the venue. New features include digital signage, cutting-edge AV technology, and energy-efficient lighting, bringing a sleek, modern, and eco-conscious edge to the BIC’s offering.

Meeting spaces have also been completely reimagined. The refurbished meetings hub and business lounge now offer flexible layouts, improved connectivity, and a contemporary design; ideal for workshops, breakouts, and media centres. On the first floor, the newly upgraded Bourne Lounge has been transformed into a stunning seafront-facing space, accommodating up to 200 guests.

Elsewhere, the venue’s signature event spaces have been revitalised with floor-to-ceiling windows, a new bar area, and enhanced facilities. The Purbeck Hall entrance has been redesigned with a living roof and a significantly improved foyer, now featuring new glazing, modern signage, and upgraded restrooms.

Culinary excellence by the coast
Further raising the visitor experience is Elevate Brasserie & Bar, opened in July 2023. This stylish, sustainably designed restaurant offers indoor and al fresco dining with panoramic sea views. Its diverse menu, featuring small plates, pizzas, and sharing platters, caters to both casual diners and corporate guests.

A destination with impact
The BIC’s transformation goes beyond physical upgrades. It signals a bold, long-term vision to position Bournemouth as a premier destination for large-scale events on the UK circuit. With new investment in technology, comfort, and service, the venue is now better equipped than ever to meet the demands of modern event professionals.

On behalf of BH Live, Sarah Stainer, Conference & Exhibitions Manager, shared;

“Thanks to recent multimillion-pound investment, the venue is more prepared than ever to exceed client expectations. We’re excited to return to The Meetings Show and share how the BIC has evolved into more than a seaside venue, but a year-round destination for events and experiences.”

Driving regional growth
The BIC plays a vital role in the region’s economy, driving year-round footfall through business tourism. It regularly welcomes a wide range of clients including corporate organisations, professional associations, charities, trade unions, religious groups, and public sector bodies. Major trade shows and high-profile conferences, such as political party gatherings, union congresses, and medical summits are among the centre’s regular fixtures.

Events hosted at the BIC create a ripple effect throughout the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, retailers, transport providers, and other service industries. This activity generates millions of pounds in economic value and supports local employment across multiple sectors.

Meet the team
BH Live’s events team will be on hand at Stand D61 during The Meetings Show to showcase the BIC’s versatile packages for conferences, exhibitions, team-building days, dinners, and speaker events.

For organisers seeking capacity, flexibility, and coastal appeal, with a team committed to sustainability and service excellence, the newly revitalised Bournemouth International Centre offers an unbeatable proposition.