ICC celebrates 35 years of hosting world-class events

The ICC – Birmingham’s largest and best-known conference and event venue - has celebrated its 35th anniversary.

Opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 12 June 1991, the ICC has since welcomed royalty and global leaders, and more than eight-million delegates to 15,000 events.

Since officially opening on the historic site of Bingley Hall – the UK’s first purpose-built exhibition hall – the ICC has continued to evolve to meet the needs of organisers and delegates.

Following a £13 million refurbishment in 2015, the ICC houses cutting-edge event technology, including digital screens and LED lighting systems.

In 2025, the ICC partnered with Levy UK&I, ensuring food sits at the heart of every event, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and 50 per cent plant-based menus.

The ICC has built a reputation as a destination for conferences and events.

The venue boasts10 flexible halls and executive spaces, allowing it to host anything from large-scale conferences to small meetings.

With 94 per cent of organisers recommending the ICC, the venue was also recently nominated for Best Conference or Event Venue at the 2026 Conference and Event Awards.

Philip Cooksey, managing director, NEC Conventions, said: “Looking back on the past 35 years makes us excited about what the future holds, while continuing to host great events that have the power to change, inspire and connect people and ideas in a uniquely collaborative way.

“The ICC’s story is still being written, and we are very excited for what’s to come.”