Hilton wins first-ever Sustainable...

The hospitality brand used a local supplier and repurposed materials to achieve the accolade

Hilton was presented with the inaugural Sustainable Stand Award at the 30th edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM).

The hospitality brand was praised by the exhibition’s independent panel of judges for its decision to engage a local supplier in the creation of its stand and its commitment to repurposing as many materials as possible over the coming three years.

To support its eco-friendly stand design, Hilton measured its environmental footprint with a carbon calculator and took steps to mitigate the impact of its catering activities throughout the show, in line with the company’s long-term F&B sustainability goals.

The ATM 2023 Best Stand Awards judges commended a number of other exhibitors for their sustainable efforts, including The Royal Commission of AlUla for paying close attention to the sustainable materials used in its stand’s design, and Switzerland Tourism for its ‘sustainability wall’ and the reusable modular stand system.

The Best Stand Design Award in the more than 150 square metres category, went to Saudia for the second year running. The kingdom’s flag carrier received praise for its use of digital screens and reflective flooring, which the judges said created ‘wow factor’.

The Best Stand Design Award under 150 square metres was presented to Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, whose showcase was inspired by the home of global superstar, Rhianna. The ATM judges commented on the design’s success in representing the feel of Barbados, as well as the innovative integration of digital screens.

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts was highly commended by the panel in this category for its layout and use of recycled materials.

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Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) was presented with the Best Stand for Doing Business Award, thanks to its impressive three-storey exhibition space.

Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority was highly commended in this category for its use of space, success in reflecting the emirate and eye-catching powerboat centrepiece.

Visit Maldives secured the Best Stand Feature Award, with judges remarking on the impact of its digital floor area. The striking display depicted a marine environment replete with whale sharks and manta rays, conveying the Indian Ocean destination effectively.

Arabian Travel Market exhibition director ME Danielle Curtis said: “Our judges were immensely impressed with the quality of this year’s stands, which demonstrated a range of innovative approaches to sustainability, functionality and hospitality.”

The ATM judges also extended their condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, Hilton’s former President – Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, who sadly passed away last week.

For more information, log on to www.wtm.com/atm