New partners and a successful Seattle Exchange culminate in the Network’s largest IMEX America presence, with Dublin announced for Exchange 2027
DMC Network has hailed 2026 as its strongest year yet, following its largest-ever presence at IMEX America and a year of carefully considered growth across its global community of independent destination management companies.
In Las Vegas, 25 partners joined the Network’s stand, with a further 38 partners meeting clients on other stands. More than 700 guests attended its VIP evening at Jason Aldean’s, while the announcement of Dublin as the host of Exchange 2027 gave clients and partners another opportunity to look ahead together.
The results come in a year when consolidation has continued to reshape the DMC sector. DMC Network has strengthened its international presence by bringing in independent businesses whose owners and teams are rooted in the destinations they represent, responding to clients’ continued demand for local expertise and direct accountability.
Aoife Delaney, Managing Director of DMC Network, said: “There was a lot of discussion at the start of this year about consolidation and what it would mean for our industry. Throughout those conversations, our clients kept telling us what mattered to them: knowing the people behind their programmes and working with independent DMCs who have real knowledge of their destinations.
“That has guided our growth. We have taken time to find partners who share our values and who want to contribute to this community. Seeing that come together in our strongest year yet, and our largest IMEX presence, is something we are very proud of.”
New partners welcomed this year include Senator M&I in the Czech Republic and Juice Studios in Georgia and the South Carolina Coast. Both strengthen the Network’s coverage in important client destinations, combining established local relationships with the support of a wider international community.
September’s Exchange in Seattle demonstrated that approach in practice. The gathering brought together 120 clients and DMC leaders for more than 1,000 one-to-one meetings, with local partner Event Experience helping guests experience the destination through the knowledge and relationships of its team.
IMEX America built on those connections, giving planners access to partners from across the Network to discuss forthcoming programmes and explore destinations. The VIP evening at Jason Aldean’s brought that community together beyond the exhibition floor, allowing clients and partners to continue conversations and celebrate the year’s successes.
Delaney added: “The relationships are what connect all of this. A client meeting a new partner at IMEX, spending time with an owner at Exchange or catching up with a familiar face at Jason Aldean’s is getting to know the people they can turn to when it matters. As our footprint grows, that personal connection remains central to how we work.”
Exchange 2027 in Dublin will continue that focus, bringing clients and partners together for business meetings, shared learning and opportunities to experience the city with local destination experts.
