By Nadia Vanderhoof
Exhibitor Magazine has recognized the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando as a Center of Excellence in its 2021 list of the nation’s best convention centers for trade shows and events.
Honoring the best large and small trade show venues, this prestigious list judges based on a variety of criteria from 
facility and functionality, location and accommodations, service and execution, upgrades and expansions, and awards and industry participation.
“The OCCC continues to drive our industry forward with world-class facilities and innovative solutions to the current challenges,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “We are home to some of the most esteemed conventions and trade shows across the nation, and this award further affirms our competitiveness and industry standing.”
The Centers of Excellence list is an important resource for event planners, show organizers and exhibition managers throughout the U.S. Recognized for two consecutive years, the OCCC continues to enhance its facility and lead the conventions and trade show industry, particularly in response the current climate.
Among the first in the industry to release a strategic set of data-driven Recovery and Resiliency Guidelines, the OCCC continues to take extensive measures to secure a safe, functional and controlled environment for guests, attendees, planners and exhibitors.
In line with its three-pronged recovery strategy, the OCCC earned its Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) STAR accreditation earlier this year. As one of the largest accredited venues in this nation, this highly esteemed certification provides third-party validation for the safety practices employed at the Center, alongside providing a comprehensive framework for cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease control and prevention.
Furthermore, the OCCC released a first-of-its-kind medical concierge program with its destination partner Visit Orlando and Orlando Health. Offering personalized medical services and resources to all meetings and convention groups through 2020, this pioneering program further enhances the OCCC’s reputation for excellence.
Nadia Vanderhoof is Marketing and Communications Manager | Marketing and Communications Division for the Orange County Convention Center.
