Event MetLife 2009 President’s Council (MPC)
Venue Mövenpick Resort and Spa Karon Beach, Phuket Company MetLife Insurance, Korea
Group size 1,580 in three waves
Date April 6-18

The brief
MetLife Insurance wanted an incentive programme to reward the firm’s top performers for their achievements during the previous year. MetLife sought a family-oriented programme because partners and family were also invited on the incentive.

Challenges
The incentive group of 1,580 people was divided into three groups, which all arrived and departed at overlapping times. It was a big challenge for the 382-room hotel to turn around rooms and deliver luggage within short timeframes.

The housekeeping department was strongly tested by the back-to-back check-outs and check-ins of up to 200 rooms at a time. Group one’s check-out of nearly 180 rooms, and 356 people, was done at 6pm, followed by a farewell dinner in the ballroom prior to their transfer to airport.

Each group’s itinerary followed the same daily formula. The client’s programme included an outdoor BBQ dinner, which was moved to the ballroom due to rain.

Execution
There were three group dinners during the event. Two were held at the hotel and one at an off-site venue. On the first day delegates enjoyed island tours, elephant trekking and city tours. Those who remained in the hotel could participate in Thai cooking and batik-painting classes.

The hotel converted part of its Playzone into Snoopy Café, which was equipped with a microwave oven, TVs, coffee and tea-making equipment, and internet stations for delegates. The off-site gala dinner took place at Phuket Fantasea, a night-time cultural theme park.

The next day was designated free time, with a team BBQ and award presentation in the evening. Entertainment included cabaret shows, Thai dancing and a children’s magic show.

Comment
Suran Kang, senior supervisor and conference organiser with MetLife, says: “We were impressed by the hotel before, during and after the conference, particularly their warmth and flexibility.”