The HKCEC has a long tradition of attracting awards and recognitions from around the world, and in this issue of Headline News we are pleased and proud to announce some of the latest kudos to come our way. Locally, the Centre was recently designated as "Caring Company" by the Hong Kong Council of Social Service, in recognition of its contribution to social services in the community. The awards recognise companies that get fully involved with community needs and that encourage their employees to be socially responsible and active. Over the past year, the HKCEC has donated to "Project Shield" during SARS, entered employees in charity events such as the Two International Finance Centre Stair Run 2003, and joined the first ever 'Lai See Day' organised by the Salvation Army.

Internationally, the Centre has been voted as 'Asia Pacific's Leading Conference Centre 2003' for the second consecutive year at the Tenth World Travel Awards, the prestigious event where travel industry professionals have their voice. International exhibitions and conferences enjoy coming to the HKCEC, not least because of its superbly stylish and spacious design and layout. In fact, a recent edition of US-based EXPO magazine identified the HKCEC as the only convention centre in Asia which had significantly influenced design trends for urban convention centres in the U.S.A. Don't be surprised then if, next time you're at a conference in a new convention centre in the States, you feel that the surroundings seem strangely familiar!