This November, 4,000 workers are transforming Malta’s MMH shipyard—45,000 square metres of active port space—into a world-class venue for SiGMA Europe 2024. Led by Chief Logistics Officer Gunther Micallef Decesare, the ambitious three-week project has mobilised nearly 3,000 to 4,000 specialists from across the globe to build over 600 stands, crafting a the venue’s metamorphosis from a shipyard to one of Europe’s largest iGaming conference. Every phase, from the foundations of intricate displays to the final finishing touches, is coordinated with precision, designed to deliver an unforgettable experience in a space like no other.
Building a venue of this complexity typically takes around three weeks, Gunther explains. Initial stages focus on the construction of large stands, intricate displays, and the installation of the flooring. “The first stage is dedicated to the big and complicated stands, ensuring the foundation is robust,” he shares, outlining the strategic layering of tasks that will later allow for seamless assembly of the individual booths. With a facility that spans 45,000 square metres of indoor and outdoor space, the setup process is structured like a precisely timed symphony, where each phase builds on the last.
What makes the MMH site uniquely challenging is not just its size but its status as an operational shipyard, complete with its own harbour and stringent regulatory frameworks. This adds a layer of complexity to Gunther’s role. “We’re setting up in an active, operational shipyard, which demands careful coordination,” he notes. Every piece of equipment, worker, and schedule must align with both logistical demands and regulatory protocols, ensuring that the entire setup runs smoothly.
Beyond the logistical achievement, the transformation of 45,000 square meters at MMH represents a significant economic boost to Malta. For the local hospitality industry, the event brings an essential influx during a typically quieter period. Hotels, restaurants, and transport services will see increased activity, turning the event into a month-long revenue driver. “SiGMA brings an extra month of revenue to Malta,” Gunther affirms, noting how this high-impact conference fills the gap in tourism flow.
“We’re not just a Maltese pipe dream. SiGMA is a worldwide Maltese company, a leading iGaming company globally,” Gunther adds. The site manager, a Maltese national, shares that he had heard of SiGMA previously, having worked in events for 11 years, but seeing SiGMA here at MMH is “like a Big Bang.” He adds, “Those who have never heard of SiGMA before will know about them now.”
Building a world-class conference venue from the ground up is no small task. In Gunther’s words, “This is one of the most challenging projects, where there’s absolutely nothing in place.” Every element, from electrical outlets to Wi-Fi and even basic amenities like restrooms, must be meticulously planned. For high-end events like SiGMA Europe, every detail is essential to ensure that the 20,000-plus delegates experience a flawless event.
When asked what excites him most, Gunther speaks with a craftsman’s pride. “The satisfaction is in the build-up itself. You create something substantial, even if you don’t use it yourself.” His role as Chief Logistics Officer embodies a unique blend of precision and pride—an approach that ensures each SiGMA event offers attendees an unforgettable experience.
SiGMA Europe is not only a gathering for iGaming professionals but a representation of Malta’s growing prominence on the global stage. This year’s conference at MMH is set to showcase the best of what Malta and SiGMA have to offer, reflecting an ambition to continue elevating the event to new heights. With teams from around the world and a leader like Gunther overseeing the transformation, SiGMA Europe is poised to leave a lasting mark on Malta and beyond.
