This year marks a milestone that we're incredibly proud of: our 20th anniversary and also nearly a decade of Independence Day Conference (IDC). What began in 2006 as a gathering of like-minded professionals has become a beloved tradition in our network. It is a celebration of ideas, partnerships and the vibrant spirit of independent brokerage.
Over the past nearly two decades, IDC has become much more than a conference. It is the time of year when we reconnect and build relationships. It's a gathering of peers, a platform for innovation, and a showcase of memorable experiences that connect us across borders. As we prepare to celebrate our anniversary, let's take a moment to look back at some of the defining moments that have shaped IDC's legacy:
IDC Highlights Through the Years:
📍 2006 – Hamburg
The inaugural IDC, held on the terrace of our own office in Hamburg, brought together 62 guests from Germany and international partners, laying the foundation for everything that followed.
📍 2008 – Rome
Our first conference abroad – which was a bold step that took IDC international and set the tone for future events.
📍 2009 – Istanbul
A city that bridges Europe and Asia - perfect for our aim to connect with our global community.
📍 2010 – Chicago
IDC crossed the Atlantic, landing in the U.S. for the very first time. In the same year, we established our office and presence in the US market.
📍 2011 – Hamburg
There is always something special about returning home. Our third IDC in Hamburg brought together familiar faces, proving that sometimes the strongest connections are made in familiar places.
📍 2012 – Hong Kong
Another milestone year as IDC entered Asia for the first time. In the vibrant metropolis of Hong Kong, we dove into new market insights and expanded our network.
📍 2013 – Budapest
This IDC included a scenic cruise around the city and the visit of the Hungarian Parliament building. It was a celebration of culture and the importance of perspective in our evolving industry.
📍 2014 – Hamburg
Our fourth return to Hamburg showed how much IDC had grown. As our community expanded, so did the importance of our roots.
📍 2015 – Miami
A glamorous Anniversary Gala Dinner at the iconic Versace Villa, known for its opulent design, intricate mosaics, and timeless luxury—an evening we will always remember.
📍 2017 – Berlin
A glimpse into the future: a robot welcomed our guests at the legendary Hotel Adlon, combining tradition and innovation.
📍 2018 – Havana
A vintage dream: over 50 classic Cuban cars transported all our guests to our Farewell Party at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba.
📍 2019 – Vienna
Elegance at its finest where our guests danced the night away at the Opera Ball with traditional Viennese Waltz dance at Palais Ferstel.
📍 2020 – Digital
The pandemic forced us to cancel our NYC plans and brought about the first (and only) fully digital IDC.
📍 2021 – Prague
A step into the future: IDC went hybrid, connecting on-site and online participants for the first time.
📍 2022 – New York City
In the Big Apple and back in style, with a Gala Dinner at the Rainbow Room atop Rockefeller Center, echoing classic Frank Sinatra vibes.
📍 2023 – Ireland
A colorful celebration of Irish spirit, complete with a charity tombola supporting Butterfly Children.
📍 2024 – Barcelona
We set sail with the UnisonSteadfast Cup Sailing Regatta, a perfect blend of competition and camaraderie.
Here’s to nearly a decade of IDC – and to many more!
We can’t wait to welcome you to Munich and celebrate the next chapter of the future.