Stand Out Magazine Summer / September Issue 2020

EDITOR’S LETTER

SUMMER / SEPTEMBER 2020

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t this time of year I would normally be running from one field to the next, interviewing event organisers, operations directors, site managers and event suppliers about the weird and wonderful workings of “stand out” festivals and events. But we’re living in a different world. My diary is empty in comparison with previous years’. Yet, I’m far from bored and I am finding plenty to occupy my inquisitive mind.

For starters, you guys have kept me busy with calls and emails, Government has kept our industry waiting, and I have actually been out on site, in steelies and a hi-vis. I have absolutely no shame in admitting that I let out an audible squeal when I saw a stage – the first I had seen in months. It’s weird, I even think my heart beat faster. I know I’ve always loved this sector but you never fully appreciate something until it’s not there.

And that’s the scary thing. Some well-known names are disappearing from our landscape and many events professionals are being made redundant. Two studies by the National Outdoor Events Association and VisitScotland have revealed the harsh realities of the world we find ourselves living in – some suppliers will sadly not survive unless Government helps out. And soon.

Our industry associations still campaign on our sector’s behalf for more Government support and whilst we do have a restart date (October 1) events professionals remain tense – the Health Protection Regulations that can be enforced by local authorities are causing concern.

I still believe that our industry’s biggest challenge is the public’s perception of risk. It will have a huge impact on when our competent, capable and creative industry, that is amazing at assessing risk and mitigating it, can resume work. We don’t need to consult rehashed guidance. We need support and Ministerial representation that is understanding of our cause.

Happy reading,

@standoutmag

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