Meetings November/December 2018

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • Issue 81

World Heritage Site

Cradle of Humankind

Explore prehistory

2019 EVENT

venues and trends

How to

project manage your event with technology

NEW YEAR, NEW VIEW

I wanted to create talkability around the work I do.

This is not only necessary for me as an industry player to showcase our innovation but also for our clients’ exposure.”

John Arvanitakis CEO and Founder of Chat’r

Avani Hotels & Resorts

R50.00 (incl. VAT) ISSN 1684-9264

A CONVERGENCE OF BUSINESS AND ADVENTURE

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Let Ideas Expand Beyond the Office

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Ntshondwe Conference centre offers a cinema style seating arrangement for up to 140, a lecture style for 90 or a single U-shaped for 45 delegates. Ntshondwe’s two breakaway rooms offers a cinema style seating arrangement for 30, lecture style for 18 and single U-shape for 16 delegates. Both Conference facilities offer various accommodation options, are fully serviced and can comfortably be adapted from one-day events to multi-day workshops.

Giant’s Castle Wedding Venue: (036) 353 3718 Maloti-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site Hilltop Resort Wedding Venue: (035) 562 0848 Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

CONTENTS

CONNECT WITH US www.theplanner.guru The Planner @theplannerguru @theplannerguru

BEST PRACTICE 09 G et your event technology project

management strategy right Successful events require everyone involved to share the same vision – from the first step through to the final goal.

16

FOCUS ON 10 Venue variety Trending on venues in 2019 12 Unlocking opportunity Meetings takes stock of what the SANCB has achieved.

DIVERSE SA

04 COVER STORY

Modern meetings

04 Avani Hotels & Resorts showcases why its offering is one that is keeping up with the times

African destinations

16 Meetings celebrates South Africa’s diversity by visiting the scenic yet slick Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West provinces.

MEETING PLACES

Cradle of Humankind

28 A Unesco World Heritage Site, Meetings goes on an expedition to the Cradle of Humankind

14 Ending 2018 on a high note It has been

another busy year at the JEC, with a plethora of exhibitions and events having taken place over the last year.

DESTINATION 16 Where bush meets business Ideal for a

meeting, Limpopo’s economy continues to surpass the national growth rate.

18 Somewhere between the north and west With the world’s richest platinum reserves and an ancient breath winding through its land, the North West is where magic happens.

20 W here the wild things are Meetings goes exploring in Mpumalanga.

MEETING PLACES 22 Get down to business with a difference

For a meeting with a difference, Fancourt’s versatility is unbeatable.

TECH CORNER 27 Staying ahead of the pack The SA

Investment Conference was a massive breakthrough for Johannesburg-based start-up Flock, which built the mobile app for the entire event.

06 THE BIG INTERVIEW

The Experiential Architect

06 Experiential architect John Arvanitakis of Chat’r Xperience speaks to Meetings about his passion for designing curated exhibition stands.

VENUE SHOWCASE 32 Whiskyed away The centre of Joburg came alive towards the end of October, with the finest whisky pairing experience coming to Rand Club.

TALKING POINTS 37 AIPC 38 SAACI + EGF 39 AAXO + Travelbags REGULARS

28

03 Ed’s letter 08 Tidbits 23 Sound bite 31 20 Questions 40 Miss Meet

Publisher Elizabeth Shorten Managing Editor Shanna Jacobsen (shanna@3smedia.co.za) Digital Editor Mpinane Senkhane Chief Sub-Editor Tristan Snijders Sub-Editor Morgan Carter Head of design Beren Bauermeister Designer Ramon Chinian Contributors Michelle Hinrichsen, Greg McManus,

Brad Montgomery, Rudi van der Vyver, Maurits van der Sluis, Leatitia van Straten Client Services & Production Manager

Jayshree Maharaj

Financial Manager Andrew Lobban Distribution Manager Nomsa Masina Distribution Coordinator Asha Pursotham Advertising

Vanessa De Waal +27 (0)84 805 6752 | vanessa@3smedia.co.za published by 46 Milky Way Avenue Frankenwald, Sandton 2090 PO Box 92026, Norwood 2117, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)11 233 2600 Fax: +27 (0)11 234 7274/75 www.3smedia.co.za Meetings November/December 2018 © Copyright.

All rights reserved 2018. www.theplanner.guru subscription R330.00 per annum (incl. VAT) | subs@3smedia.co.za ISSN 1684-9264 NOTICE OF RIGHTS Meetings is published bi-monthly by 3S Media. This publication, its form and contents vest in 3S Media. All rights reserved. No part of this book, including cover and interior designs, may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher, nor be otherwise circulated in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.

The authors' views may not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or associated professional bodies. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation and compilation of this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, completeness or accuracy of its contents, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. While every effort has been taken to ensure that no copyright or copyright issues is/are infringed, 3S Media, its directors, publisher, officers and employees cannot be held responsible and consequently disclaim any liability for any loss, liability damage, direct or consequential of whatsoever nature and howsoever arising.

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DYNAMIC

EQUILIBRIUM The more things change, the more they stay the same.

T

he MICE industry thrives on trends and, from what decor and catering to use to the various must-haves and add-ons that keep event organisers awake at night, there is so much that we need to keep up with… but are we perhaps overthinking this?

Going into 2019, we cannot ignore the importance of putting together an event that is really spectacular and creates a talking point. However, with so many other odds and ends that need to be remembered, it is important to focus on ensuring that, first and foremost, our messaging and objectives in this respect are met. Read more in our Big Interview on page 6, as John Arvanitakis from Chat’r explains how this balancing act is behind the success of his business.

We have a fantastic line-up of destination pieces in this with issue, with a spotlight on the Limpopo (page 16), North West (page 18) and Mpumalanga (page 20) provinces. We also travel through time to better understand our origins in our feature on the Cradle of Humankind on page 28 where we unpack why Maropeng is your next best meeting place.

As with most trends, technology tends to play a very strong role. Read on page 27 as Women in MICE technology partner Flock Platform successfully built the mobile app for the recent SA Investment Conference, which saw investors pledge more than R290 billion in investments into the country.

Ultimate Data Sciences’ Brad Montgomery

then weighs in on page 9 on how important it is to ensure your technology project management strategy is right.

As we conclude the old and start afresh with the new, it is an important time to reflect on our achievements – activity within the business events industry is at an all-time high and with organisations such as the South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) and local associations driving this, it is also important to understand their strategies and align ourselves to these accordingly. We speak to chief convention bureau officer Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, on page 13, to understand how the SANCB is growing the meetings industry in South Africa, while our associations weigh in with their views from page 37.

My personal aspiration for the events industry in 2019, especially here in South Africa, is to see us being recognised more on an international stage as the destination of choice. Between favourable exchange rates, a diversity of activities and access to every sort of experience on offer, while staying in the lap of luxury, Destination: South Africa is calling and the opportunities have never been riper for the picking.

We look forward to seeing what the New Year holds and wish you all the best over the festive season!

Shanna

TROPHIES - AWARDS - MEDALS +27(0) 12 327 5885 | info@khojagroup.net www.khojagroup.net | www.khojagroup.co.za

Everyone Everyonewent wentthe theextra extramile mile and andworked workedtogether togetherwith withour our team teamas as‘partners’ ‘partners’to toensure ensure the thesuccess successofofour ourAnnual Annual Congress Congressevent. event.

Amanda AmandaStops Stops

CEO CEO South SouthAfrican AfricanCouncil CouncilofofShopping ShoppingCentres Centres (SACSC) (SACSC)

Nestling Nestlingininthe theshadow shadowofofthe themajestic majesticTable TableMountain, Mountain,and andoverlooking overlookingthe thespectacular spectacularAtlantic AtlanticOcean, Ocean,the the CTICC CTICCisisaamagical magicalplace placewhere wherethe theimagined imaginedbecomes becomesreal, real,visions visionsturn turninto intostrategies, strategies,consumers consumersbecome become customers, customers,and andstrangers strangersfrom fromacross acrossthe theglobe globebecome becomecolleagues, colleagues,partners partnersand andfriends. friends.

SoSomuch muchmore morethan thanaamulti-purpose multi-purposeevent eventdestination, destination,this thisAfrican Africanicon iconcombines combinesexpansive expansivevenues, venues,impeccable impeccable service, service,cutting-edge cutting-edgetechnology technologyand andthe thefinest finestglobal globalcuisine, cuisine,tototransform transformyour yourconvention, convention,conference, conference, exhibition, exhibition,banquet banquetorormeeting meetinginto intoananextraordinary extraordinaryexperience. experience.

For Formore moreinformation, information,orortotobook bookyour yourevent eventatatthe theCTICC, CTICC,call call+27 +2721 21410 4105000, 5000,email emailsales@cticc.co.za sales@cticc.co.zaoror visit visitwww.cticc.co.za. www.cticc.co.za.

Cover Story

MODERN

MEETING A

vani, one of the fastest growing hospitality brands, appeals to millennial-minded travellers by tapping into their desire for affordability, quality and communal social spaces. In Southern Africa, the Avani hotels in Gaborone, Maseru and Windhoek all underwent extensive refurbishments, boosting the brand’s offerings in terms of food and beverage, and MICE business. The first of these refurbishments was a US$7 million refurbishment project of Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino in Botswana. The extensive renovation encompassed all public spaces and guest bedrooms with the aim of introducing Avani’s signature design hallmarks. The hotel also introduced Pantry at Avani, an inviting space where guests are able to eat, grab a quick bite or stock up their mini bars.

Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino underwent a N$24 million modernisation project. The redevelopment includes a new grand entrance

Avani Hotels & Resorts showcases why its offering is one that is keeping up with the times.

and Porte Cochere able to accommodate passenger vehicles and busses for self-drive guests and tour groups, as well as allowing pedestrian access to the hotel that is located on one of the busiest streets in town, Independence Avenue. The new lobby at Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino also features Pantry at Avani, as well as uplifted guest and business facilities, with the Pantry at Avani being located alongside the new business lounge and equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technology including an Apple iMac, a wireless colour printer and high-speed internet access.

Avani Maseru in Lesotho opened its doors in May this year after a R25 million rejuvenation project that included a refurbishment of all 105 hotel rooms, the hotel’s water supply and reticulation, public areas and restaurant.

Completed in just six months, the project has revitalised one of Maseru’s most popular destinations for city residents, business

travellers and tourists. The hotel’s expansive and adaptable conference venues offer solutions to every business requirement, while its diverse entertainment options, from the bustling casino to the sparkling pool, offer great entertainment at the end of the working day.

Bucket-list items Avani’s hotels and resorts are located in some incredible destinations, many of which, offer some ‘bucket-list’ experiences. This addresses the need of the MICE industry for different conferencing and meeting experiences. Clients are increasingly looking for a unique experience for their events, they not only want stateof-the-art conferencing environments to get the business done but also activities that will spoil delegates and put a different twist to their event. The entire conference needs to be memorable, hence there is a big trend to make conferences more creative and engaging. Even

Even with the current tough economic climate, there are still ways to provide creative experiences on a budget

4 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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#AVANIhotels About Avani Hotels & Resorts Launched in response to a growing global group of discerning world travellers whose priorities are service, style and value, Avani Hotels & Resorts is a contemporary, upbeat brand that delivers the perfect balance, with a focus on good sleep, effective social spaces, locally sourced sustenance and genuine service.

Avani welcomes guests to over 24 properties in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Seychelles, Mozambique, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Zambia, the United Arab Emirates, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand and Laos, with a pipeline of further openings in Australia, Asia, Indian Ocean and the Middle East. Avani Hotels & Resorts is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands.

with the current tough economic client, there are still ways to provide creative experiences to give all budget types the opportunity to put on great conferences, incentives and events.

Experience Avani Avani resorts and hotels are situated in locations that make them ideal to provide guests with experiential conferences, events and incentives. This makes it possible to create local experiences and adventures for guests, both on-site, with stunning events and functional conference spaces, and in the natural surroundings, providing the best activities and excursions that the area has to offer.

“Having a MICE destination such as Zambia or Lesotho, in particular, puts us in an ideal position to provide guests with a fun and inspiring event. There are plenty of activities for guests to enjoy, from discovering the Victoria Falls in Zambia aboard a helicopter – or

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by simply taking a leisurely walk – which is located five minutes away from Avani Victoria Falls Resort to pony trekking to Maletsunyane Falls, near Semonkong outside Maseru. It is activities like these that make a difference to the conference experience,” says Mark Havercroft, Minor Hotels Regional Director: Hotel Operations Africa.

It is also important to partner with a country’s tourism board, which is in a better position to make the entire experience wellrounded for the guests but also to ensure the pursuit of sustainable and equitable economic growth for the country.

“The MICE offering is becoming very much a creative and exciting space within Avani properties, with every team being committed to getting a full understanding of what the client is trying to achieve, and then executing something to match and exceed expectation, concludes Havercroft. Avani currently operates

24 hotels and resorts in 15 countries.

The brand recently debuted in Australia, New Zealand, and Laos. Avani currently has 15 new hotels in the pipeline, including a recent signing in Kota Kinabalu, Dubai, and a second Avani in Busan.

www.twitter.com/AVANI_Hotels www.fb.com/avanihotels 

www.youtube.com/avanihotels @AVANI_Hotels #AVANIhotels www.avanihotels.com

MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 •

5

big interview

The Experiential Architect With 20 years of industry experience under his belt, John Arvanitakis of Chat’r Xperience (pronounced ‘chatter’) is no stranger to the world of eventing. These days, though, his focus is on what he loves most – designing customised stands that become talking points at exhibitions.

W

hen it comes to putting together an event, John Arvanitakis has been there, done that, got the T-shirt, and won a few awards in the process.

“I have made a name for myself in the industry; however, with a shift towards a more youthful client base, I felt that it was time for me to change my focus and look at niche elements within the same space,” says John, who is the CEO and Founder of Chat’r Xperience, a brand engagement agency specialising in building curated exhibition stands.

After giving it a great deal of thought, it became clear to John that what he most enjoyed about the past 20 years of his career was the creative side. “My passion as a kid was to be an architect. Designing exhibition stands brings out

creative elements and although it’s not a permanent structure, it is still something that requires construction,” he notes.

Over the past 20 years, John has been involved in events of every sort and has helped launch several start-ups. He knows the ins and outs of the industry like the back of his hand – from who the various players are to the associations and standards that oversee them. He has also worked with some of the biggest agencies on events and activations, including Ogilvy, Ireland/Davenport, FCB, Leo Burnett, Publicis Groupe and Joe Public.

Despite his professional achievements, John admits there was a point during which he felt his enthusiasm for the industry wane. But, with a sharper focus on his true passion – building curated exhibition stands – and an accompanying

Standard Bank’s stand at the Africa Energy Forum (The final product) renewed sense of energy, Chat’r started gaining more momentum as a business. In the last year, it has flourished, and has extended its footprint to a global audience, having this year built an exhibition booth for the 22nd International Aids Conference in Amsterdam on behalf of the South African National AIDS Council and South Africa’s National Department of Health. In addition, Chat’r also put together a stand for Standard Bank at the Africa Energy Forum, held in Mauritius in June. As well as having worked across Zimbabwe, Namibia and Mozambique, international cities where Chat’r has managed projects include London, Dar es Salaam, São Paulo, Maseru and Barcelona, making Chat’r a truly global operator and one of a few South African companies with international stand – building experience.

The differentiator 8th SA AIDS Conference 2017, Durban

Above and below: 22nd International AIDS Conference2018 in Amsterdam

6 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

While John can rattle off the names of some heavy hitters within the exhibition space, he realised after launching Chat’r that he had to somehow distinguish his business from all the rest. “Yes, there are great players in the industry but I had to understand what I was going to do to really disrupt the market,” he says.

Reflecting back on his experience within the activation space, and more broadly the eventing industry, John believes that this is what has given him an advantage that some of his counterparts have perhaps not been as privileged to have.

“I wanted to see how I bring those skills and expertise into building each exhibition stand and how I could make this something that took into consideration the client’s broader marketing strategy rather than just putting up the stand for an exhibition and saying: ‘Here you are’.”

John understands that, with such a large investment, more can and should be done to ensure that clients get the most out of their stand. He is clearly determined when it comes to Chat’r’s role within the industry and goes above and beyond to create something of value and meaning. “I want to see them get a proper return on their investment

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#STANDDESIGN

on the actual construction of the stand and their participation at the various exhibitions or trade shows.

And I want to make it more engaging,” he asserts.

The ‘wow’ factor

John Arvanitakis is the CEO and Founder of Chat’r, a Level 2 BBBEE company that is a majority black-owned with 13.37% being black female-owned. Chat’r is a member of SAACI and the Event Greening Forum while John is a committee member of SAACI Johannesburg’s regional branch. He has had extensive experience within the eventing and exhibition industry over 21 years of experience in project management and the brand marketing environment.

+27 (0)83 415 2774 john@chatr.solutions www.chatr.co.za

@chatrxp

@ChatrXperience

The elusive ‘wow’ factor is what John feels gives Chat’r an edge and is where the Chat’r name came from. “I wanted to create talkability around the work I do. This is not only necessary for me as an industry player to showcase our innovation but also for the clients’ exposure. The more creativity and innovation used on an exhibition stand, the greater talkability exhibitors will get from the visitors coming to their stand.

“I truly try to make sure that every stand we do has the ‘wow’ factor and a different element in it – I want our stands to have character. So if, for example, a stand is supposed to be completely sustainable and green, it must provide that experience too. If we’re going green, then the stand must be recycled to ensure the correct message is given.” John believes that with an increased focus towards sustainability in eventing specifically, the industry needs to be especially careful when it comes to how it positions itself. As far as possible, Chat’r repurposes and upcycles its materials to keep costs and carbon footprints down to a minimum. Materials that are not destined for reuse by Chat’r are then donated to housing organisations, schools and charities. And if a client doesn’t choose a charity, then Chat’r chooses one on their behalf.

On the future, John believes that opportunities abound within disruption and technology. “Look at Uber and the likes of Airbnb… disruption is more than a buzzword – it is the way forward. You can see this not only in the exhibition industry but all around us,” he says. Globally, the trend in exhibition booths is to ensure that there is an experiential element to attract visitors and delegates to the stand. With John’s experience in this space and his creative design ability, Chat’r is perfectly poised to become a leading and trendsetting player in the exhibition industry; locally in South Africa, regionally into Africa, and beyond.

@chatrxp

Meetings’ must-know minutia

South Africa inspires at Africa Tourism Leadership Forum

Johannesburg Expo Centre recognised at PMR.africa Awards 2018 On 21 September, the Johannesburg Expo Centre was once again recognised as the Best Exhibition and Events Venue in Sub-Saharan Africa at the PMR.africa Awards 2018, which seek to recognise excellence across various sectors and industries.

The JEC received the prestigious PMR Diamond Award once again after having been recognised in 2007, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016 and again in 2017 in the same category. It was awarded with the Golden Arrow Award in 2014. Speaking on the award was Craig Newman, CEO of the JEC: “Being recognised once again at the PMR.africa Awards is a testament to how we at the Johannesburg Expo Centre are continuing to deliver a world-class service at a world-class venue, and we could not be prouder of this achievement.”

PMR.africa conducted its annual national survey on Event and Exhibition Venues in South Africa and rated these venues on a wide range of attributes, including access to the event facilities if/when required; catering (quality in relation to cost); cleanliness and preparedness of event space prior to build-up and competitive rates.

Faircity Hotels join the fray to phase out straws

Faircity Hotel Group introduced biodegradable straws from October this year. The group is one of many organisations worldwide working together to rid the world of plastic drinking straws forever.

Plastic straws took over from paper straws in the 60s and have been around ever since. Their use is astronomical too – some 500 million a day in the USA and a whopping 8.5 billion a year in the UK. There has been a clamping down on plastics and plastic particles, which eventually end up in the ocean and wreak havoc on the environment and marine life, with estimates forecasting that there could be more plastic than fish in the oceans by 2050. Straws are a particularly bad source of environmental pollution because they

8 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

At the first Africa Tourism Leadership Forum held in Accra, Ghana, key tourism stakeholders from across the continent shared insights and helped devise strategies for intra-Africa travel and tourism growth.

‘Destination Africa’ was the focus of discussion, placing the spotlight on tourism as a major economic pillar for diversifying African economies.

According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the tourism sector is anticipated to support over 380 million jobs by 2027.

Rudi van der Vyver, CEO, SAACI, who was a speaker at the forum, says it is truly encouraging that at least 70% of discussions revolved around business tourism. “There was general agreement that, with an increased focus on business events in Africa, leisure will follow. Many continentwide initiatives will follow from this forum, with tourism in all corners of Africa set to benefit.

Each panel will report back on at least one concrete project next year.”

The inaugural Africa Travel and Tourism Innovation awards, held during the event, highlighted and recognised gamechanging initiatives across the sector, with South African companies and organisations receiving huge accolades.

South Africa was named the most innovative business tourism destination in Africa, with the Western Cape and Cape Town the second runner-up in the category. Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve was the winner in the category for the most outstanding accommodation facilities, with &Beyond the second runner-up.

South African Airways was the first runnerup in the category for outstanding tourism transportation, after Ethiopian Airlines. FlySafair was the second runner-up.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation was the first runner-up in the Destination Africa – Lifetime Award category.

“SAACI congratulates all these winners and finalists,” says Rudi. “So much outstanding work is being done to make South Africa a top business events destination. Keep up the good work!”

are so small and light that they are difficult to recycle with normal machinery and their volume of usage results in them ending up in the ocean purely through human error too. They are left on beaches and just blow into the water because they’re so light – and their shape also allows them to travel easily through plug holes and drains.

Monet Du Plooy, Faircity’s group marketing coordinator, says: “In an effort to become more environmentally friendly, we are joining South Africa’s biggest eco-initiative to ban plastic straws in all our hotels and apartments and, already, only biodegradable straws are used throughout the group. It may seem like a small change, but it can have a big impact!”

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best practise

Get your event technology project management strategy right

IDEA PLAN ACTION

Successful events require everyone involved to share the same vision – from the first step through to the final goal. By Brad Montgomery*

E

vents professionals rely heavily on split yourself in two, you simply can’t. In that technology every step of the way, moment, you realise you need someone on-site which is often taken for granted. And, with you that understands the technology and with so many technology solutions available, that you can rely on to solve the problem. What knowing which is the best fit for your event you need is a technology project manager. is not always easy.

What is a technology Most of the time, more than one solution is project manager? needed to bring your vision to life. From the A technology project manager is like any other event website that drives the registration project manager. They keep every technical process, to temporary on-site offices, element and person on track to ensure the the list of technical requirements can successful delivery of the desired result. quickly spiral out of control if not managed Technology project managers work alongside correctly. Unfortunately, this does happen, other project managers, such as event as technology is only part of the organisers, to make sure the event bigger picture. If industry runs smoothly and without a professionals don’t A successful technical glitch. understand exactly how it all With the right skills and works, this crucial element event needs people can easily be left for last. with the right skills knowledge, technology project managers make sure every The fact of the matter is and knowledge at phase of the event, from that technology is already its heart inception to completion, makes becoming a bigger part of use of the right technology at the the industry than we realise. right time. From registration websites Imagine for a second, your event to setting up temporary on-site offices, with 900+ delegates opens… and the technology project managers work with other power cuts. The venue has a backup generator like-minded team members to get the job done but it won’t start up. Without power, your without compromising on time, cost or quality. registration process grinds to a halt – simply At Ultimate, we understand that successful because you forgot battery backup power for events don’t just happen; they are not just your name badge printers. Not only do you a long list of jobs to be done. They are a now have to try to find a solution to getting masterpiece of planning, management, the lights back up, but you need to prioritise organisation and communication – a carefully your delegates. As much as you wish you could www.theplanner.guru

choreographed sequence, where progress is smooth and steady.

In an ideal world, one step leads seamlessly to the next and every possible hitch has been considered and counted. A successful event needs people with the right skills and knowledge at its heart. Working together, a well-managed and motivated team with clear roles, responsibilities and reporting lines will carry an event to its conclusion without compromise.

Project management is a wonderful thing, and it is hard to imagine what the world would be like without it. Because at its best, project management is virtually invisible. It’s the absence of problems and prevention of failure.

But behind every successful project is an unsung hero – the project manager that kept everything and everyone on track to ensure the delivery of the desired result.

As technology project managers that specialise in the events, conferences and exhibitions industry, we not only understand the technology, but also have our eye on every detail so that you don’t have to. Simply put, we get things done. We work with you from the beginning to understand what you want to achieve so we can build a solution to help you achieve it, while meeting every deadline along the way. *Brad Montgomery is a creative director at Ultimate Data Sciences.

MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 •

9

F O C U S ON

venue variety

Selecting a venue for your next MICE function is not as simple as just choosing a few available dates somewhere local, so make sure you keep your finger on the pulse of the latest developments with Meetings.

E

venting and venues are inextricably entwined – without a space in which to host your event, not even the most beautiful and daring executions by the exceptionally talented and creative visionaries of our industry can come to life.

Gone are the days where the space itself was the only thing provided by venue managers and everything from audiovisual rigging to food had to be brought in. Now, the scramble to bring the best bespoke offerings to the

table has revolutionised the industry. In the world of eventing, your venue space is everything and is the first and foremost element in either making or breaking your event. Here’s what to look out for:

Amenable amenities Carefully consider all the amenities offered at your eventing premises. Technological capacities remain among the top growing needs of event, exhibition and professional

“The art challenges the technology, and the technology inspires the art.” John Lasseter

conference organisers (PCOs); along with audiovisual facilities and technical support, connectivity is becoming an increasingly important aspect of hosting a successful event, particularly if there is a strong drive towards social media. Interaction in the virtual space accounts for a great deal of your audience engagement, so, if the venue doesn’t allow for it, consider bringing in service providers who can get your venue jacked up from a connectivity perspective.

Flexibility When discussing space and layout options with your venue, look at the degree to which you can adapt this if need be. This can be challenging to bed down during the early stages of planning your event, particularly as numbers are not always finalised until just a few short weeks ahead of the event taking place; however, this is essential for having the ultimate feng shui layout, getting your venue space ready and ensuring it makes sense for attendees. Your own planning is crucial in this, so, ahead of a lastminute.com scramble, make sure you have a good idea of the numbers because the Goldilocks rule very much applies here – not too big, not too small – and flexibility with your venue will help get this just right.

Bespoke or broad From vision to execution, building your event from start to end requires a lot of input and resources, especially with staff on the ground.

Most venues, particularly ones accustomed to putting up large-scale events, will have

10 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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#venues

Health, safety & security While most venues take the health, safety and security of their patrons very seriously, the onus is on each organiser to ensure that regulations in this regard and the pertaining precautions are all adhered to, as there could be serious recourse should anything go wrong. Since 2010, new and far more stringent legislation has been in place, requiring that you obtain health and safety clearances and certification if you are hosting a large-scale event, particularly if this is public. If there is a traffic or security control concern, look at bringing in police or traffic departments to mitigate any potential issue.

Signage and chaperones Large-scale events are intimidating for some – from the disruption of their day-to-day routines, to getting to the event on time, finding parking then doing registration along with hundreds if not thousands of others –

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LESSONS THROUGHOUT TIME

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capacities to help bring together and manage your event. Venues will encourage you to explore their database of service providers, so, unless you have a preferred supplier who you know will give you a good costing, consider going through the venue as it could benefit your budget and save you a bundle.

Most venues have negotiated preferential rates to ensure continued long-term service and business; however, it is then likely that you will not be able to manage these suppliers and service providers as closely as you may need or want to.

Past What events in the past have worked well where, and why?

What events will continue to work well because of the venue?

Present

Where is your target market currently and does the venue support its current needs?

so expect that a good few delegates will have endured a fair amount of stress before they step foot in the venue. Ensuring with the venue that your event is well signposted, with staff to assist people who are unsure of where to go, will give some of your more anxious attendees assurance and allow them to enjoy their time at the event. Reaching out in a friendly manner with a simple “Hello, can I help you?” will put them at ease very quickly.

Ambience Ambience is what will bring together your entire event and your venue will be key in this.

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Future What are the latest venue trends and how do these meet the needs of a dynamic target market?

Develop a look and feel to set a mood or tone for your event that supports either its theme or your messaging. Rope in the venue for your event – sharing your vision and coordinating this with them will help ensure no stone is left unturned.

Develop your database of professionals who can help you realise your vision and make sure all your elements – everything from AV to layout, decor and catering – lend themselves to finer details of the execution. Bear in mind that anything less than ‘wow’ could mean a rather lacklustre event.

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MEET HERE. GROW ANYWHERE.

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU SUPPORT SERVICES FOCUS : ORGANISER/DECISION MAKER BIDDING SUPPORT • • • • •

BID SUPPORT BID DOCUMENT LOBBYING BID PROMOTION BID PRESENTATION

SITE INSPECTION SUPPORT • BID SITE INSPECTIONS • CONVENTION PLANNING SITE INSPECTIONS

CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT • PLANNING SUPPORT • VENUE AND SUPPLIER RECOMMENDATIONS

FOCUS : DELEGATE CONSUMER DELEGATE BOOSTING SUPPORT • MARKETING SUPPORT TO PROMOTE THE CONFERENCE • DELEGATE ATTENDANCE PROMOTION

ON-SITE SERVICES • SUPPORT TOWARDS ON-SITE ELEMENTS OF THE EVENT

FOR LOCAL DESTINATION EXPERTISE AND CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT, CONTACT THE SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU Visit our business events page at southafrica.net or email convention@southafrica.net or call +27 11 895 3000

Bu r e a u U P D ATE

unlocking

opportunity Six years ago, the South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) was formed with a directive to grow the country’s business events industry. Meetings takes stock of what this powerhouse has achieved and how it continues to drive not just the events industry in South Africa but the economy as a whole.

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he MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) sector is one that cannot be ignored. With more than a million business delegates arriving annually in South Africa, business tourism has resulted in 250 000 jobs being created both directly and indirectly, injecting R115 billion into our economy. “When you talk about meetings, you can imagine how many industries and people contribute to this,” says Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, chief convention bureau officer of the SANCB. Tasked with promoting South Africa as the business events destination of choice, the SANCB was launched in 2012 to nurture and breathe new life into the business events industry in South Africa. With more than half a million events under its belt during 2014 to 2016, the organisation is making significant headway.

A driving force On average, South Africa hosts 211 000 meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions each year – this is for both local and international delegations. More than a quarter of international attendees opt to stay for a longer period than the duration required for their business event.

South Africa is ranked as the number one meetings destination in Africa and the Middle East and 34th in the world, according to the International Congress and Convention Association. Through its current ‘Meet Here, Grow Anywhere’ initiative, the SANCB is leveraging the advantages of having a

fast facts Count on the SANCB for

Precise information, top-notch assistance and neutral advice on hosting and organising an unlimited array of business events in South Africa.

Dedicated assistance in providing all the support needed to ensure your conference, exhibition or incentive in South Africa is memorable for delegates and hasslefree for organisers and associations.

Expertise, strategic planning and destination knowledge when bidding for and hosting conventions.

South Africa National Convention Bureau

SA_NCB

meeting in South Africa, which has over 1 700 event venues, with the largest able to accommodate 20 000 visitors at any given time. Under Amanda’s stewardship and through its various awareness and marketing initiatives, the SANCB promotes South Africa to the corporate events market, both locally and internationally, as a vibrant, colourful experience that can only be found within our borders.

The game plan The SANCB is part of South Africa Tourism, the government agency responsible for marketing the country’s tourism and hospitality opportunities. As such, its activity is also aligned to that of government’s own objectives.

“We only bid for meetings that are aligned with the National Development Plan,” says Amanda.

Within government’s National Development Plan, which it hopes to have implemented by 2030, there are six pillars: uniting all South Africans around a common purpose; an active citizenry; growing an inclusive economy; the need to improve capabilities; the need for a capable and developmental state; and encouraging society’s leaders to work together.

In terms of bidding for events, the SANCB is pivotal, providing significant input and support during this process – from the research necessary to enhance the bid, to bid strategy, preparation and presentation, and government support letters with possible pledges of commitment. In addition, the SANCB assists with lobbying for the bid and carrying out site inspections as well as coordinating with provincial and city convention bureaus.

The SANCB also supports marketing, attendance promotion and support packages. And, in an effort to ensure every last detail is taken care of, it also arranges airport meet and greets, VIP hospitality suites, branding at events, visitor information services, and opening and closing ceremonies.

As for the future, Amanda is upbeat about the direction in which business events in South Africa are headed: “There is so much opportunity for us to grow and to be an influence beyond the tourism industry,” she concludes.

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VEN U E U P D ATE

ENDING 2018

ON A HIGH NOTE

Rand Show 2018 This year’s Rand Show was highly successful, with more than 200 000 people in attendance.

The positive impact on the economy was also significant, with approximately R50 million injected into the Gauteng economy and over 2 000 full- and part-time personnel hired.

Craig Newman CEO, JEC

It has been another busy year at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, with a plethora of exhibitions and events having taken place over the last year.

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his year’s exhibitions and events agenda was extensive and varied: with everything from the highly formal Nelson Mandela Foundation Lecture Gala Dinner in July to the adrenalin-packed annual Warrior Race and fun for the whole family at the Rand Show.

“The JEC offers a unique setting that can accommodate any client. We pride ourselves on the versatility of the JEC venue, as it caters for so many different needs,” says Craig Newman, CEO of the JEC. “Our exhibition halls are functional, spacious and conducive for doing business at trade shows.

Then there are the outside areas – these help create a festive and safe atmosphere for more family-oriented occasions. Outdoor exhibits, eating areas and exhibits at the lake contribute towards creating an atmosphere and event that is like no other on the African continent. The JEC is fast becoming the venue of choice for many

@jhbexpocentre1

@jhbexpocentre

“It is evident that the rest of the world is looking at us as key players in the industry.”

Johannesburg expo centre

“2019 will be our 125th anniversary, so you can expect us to really pull out all the stops to make it even bigger and even better. Mark it in your diaries now, as you won’t want to miss this one!” says Craig.

#JEC

Interbuild Africa 2018

Ultra South Africa 2018

Electra Mining 2018

Interbuild Africa returned to the exhibition halls at JEC from 15 to 18 August to mark its 50th anniversary. Its long and successful legacy has earned this event the title of Africa’s largest building services and construction exhibition.

One of the most renowned electronic dance music (EDM) festivals in the world made its debut in South Africa in 2013 with Ultra South Africa.

This year, the Electra Mining Africa exhibition, which is held every two years at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, was well attended by thousands who visited this year’s show over a five-day period to see the latest innovations across the mining, industrial, electrical, power, transport and related industries.

With over 20 000 parking bays and over 150 000 m² of space, the JEC’s indoor and outdoor multipurpose facilities were more than equipped to handle the volume of people attending the show and facilitate the largescale, often customised exhibitor stands.

Interbuild Africa, together with its worldclass co-located shows, is the definitive showcase for the full spectrum of building, construction and related industries. These shows offer exhibitors unparalleled access to an international audience of key industry buyers and influential decision-makers.

This year, the Ultra Music Festival presented Ultra SA’s fifth anniversary – bringing the world’s top EDM DJs with unparalleled stage designs and top-tier productions to more than 40 000 South African EDM fans.

From the highly anticipated annual Rand Show to Electra Mining Africa, Jehovah’s Witnesses International, Classic Car Show, Bauma Conexpo Africa, Major League Gardens, Interbuild and Ultra, to name just a few favourites, if 2018 was anything to go by, there is a lot to look forward to in 2019!

of South Africa and Africa’s most well-known exhibitions and events.”

The year also ended on a high for the JEC, with its eighth award won at the annual PMR. africa Awards. “A company or business can put as much money as possible into their own marketing efforts, but anyone in this game will tell you that nothing compliments a brand like an authoritative third-party endorsement. Winning a PMR.africa Award once again affirms that our facilities and services remain of the highest quality,” says Craig.

“No matter how long you have been in the industry, understanding customer feedback remains crucial for service consistency and this award is very significant for me and my team.”

Industry leaders Further positioning both the JEC and South Africa as key players within the MICE industry, on 2 November, Craig was officially appointed as

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the first African president for UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, which will see him in the role for the duration of a year.

At the helm of this auspicious organisation, Craig’s main objective will be to represent, promote and support the business interests of its members and the exhibition industry. UFI directly represents around 50 000 exhibition industry employees globally, and also works closely with its 52 national and regional associations’ members.

“This is an incredible honour for me and for South Africa,” Craig says about his appointment.

“It is evident that the rest of the world is looking at us as key players in the industry.

This wasn’t always the case but today – from our world-class facilities, exceptional service and thorough work ethic – South Africa is setting the standard for best practice, and it is an incredibly exciting time.”

jhbexpocentre1 @jhbexpocentre Johannesburg Expo Centre

+27 (0)11 494 1920 info@expocentre.co.za expocentre.co.za

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destination • Limpopo

Where bush

meets business Limpopo, also referred to as the Great North, has majestic landscapes that house more than cultural diversity, ecotourism or towering baobabs; it is also home to business people who contribute to its thriving economy, which continues to surpass the national growth rate.

did you know?

HISTORICAL LIMPOPO

FACTS ABOUT LIMPOPO

Limpopo is known for its numerous nature reserves that attract the interest of investors and business people alike. Sharing a border with three neighbouring countries, the Limpopo province is the gateway to the rest of the continent, with the N1 route from Johannesburg, which extends the length of the province, the busiest cross-border route in Africa.

This province produces up to 60% of all fruit, cotton, vegetables and maize meal consumed in South Africa and is quickly becoming a favourite for adventure travellers and thrill-seekers. Limpopo is one of the richest agricultural areas in the country, accounting for more than 45% of the R2 billion turnover of the Johannesburg fresh produce market, and at its heart is Polokwane – the business centre of the province.

Limpopo has a rich, natural heritage with the local government keen to promote the destination by focusing on wildlife and archaeological sites as well as through the adoption of the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PDGS), which creates a framework for programmes targeted at economic growth. Its resources are also unimaginably vast, as it is known for having the worlds’ largest reserves of platinum, chrome, titanium and vanadium.

1 LIMPOPO PRODUCES about 75% of South Africa's mangoes; 65% of its papayas; 60% of its avocados and tomatoes; 36% of its tea; 35% of its oranges; 25% of its citrus, bananas and litchis; and 285 000 tonnes of potatoes.

2 THE LIMPOPO RIVER is the second largest river in Africa and drains to the east after the Zambezi River.

3 LIMPOPO HAS A TOTAL LAND area of 123 910 km2 with a population of 5.3 million.

4 THE SKIN OF THE MARULA FRUIT can be boiled to make a drink or burnt to be used as a substitute for coffee.

5 THE MOST COMMONLY SPOKEN languages in the province are Tsonga, Northern Sotho, Venda and Afrikaans.

6 THE WATERBERG BIOSPHERE is the first region in the northern part of South Africa to be named a biosphere reserve by Unesco.

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#explorelimpopo Conferencing in the bush Conferencing in Limpopo can be an urban affair or you can decide to take your team into the bush. Mabula Game Lodge Conference Venue is one of South Africa’s finest private game reserves. It offers conference venues that can seat between 30 and 160 delegates with AV facilities and seating for a max pax of 60 delegates cinema style.

To sweeten things up, Mabula offers an array of themed tea and coffee breaks, and if you happen to wonder a little farther from the venue, you’ll experience the rich animal and birdlife on this 12 000 hectare reserve.

Conferencing in the city Polokwane offers a number of state-of-the-art conferencing facilities and venues, with Meropa Casino and Entertainment World, which offers venues that are suited for a variety of different event types, being one of them. The main conference hall seats up to 600 delegates and is equipped for any occasion, with the luxury of three breakaway venues. Smaller meeting rooms are also available, seating between 18 and 35 delegates.

Best of bush and business A gem within the province is the Protea Hotel Ranch Resort.

This property is only 25 km from Polokwane and two hours north of Johannesburg. The four-star hotel is located on 1 000 hectares of pristine bushveld, where guests are able to view 25 species of antelope, hyena, giraffe, zebra, buffalo and also walk with tame lions at the lion sanctuary. Bird watchers will be able to spot over 190 different species of birds as well as enjoy the Kolobe Tented Bush Camp where they are able to take part in team-building activaties housed at the site.

The Ranch property offers those who prefer to do business with a golf club in hand the pleasure of enjoying the 12-hole par-3 golf course. If that doesn’t entice the executive appetite, perhaps the 1 200 m private landing strip and helipad, the multiskilled culinary team or the allure of their 600-seater banquet venue will.

Offering over 100 uniquely decorated rooms, nine distinctly themed conference venues as well as a dedicated registration area, conferencing at this venue will be a breeze. Keeping delegates occupied during their free time will be no challenge either, as the hotel is in close proximity to a bird and reptile park, and they’d be able to enjoy 4x4 trails, horseback riding and game viewing at the Ranch Conservancy, among other activities.

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Tourist Highlights

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Kruger National Park 70% of the park is located in Limpopo and it hosts more than 500 species of birds, 2 000 plant species, 150 mamal species, as well as the big five.

Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum The Bakone Malapa Northern Sotho Open-Air Museum gives visitors a glimpse at the lives of the Bakone people and tour guides are available for visitors’ convenience.

The baobab trees Visit the Modjadjiskloof area in the north of Limpopo and experience these ‘upside-down’ trees, some of which are three to five hundred years old.

Polokwane Art Museum With over 100 works housed at the museum, visitors are welcome to view the works of local art icons like Jackson Hlungwani, John Baloyi and Lucas Thobejane, to name a few.

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destination • North West

Somewhere between the north and west Towards the north-west of South Africa lies a special place. With the world’s richest platinum reserves and an ancient breath winding through its land, the North West province is where magic happens. sun city The gem that is Sun City will always be one of South Africa’s favourite venues. It offers accommodation ranging from a premium five-star luxury hotel stays to self-catering bush bungalows.

Sun City’s conferencing facilities are state of the art and, in line with promoting sustainability, it follows ISO 14001 Environmental Management System standards. Between its high-tech convention centre and boardrooms, you are spoilt for choice for meetings. And with an array of fanciful activities, there is something for everyone.

did you know?

HISTORICAL NORTH WEST Home to 3.5 million people across nearly 105 000 km2 of land, the North West province has a fascinating backstory. Once upon a time, before the birth of democratic South Africa, part of the North West was its own official independent state – the Republic of Bophuthatswana. Run under the Bantustan system, its government was officially dissolved and the area became fully integrated into the North West province as part of the new South Africa in 1994. Before this, however, Bophuthatswana bore witness to the birth of one of South Africa’s most iconic venues. Established in 1979 during a time in South Africa when there was a ban on gambling, Sun City was one of the only nearby places South Africans could travel to if they wanted to gamble legally.

While remaining one of South Africa’s most popular destinations, the area has grown phenomenally, with an offering that sets it aside from all the rest.

FACTS ABOUT NORTH WEST ESTABLISHED: 27 April 1994 CAPITAL: Mahikeng LARGEST CITY: Klerksdorp DISTRICTS: Bojanala Platinum Ngaka Modiri Molema Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Dr Kenneth Kaunda

PREMIER: Job Mokgoro (ANC) HIGHEST ELEVATION: 1 805 m POPULATION: Census (2011) 3 509 953 ESTIMATE: (2018) 3 979 000 POPULATION GROUPS: • Black African 89.8% • White 7.3% • Coloured 2.0% • Indian or Asian 0.6%

ATKV Buffelspoort Nestled among the Magaliesberg mountains, Buffelspoort offers a selection of accommodation for its guests, with facilities that include a general store, bottle store, licensed restaurant, sports bar and beauty salon. The venue offers five spacious and wellequipped conference spaces for groups of up to 500 people. Meals and accommodation form part of ATKV Buffelspoort’s packages and if the venue’s heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, snooker, golf, horseriding and birdwatching activities don’t appeal to you, visit some of the many attractions in the area.

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MOUNT GRACE Part of the African Pride Autograph Collection, Marriott’s Mount Grace Country House & Spa offers 15 conference venues in which to host meetings for up to 200 delegates.

Amenities at its business centre include printing, photocopying and messenger services, and its dedicated team of on-site event planners will help you coordinate your next conference. All meeting rooms include high-speed Wi-Fi internet access and provide an ideal opportunity to explore the stunning Magaliesburg area. Enhance your meeting with a food and wine pairing led by Mount Grace’s resident expert sommelier.

Pecanwood Estate If you are looking for a short and sweet escape from the city, Pecanwood Estate’s conference centre can provide some welcome reprieve. The venue can accommodate up to 120 delegates for conferences, which can be arranged to facilitate everything from teambuilding events to presentations, press briefings and product launches. Conferencing packages can be tailored to include meals and activities such as golf, with the venue also used for weddings and private functions. At any given time, 120 players are able to play on the golf course.

#explorenorthwest

Protea Hotel Klerksdorp If you are already based in the North West’s largest city and need a meeting venue, the Protea Hotel Marriot will accommodate your needs. There are five meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 450 delegates to choose from.

Your meeting at the fully equipped conference centre will be supported by the venue’s on-site technical and support staff, and you can select from a range of menus to suit every taste.

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge If you are looking to have your guests entrenched in the bush, Kwa Maritane offers full conferencing services and can cater for a maximum of 400 delegates, by combining two of its five meetings spaces. Accommodation can be provided across 90 luxury suites. Flipcharts, whiteboards, wall screens, overhead data and video projectors, a PA system, a 35 mm slide projector, lapel microphone system and services such as faxing, photocopying, internet and email are all part of the offering. A range of activities such as game drives and golfing are offered through the venue.

Ivory Tree Game Lodge Housed at its central facility, Ivory Tree’s fully equipped conference centre can accommodate up to 120 people. Located in the Pilanesberg area, the five-star venue offers the ultimate in bush experiences, with a beautiful feature pool, bar, dining room, boma and curio shop. The lodge has 60 suites, which includes four executive units – each featuring an en-suite bathroom and outside shower, a covered patio and private plunge pool.

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Tour in South Africa (TiSA) Tour in South Africa (TiSA) is a newly formed travel company based in Pretoria, offering various tours throughout South Africa.

+27 (0)82 579 5646

We also do group transfers, transport to and from big events, single weekend breakaways, golf tours etc.

info@tourinsa.co.za

www.tourinsa.co.za

TiSA

Tour in South Africa

destination • Mpumalanga

Where the

wild things are Home to the iconic Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga is not only one of South Africa’s most biodiverse provinces but it also offers wildly exciting meetings opportunities. Meetings goes exploring!

did you know?

HISTORICAL MPUMALANGA Meaning “where the sun rises” in Zulu, Mpumalanga’s eventing opportunities are as vast as the province itself. Mpumalanga lies in the north-east of South Africa and borders both Swaziland and Mozambique, with the Drakensberg escarpment dividing it into highveld grasslands towards the west and more subtropical savanna in the east.

Most of us associate the Kruger National Park with Mpumalanga, automatically thinking of the big five and bushscapes, and while the Kruger does stand out for its unique offering that spans the 20 000 km2 area, Mpumalanga has so much more to offer than just rich game-viewing experiences.

MBOMBELA The city of Mbombela, formerly Nelspruit, is the capital of Mpumalanga and getting in and out is a breeze – the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport flies between Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban daily.

Travelling by car from Johannesburg is approximately a four-hour drive; expect it to take no less than six hours from Durban and a mind-numbing 20 hours of drive time from Cape Town.

Mbombela provides all the possible amenities one could need for a meeting with people from Swaziland and Mozambique often travelling to the city for various items that they are unable to get locally.

While a convention centre has been on the cards for Mpumalanga for quite some time, this has been somewhat fraught from both a planning and financing perspective; however, other venues are well positioned to deliver an experience that warms the cockles of the coldest of delegate hearts.

Mbombela Stadium The Mbombela Stadium provides a varied conferencing offering, with its Club Lounge being ideal for conferences and larger gatherings and seating up to 600 guests in conference style. Its Auditorium is able to seat 180 guests and comes equipped with a state-of-theart audiovisual set-up. The Auditorium is better suited for short presentations and more intimate conferences, with a dining area adjacent to the space.

Emnotweni Casino One of Tsogo Sun’s assets, Emnotweni Casino, is a multipurpose venue in Mbombela, which is well-suited for conferences and smaller-scale exhibitions. A short distance from the Kruger National Park as well as the airport, the Arena can accommodate up to 770 guests. Up to 200 delegates can lodge at the Southern Sun Emnotweni or StayEasy Emnotweni, with smaller meeting rooms available for conferences of up to 60 guests.

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#explorempumalanga

SMALL Towns If venturing out of the city for a meeting, one is quite spoilt for choice but give some consideration to space and numbers. White River, Sabie, Graskop, Hazyview, Malelane, Pilgrim’s Rest, Lydenburg and Badplaas are all famed for being supremely picturesque and offer an interesting array of outdoor activities as well as cultural attractions. These are ideal if you are mulling the idea of an add-on for your conference or event.

MPUMALANGA QUICK FACTS 1 CAPITAL: Mbombela 2 LANGUAGES: 27.7% siSwati, 24.1% isiZulu, 10.4% Xistonga, 10.1% isiNdebele 3 POPULATION: 4 039 939 (2011) 4 SHARE OF SA POPULATION: 7.8% 5 AREA: 76 495 km2 6 SHARE OF TOTAL SA AREA: 6.3% 7 LIFE EXPECTANCY: 53.5 years 8 LITERACY: 59.1% 9 GGP: R20.965 million (8.6% GDP) Source: lowvelder.com

INGWENYAMA The Ingwenyama Conference & Sports Resort in White River is in the business of conferencing and offers different spaces that are suited to conferences, board meetings, strategy and training sessions. Ingwenyama has a fully equipped business centre with world-class conference facilities and on-site support to ensure a slick and successful event. The Gym and the Indhlovu Room are its largest and each has a max pax of 600 if seated in a schoolroom set-up. crystal springs For a spectacular scenic treat for just a few delegates, Crystal Springs in Pilgrim’s Rest is one of the best. Situated atop Robber’s Pass, Crystal Springs provides a vista of one of Mpumalanga’s most famed tourist attractions. Guests will be very comfortable with the accommodation offered by the lodge, which will ensure your event runs smoothly with its Wi-Fienabled conference centre that comes equipped with a projector and flat screen. The set-up is intimate and a U-shape layout will seat 30 delegates, a schoolroom style will seat 40 comfortably and 60 delegates are able to be arranged in a theatre style.

For a blend of the best of everything, look to where the sun rises.

MOPANI The Mopani Conference Centre at the Kruger National Park has a number of spaces that can be set up to cater to your event’s needs. Its biggest space, the Main Hall, seats 300 in cinema style and comes with a data projector, fixed overhead screen and PA system with either handheld or lapel microphones provided if needed. Plan your attendees’ itineraries to incorporate a game drive or bush walk, which cannot be missed with the bushveld right on your doorstep. The Mopani Rest Camp, meanwhile, can make provisions for up to 500 guests.

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M EETING P L A C E S • F a n c o u r t

Get down to business

with a difference For a meeting with a difference, Fancourt’s versatility is unbeatable.

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ancourt is renowned for its ability to offer extraordinary experiences to its guests – no matter their background or the reason for their visit. This rings particularly true for business travellers and the globally booming MICE sector, because when it comes to thinking out of the box, Fancourt delivers.

You won’t see a boring conference or tedious event taking place at Fancourt, because this is where the business of business building takes on a fresh new face, with the estate’s team well versed in offering a ‘business unusual’ approach to organising and arranging meetings, conferences, team-building breakaways and a range of other business-oriented services.

For a start, Fancourt’s location is an absolute winner. Situated just outside the town of George on South Africa’s beautiful Garden Route, in the lee of the towering Outeniqua Mountains that dominate its gently rolling landscapes, Fancourt is quite simply breathtaking.

FROM HOTEL TO MANOR So, consider the ‘incredible views’ box ticked!

The resort has two accommodation offerings: Fancourt Hotel, with 115 guest rooms, and the Manor House, with 18 luxurious suites. The latter is Fancourt’s original homestead, built in 1859, which now finds itself rejuvenated as a luxury boutique hotel. Then, there are the facilities on offer that cater for a seemingly endless range of options designed to suit all budgets and business

needs. There’s a world-class conference centre equipped with state-of-the-art gadgetry and an extensive suite of business services. The grounds also provide endless opportunities to shake off the boardroom mentality and conduct business in an altogether more serene, peaceful and productive environment.

So, whether you are in search of a modern, clued-up conference venue or the perfect place to host a team-building weekend that will ensure your troops head home with an unbreakable bond, Fancourt has you covered.

And for gala events, there’s a 400-seater ballroom – how’s that for ‘wow’ factor?

Go over the top and create an evening to remember, allowing all the stiffness of those endless meetings to melt away in a beautiful, relaxed and elegant setting. And, of course, Fancourt’s incredible team of culinary experts and talented chefs will ensure that your taste buds are also tickled, serving up delicious fare, from stunning canapés and hors d’oeuvres to multiple-course banquets and even traditional braais out under the stars.

SPECIAL OFFERS From *R2 020 per person sharing and *R2 640 per single, Fancourt allows you to seamlessly integrate business and pleasure. *Rates are per night and based on a minimum of a two-night stay, including a full English breakfast daily and one of the following: full-day conference package or a round of golf per day on either Montagu or Outeniqua, or a spa voucher to the value of R570, or a dinner voucher to the value of R320. Valid for South African residents only from 1 April 2019 to 30 September 2019.

(of course) and a range of fabulous therapies at Fancourt’s award-winning spa to help turn a business breakaway into real pleasure. So, Fancourt really is the ultimate playground for business travellers!

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Fancourt loves a potjiekos challenge, so what better way to have some fun team building than to pitch your executives against one another to find the best potjie-maker? Or how about a treasure hunt or themed party? No order is too tall for Fancourt’s talented staff. There’s golf Facebook - @Fancourt.SA Twitter - @FANCOURTSA Instagram - @fancourtsa hotel@fancourt.co.za +27 (0)44 804 0010 fancourt.co.za

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SOUNDBITE

INSPIRED cuisine Chris Groves, complex executive chef for the Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre, has had a hand in ensuring the popularity of his venue. A number of his signature dishes, including his sublime Foie Gras Crème Brulee and his melt in the mouth Lamb Mediterranean, never fail to impress.

How has the food and beverage industry changed over the past five years?

Before, guests only ever ate food that smelled and tasted good but, now, presentation is everything. If it looks good, then surely it must taste and smell good – alas, this is not always the case.

What are some of the current trends in the food and beverage industry?

What is your favourite dish to make?

What is your favourite food memory?

Chicken liver parfait – you can’t beat a classic, as long as it’s done correctly.

There are simply too many to choose from but the day I qualified as a chef was a great one.

What is your number one catering tip?

Cook what is practical; never overcomplicate your dishes – if it is complicated for you, how do you think your guests would feel?

A fusion of flavours – smaller, more flavourful dishes. Homegrown or -made, everything from pickles and chillies to gins and rums are very ‘in’ at the moment.

What is your favourite kitchen equipment or gadget?

What would you identify as the primary mistake people make when catering for conferencing?

What dish are you asked to make most often? What is your favourite food?

It’s all about what you serve.

The biggest problem is that guests sometimes believe that a conference break is a lunch or breakfast and tend to eat a lot more than what we as chefs would cater for, so the biggest mistake is believing that it’s just a snack.

How can one present “plain” food in a way that appeals to delegates?

The fresh look and feel is the way forward. Plain food will always look great as long as it is presented accordingly.

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It would have to be the stick blender. One can do a lot with it.

Scallops are all my friends want me to make for some reason and, strangely enough, my favourite food is spaghetti bolognaise because I just love how simple and fresh it is.

Are there any foods you just don’t like?

For me, it has to be peppers.

They just don’t work for me but I do have to use them in certain dishes.

Did you eat your veggies as a child?

Always, except Brussels sprouts – nasty things those.

What is one ingredient you cannot cook without?

Garlic and fresh herbs.

When did you know you wanted to be a chef?

At a very young age. A friend’s brother owned a restaurant and I worked there for some time and just fell in love with the kitchen.

What is the proudest moment in your career as a chef?

The first time we cooked for Queen Elizabeth was just such an experience. Her Majesty came around the corner and shook all of our hands – it was a very surreal moment for me.

Who in the food world do you most admire?

There really isn’t one person in particular and I admire everyone that shows passion for our industry.

About chef Chris Indaba Hotel’s complex executive chef, Christopher Groves, joined the Indaba Team in 2008 as an executive sous chef and quickly rose through the ranks to head chef of the Chiefs Boma Restaurant where he became renowned for his Beef & Beer Potjie and “Big 5” Kebab.

Prior to The Indaba, Chris worked abroad in numerous five-star restaurants and was mentored by the legendary Marco Pierre White, a 2-star Michelin Chef whose work ethos and creativity were an inspiration, which Chris incorporates into his daily menus. Chris also worked on the Queen Mary 2, where he was the demonstration chef in the Chefs Galley – a popular restaurant that showcases talented young chefs.

Chris took over the reins of the Indaba Hotel’s main kitchen in 2011 and added flair and creativity to the menus and food presentation with great success, fast becoming a firm favourite on the local dining front with the introduction of a new bistro-style menu in the Epsom Conservatory, which showcases his talented team and his love of food.

In August 2015, this talented chef was promoted to complex executive chef, taking on the responsibilities of all kitchens at Indaba Hotel, Fourways and overseeing Indaba Lodge, Gaborone and Indaba Lodge, Richards Bay. Chef Chris looks forward to welcoming you to the Indaba Group of hotels and hopes that you will enjoy your food journey with him!

What do you think is the most challenging ingredient to work with?

The truffle. I am not a huge fan of truffle and it can be very overpowering if not used correctly.

It’s a rather personal ingredient.

What are your favourite foods to cook with?

What’s your “death row” meal, as Anthony Bourdain puts it?

Meat, meat and more meat.

There is just so much one can do with meat.

A char-grilled bleu sirloin steak with wild mushroom, mash potato and Swiss cheese.

MEETINGS l november/december 2018 •

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BE S T PRA C TIcE

a moment to

REMEMBER A picture is worth a thousand words and in the world of eventing, a visual record of the occasion could even lead to successfully closing a deal.

Meetings shares why skimping on this is not advised.

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hile an event photographer or videographer won’t make or break your event, consider the value that having professionally taken images could potentially add. It is one thing to explain how well the event was attended, what the set-up was like or what the impressive displays and presentations looked like, but more tangible evidence such as photography and videos will always have a greater impact.

According to Brand Watch’s 2018 statistics, 3.2 billion images are shared daily, with 8 billion video views on Facebook alone, compared to the 500 million new Twitter posts each day. While social media drives this, the numbers highlight that there is a much stronger tendency towards content that is, simply, just a picture.

Bringing in a professional resource to put together some arresting visuals for your event can be expensive but the possible ROI that you stand to gain just by sharing your glowing content, and subsequently growing the reach of the event, can easily justify the spend.

Developing a marketing strategy to drive your visual content will further ensure that you get the most bang for your buck with better timing and targeting.

Lastly, monitoring the stir that’s created with analytics will also help you ascertain what sort of engagement was achieved and where the hotspots of interest are based on demographics.

All of this information will help you improve your offering, so do not discount the value of a simple image or short clip.

tech corner

MAKING A SPLASH ON AN

INTERNATIONAL STAGE

Speakers and guests at the prestigious SA Investment Conference included President Cyril Ramaphosa; Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma; a host of ministers, including Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Pravin Gordhan, Naledi Pandor and Gwede Mantashe; and foreign dignitaries, ambassadors and business leaders

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he Flock Eventing Platform app proved a hit with delegates at the SA Investment Conference, with more than 900 downloads and 120 000 app views throughout the conference – an average of 190 views per minute.

Especially popular was the app’s innovative Meet Me functionality, which encouraged delegates to network, view each other’s profiles and schedule meetings at the event.

An integrated experience The app made the event more interactive through functions like the Live Q&A, which allowed delegates to ask questions to speakers directly.

It also provided in-depth event information, including the full three-day programme; details on the speakers, sponsors, partners and exhibitors; a live social feed; an event feedback survey; and downloadable PDF documents. It was a huge moment for Flock founder Mike Lysko, who founded the company in 2015 with the dream of creating better human connections. Since then, Flock has gone from strength to strength, with an impressive portfolio spanning 25 countries.

“This is the kind of moment every entrepreneur dreams about: where you get the chance to www.theplanner.guru

The SA Investment Conference, which saw investors pledge more than R290 billion in investments into the country, has emerged as a massive breakthrough for Johannesburg-based start-up Flock, which built the mobile app for the entire event. showcase a home-grown solution on a bigger stage. We’re extremely proud to have been involved in this event. The app we provided was an effective communication tool,” says Lysko.

A full-service platform The Flock Eventing Platform is a full-service online event management platform that enables event organisers to fully manage their event information – from the population of all event details such as venue and floor plans, agendas, multiple tracks, speakers, exhibitors and attendees, through to real-time event content including photos, videos and event-related documents. Leading up to and during the event, instant notifications can be sent to all attendees to ensure updates are communicated quickly and easily. “The Flock Eventing Platform can be used as a DIY solution where event organisers and their teams have the power to input all information and create everything they need for the event themselves, though we offer the assistance from our experienced project managers if needed, as we understand that event planners are usually juggling many tasks. We strive to help where we can to make their events a success – that’s the

most important aspect for us,” explains Lysko.

He continues “One of the biggest strengths of Flock is the consistent improvement of features and our focus on continuous innovation to assist in enhancing interactivity at events.

The Meet Me functionality is one of the latest additions to the feature portfolio and there is a lot more in the pipeline for 2019.”

A great user experience “I thoroughly enjoyed using the app developed by Flock. It was very userfriendly and I had all the latest event info at my fingertips. The programme was immediately updated with any changes; I was kept informed via push notifications and it gave me the opportunity to network with other delegates. I was very impressed.”

Donna Rachelson, CEO of the Seed Academy

MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 •

27

Make Your Events More Interactive.

Easy-to-use event management software for events & conferences Build event websites, manage RSVP’s, design & send custom branded emailers & publish a mobile app for attendees.

Book a free demo with us: www.flockplatform.com | +27 10 035 1270 | hello@flockplatform.com

meeting places

An origins experience A Unesco World Heritage Site, the Cradle of Humankind has exploded as an area of interest in the last 15 years. Meetings goes on an expedition.

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ome of us might remember going to Sterkfontein Caves, either on a school excursion or with enthusiastic parents, and being mightily unimpressed at the surrounds, hoping for the time to pass quickly so we could make it back home for the start of M-Net’s Open Time.

Up until a few years ago, there was very little on the property. A sand road leading up to a pokey office used for running general admin and bookings, a small centre that contained some replicas of the fossils found in the area, ablutions and a tuckshop that would be open if you were lucky enough to go on the right day, made up about all there was.

Time has ushered in change on a much shorter evolutionary scale than that of our ancient ancestors and the caves are now part of the Maropeng project in the Cradle of Humankind. It was named a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1999 and has become a noteworthy international tourism destination, with 400 attractions that include 91 graded establishments. In keeping up with the times, the area has been developed for visitors of every kind.

On to the next stop The Cradle of Humankind is approximately an hour’s drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, meaning that this particular point of interest is a good central destination if you are looking for something unique for your next meeting. The Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve is 20 minutes away towards the west, Hartebeespoort Dam is 40 minutes away, while the area of Magaliesburg is just a 15-minute drive, so if you are passing through the area on your way to somewhere else, consider popping in for a history lesson like never before.

A meeting The Maropeng Conference Centre has a four-star grading and offers a variety of options for its conferencing packages to include accommodation and entertainment. Its in-house events team is available to assist with coordinating your meeting as well as any add-ons to provide guests with an exciting and enriching conference experience.

The conference centre is able to accommodate different seating arrangements, hosting 500 delegates at a time. Its state-of-the-art facilities will ensure all your technical requirements are met and full catering amenities are available on-site.

For more intimate meetings, consider the recently launched Sterkfontein Deco Lounge, located in the upgraded facilities at the Sterkfontein Caves. The venue is also ideal for private functions and small corporate events.

28 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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#explore HISTORICAL backgrounds

A meal out If you’re at the centre and need a quick bite to eat on your way to one of the attractions, The Market Place restaurant is very well suited for this. However, if you are looking for an unparalleled experience that offers some of best views of the Witwatersberg and Magaliesberg mountain ranges, head to The Tumulus restaurant

situated on the first floor of the Maropeng Visitor Centre.

The Tumulus is open seven days a week, and offers light meals and drinks with a carvery lunch on Sundays. Booking is essential at The Tumulus and the venue recommends a 10% gratuity for its staff who all live in the local community and are trained on the premises.

1 IN THE LATE 1890S, gold miners dynamited the Sterkfontein caves in search of limestone, which they converted into the quick lime required for processing gold. Their explosions revealed entrances to the cave system.

2 AROUND 2.5 BILLION YEARS

A day trip Maropeng and Sterkfontein, home to finds such as Homo naledi and Mrs Ples, are still active fossil sites with new discoveries made regularly.

A trip to the Sterkfontein Caves, a short walk from the Maropeng Visitor Centre, will reveal a major and complex excavation of fossils with public access being restricted in certain areas to protect potential precious finds.

Tickets to both the Maropeng Visitor Centre and Sterkfontein Caves can be bought separately or as a combined fee of R190 per adult. Trips into the cave are guided and you will be provided with a hair net and hard hat before you enter the cave. People with claustrophobia and health issues such as back, heart and breathing concerns are advised against the cave tour. The visitor centre, meanwhile, provides some fascinating insights into man’s evolution and our ancient history.

Staying the night The Maropeng Boutique Hotel offers 24 bedrooms, sleeping up to 48 people.

Opened in 2006, the hotel is a short walk from Maropeng and about 10 km from the Sterkfontein Caves. Get a good night’s rest in one of the 10 king or 13 twin rooms. The hotel also has a universal room.

All rooms are non-smoking and include free parking, high-speed internet, air conditioning and a hot breakfast in the morning. Guests can also enjoy the pool, restaurant and bar at the hotel, which provides wheelchair access. For budget and student stays, Hominin House at Maropeng provides a venue for youth camps and school groups. In addition to the existing dormitory accommodation, which sleeps 120 people, six en-suite rooms for group leaders have now been added.

ago, the area now known as the Cradle was a shallow inland sea.

3 THE STERKFONTEIN CAVES are owned by the University of the Witwatersrand, whose scientists continue to unearth fossils on the site.

4 THE CAVES, WHICH LIE 50 KM north-west of the city of Johannesburg, are comprised of limestone and form part of 47 000 hectares of privately owned land.

5 FOSSILS DISCOVERED AT the caves date back more than 4 million years and are commonly accepted as representative of the birth of humanity.

6 AN ESTIMATED 40% of the world’s human ancestor fossils have been found in the Cradle, with more than 9 000 stone tools found in the Sterkfontein Caves.

7 THE SWARTKRANS FOSSIL site records the earliest known deliberate use of fire – around 1.3 million years ago.

Source: The Cradle of Humankind

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T H E

E X H I B I T I O N

theplanner.guru

theplanner.guru is a one-stop platform for finding venues and suppliers. It’s where you can read the hottest industry tips and trends as well as source event planning tools and gain insight from valuable information in the MICE Hub. Plan your event by using the platform’s event boards and keep up-to-date with the daily newsletters. Use these resources to take your events from great to flawless.

Packed with advice, handy tips, tools, checklists and eventplanning insight from leading industry experts and combined with the comprehensive listings, The Meetings & Event Planner is essential if you’re organising any type of event. Published annually.

TT HH EE M EE EX THI NI GB SI T& I EOVNE N T

This alternative monthly publication Investigates new trends, ideas and strategies relevant to the meetings and events industry to keep you ahead of the planner pack.

Meetings provides a platform for branding and promoting venues and service providers to the heart of the South African conferencing and event industries.

The Exhibition Planner is an essential tool for exhibitors.

Information is packaged in an easily digestible format addressing the entire process of planning and arranging a show stand, what to do pre-show, during and post-show. Published annually.

TT HH EE

E EX XH HI BI IB T I I TO I NO

N

Looking for new and exciting desitinations?

The Incentive Planner is jam-packed with fresh ideas and top tips to turn any incentive trip into a memorable experience. Out in March and September with Meetings.

TT HH EE

E IX N H IC B EI N T I TO I NV

theplanner.guru

E

+27 (0)11 233 2600 subs@3smedia.co.za l 3smags.co.za

3S Media gives YOU the competitive edge as a MICE planner The Planner

20questions

the man behind it all Justin Hawes, founder of Scan Display, gets personal with Meetings.

Where do you see the events industry currently?

There are two components: consumer and business events.

Consumer events are under pressure as they compete with TV, gaming, social media and other platforms; therefore, they need to be really interesting and different to attract audiences. However, I believe business events are still very strong, as people continue to want to engage in face-toface marketing.

Where would you like to see the industry in the next five years?

I would like to see the industry grow and for consumer events to be the most interesting and popular way for consumers to spend their free time.

What role or influence do you believe your organisation plays in this?

I believe Scan Display has introduced many innovations like the fabric shell scheme, the extensive use of fabric on exhibition stands, fabric portable systems and the Modulbox – our stand-in-a-box ideal for activations and events.

We have provided cost-effective and visually interesting solutions to the industry.

What was the most interesting client request you’ve had?

At COP17 in 2011, we were

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tasked with building the complete Climate Change Response Expo – an exhibition and entertainment area – from scratch in a parking lot next to the Durban ICC.

What do you enjoy the most about what you do?

Being involved in projects and seeing them through from beginning to end. This generates a real sense of achievement and it’s what keeps people working in our pressured industry.

What drives you both personally and professionally?

I would like to make a difference.

I have been involved in a variety of projects that make a difference in people’s lives, both at Scan Display and externally. I am also very concerned about the environment so I co-founded the Event Greening Forum (EGF), a non-profit company promoting sustainability in the events industry. In my personal life, my family’s well-being is most important.

What are some of your career highlights?

Qualifying as a chartered accountant was a highlight.

Other highlights would be founding the EGF, being inducted into the EXSA Hall of Fame in 2014, being an Entrepreneur of the Year and Boss of the Year finalist, and being appointed as treasurer

and vice president of IFES (International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services). I am the first and only appointee from the developing world at this global association of stand builders.

What are some of your ‘bucket list’ items? I would like to go to South America.

What was your best holiday?

Touring Italy with my wife.

What is your special talent? Not overreacting

What is your most prized possession? My bike.

but slowing things down so everyone can calm down and think about things before taking action.

What is your favourite read? The newspaper headlines on street poles. They give me a news update in a nutshell.

Who were your superheroes growing up?

None of your typical ones! I was a fan of Asterix and Obelix.

What do people most often wrongly assume about you?

I have a huge sense of fun and people often don’t see this, as I am serious in my work environment.

Who do you currently aspire to and why?

I believe we should all swim our own race and be self-motivated.

What is your spirit animal?

What quote best describes your outlook towards life?

“Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” – Benjamin Franklin

A lion.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Coffee.

What are values you will not deviate from?

What is your favourite thing to do in your spare time?

Honesty, integrity, caring and making a difference.

Mountain biking, birding, and watching movies with my wife.

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W m e e t i nSgHOW EVENT p l aCcAeSsE

HISKYED

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and Club, one of Johannesburg’s oldest and most historically exclusive venues, played host to a #WhiskyJourney event held on October 30. The event sought to create an evening of world-class South African and Scottish whisky experienced in its truest and most authentic form.

Sybil Doms, founder of the Come Wine With Us food and beverages community, helped curate and implement the bespoke #WhiskyJourney experience, along with chef Vanessa Marx, for three premium whisky brands: Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky, Three Ships Whisky and Scottish Leader.

The Details CLIENT Distell FUNCTION #WhiskyJourney THE BRIEF The idea and concept was to create a #WhiskyJourney experience on behalf of the client for 60 people.

DATE 30 October 2018

32 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

AWAY

Hosted across three rooms on the second floor of Rand Club, the event provided a distinctly unique experience that highlighted the exceptional quality and high standards shared by both the South African and Scottish whiskies.

The rooms were themed according to the distinctive sense of place, taste profile, splendour and intrigue of each whisky, matched by dishes that best complement their beautiful flavours.

The 60 guests were divided into three groups and spent 20 minutes in each room where they enjoyed an intimate experience with the whisky ambassadors or master distiller.

Each whisky was matched with creative dishes that represented each country and whisky. To showcase the versatility of whisky, guests sampled a variety of whisky cocktails during the 10-minute break in between each room experience.

“The staff were incredible! They were attentive, helpful and grasped the concept of the evening very quickly. They really are one of

The centre of Joburg came alive towards the end of October, bringing the finest whisky pairing experience to town.

Photographer: Alison Tu

the best teams I have worked with,” notes Sybil on working with Rand Club.

“Ross England was our on-site manager and he ensured a smooth service from the very first day. On the night of the event, he expertly and effortlessly assisted us with a few additional requirements. When we needed more lighting in the kitchen and extra furniture, Ross made a plan. Nothing was too much trouble and he was always willing to help,” she says.

“The staff were incredible! They were attentive, helpful and grasped the concept of the evening very quickly.”

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#RANDCLUB

The organiser

ROOM 1

ROOM 2

ROOM 3

Rhodes Room Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky

Mvela Room Three Ships Whisky

Anglo Platinum Room Scottish Leader

- Karoo lamb croquette served

- S piced veggie curry bunny vetkoek served with coriander and chutney -B eer-battered hake, roasted garlic and lemon aioli served on skewers in Lucky Star tins -P ap-and-wors skewers served with spicy chakalaka

- South African take on haggis served with grilled sweet potato and gravy - Drakensberg salmon trout fish pie served with lemon cream and truffle mash - A palate cleanser of flavoured caviar pearls

with a buchu jus -H oney and rooibos glazed chicken skewers - Chickpea, feta and zucchini fritter served with a mint and spekboom tzatziki Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky, awarded as the World’s Best Grain Whisky, reflects the unique location of where it’s made, near the foot of the Bain’s Kloof Pass in Wellington.

The whisky is inspired by Andrew Geddes Bain who built the pass through rough terrain, cutting into the mountain slope with sharp hairpin bends, skirting pine forests, sparkling mountain pools, breathtaking scenic views and rich, diverse fynbos species.

Rand Club incorporated the whisky’s unique sense of place in the décor and food with touches of rooibos, buchu and spekboom.

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Modern yet well-known and comforting African flavours were incorporated in the menu for the Three Ships Whisky room.

The proudly South African and internationally award-winning Three Ships Whisky range has pioneered the South African whisky industry, creating interest and applause from around the globe.

Setting the scene for a typical social moment shared among friends, the decor for this room was fun and casual yet elegant.

The food inspiration for the Scottish Leader room represented traditional Scottish dishes with a South African flair. Guests entered the room by crossing over a correx-cladded bridge with imagery a typical Scottish bridge. A bagpipe player in traditional Scottish dress but with the addition of the Springbok emblem evoked a sense of entering Scotland.

“The idea of the bridge was born from all three whiskies being exceptionally well made and even though South Africa and Scotland are continents apart, we are but a bridge apart when it comes to making whisky of unparalleled quality,” says Sybil.

The decor was minimalistic and chic, and represented a new perspective on the classical tartan Scottish fabric by utilisting African chequered bags worn by the whisky ambassador and incorporated in the decor items.

“We needed a venue that could accommodate us with three interesting and unique rooms as well as ample space for the cocktail serving area and bridge.

The Rand Club is a versatile venue with a rich heritage and history that lends itself to any type of event.”

Sybil Doms Founder of Come Wine With Us

@randclub RandClubJohannesburg randclub www.randclub.co.za

 +27 (0)11 870 4267

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CTICC wins for Africa in 2019 and beyond

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Create talkability with a Chat’r Xperience!

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he CTICC has been awarded 15 international conferences in the last six months alone, and many of these will be hosted on the African continent for the first time. “We are extremely proud to have won these bids, which are testament to the CTICC’s competitiveness as a venue and Cape Town’s attractiveness as a business event destination. These wins do not happen without the concerted effort of the CTICC team and the dedicated collaboration between internal and external stakeholders, including the Western Cape Convention Bureau and City of Cape Town.

“Simply put, the CTICC’s key objective is to connect people to create jobs.

The bids won will assist us in achieving this across a wide range of key economic sectors and reflects the centre’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the Cape Town, Western Cape and South African economy,” says CEO Julie-May Ellingson.

The CTICC is the first convention centre in Africa to gain three internationally recognised management system certifications simultaneously, and the first in the world to align its reporting to the sustainability requirements of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).

hile the core focus of Chat’r Xperience’s business is on designing and building curated exhibition stands, the team’s extensive knowledge in communication and brand engagement gives them a cutting edge within the exhibition, trade show and events industry.

Most recently, Chat’r project managed and commissioned the design of an exhibition stand for the 22nd International AIDS Conference in Amsterdam on behalf of the South African National AIDS Council and South Africa’s National Department of Health. The stand incorporated a variety of elements, including a photo booth designed as a replica of Nelson Mandela’s cell on Robben Island.

To ensure smooth project-management and implementation processes, Chat’r works closely with its clients, particularly when it comes to understanding the brief and the insights the project needs to provide, the strategy required and a creative design as well as engagement to execute it.

Chat’r is a proudly South African company, with global exhibition trade show stand design and building and event execution experience. Chat’r is a majority black-owned (51%) and 13.37% black-female-owned Level 2 BBBEE company.

For more information:

For more information:

+27 (0)21 410 5000 | info@cticc.co.za www.cticc.co.za

+27 (0)83 415 2774 | john@chatr.solutions www.chatr.co.za

INDABA HOTEL

SPA & CONFERENCE CENTRE YOUR AFRICAN DESTINATION IN JOHANNESBURG Just north of the fast paced business world of Sandton, lies the 258-bedroom Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre. It’s a compelling blend of business-like efficiency and relaxed country atmosphere within close proximity of the International Airport making the Indaba perfect for groups and leisure travellers.

The hotel features 24 multi-purpose conference venues ranging from Executive Boardrooms to large Banquet Venues seating up to 500 people. Indaba boasts 2 world class restaurants; the 300-seater Chief’s Boma Restaurant caters for all tastes with over 120 African-inspired dishes. Well-known for their lavish Breakfast Buffet, the Epsom Terrace Restaurant also boasts an evening Bistro Menu. Take a wander through the 17 hectares of lush bushveld gardens and you’ll find the Mowana Spa - a wellness sanctuary which will revive your senses, rejuvenate your body and soothe your soul.

Indaba Hotel is sure to meet all your business and leisure requirements.

We look forward to welcoming you to “YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME”

INDABA HOTEL, SPA & CONFERENCE CENTRE, C/O WILLIAM NICOL DRIVE & PIETER WENNING ROAD, FOURWAYS Phone: +27 11 840 6600 | Email: indaba@indabahotel.co.za | Website: www.indabahotel.co.za

l e a d i n g t h e pa c k

Never miss a beat with Parrot Products

The Johannesburg Expo Centre: a cut above the rest

P

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For more information:

For more information:

+27 (0)10 140 4900 | sales@parrot.co.za www.parrot.co.za

+27 (0)11 494 1920 | info@expocentre.co.za www.expocentre.co.za

Choose Zambia as an incentive destination

Work and play at Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino

he Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara immerses travellers in Africa’s wild beauty and colonial history, boasting a unique location on the banks of the Zambezi River, with direct access to the Victoria Falls just a 10-minute walk away. This iconic hotel immerses guests in fine dining, adventure-filled outdoor activities and warm hospitality.

Take a luxurious water taxi transfer to the Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara and arrive in style. Admire and enjoy unlimited access to the iconic Victoria Falls, or get closer to local wildlife that roam the hotel lawns.

For a lazy evening, sipping cocktails on the Sundeck is the way to go.

Savour quintessential fine dining on a vintage steam locomotive, the Royal Livingstone Express train. Swim in Devil’s Pool on the edge of the Falls or embark on an exhilarating white-water rafting experience along the roaring Zambezi River. Conference in state-of-the-art facilities and emerge from each session with the spray of the Victoria Falls in sight and finally, indulge in head-to-toe pampering at the rejuvenating Anantara Spa.

xplore Botswana’s vibrant capital city once you’re done with the day’s business of wheeling and dealing, or stay in and make the most of the resort’s newly refurbished expansive lounge, eateries and chill-out spaces.

Enjoy the resort’s contemporary spaces, sumptuous banqueting and excellent service to make that once-in-a-lifetime promise to your beloved – or use the hotel as your home base to explore some of Africa’s most exciting adventures.

Flirt with Lady Luck in the casino, whether you’re rolling the dice or stacking up against the deck on the tables or play 9 or 18 holes right next to the hotel. Take a splash in the sparkling pool at the heart of the resort’s vibrant entertainment area and order luscious cocktails and tasty snacks from the vibey pool bar, open till late every day.

Experience Africa’s majestic wildlife with a visit to the Gaborone Game Reserve or take a day trip to the Mokolodi Nature Reserve if you’ve got a little more time on your hands.

For more information:

For more information:

www.anantara.com/en/royal-livingstone

www.avanihotels.com/en/gaborone

arrot Products is putting a different spin on meetings, presentations and the delivery of training with its series of Touch LED Panels, providing fully interactive platforms that research has shown boosts staff satisfaction and performance. Parrot Interactive Touch LED Panels available in 55”, 65” and 86” offer the perfect solution for any business environment. Parrot’s innovative multi-touch display technology allows for participants to view, control and collaborate on more immersive presentations. The touch screens provide easy navigation of documents, videos, presentations and websites, and the convenient sharing of documents and notes from the screen as well as multimedia files.

The HD (55”) and 4K (65” & 86”) provide improved image quality and sharpness. With up to 10 touch points, this allows for a wider variety of applications than ever before. This kind of functionality allows you to manipulate images, zoom in and out, as well as perform many other touch gestures. Parrot Products offers free training and demonstrations as well as remote and on-site support and ongoing consultations.

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fter winning the Diamond Arrow Award for Best Exhibition and Events Venue in Sub-Saharan Africa at the PMR.africa Awards 2018, the Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC) has proven once again why it is a force to be reckoned with.

The JEC has become an icon of the City of Johannesburg and, to keep up with exhibiting and eventing trends, the JEC is constantly innovating to provide the best in bespoke offerings for its growing client base.

With its dedicated team of service providers who are based permanently on-site, the JEC has 150 000 m² of space available across both its in- and outdoor facilities. There are more than 20 000 parking bays in addition to a helipad and, being located just 30 minutes away from the city’s main airports, the JEC is also easily accessible by all major highways. The JEC is affiliated to all major industry associations, including The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), of which Craig Newman, CEO of the JEC, is the current president.

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MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 •

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l e a d i n g t h e pa c k • H e a d i n g ?

EVENTS PRODUCTION HOSPITALITY Showcase your event with EPH Productions EPH Group is a well-known and respected technical supplier to the live events industry in Southern Africa; primarily focusing on sound, lighting and audio-visual staging.

The company has an impressive portfolio having executed on major productions such as the 12th Annual South African

EPH

Film & Television Awards (SAFTAs) earlier this year, the Proe’toria festival, FNB Starlight Pops, Metro FM Awards and many more.

EPH provides event solutions focused on not just technical capacities but also fully comprehensive event management.

Dedicated to delivering the best customer service and ensuring that for each and every occasion, the client’s event objectives are achieved.

#WEDOEVENTS

INFO@EPHPRODUCTIONS.CO.ZA 012 345 5278 # W E D O A U D I O V I S U A L WWW.EPHPRODUCTIONS.CO.ZA

Rock out your next event with Barmotion

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re you looking for a fun and enticing add-on to your event?

Look no further than Barmotion – a company providing mobile bar solutions to the corporate and events industry in South Africa. Barmotion provides professional bar services with a variety of different refreshments and foods, including their world-famous cappuccinos, raw juices, smoothies, gelato, sushi and many more.

As well as being a fully mobile bar service providing all the necessary equipment for your event, Barmotion also sends its trained staff to manage your bars and guarantees your event runs without a hitch.

Barmotion is constantly on the move and able to travel to any destination in South Africa, with its branches strategically located in Cape Town, Johannesburg and KwaZulu-Natal.

Barmotion also recently added Zimbabwe to their map! Barmotion also offers bespoke bars that can be branded, providing an ideal opportunity to enhance your brand at your company’s next event.

For more information: 0861 WE ROCK (93 7625) info@barmotion.co.za | www.barmotion.co.za

Where the exceptional has become the rule

Expert hospitality and eventing solutions

et in classically landscaped gardens that surround an extravagant water feature, where sparkling fountains splash around a magnificent bronze sculpture, Summer Place is an idyllic location for weddings and memorable occasions. The architectural style and building proportions are in such harmony with the rest of the property that indoor and outdoor spaces flow naturally into each other, adding to the sense of serenity. Subtlety of design has also created space for seclusion, without straying too far from the central entertainment area.

Banqueting facilities at Summer Place offer versatility and flexibility in perfect accord with fine dining and immaculate service. State-of-the-art kitchens tantalise the most discerning of palates with a variety of menu options suited to individual preference and budget.

Operating as a diligent, closely knit team, Summer Place’s highly trained personnel share a common goal of sustained distinction and client satisfaction. For those who know that memorable events merit an exceptional setting, Summer Place is where the most discerning demands are met.

sogo Sun’s extensive conferencing, hospitality and events portfolio offers a team with decades of experience in providing exceptional corporate event and conferencing solutions. From board meetings in Cape Town to a formal banquet for 5 000 at Sandton Convention Centre, Tsogo Sun’s venues provide a range of breakaway rooms and are in close proximity to restaurants, hotels and leisure destinations. Need more motivation?

Here are 10 reasons why Tsogo Sun is leading the pack in conferencing: • Great locations throughout Africa • Tailor-made event packages • Packages to suit your budget • A trusted leader in the G&C industry • Decades of experience • Personalised service • Carefully prepared menus • Over 100 hotels to choose from • Over 250 venues to choose from • One-stop shop

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For more information: www.summerplacesa.com

For more information: www.tsogosun.com/meetings-events

36 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Ta l k i n g p o i n t s

INDUSTRY views How RAI Amsterdam ensures a warm welcome for medical conferences

Medical meeting marvel A big issue for medical congress organisers today is the need to comply with local rules in every country, writes Maurits van der Sluis.

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hen it comes to Europe, rules tend to apply on an EU-wide level. In particular, regulations for the advertising of medications can affect the organisation of a conference. In Amsterdam, we have set up a partnership to provide advance independent tailor-made advice to organisers about the possibilities. This will help them begin their conference safe in the knowledge that they are in compliance with all regulations.

Although they are embedded in national legislation, the regulations regarding medications for human use are the same throughout Europe. In addition, the European umbrella organisation for self-regulation, EFPIA, has drawn up an international code of conduct. In the Netherlands, these components are combined in the Dutch Code of Conduct for Pharmaceutical Advertising (Gedragscode Geneesmiddelenreclame or CGR). For organisers of medical conferences, one section of the CGR is particularly relevant: prescription medications may only be advertised to professionals – that is, people who prescribe or deliver drugs, such as physicians and pharmacists. Fortunately, it is actually quite easy to keep track of this, with a bit of help.

exhibitors only be allowed to recommend drugs in one-onone contact with professionals. With major events that are focused primarily on professionals from abroad and not patients, the conclusion can even be that organisers need take no extra action as the majority of visitors fall within the category of prescribing professionals – badges are always handy, of course. The Keuringsraad can give a definite answer on this.

Short lines of communication Other components to keep in mind are the content of the presentations, the hospitality offered and gifts.

The general guideline is that pharmaceutical companies cannot be allowed to improperly influence professionals.

The Keuringsraad can provide information on this subject as well. The organisers will receive advice from the Keuringsraad in a clear letter.

We can also invite the Keuringsraad to send representatives if the organisers visit RAI Amsterdam in advance with the most important delegates, allowing them to ask questions. Finally, the Keuringsraad can be consulted via telephone during specific times.

Independent advice

MauritS van der Sluis is the COO at RAI Amsterdam.

In Amsterdam, the municipality, NBCT Holland Marketing (the entity responsible for branding and marketing in the Netherlands), RAI Amsterdam, the Ministry of Health and the Keuringsraad work closely together to ensure that the organisation of each medical conference proceeds smoothly. The Keuringsraad plays a key role in this regard, as it oversees compliance with the CGR and advises conference organisers about this topic. We bring organisers of medical conferences in touch with the right person at the Keuringsraad at the start of the preparations. The organisers can then explain their plans and are given advice on what is and is not permitted, and what the possible alternatives are.

In many cases, it is necessary to register the profession of the visitors and ensure that it is clearly visible on their badges. This opens up several alternatives in terms of layout. A part of the show floor could only be accessible to certain professionals, for instance. Another option is that

Simple practice While the rules may seem complex, the practice is simple.

You do not need to have studied law: simply explain the concept of your conference and you will receive a personal opinion based on this. In the case of large-scale international conferences for medical professionals, you may not even have to take any measures at all; in other cases, careful organisation of the conference can ensure that you comply with all the rules. RAI Amsterdam will be pleased to put you in touch with the right people. This lets you start your conference with confidence and frees up your time to enjoy all the other fine things Amsterdam has to offer.

RAI Amsterdam is a long-standing member of the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC).

For further information, please contact marianne.de.raay@aipc.org or visit www.aipc.org.

ABOUT AIPC AIPC represents a global network of over 185 leading centres in 60 countries, with the active involvement of more than 900 management-level professionals worldwide.

It is committed to encouraging and recognising excellence in convention centre management, based on the diverse experience and expertise of its international representation, and maintains a variety of educational, research, networking and standards programmes to achieve this.

AIPC also celebrates and promotes the essential role of the international meetings industry in supporting economic, academic and professional development, and enhancing global relations among highly diverse business and cultural interests.

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MEETINGS l november/december 2018 •

37

d eLsKING TA t i n a tPOINT ion S

INDUSTRY views Don’t ignore effective emergency measures

Safety first

event safety and security planning, and the value of effective emergency response. A recent case involved four armed men who attacked and robbed wedding guests at Riverside Castle, east of Pretoria. Watches, an iPhone and laptop were among items stolen during the wedding.

It’s an unfortunate reality that because events attract crowds, they may become a target for crimes such as theft, robbery, assault and even terrorism.

These events become bigger targets as crowds assemble and grow. They may also become opportunities for afety and security can sometimes seem like timespecial interest groups to publicly demonstrate. Poor consuming red tape and it’s easy to lose sight of event planning, management, crowd control, security and the importance of proper safety and security ineffective emergency response all increase the likelihood planning when planning an event. of injury, property damage and even catastrophic attacks.

From a risk-management perspective at an event, it’s Proper event safety and security must be tailored to each important to avoid a worst-case scenario such as theft, event and its potential exposure to death, financial ruin or potentially criminal liability.

Proper event safety and various risks.

To avoid problems occurring at Having on-site event security security must be tailored events, don’t put specific information is not only a way to provide your on social media such as mass delegates with safety and comfort, to each event transfer schedules – rather keep this but it also adds to your level of information on a closed communication platform. Make professionalism, especially when hosting corporate events sure the venue has trained security and has increased its and conferences. By providing security and protection, security during a specific event. Try to stick to ‘by invite you are showing potential business partners, investors only’ events for events where the risk is higher. This is and associates that you genuinely care for their wella crucial element in the further professionalisation of being and interests. As an industry expert, you have a the business events industry and in ensuring that our legal responsibility, or duty of care, in this regard. Recent delegates return for future events. criminal attacks have shown the importance of proper

Rudi van der Vyver believes that safety and security at events should be a top priority.

S rudi van der Vyver is the CEO of SAACI.

INDUSTRY views Going green this festive season

Dreaming of a green christmas As we approach perhaps the busiest period of the year for event organisers, consider the impact of the many events, parties, meetings and year-end functions that herald the ‘silly season’. By Greg McManus

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GREG MCMANUS is the chairman of the Event Greening Forum.

hroughout the year, many companies consider the sustainability of their business activities, but when it comes to the end of the year, much of what has been achieved in reducing the impacts that we have tends to be waived as we look towards our leave and well-earned break. But now – more than any other time – we should be considering how to minimise our impacts and create a lasting legacy for ourselves and our clients. Here are a few ways that you can make a difference this year: • Venue selection: When selecting a venue for your endof-year event, look for one that has been independently certified as sustainable or green. Alternatively, find a venue that has a sustainability policy that addresses local procurement, local staffing, water and energy reductions, waste minimisation and recycling, and community involvement.

• Decor: This year, rather choose locally manufactured or crafted decorations and table settings. By using live plants as table decor, you have an opportunity to replant them after the event for reuse next year or simply to add colour to gardens. And while you are at it, consider candles and LED lighting for trees and tables.

38 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

•G ifting: Consider providing your clients and guests with a voucher from a local craft or art market where they can choose their own gift. In this way, you are helping local crafters and artists earn a living while at the same time boosting the local economy and giving your clients a meaningful choice.

•M enus: Select a menu that includes locally sourced, fresh ingredients and dishes rather than ingredients that have to be sourced from distant suppliers. And if you find you have over-catered, donate leftover food to a local home or shelter rather than dumping it in a bin.

•T ransport: Consider a centrally situated venue in an effort to cut down on travel emissions and, where you can, plan for a coach or bus to transport your guests from one point – thereby reducing emissions and the potential for DUI charges.

Have a standby driver service for those that overindulge.

This year, create events and parties that aim to put something back into the community instead of adding to the existing waste and excesses. A sustainable approach to your planning will make a great difference and, in the spirit of the season, why not give our communities and environment a gift this year?

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Ta l k i n g p o i n t s

INDUSTRY views How exhibitions are driving brand engagement

Successful shows restore trust in exhibitions

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Leatitia van Straten is the chairperson of AAXO.

roof that exhibitions are an effective means of engagement is supported by the latest UFI Global Barometer Report on Exhibitions, published in July 2018. The report, done in conjunction with the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) and the Exhibition and Events Association of Southern Africa (EXSA), details – for the first time in 10 years – that all four global regions reported a positive development simultaneously. One of the top challenges listed in the UFI Barometer Report is competition from within the industry. This illustrates that competitors see exhibitions as an industry with potential and understand the value the channel brings to the marketing mix as a whole.

But the most sure-fire way to know that trust in exhibitions has been restored lies in the statistics and feedback. One of the shows that must have got it right is Electra Mining Africa, which achieved a 1/2 record rebook rate on exhibition stands for the next show, which is only taking place in September 2020. This was before the show

Following a series of successful exhibitions held recently, it’s safe to assume that trust has been restored in exhibitions as a marketing channel, says Leatitia van Straten. even closed its doors! Exhibitors have all been raving about the quality of attendees and boasted about deals concluded at the show worth hundreds of millions of rand.

MamaMagic Baby Expo, organised by Exposure Marketing, was recently recognised at the Mattel Licensing Summit for playing an integral part in attracting new audiences and keeping the ‘Barney’ brand a valued part of the lives of South African children.

World Travel Market Africa saw a 19% increase in attendees, who came from 70 countries. It featured over 600 exhibitors from 20 African countries and boasted over 6 000 pre-scheduled meetings.

Exhibitions nowadays not only feature displays of the latest products and services, but offer value-adding content for attendees, delivered by industry gurus, as well as sophisticated networking tools to assist suppliers with meeting the right buyers. In a tough economy, exhibitions continue to offer excellent return on marketing investment and companies are capitalising on this smart marketing channel.

INDUSTRY views

New Year ambition

Networking will continue to be an important industry driver in 2019

Drawing to the close of 2018 makes us take note of new trends and developments that we can look forward to for 2019, writes Michelle Hinrichsen.

Michelle Hinrichsen is the current president of Travelbags.

www.theplanner.guru

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e are in the final quarter of 2018 – wow, how time flies! As the Women’s Travel Club of South Africa, our main focus is networking and building lasting, mutually beneficial business relationships between industry peers, which makes us – as a club – think about what the best ways are to network in the travel and hospitality industries. How do we find the time in our very busy days to move ourselves away from our PCs and offices and get out there to make great business connections?

Networking is a very important business practice for all.

We need to consider that not everyone is a sales person, and some environments may work for some but not so much for others. As the Women’s Travel Club of South Africa, we are cognisant of these factors and want to ensure all of our members’ needs are met. Hence, we try to incorporate different themed events and lunches.

Our committee is constantly thinking of new ice-breakers and networking opportunities that will make bridging gaps for our members easier. Our focus has always been on networking and bringing people together – so, going forward, Travelbags will endeavour to continue finding ways to suit the needs of our members.

Our club turns 60 this year, and this success is a result of our members – who enjoy networking and coming together as an industry once a month to celebrate women in travel and hospitality, to celebrate men in travel and hospitality, to build relationships with new clients and peers, or just to cement existing relationships with clients and peers.

And at the same time, it’s about having fun and enjoying what the travel and hospitality industry offers to those who dedicate their time to this chosen career path. We celebrate the women and men in the travel and hospitality industry, and will continue to offer fun, exciting and very fulfilling lunches and events to these individuals where they can feel free to grow and network.

Our focus has always been on networking and bringing people together – so, going forward, Travelbags will endeavour to continue to find ways to suit the needs of our members MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 •

39

M I S S M EET

Making marketing make sense Technology has added a new dimension to how we market our events but how much is too much? Miss Meet explores some of the pitfalls of event marketing in the modern era.

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ith the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, more and more events have started using their very own apps. As

capacities grow and channels open up, marketing in particular has significantly advanced and changed the way we promote and commercialise our events.

But where do you draw the line in all of this? At

“Don’t find customers for your products, find products for your customers.” – Seth Godin obtained either with an opt-in by the individual or that they are part of an already-existing

what point does you being top of mind become a

active database of yours. Never use a third-party

pain in the neck for your recipients?

database because you cannot be sure of how the information was obtained. Sending unsolicited mail

The fact is that we are walking a very fine line here, and in order to better diagnose and mitigate

to someone who didn’t request it could put you in a

these concerns, we need to put ourselves in the

serious situation.

Excessive mailers are a killer, particularly if you are

shoes of our audience. We are living in a day and age where – with the wrong opt-in – privacy and

sending the same previous communication just on

some of our personal information can fall squarely

a different day. If you don’t have anything new to

in the public domain for organisations to utilise for

communicate, rather avoid spamming your database

their own purposes.

in an attempt to stay top of mind.

By simply clicking ‘I accept’ to the terms and conditions, you are consenting to how your

Alternatives

information is used, unwittingly or not. People are

Consider alternative tools to ensure better

becoming increasingly aware of this, but can do

engagement instead. Social media is an important

little about it so the goal is not to trick your entire

platform because it levels the playing field on the

target audience into subscribing to your database.

interactive dynamic and allows for better peer-type

Careful consideration needs to be given to your

communication. The eventing apps we increasingly

event’s marketing strategy to make sure you don’t

see are also being developed in such a way that

potentially inundate and irk your attendees with

news and press releases can be stored and accessed

excessive communication.

at any time, empowering the user to interact with the app as and when they choose. While we

Be legal-wise

cannot deny the importance of marketing, a more

Cover all your bases from a legal perspective.

structured approach towards how we interact with

Ensure all your contacts on your database were

our audiences could go a long way.

index to advertisers Barmotion

OBC & 36

Fine Line

1

Parrot Products

35

Chat’r Xperience

6 & 34

Flock

27

Rand Club

32

CTICC

3 & 34

Indaba Hotel

34

SANCB

12

Summer Place

36

Tour in South Africa (TiSA)

19

Tsogo Sun

36

DCJ Photography EPH Productions Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Fancourt

26 24 & 36

JEC Just Haven

14 & 35 IBC

IFC

Khoja Group

2

22

Minor Hotels

OFC & 35

40 • MEETINGS l NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Ultimate Data Sciences

9

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