Pinpoint Vol 1

Venue Spotlight By Conference Care

IN THIS EDITION:

LEONARDO HOTELS BMA HOUSE WHITWORTH LOCKE AND MORE...

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Rebecca Hurley - BMA House

JULY

VOL.1

CONTENTS

What's the (Pin)point?

3

This Month's Feature

4

Not-For-Profit Venue

9

Hottest Venue

14

Apartment for Long Stays

17

Seasonal Space

21

WHAT'S (PIN)POINT? WHAT'STHE THE (PIN)POINT? Welcome to the first edition of our Pinpoint newsletter. We are thrilled to spotlight some of the venues and groups that we are excited about!

If you don't already know us, we're Conference Care, the venue finding experts. Our team go the extra mile - literally - to find the hottest new venues. In this edition, we give you recommendations from our team based on their first-hand experience. Learn more about some of our team below:

Team Featured in this Edition Sarah Huckerby Sarah is always on the lookout for new, quirky, and unique venues - anything that offers a different spin to a meeting or event, no matter how big or small. A green thumb, you can find her on the weekend tending to her allotment.

Sofia Tranter

Sofia loves nothing more than finding a new sustainable venue and learning about green initiatives. She is a CrossFit legend and up-and-coming star, featuring in a number of Conference Care videos - keep your eyes peeled!

Becki Hollis Becki has an encyclopaedic knowledge of venues and suppliers. She's always ready with a recommendation for a hotel, restaurant, bar, or anything really - just ask!

Anywhere that serves cheese or sourdough is a winner for Becki.

Georgina Foxall Our resident travel addict, Georgie can often be found paddle boarding with her dog, Isla. Her favourite type of venue is when something old has been turned into something new! Something that feels fresh & unique, but also has a story to tell.

THIS MONTH'S FEATURE

Earlier this year, the Fattal Group acquired The Grand Brighton.

Read all about the exciting new acquisition and its event potential here!

Let’s talk about Leonardo. You can cite basic numbers and statistics—Leonardo Hotels operates 53 hotels across the UK and Ireland. You can admire its reach— its owner, Fattal Hotels, owns and operates over 200 hotels in over 100 destinations. And of course, you can look to the future—the group is rapidly expanding its global presence. But, at its heart, Leonardo is all about hospitality.

That’s why this global chain is the perfect choice for your next event...

SARAH HUCKERBY, ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER "I am really excited to see what Leonardo’s next move is, they have gone through a major rebrand and invested so heavily into enhancing their city centre properties. The introduction of quirky venues to their portfolio has really raised the bar for them, I am particularly excited to see what’s to come for The Dilly and where the next NYX will be popping up. They are definitely a 'watch this space' brand with so much more to come."

Want more recommendations from me?

Contact me on sarahh@conferencecare.com or call 02476 369 720

200+ HOTELS IN OVER 100 DESTINATIONS Leonardo Hotels’ vision is “to be the first choice for everyone who values genuine hospitality.” That means being guided by their guests, creating memorable experiences, and providing exceptional service. When it comes to meetings & events, you’ll get personal service unlike any other. Their range of hotels means you’ll always find a space in a central, attractive location. They also go the extra mile to accommodate your needs…

Want an event to be hybrid or virtual? Leonardo Hotels have a wide range of solutions available. From professional video conferences to live webcasts in a professional studio.

Want a carbon neutral event? Leonardo is working to make their spaces more sustainable. One key example is Germany, where all visitors can take advantage of 100% carbon-free travel.

Part of what makes this acquisition so special is that the venue will see the love and care that Leonardo give to all of their hotels while retaining its iconic status.

We can't wait to see what comes next for The Grand, which has already undergone significant refurbishments, and is sure to get better and better with Leonardo at the helm.

In early 2023, The Fattal Group acquired The Grand in Brighton. First opened in 1864, the Grand Brighton occupies a prime location on Brighton’s seafront with unobstructed views over the English Channel.

The seven-floor hotel has 201 rooms, including seaside-facing balcony bedrooms and luxury suites.

You can enjoy a sustainably sourced meal at The Grill, from fresh seafood to ice cream from Gelato Gusto.

Or, relax at the Victoria Bar & Lounge, stocked with locally sourced gems and guest favourites.

The Grand has an incredible meeting and banqueting space, providing in excess of 1,200 sqm across 13 rooms. This includes the sea-facing Empress Suite. An Interesting fact about this suite - it is the largest seafacing conference suite in the UK, accommodating up to 900 delegates.

The hotel also has a range of other spaces, perfect for private banqueting or smaller meetings. Want to reserve a place? Speak to one of our account managers today on 02476 369 720.

NEW OPENINGS & REFURBISHMENTS 2023 will see the opening of NYX Dublin Portobello, the first NYX to launch in Ireland & will feature 175 bedrooms, a bar, a restaurant, a gym & meeting rooms.

The refurbishment is underway at Leonardo Hotel Glasgow and once completed will feature brand new bedrooms and public spaces.

Meanwhile, Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh has had a complete transformation. 186 stylish & spacious bedrooms with interiors that showcase traditional Scottish elements.

All bedrooms feature the bespoke Leonardo DREAM bed, a flatscreen Chromecast TV, large desk with a well-lit workspace, Nespresso machine and an ensuite bathroom with White Company toiletries. Public areas including the reception, bar & restaurant have been completely transformed and now feature stunning new interiors.

NOT FOR PROFIT VENUE

SOFIA TRANTER, HEAD OF NEW BUSINESS "BMA House is a no-brainer for any event professionals looking to bring some history to their event with the right balance of aestheticism. Catering is second to none, with their very own herb garden. Gas, fuel & electricity are strictly sourced from renewable sources. Nothing is too much trouble for this venue which will go above & beyond to exceed expectations."

Want more recommendations from me?

Contact me on sofiat@conferencecare.com or call 02476 369 720

Conference Care spoke to Rebecca Hurley, Venue Marketing Manager for BMA House, to discover what sets this remarkable Grade II listed building apart, and how the house lives and breathes sustainability.

BMA HOUSE "Are you a not-for-profit or a social enterprise?"

BMA House is a not-for-profit organisation, meaning profits made from hiring out our space are reinvested back into the BMA to help improve the building while also contributing towards our amazing doctors.

"Tell us about BMA House" For almost 100 years BMA House has sat in the heart of London. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens – arguably the greatest British architect of the twentieth century – and opened by King George V, our remarkable building makes today’s special occasions all the more spectacular.

BMA House has been home to the British Medical Association since 1925.

Our venue boasts 22 unique & versatile spaces including 11 purpose built meeting rooms, all fitted with cutting edge AV technology. From small team meeting rooms to full conferencing spaces for up to 320 attendees.

"What are some sustainable initiatives BMA House have supported?"

We’ve partnered with Cross River Partnership to promote a ‘Clean Air Walking Route’ from Kings Cross, to provide delegates with a ‘cleaner’ journey to BMA House. The route takes guests off the busy Euston Road onto backstreets where air pollution is 57% lower.

To support wellbeing & work-life balance, we work in coordination with Chelsea Fringe to create a Mindful garden; a peaceful haven which can be accessed all year round for delegates to unwind.

The BMA has established a 'corporate social environmental responsibility’ group "Tell us about sustainability at BMA House"

(CSER) which actively encourages staff to be socially and environmentally

BMA House has long recognised the

responsible. We get involved in charitable giving, have focused activities

importance of sustainability. We are committed to seeking every opportunity to ensure we and our partners adhere

on sustainable practices, recycling & reducing our carbon footprint, and hold awareness days for health.

to sustainable goals on every level.

In response to client requests, at the end of 2022, we removed beef from our hot

Above all else, we see it as our goal to

fork menu for the coming season, created meat-free-Monday for events, and made

break down the presumption that Grade II listed buildings cannot be sustainable. This is demonstrated through headline figures such as a 69% reduction in delegate carbon footprint & 5.4m litre reduction in water usage.

We’ll soon be including the carbon footprint on our menus to help our clients make informed decisions on food choices. BMA House will always be a welcoming place with a shared goal to continue to help the planet. If we can all make one small difference today, we're one step closer to being more carbon efficient in the future.

all of our coffee-break cakes vegan.

"What are some achievements BMA House is proud of?"

As of February 2016, we have zeroto-landfill status - all waste produced is either recycled or recovered.

In 2017, we worked tirelessly to achieve our Gold accreditation with Green Tourism, one of just five venues in London, no mean feat for a Grade II listed building! This prestigious certification was awarded for our inspirational environmental ethos and excellent practices throughout the business.

Other awards we've won include: ‘ Best Accommodation & Meetings Sustainability Initiative ’ in the 2022 Greengage Sustainability Awards, alongside achieving Platinum status in their ECOsmart accreditation. We won a Gold award for ‘ Best Venue for Hybrid Events ’ in the London Venue Awards, and Silver in the COOL Event Awards for COOLEST Sustainable Event Venue , plus more.

"Are there any projects or initiatives you are working on right now?"

Our fantastic supplier list. All of our suppliers are vetted for their sustainable and ethical practices, we now only choose suppliers who can show they have made every effort to be sustainable. For example, we updated our house beer to Two Tribes, a brewery based in St. Pancras Kings Cross that delivers by pedal bike – all cans, no glass.

There is a perception that a sustainable event will cost more overall. But when you look at each element of an event, plant-based items are less expensive than meat, and we pass on all of these savings to our clients.

A huge thank you to Rebecca for her time & insightful responses.

To book your next event at BMA House, speak to one of our venue finding experts by calling 02476 369 720 or emailing enquiries@conferencecare.com .

This year we have put together a Christmas package titled: ‘I’m dreaming of a Green Christmas’ and have introduced a ‘Greenest Christmas Dinner’ option which includes all of the elements you’d expect to see in a Christmas party package. A set menu with hand-selected dishes to reduce your carbon footprint is included, plus sustainable centrepieces.

HOTTEST VENUE

THE MEGARO KINGS CROSS The Megaro Hotel is rewriting the established rules of hospitality. This landmark building, located in London's Kings Cross wasn't always this colourful - in 2012, it rebranded and changed its skin to the bold, brash, colourful collage you see today.

Megaro Hotel is owned by St Pancras Meetings & Events. With 12 meeting rooms varying in size, their spaces are perfect for small boardrooms to large conferences for 100 delegates. Each room has its own identity and will fit the vibe of any event you are looking to host.

For more details on the unique spaces inside the Megaro, keep reading or contact us on 02476 369 720.

& ST PANCRAS MEETING ROOMS

Meeting Spaces Marine Room For that nautical feel, visit the Marine Room. The wooden table is crafted from Nelson’s HMS Victory Ship so you know you´re on to a winner. The space can host up to 12 people and includes a 65 inch Smart MirrorTV, Digital Whiteboard, Highspeed WiFi and an Espresso machine with a collection of teas.

The Magenta Michelin endorsed. Italian inspired.

Magenta is a food experience to remember.

Above the main restaurant is a discreet private dining room great for intimate parties or business meetings, with a twist. The room is styled to resemble a Victorian train car carriage - and with the nearby Kings Cross, you'll get authentic ambience too!

BOOK TODAY Book your next event at The Megaro Hotel by speaking to one of our venue finding experts on 02476 369 720 or emailing: enquiries@conferencecare.com.

What makes it hot?

Since its inception last year, The Megaro's Hokus Pokus alchemy bar has become a social media sensation. The space has acquired a cult following in recent months - and for good reason. It's a unique space covered with shimmering copper, aged brass, mercury glass, white marble and vintage oak, punctuated by vibrant flashes of petrol blue and deep purple. The bar produces and serves over 30 cocktails from an in-house lab, presented as potions and prescriptions.

The bar's designer, Henry Chebaane, is also an author and artist. Chebaane's debut graphic novel "The Panharmonion Chronicles" will feature Hokus Pokus as a location within the story and will be sold at The Megaro.

REBECCA HOLLIS, OPERATIONS DIRECTOR "The Megaro Kings Cross has been on our radar for some time, with its unique blend of styles and experiences, it's one of those spaces that promises to transport you. We're sure the venue has to be seen to be believed which is why we're booking a visit later this year to get the full St Pancras Meeting Room experience first-hand."

Want more recommendations from me?

Contact me on rebeccah@conferencecare.com or call 02476 369 720

APARTMENT FOR LONG STAYS

WHITWORTH LOCKE, MANCHESTER

Apartment For Long Stays

WHITWORTH LOCKE

GEORGINA FOXALL, EVENTS CONSULTANT

"Instagram-worthy interiors, hanging plants galore, happy faces, tasty food, furry friends (pet-friendly apartments) and out of the ordinary bedrooms with all the amenities you could ever need! A stylish & welcoming home from home in the heart of Manchester."

Want more recommendations from me?

Contact me on georginaf@conferencecare.com or call 02476 369 720

MORE THAN JUST AN APARTMENT

Whitworth Locke Manchester boasts a variety of choice on your doorstep, while supporting local businesses.

Host an event at Whitworth Locke Informal drinks, a conference, or a wedding - this incredible venue can accommodate you and your guests.

Staff will make sure you and your guests are catered for and comfortable, with a reception desk manned 24/7 at the centre of a fully stocked bar.

All of Whitworth Locke's apartments are built in unique spaces Manchester is built into a disused cotton factory, utilising many of its original features. The building's large windows create a contemporary, warehouse-style feel.

All apartments range from 25sqm to an impressive 80sqm, and are designed to feel bigger too!

BOOK A PLACE TODAY

Have an employee needing relocation in Manchester? Call today to book a long stay on 02476 369 720

ABOUT

Does your average apartment have an on-site restaurant? Does it have an on-site coffee shop? Are they independent?

HOME AWAY FROM HOME How does a Whitworth Locke make your apartment feel like a home away from home?

Each space is equipped with washing machines and cocktail sets. Blackout curtains ensure you have privacy when you want it.

All of Whitworth Locke's locations have a signature scent to ensure each apartment offering is unique and fragrant.

LONG STAYS

What is a long stay?

Sometimes an employee needs to work away from home. Sometimes they need to work away from home for a long time. Sometimes they even need to relocate. To save them sofa-surfing or hotel hopping, they can have a base of operations to call their own. Conference Care now offer long stay services.

Click here to find out more.

SEASONAL SPACE

SOUND

GOOD?

Email enquiries@conferencecare.com or call 02476 369 720.