HEN April 2022

• 19 meeting rooms newly refurbished

• Floor to ceiling windows

• Inbuilt projectors & screens

• Fabulous private dining options from the 13th floor overlooking the city

• Great location from all travel networks

Ensure It’s Insured

Back in Town

Keen for Green

Security Check

New Venues

A Warm Welcome

APRIL / MAY 2022

The industry is getting back to its vibrant, exciting best, it’s been wonderful talking to so many venues again booked up and busy. In our latest edition, we focus on Yorkshire, and as CHS Leeds comes to town, back at RAI where it started, we are delighted that Conference Leeds have sponsored our cover. As a Leodensian, I’ve seen the city come alive in the last few years in sporting, culture and tourism, and corporate events. Channel 4 know something.

Loads of great features in our latest edition; our suppliers focus is on crowd safety, we talk to event profs about COVID’s lasting legacies, discuss wellbeing, sustainability, event insurance and discover why non-alcohol drinks can be all the rage. All the news and views, plus a great competition from our friends at The Leeds Marriott.

Its happening here at H&E North, please like and share us through your socials and spread the word!

North in Brief

Security Expert Advises Event Organisers

A former counter-terrorist security coordinator, Niall Griffin has been offering advice to event organisers on Protect Duty, the recently proposed legislation aiming to increase security measures for venues and public spaces.

Also known as Martyn’s Law, Protect Duty was established in honour of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims killed in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017.

The proposed new law aims to ensure the public are better protected from potential terrorist attacks, making it a legislative requirement for venues to employ security measures in the majority of public spaces.

Over 70% of respondents supported the government’s proposal to introduce stronger security measures during a public consultation on Protect Duty in January, which includes the requirement of counterterrorism plans and training for venue security staff.

With over 30 years’ experience, Niall has supported Protect Duty since it was first proposed last year.

“There is no doubt that the Protect Duty is a huge step in the right direction and one which the security industry has been crying out for,” he said. “The proportionality part of Martyn’s Law is very important. Not all sites and venues are the same, so a blanket approach would be counterproductive.

“This must be proportionate with individual business models, but there is no reason why anyone who runs any sort of event that welcomes people in at a publicly accessible location wouldn’t have to comply with this.”

Organisers can contact Niall for advice by emailing technical@hardstaffbarriers.com

Plans for New North Yorkshire Venue Re-evaluated

Plans for a new multi-purpose arena in Redcar, North Yorkshire, have been reevaluated just months after the site plans were submitted. The £67 million project was initially proposed by developers Coatham Arena Limited (CAL) to build the venue on the former site of Redcar Bowl, which was demolished in 2014.

Opening by 2024, the new 5,000-capacity arena would host an all-year programme of conference and social events. After pausing development to let a robust business case develop for the project, Redcar and Cleveland Council highlighted specific concerns on whether the arena could physically fit on the site, citing further concern for the overall cost of the project.

Councillor Chris Gallacher said: “It would

be fantastic to see an arena in Redcar, but based on the information provided by CAL, the council is not satisfied that the proposed site is suitable and that the development as proposed is viable going forward.

“The council will work with CAL to explore the potential of alternative sites in the borough and try to find a suitable arena site in Redcar.”

Nottingham Forest Added to Portfolio

Nottingham Forest is the latest football club to join the stadium venue collection at Lime Venue Portfolio. The City Ground, with a capacity of 30,445 people, joined Lime Venue Portfolio alongside other sporting grounds including Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane and Warwickshire Cricket Club in Edgbaston.

"One of the key trends we’re seeing is the need for businesses to align themselves with their locality, and we’re seeing this reflected in enquiry levels to our stadia brands,” said Lime Venue Portfolio Sales Director Jo Austin.

“The City Ground isn’t just an icon in the football world, it’s a part of the community and a massive source of pride for the people of Nottingham.”

Nottingham Forest FC Commercial Sales Manager, Simon Fotheringham, added: “We’re really proud of the meetings and events business we have at The City Ground, which offers a great mixture of Nottingham’s heritage and footballing history.

“We have big plans for the club both on and off the pitch and we’re really delighted that our event space is already striving for Premier League standards! It’s a brilliant location for meetings big or small, and for someone looking to talk about the city of Nottingham.”

The NEC Invests in Multimillion Pound Tech

Birmingham’s NEC has invested over £7 million in new technology to boost its data gathering and Wi-Fi capabilities. Using WaitTime technology, the venue is the UK’s first to adopt the industry leading software in crowd intelligence.

Providing real-time measurement of venue capacity and crowd density during events and conferences, WaitTime also alerts organisers to capacity issues in line with COVID-19 safety measures. Attracting 2.3 million visitors annually, NEC has also invested in the latest Wi-Fi solutions developed by Cisco, installing 1,800 access points across all public spaces to prevent any black spots across the venue.

“Our new Wi-Fi solution teamed with WaitTime’s crowd and business intelligence is revolutionary,” said NEC Group Managing Director Ian Taylor. “The NEC Group is a data-led business, and it is investments like this that help to keep us at the cutting edge of live event innovation.”

WaitTime CEO, Zachary Klima, added: "It's no surprise that as the UK's largest exhibition venue is on the forefront of innovation and adoption of technologies.

“Using artificial intelligence to manage crowds and capacity levels is going to help them increase operational efficiencies and, ultimately, create better guest and vendor experiences.”

Cheval Collection to Launch New Brand

Award-winning hospitality group Cheval Collection has announced the launch of a new urban accommodation brand set to open its doors in Glasgow. Opening in 2024, MY Locanda will contain 104 studio apartments, 62 one-bedroom apartments, and two one-bedroom suites with panoramic views over the city.

Delegates will also access a range of communal areas and dedicated spaces for business meetings, with fitness studios, coffee shops, and yoga sessions also included.

Chris Stewart, CEO of Chris Stewart Group, said: “MY Locanda will be a superb addition to our apartment development plans in Glasgow. Its international outlook and design-led approach will attract both short and long-term residents and matches our vision for the development which will include a range of high quality, cosmopolitan lifestyle, retail, and food and drink brands.

“Having worked successfully with Cheval in Edinburgh, I’m delighted to continue the relationship with this new venture in Glasgow.”

North Yorkshire Hotel Relaunch

The Old Deanery in Ripon has hosted its first large event since its relaunch earlier this year. Hosting a 50th birthday party in March, the Jacobean mansion will continue taking bookings for exclusive events during its 2022 programme.

Located opposite Ripon cathedral, the historic building now contains 10 individually styled bedrooms in addition to a main function room and grand reception area.

“We were over the moon to host our first large event following an extensive renovation,” said Co-Owner Rebecca Hill. “With The Old Deanery having opened its doors to guests at the start of 2022, we’re off to an amazing start and are very much on track to achieving the initial goal of our venue being the place for events in Ripon and the wider region.”

EASING OFF

Following the relaxation of government COVID safety restrictions, H&E North speaks to event profs about the current industry landscape and potential challenges ahead.

New Surroundings

Northeast Events Coordinator, Jennifer Duffy of NBS, reflected on the cultural change in the events industry since restrictions have lifted, following the work-from-home mentality with event delegates:

“As an event organiser, I like nothing more than the buzz of in-person events, with attendees engaged in the moment and taking advantage of those all-important networking opportunities. But while I understand why delegates would want to return to in-person events, in reality I believe there will still be a heavy feeling of hesitancy coming back.

“We need to remember that most of us have been working remotely for two years and have become comfortable at home. Our lifestyles have changed completely, and this isn’t going to change back overnight alongside the swift lifting of COVID restrictions.

“Delegates are now well familiar with the convenience of digital events, allowing them to dip in and out of content from the comfort of their own home. While the relaxation of safety measures will certainly help the return of in-person events, the real problem now lies within this changed mindset.”

The Funny Side

Adam Rushton is Director at A Rush of Laughter, a comedy agency based in the North West supplying entertainment for corporate events: “It’s the best time right now to be a comedy booker, with a full market of acts which you’d have never got before the pandemic,” he said.

“The entertainment sector had a heavy start coming back to operate properly again, but we’ve emerged from the pandemic stronger than before, and optimistic going forward with in-person events. Our tours are now getting back up and running to the regular venues, and our acts have been travelling all over the UK and overseas. Health and safety guidelines are now solely up to the individual venue, and we’ll always support how they decide to operate.

“Virtual events still have a presence in the comedy circuit, which has proven to work well for corporate events booked by businesses with nationwide offices and has its own advantages for clients and higher earning potential for comedians. But a live audience is something that a comic always thrives from and guarantees a successful show as they get a feel for the room. It’s a quality factor that makes in-person comedy events a better experience for everyone involved.

“With COVID restrictions easing off, we’re now facing new challenges which can emerge unexpectantly. Right now, we’re seeing the growing cost of fuel prices, and as we arrange in-person events we must be more conscious in our decision making on travel and how to make a sustainable profit.”

Lasting Interest

Midlands Event Management firm Cloud 9’s Director, Paula Kelsey, further highlighted potential new challenges affecting the interest of in-person events for both planners and delegates:

“We’re finding that clients are far less concerned about any safety or cleaning protocols since restrictions have eased. But one issue that all of them are raising however is delegate cancellations and any last-minute no shows.

“The majority of venues are proving to be very flexible and accommodating in this area, but there are still some event planners who have unrealistic cancellation policies relating to delegates attending an event. This issue should start to fade as the majority of clients continue to feel the need to engage properly with events again in-person, rather than over a screen.

“It is of paramount importance service levels remain strong during live events, so attracting enthusiastic, passionate, and professional workers into hospitality is also one of the biggest challenges ahead. We can only manage client expectation up to a point as agents, and the quality of hospitality must improve to justify the rising rates resulting from increased organising costs.

“Despite the new and varying challenges facing the industry, we remain a strong sector filled with innovative and energetic individuals who love what they do. I feel we are definitely in for a bright future, albeit vastly different to the one we worked within pre-pandemic.”

Premium Service

Mark Clayton, Board Director of the Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) and Director of InEvexco, talks to us about ensuring your insurance is updated as live events return.

Live events may be back, but as the industry recovers from the impact of the pandemic, new threats such as the Russian-Ukrainian war are creating further uncertainty and risk for event organisers, contractors, and suppliers. Unfortunately, the COVID crisis was just one negative event that has hit the general insurance market in a long line of catastrophes and circumstances, which have forced many insurers to re-evaluate the business and sectors they insure.

We are in a hard market, which means that insurers are being more selective about the risks they will underwrite, and premiums are on the increase. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has only added to the pressures on the insurance sector, which means premiums are likely to continue to rise.

During the height of the pandemic, InEvexco, an ESSA partner and specialist event industry broker, understood the terrible plight of the sector and negotiated reduced premiums with insurers based on greatly reduced revenues, saving our clients hundreds of thousands of pounds. Many of these policies were then renewed on lower estimates, and again much lower premiums were charged as there simply wasn’t the same exposure to operational risk.

This level of premium reduction meant that brokers and their insurers’ income was also significantly reduced, and we were faced with many of the same challenges as our clients in the events and exhibitions sector. Now, in our exuberance to get back to inperson events, we must not forget to bring insurance policies back in line with new forecasts and business projections.

As operational risk returns in line with exhibitions and events, ESSA’s advice to planners, contractors, and suppliers is to make sure your annual policies are up to date and have been scaled back up to represent your increased exposures. Failure to represent your risk fairly will reduce the cover you have and could invalidate your insurance policy coverage completely.

If you are insuring individual events, don’t delay and buy as soon as you possibly can, because the further along the timeline you are, the higher the risk and the more you could potentially lose if something happens. Plus, with rates not showing signs of reducing anytime soon, buying your cover sooner will enable you to get the best possible value from your policy.

Ask questions and seek to understand the cover you are purchasing and where that cover ceases, to be sure you are effectively insuring your event. We are in a period of potential political disruption and there are new risks, from terrorism to political protests, which may not be included in standard cover. Consider purchasing extensions to standard policies to give your event maximum protection.

In addition to working closely with insurers, InEvexco has lobbied hard on behalf of ESSA throughout the pandemic, talking with UK government representatives to get extra support and protection, resulting in the launch of the government-backed COVID-19 reinsurance scheme.

The government’s decision to provide this historic insurance facility was a huge step

forward, not least that business events and exhibitions were recognised directly by the Chancellor and HM Treasury, but in helping to boost organisers’ confidence.

Gaining crucial government recognition of the value of our sector has in turn given us more credibility and clout when negotiating with insurers to keep rates down. We have been able to pull on our standing of being ESSA insurance partners and have managed to hold onto the reins of premium increases so organisers, contractors, and suppliers can still expect considerable value for money while obtaining insurance protection.

In these times of continued uncertainty, organisers, contractors, and suppliers must prioritise risk management and have a good understanding of how insurance works, while reviewing and renewing policies so they can safeguard both their events and their organisations. Protecting your events against potential risk is now more important than ever, and ESSA is committed to supporting our members with this ongoing challenge.

Essa.uk.com

Top Talent

With the industry looking forward once more, Chief Executive of the Meetings Industry Association (mia), Kerrin MacPhie reflects on the exceptional talent that continues to drive the events sector forward.

As the leading association for the business meetings and events industry, we’re always listening to our members and the wider industry about the challenges facing the sector. One of our latest industry surveys, the results of which we have shared directly with government, revealed that almost two-thirds of our sector are reportedly understaffed, with the average organisation operating at 84% of its required workforce.

While recruitment continues to be a challenge as we’ve lost many talented individuals to other sectors during the pandemic. It is essential that we have robust retention strategies in place to ensure staff feel valued and their work continues to be recognised.

Here at the mia we feel it is important to promote not only the rising stars, but also those making their way throughout the ranks, and to not have an awards scheme defined by age, gender, business size, location, or budget.

Our annual miaList enables us to recognise 10 incredible individuals, irrespective of their job title or years of experience, alongside talented teams. New for this year, we’re also shining a spotlight on two key areas of particular importance to the mia and the wider industry – sustainability and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Year after year the feedback we receive from those whose names feature on the

studying at Bournemouth University, and is currently halfway through a 12-month placement at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre. We're very grateful to her for highlighting the value of placements in her own words:

Shelly Sharma

Learning from a textbook can't compare to the experience I’ve gained working in the event industry as part of my degree in event management. In September 2021 my 12-month event management placement began, exposing me to my first steps within the events industry.

coveted miaList is of sheer delight, particularly as someone has taken time out from their busy schedule to compile a nomination on their behalf. If you have exceptionally talented staff, why not consider them for this year’s miaList? It’s truly a wonderful way to demonstrate and recognise their worth not only internally but externally among their industry peers.

For more information on entering the miaList as well as industry updates and the latest mia insights, follow the Meetings Industry Association on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Learning on the Job

Shelly Sharma, Events Management student, discusses the value of her placement as part of her university course.

Supporting the operational team of this very large venue has truly opened my eyes to the events industry and what the future could look like for me. Following a meeting with the AEV, the topic of discussion was finding ways for venues to encourage future talent to enter the industry.

I applaud Farnborough International for its approach to my placement scheme. My knowledge has grown exponentially in the space of a few months. The venue has given me the autonomy to manage tasks and projects to assist the event managers and clients. I have even gained first-hand experience managing live client conferences and events, which has broadened my skill set even further.

Gen Z professionals are the next layer of talent and it’s increasingly important for the industry to provide ample opportunities for potential

recruits to gather experience and showcase working in events as a career of choice. In the placement I’m not only learning from my colleagues about the sector, but they are also learning from me.

Between the venue’s and AEV’s support, I have had the opportunity to network with other professionals within the industry, which has enabled me to explore the vast number of careers available in events following my graduation.

I urge the event venue industry to review their opportunities for students and school leavers to provide invaluable real working experience within the industry to educate, attract, and retain future talent.

Aev.org.uk

What’s That Got to Do with the Price of Diesel?

Susan Tanner, CEO of NOEA, discusses how the recent changes to the taxation of diesel will affect the outdoor events industry.

There is a big furore around diesel due to the succession of VAT relief on red diesel, followed by the tax break on fuel announced at the Chancellor’s spring budget. The admirable move towards green energy means onward implications for an already depleted events industry.

The reality is, as an industry, there are few more proactive sectors around the subject of sustainability. At NOEA, we will staunchly defend our industry’s track record in creating a greener society.

However, we must admit that because we operate predominantly in fields, we do guzzle energy, and maybe we could have been doing more to cut this down. We should also welcome any initiative that attacks nonsustainable energy and the smooth transition to green.

develop and drive strategy in this complex area to be supported by an enthusiastic action group.

Believing that setting measurable targets is key to driving action, we recently formed a partnership with Greengage.

Visit Greengage.solutions online for more information.

Here is what three beam members are doing to make the events industry sustainable:

Food

Lime Venue Portfolios recently researched the decision-making process of choosing event food. Most event organisers identified healthier food and enhanced dietary

That isn’t what we’re cross about. For us it’s about timing. When it was announced last month that April would see the reintroduction of expensive taxes on red diesel, we called it a stealth tax. There was very little meaningful engagement with our industry, and this change appears to have been snuck in while people in events were fighting for their lives.

Now, as we see green shoots and the light at the end of the tunnel, are we also seeing a financial hit that could send us spiralling back into the abyss. These are not small incremental tax hikes; over the course of a large event the impact financially could be in the tens of thousands. This money has not been budgeted for, warned against, and the only way of paying for it is through ticket sales – yes, that’s right, the ones that have already been sold in 2019, and are now being used to cover the costs of events in 2021 and 2022.

So, what do we want? Simple. Time. We want tax breaks to continue so we can invest in the right technology, not just get charged more for using the wrong stuff. We want a chance for the events industry to get back onto its feet and to be put into a position where it can continue to do good.

Our expectations on this are low. This is a tax that is not going to be miraculously rescinded. So, what we must do is raise awareness that it is here, and it is going to have an impact. We’re encouraging our members to speak to their partners, suppliers and stakeholders and make sure they’re in the know on red diesel. If not, this one could hit hard and suddenly.

Noea.org.uk

A Shared Responsibility

Louisa Watson, Head of Sustainability Action Group at beam and Director of Marketing at Wyboston Lakes Resort, discusses how making events more sustainable is everyone’s responsibility.

requirements as the top two considerations in future. Ethical sourcing and sustainability of food will rise up the agenda for event planners.

72% of respondents would pay more for a demonstrably more sustainable menu; 48% would pay up to 10% extra and 19% would pay up to 20%. In addition, 88% said venues should use locally sourced food suppliers.

Too much food waste is caused by “fear of running out” (FORO); 75% of food waste is avoidable. At Wyboston Lakes Resort we are determined to address this issue and ensure that zero food waste goes offsite.

Carbon

Accurately measuring carbon emissions generated by an event is essential if the industry is to change behaviour and deliver carbon reductions. Conference Care, a beam member, has launched a service, Carbon Consultancy, using its own carbon calculator.

Chris Peacock, Director of Conference Care, said: “We have been carbon neutral for over ten years. You can’t improve what you can’t measure, so we created the most accurate, in-depth calculator possible. We’ve developed specific data gathering tools for the event organiser and participants to collect the most precise information.”

Energy

Here at Wyboston Lakes Resort energy reduction is a major focus of our attention. All electric energy comes from renewable resources, reducing the resort’s carbon footprint by 65%, while there are 26 electric car charger points.

Our goals include reducing energy usage per £100 thousand of revenue by 7.5%, and eradicating fossil fuels from the site. By adding a wind turbine onsite and a water source heat pump, the aim is to reduce emissions and become carbon neutral.

Beam-org.uk

Gods Own Country

Discover why you should consider holding your next event in the beautiful county of Yorkshire.

As the largest county in the UK, Yorkshire is known for its rolling hills and beautiful scenery. Containing the East coast, Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors, Yorkshire’s landscape is utterly unparalleled and will steal the breath of every delegate, whether they’re seeing it for the first time or hundredth. Yorkshire holds over 800 conservation areas with its borders, so there’s no better place to offer an escape into nature to break up the conferencing monotony.

While Yorkshire’s nature is beyond compare, the county is by no means limited to acres of fields and national parks. It’s also home to some of the UK’s most popular metropolises. From the ancient, cobbled streets of York to the crisp lines of the rejuvenated Leeds city centre, there’s plenty to recommend Yorkshire’s cities. Hull offers easy access for international delegates and was the UK’s capital of culture in 2017, while Sheffield is an up-and-coming eco destination with lots to offer.

However, the smaller cities and towns shouldn’t be discounted as great event destinations, many with superb landmarks.

Bradford recently became the world’s first UNESCO City of Film, and cinematically inclined event organisers might consider its status as the home of the National Media Museum. Yorkshire Sculpture Park sits just outside Wakefield and is ideal for large exhibitions. A small city that makes a big impact, Ripon is filled with historical sights contrasted by modern amenities. With Ripon Racecourse and Conference Centre and the famous Fountains Abbey just outside the city,

Ripon has plenty of attractions to wow with. For some unrivalled sporting hospitality, the county offers some of the best stadia and golf courses in the country.

Yorkshire is also home to several expansive and versatile event venues which hold thousands of events every year. The Yorkshire Event Centre sits just outside of the beautiful town of Harrogate and offers event organisers a massive 6,270 sq. metres of versatile event space across two halls. While being a popular museum destination, the Royal Armouries in Leeds city centre also functions as a popular conference and exhibition venue, with 10 different spaces of various sizes available. The venue will even host the Conference & Hospitality Show in May this year. While York Conferences on the University of York campus offers over 200 different meeting rooms for hire and can hold 1190 delegates in its central hall.

Themed venues are aplenty. You can look to Yorkshire Wildlife Park; flexible, accessible spaces that are ideal for hosting informal BBQs to black tie dinners in close proximity to some of the world’s most incredible wildlife, and Magna in Rotherham has 4000 sq. metres of event space set in a former industrial steelworks.

Of course, Yorkshire also boast some of the best team building opportunities in the country. From water sports on the mesmeric east coast to walking and scrambling in the Yorkshire Dales, there’s plenty to get your team active and bonding in some unforgettable scenery.

Malton, North Yorkshire

stunning family home & exclusive setting for events, weddings, guest stays or corporate days where guests can celebrate in style

Northern Lights at York Minster

Steel City

Explore one of the North’s most underrated event destinations with Welcome to Sheffield.

Discover the secrets of one of the North’s (and the UK’s) most likeable cities – and why it might just be the ideal destination for your events in 2022. You might be excused for thinking that Sheffield flies a little under the radar of other northern metropolises, but the city has long been quietly reinventing itself as the northern capital of cool.

From stylish venues and hip regeneration projects to its wealth of green space and sustainability credentials, Sheffield is a real crowd pleaser. Little wonder, then, that it was the only UK city in the top ten of Time Out’s latest European city breaks guide.

There’s space to breathe. Not every major city can boast of being inside a national park, yet a third of Sheffield lies with the celebrated Peak District. 61% of the city’s entire area is green space, making it a great destination to find venues with al fresco areas or build outdoor experiences into your event – elements that are likely to remain popular with attendees this year.

Sheffield is Britain’s greenest destination. Sustainability is a top priority as we head into 2022, and the city was ranked the UK’s most eco-friendly city by the researchers of Natwest’s Green Cities Report ahead of COP26, which drew on a range of environmental data including energy production, recycling, and car use.

In July Sheffield City Hall will host the Cycle Active City conference, focussing on active travel modes such as cycling and walking, and how they contribute to better public health, cleaner air, and increased community resilience – sharing best practice from everything the area has achieved to date.

A knowledge hub in a number of fields from technology to healthcare, its Russell

Group university is ranked in the top 100 globally, with a cutting-edge reputation in engineering, smart materials, and stem cell technology. Its Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre will host the Nuclear Manufacturing Summit for the second time in November.

Jenny Paxman from the Nutrition Society explains why Sheffield was chosen for 2022 and what her delegates will be looking forward to in July: “Sheffield was picked due to its array of unusual and versatile venues all within a close proximity to one another and the amazing academics from the city’s two universities. The team also proposed a creative programme using its outdoor city and sustainability credentials – morning runs and yoga sessions for delegates and a showcase of sustainability stories from a range of local growers, producers, and food charities on our opening night.”

Venue highlights include the Winter Garden – Europe’s biggest urban glasshouse. Impressive facilities at both universities and the 2000+ seater Sheffield City Hall are complemented by stylish residential venues such as the Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria and the Leopold Hotel.

Both universities have impressive, redeveloped spaces – the Atrium at Sheffield Hallam University’s stylish redevelopment has created the perfect focal point for any event. At the University of Sheffield their new Heartspace has a spectacular glass roof and connects some of the university’s best architectural buildings.

A new Radisson Blu hotel takes up residence in 2023, restoring charming Victorian architecture and introducing a stunning roof top bar.

The Conference Sheffield team are always available for advice on any aspect of event planning in the city. They can be contacted on 0114 273 5978 or you can find a wealth of information at Welcometosheffield.co.uk/ conference

Cutlers

Main

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7-15 CHURCH STREET, SHEFFIELD, S1 1HG www.cutlershall.co.uk

An iconic and versatile event venue in the heart of the city which can cater for your every need*

• Conferences and fairs • Exhibitions

• Celebrations • Talks and lectures • Meeting rooms • Film and music

Please contact us if you have something specific in mind diary@sheffield-cathedral.org.uk | 0114 275 3434 www.sheffieldcathedral.org

*Book and pay a deposit before 31/12/2022 for events before 30/6/2023 and receive 20% off standard rates. Use code HEN. T & Cs apply.

Conferences • Civic Occasions Formal Occasions & Banquets Official Ceremonies

& VIP Visits • Lectures & Demonstrations • Meetings & Debates • Presentations Press Conferences • Exhibition Displays • Awards Ceremonies Launch Events

Quadrant, 99 Parkway Avenue Parkway Business Park, Sheffield S9 4WG

Keep Well

As the events industry broadens its understanding of mental health, we examine the latest methods planners can use to enhance wellbeing.

After recovering from the unprecedented challenges of the past two years, protecting the wellbeing of delegates has become more paramount as reports continue to raise concern about poor mental health across the industry. With the return of in-person events, options have become more open for planners to consider different methods when working with venues to create healthy event spaces. Encouraging wellbeing and reducing anxiety levels to prevent dropouts, the latest strategies also build on the industry’s greater awareness and understanding of mental health and wellbeing.

Communicating clearly and encouraging open dialogue with colleagues and delegates is a simple but vital first step to help make them feel mentally prepared in the build up to an event. Organisers who make delegates aware of all planning considerations that are being made can also take any individual concerns into account quickly, especially when it comes to travel preparation.

“The disruption of normal routines, unfamiliar surroundings, and the presence of strangers all contribute to the disruption of stable mental health during travel,” explained Warwick Conferences Business Development Manager, Lisa Hadfield. “Think about the smaller details that delegates need to know in advance to have a stress-free journey and arrive feeling happy, like offering clear directions to the venue and reassurance about car parking or providing clear signage around the venue upon arrival.”

Working with venues surrounded by natural scenery can have an immediate advantage in bringing a calming dimension to events. Walking routes for delegates are an increasingly common sight at venues, allowing delegates to take time out or network. The Venues Collection, with outdoor venues including Yarnfield Park in Staffordshire and Eastwood Hall in Nottingham, feature walking routes outside of the venue for delegates to use, opening the chance to network while getting exercise in the fresh air.

“Instead of the cliché and basic fact conversations that pervade many networking sessions, networking while walking gives an opportunity for relaxed but more fulfilling conversations,” said Managing Director of Red Kite Management Counselling, Robin Tucker. “Walking works as a great conversational lubricant, creating a natural bond where it is easier to express your opinions and feelings. This enables trust to develop more quickly and keep each other mentally at ease.”

Utilising outdoor spaces in city centre venues is also an option, with a rising appeal of terraces and rooftop gardens giving planners options to host conferences, meetings, or informal social elements outside. Making use of floor-to-ceiling windows and keeping doors propped open to allow fresh air and light inside also works to invigorate delegates.

Providing dedicated space for delegates to recharge away from the rest of the venue can also reduce stress levels and has proved effective for keynote speakers or those returning to intimate faceto-face meetings. Introducing the Quiet Rooms concept last year, EventWell prioritised meditation stations with refreshments and noise-cancelling headphones provided for delegates to unwind and develop coping skills during the resurgence of in-person events.

“Although many people are returning to live events, it may cause some delegates to become overwhelmed by the venue’s lighting, sound, and crowded spaces, or the lack of breaks throughout the day,” said EventWell Chief Executive Helen Moon. “The idea behind

Quiet Rooms is about keeping people at an event with a space available to just sit and take a breather if they need to.”

Factoring in sustainability methods to event planning can also give further opportunity to help boost wellbeing, with many industry organisations taking healthy food options into account to nourish both the minds and bodies of delegates. Launching its new Meetings for Change initiative earlier this year, Lime Venue Portfolio has explained how offering a well-balanced food menu with ethically sourced options can help delegates make informed decisions and enhance their confidence during events.

“Food that has been created to be slow-release and keep blood sugars stable will help to balance energy and reduce fatigue, meaning that delegates can balance productivity with sustainability and mental wellness to get the most out of the event,” said Sales Director Jo Austin. “Being treated to food with great nutrition and taste is a sustainable and well-balanced way to aid a delegate’s concentration and wellbeing.”

Singing Praises

Hull is hitting all the right notes when it comes to hosting large-scale, citywide events. Vibrant and full of character and history, the compact Yorkshire city has a great track record in bringing partners together to create experiences and events to remember.

From the medieval Hull Minster to contemporary conference venues, it’s a city that is in tune with its visitor offer. Now, global organisation INTERKULTUR has announced Hull will be the first English host city for its prestigious International Choir Competition 2023.

Gunter Titsch, President of INTERKULTUR, says: “Choirs from all over Britain have been travelling to our international choir events for many, many years. So it's our huge pleasure that now we will be finally able to bring the world to them. I'm sure that Hull will be an attractive destination for many choirs from abroad, which gives English choirs the opportunity to get in touch with choral music and traditions from other countries, learn from them, and make new friendships for a lifetime.”

“My huge thanks goes to our fantastic partners in the city of Hull, who have already been highly engaged with the preparations for this event. I am sure that thanks to them, each and every singer will feel warmly welcomed – like a visit at a good friend's home!”

Visit

Hull & East Yorkshire tells us the why maritime city Hull is in tune with its vibrant visitor offer.

The announcement is a result of partnership working across the public, private and voluntary sector, led by Hull City Council’s Conference Hull team, which submitted the successful bid for INTERKULTUR’s event. As well as writing and submitting event proposals like this one, the Conference Hull team can provide event organisers with a bespoke accommodation booking service, organise familiarisation visits and social programming, along with arranging local marketing, PR support, and touristic services once event attendees arrive in Hull.

Hull city centre venues including Hull Minster, Albemarle Music Centre, Jubilee Central and Hull City Hall will host competitions through the event, showcasing Hull’s quality destination provision. Pop-up Friendship Concerts will take place in Hull’s beautiful public spaces, including Hull Minster, Queen Victoria Square, Princes Quay shopping centre, and Trinity Market.

Anthony Yates, Head of Visitor Destination at Visit Hull, says: “The Hull International Choir Competition 2023 with INTERKULTUR is the latest in a long line of event successes for Hull. This news follows months of hard work behind the scenes. As well as bringing our streets, squares, and community spaces alive with the sound of music, the five-day multivenue event will be great for Hull’s hospitality industry.”

Hull has recently benefited from investment of £1 billion, and a multimillion pound transformation of the city centre, including a quality and highly flexible conference zone.

The city’s thriving voluntary sector also plays a huge part. The distinctive, friendly bluejacketed HEY! volunteers are a legacy from

Hull’s year as UK City of Culture and provide a consistent and positive presence at events of all sizes.

Abi Bell, volunteer programme manager at HEY! Volunteering, says: “In Hull, we make sure everyone gets a warm welcome. Our volunteers are a big blue wave of positivity, who have helped to make a success of everything from the Hull UK City of Culture 2017 events to international sporting events. They’ll also be supporting organisers, venues, and visitors at upcoming events such as About Us, a spectacular live show and multimedia installation that is part of the national Unboxed 2022 festival, and at next year’s INTERKULTUR event,”

Together, Hull’s partner organisations have made a name for the city as a creative, cultural destination in perfect harmony – that must be music to any event organiser’s ears.

Visithull.org/conferences

Contact the Conference Hull team at conferencebureau@vhey.co.uk

CREDIT: NEIL NICKLIN

CREDIT: MIKE BARTLETT

LEEDING THE WAY

Already firmly established as an up-and-coming event epicentre, Conference Leeds talks through all the fantastic advantages of holding your event in Leeds.

Leeds is the epicentre of the modern North. An exciting city with a rich, industrial past that has transformed into a knowledge hub for manufacturing, healthcare, and innovation.

Acknowledged as the Best Event Destination in the 2020 C&IT Awards, it’s easy to see why Leeds is the 5th most popular UK conference destination in the UK, offering delegates a unique experience in a city rich with heritage, history, and culture. To connect with Leeds is to experience the exceptional and it couldn’t be easier to get there.

Located in the heart of the UK with an accessible network of road, rail, and air transport, you could be arriving at Leeds train station from London or Edinburgh in well under three hours, with regular intercity connections to the rest of the UK too. Leeds Bradford Airport welcomes flights from over 70 destinations and is just eight miles from the vibrant city centre, which is famous for its walkability.

As the home of finance, professionals, academics, and leading industry voices, Leeds is an attractive choice for national and international conference organisers. By hosting a conference or event in Leeds, organisers can ensure that delegates are given the opportunity to network in an eclectic and fast growing city that boasts an exciting venue portfolio, from worldclass academic universities and bespoke conference venues to landmarks like the Queen’s Hotel. The hotel’s £16 million refurbishment has lovingly modernised 13 events spaces and 232 bedrooms which pay homage to its rich and iconic history to ensure delegates have a majestic stay, while enjoying coworking spaces which appeal to a post-COVID way of life.

In a true city-wide collaboration, the last 12 months presented the opportunity for Leeds' diverse range of independent venues to work closely together, in order to ensure that they were able to forward-plan for the future post-pandemic.

Conference Leeds’ inaugural Independent Venues Month brought together the Independent Venues of Leeds to celebrate everything that the city’s independent and unique venues had to offer and the exceptional event experiences they can provide, whether that be at the headquarters of the highly acclaimed Northern Ballet, enjoying the vibrant and creative spaces at Studio Leeds, the long respective heritage at Aspire or the awarding winning community enterprise Shine, where every meeting and event they host truly makes a difference.

will channel billions of pounds into projects across the country and help tackle climate change in the drive for green industrial revolution, while supporting local and regional economic growth. Along with the arrival of the Bank of England’s Northern Hub and Channel 4, Leeds is able to play a critical role in shaping the country’s future and harnesses potential transformative power in acting as one of the leading voices of the north.

Leeds is bursting with cultural energy, with delegates able to experience creative communities, thriving independent food scenes, renowned retail destinations, and a host for international sporting events, carnivals, festivals, and events. Conference Leeds’ #100steps campaign gives delegates a glimpse into what they can expect to see and do within 100 steps of their conference.

Leeds is moving from strength to strength, with the development of the UK's first Infrastructure Bank arriving in the city, which

A host of exciting events are confirmed for later in the year and into 2023, which also promises a full schedule of cultural events for delegates to immerse themselves in as part of Leeds 2023 Year of Culture celebrations.

For a closer look at Leeds’ offering, delegates and conference organisers alike are invited to join our venues at CHS Leeds at the Royal Armouries on the 24th May 2022. For more information on booking a conference in Leeds, please email the Conference Leeds team on info@conferenceleeds.co.uk or call 0113 378 1183.

With 9 vibrant event spaces for 2 to 185 guests, all just a hop, skip and jump from Leeds Central station and the public transport network.

The Studio is now ECOsmart Gold accredited, just another reason to make us your first choice for your next event.

For further information visit us at: www.thestudio.co.uk call us on 0800 028 6694 or tweet us @studiovenues

• Friendly and well established family run Yorkshire based catering company

• Corporate and private events with a range of affordable options.

• Working lunch buffets delivered daily to your workplace.

• Formal dinners and canapés, hog roasts, bbq’s, fish & chips, chocolate fountains and more.

• Bespoke catering packages, with our highly experienced team offering consultation on all aspects of your event.

Pepper Catering Ltd, Unit 1 York House, 55

Double Up

DoubleTree by Hilton Leeds Sales Director, Sarah Hawkins, reveals

store for event profs at the canal-side hotel.

Built in 2009, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Centre offers a refreshing change of pace from the hectic city centre and a chance to meet up with colleagues in a relaxed setting. Occupying an attractive spot in the middle of the revamped Granary Wharf district, the hotel also sits within walking distance of the city’s best independent bars and restaurants along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, conveniently allowing conference-goers the chance to explore Leeds’ latest social scene. With the railway station and quick access to the motorway close by it’s the perfect location for travelling delegates to meet or relax.

Event goers can experience true Yorkshire hospitality upon arrival, with hotel staff greeting all guests with a warm DoubleTree cookie upon check-in before ushering attendees on to sip a crisp glass of wine by

the waterfront at either the Lock Kitchen & Bar, or up in the Sky Lounge rooftop cocktail bar with panoramic city views. An ideal meeting point in-between long conference days, the Sky Lounge provides clients with sweet or savoury afternoon tea options while planners wanting to ramp up the atmosphere in the warm summer evenings can take advantage of the outdoor prosecco bar and live music to entertain guests on weekends.

For those staying overnight, a reliable and sophisticated choice of 333 rooms allow guests to rest up in their own bright and modern space, all with mini fridges, large work desks and laptop safes included. The top floor King City suite reigns as the best room to enjoy the striking city views, featuring a king-sized bed, 42-inch flat screen TV, and separate lounge and dining area complete with modern furnishings.

Business meetings, conferences, and training days are delivered seamlessly, several newly refurbished meeting rooms are spread across two dedicated meeting floors. Planners can currently choose up to 19 meeting rooms, with up to 200 delegates catered for in the Rum to Kerrera suite, or as few as six delegates in the Eriska room for smaller meet ups.

Boasting floor to ceiling windows and modern in-house technology, AV, telecommunications equipment, and complimentary Wi-Fi, the spaces are fully prepared to suit every client’s needs. The hotel’s staff can also provide a full business

service to assist planners, with IT facilities available on request to aid last minute admin changes on the day of the event.

Simplifying the online booking process even further for organisers with a stress-free approach to planning, the efficient events team can create a bespoke attendee website to effortlessly curate all event dates and room bookings. With customization options to tailor the content to each specific event, the programme can also provide language translations for international users and instant email and social media notifications for all guests to streamline their reservations together. Building on the venue’s existing strengths, the online service goes one step further to ensuring that every event can be organised and delivered with the delegate experience put first.

Hilton.com

Experience the Leeds Marriott Hotel leedsmarriott. com

Choose Leeds Marriott Hotel for your next event, with refurbished conference space for up to 300 guests, a new executive lounge and modern bedrooms.

Contact the hotel’s sales team to find out more: leeds.events@marriotthotels.co.uk

Holding your event in a historic setting is a wonderful way to make a lasting impact on delegates, and luckily Hinsley Hall in Leeds has a rich and varied history to titillate delegates and event profs alike.

The building first came into being as a Methodist training college in 1868 and has been used for many purposes since then. Though it had spent time as a Naval Service base and a university residence, in 1969 the Little Sisters of the Poor took ownership of the building, and it became the College of the Blessed Virgin. The sisters used the site for two purposes: to house a training centre for entrants to the order and to use the playing fields as the site for a new old people’s home. Eventually, in 1999 the hall was sold to the Diocese of Leeds, and became Hinsley Hall, as it remains today.

The hall now boasts seven conference rooms offering a bright and versatile space for up to 90 delegates, with the latest AV equipment provided. Those wishing to stay over can sample the 52 refurbished ensuite bedrooms on offer, as well as the high-quality food and beverage offering the dining room provides.

To discuss your event requirements, call 0113 261 8000, email conference@hinsley-hall.co.uk or visit Hinsley-hall.co.uk

Leeds Marriott Hotel has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment, making it one of the most exciting places to stay in the city. The hotel has impressed guests with a complete transformation of its bedrooms and meetings and events space, and a brand-new executive lounge.

With unmissable shopping, eating and drinking, nightlife, and entertainment venues right on its doorstep, Leeds Marriott Hotel is the perfect place to stay for anyone looking to explore the vibrant city of Leeds. Guests enjoy the hotel’s city centre location, spacious and modern bedrooms, and lively Cast Iron Bar & Grill, which serves up big flavour dishes packed with fresh ingredients and an inventive drinks list of signature cocktails, wines, and local beers and spirits.

Following a full refurbishment, Leeds Marriott Hotel boasts 17 versatile meetings and events spaces that provide the perfect backdrop for every occasion from dinners to weddings, board meetings to conferences and exhibitions, for up to 300 guests.

Leedsmarriott.com

Hinsley Hall A comfortable, cost-effective venue catering for a variety of requirements

Hinsley Hall is situated in extensive woodlands and gardens in the Headingley conservation area, just 2 miles from Leeds city centre and 6 miles from Leeds/Bradford Airport. It was converted into a Conference Centre and Hotel in 1999 and today features 47 en-suite and 5 non en-suite bedrooms, including 6 suitable for guests with accessibility needs.

It also boasts 7 modern and bright Conference Rooms with capacities ranging from 2 to 90 delegates, and state of the art AV equipment.

We offer very competitive Day & Residential Delegate Rates, which include free car parking and secure Wi-Fi throughout the building. A delicious range of daily Dining and refreshment options are also available, along with a warm welcome and dedicated support from our professional Reception, Catering and Management teams.

Hinsley Hall, 62 Headingley Lane, Leeds LS6 2BX 0113 261

Meet in Style

Following an extensive refurbishment, Leeds Marriott Hotel is one of the most exciting places to stay, meet, gather, and celebrate in the city. The hotel, which is ideally located in the heart of Leeds, just a short walk from the train station, has impressed guests with a complete transformation of its bedrooms and meetings and events space, and a brandnew Executive Lounge.

The meetings and events offering comprises 17 versatile spaces that provide the perfect backdrop for every occasion, from dinners to private parties and weddings, board meetings to conferences and exhibitions, for up to 300 delegates. The interior is bright, stylish, and welcoming, with many spaces offering natural daylight. State-of-the-art AV technology is available throughout, providing guests with everything they need for a professional event.

Speaking of the refurbishment, Sales Leader Zoe Hands commented: “We’re so incredibly proud of our new space, and it’s been amazing to see the positive reaction from guests and clients who have hosted events with us.

“We have many smaller meeting spaces that are as equally suited for board meetings as they are for dinners and intimate celebrations. Then there’s the Thomas Ambler Suite, which is our biggest space, ideal

for dinner-dances, parties, or large-scale conferences. There are also two different break-out areas which can be used for socialising and informal coffee and lunch breaks.

“When it comes to planning your event, our friendly and expert team will take care of every detail from start to finish. They are on hand to suggest the best local suppliers and to help you create memorable experiences that will really wow your guests. You’ll also have the chance to collaborate with our talented chefs, who can suggest the best catering options for your event.”

Guests staying at the hotel enjoy its spacious and modern bedrooms, and lively Cast Iron Bar & Grill, which serves up big flavour dishes packed with fresh ingredients and an inventive drinks list of signature cocktails, wines, local beers, and spirits. For an elevated experience, guests staying in executive rooms or suites can enjoy exclusive access to the hotel’s Executive Lounge which offers a more private space for breakfast as well as refreshments throughout the day, evening drinks, and canapes.

Contact the team today to find out more about hosting your next event at Leeds Marriott Hotel at leeds.events@marriotthotels. co.uk

Leedsmarriott.co.uk

Explore the newly refurbished event facilities of Leeds Marriott Hotel and be in with a chance of winning a free board meeting for up to 10 delegates in the exciting new space.

COMPETITION

For your chance to win a free board meeting for 10 delegates – including refreshments – in the newly refurbished space, simply answer the following question:

How many meetings and events spaces does the Leeds Marriott Hotel hold?

Enter online at Hospitalityandeventsnorth.com/ competitions/or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 27th May 2022

Terms and conditions apply: Prize is nonrefundable and cannot be exchanged. Prize must be redeemed no later than 6 months from the competition closing date and is subject to availability. Blackout dates will apply. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in Leeds Marriott’s database in order to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.

IT’S BACK!

We discover what delegates have to look forward to at this year’s 11th annual Conference & Hospitality Show.

After last year’s event was cancelled due to the pandemic, CHS Leeds is back, and will be bringing together venues, suppliers, organisers, and other professionals from all across the events industry. CHS Leeds is the place to be for event profs.

The show is set to take place on 24th May 2022 and will return to its original roots at the Royal Armouries. Taking over three large event spaces, including an outside hub for creativity and innovation, the show will flow across New Dock, Royal Armouries Hall, and the outside Square, offering over 1,000 sq. metres of exhibiting opportunities.

Royal Armouries Venue Director, Benjamin Campbell, said: “We’re delighted for CHS Leeds to return home to the Royal Armouries. The show has a real legacy of producing an electric atmosphere for networking and getting business done, we’re thrilled that all this will be happening under our roof.”

Emma Cartmell, Founder and CEO of CHS Events said: “The best journeys always take you home, and the Royal Armouries is where it all started for CHS over 12 years ago. Returning home made complete sense to the team and I, having outgrown where we were previously, we needed a venue that fits with our culture and where innovation can be at the heart of the experience for both exhibitors and buyers.

“The Royal Armouries does exactly that. It’s steeped with historic creativity, and we cannot wait to work closely with the team. It makes the perfect backdrop for exhibitors to show off their fantastic event spaces and services from across the UK.”

In an exciting move, CHS Leeds has also positioned Conference Leeds as the Strategic Brand Partner to the show, in a two-year deal that will support the event and strengthen the connections for event professionals, suppliers, and spaces: “Conference Leeds has supported CHS since its inception 13 years ago,” explained Emma. “We are absolutely delighted to have their backing for the show once more.

“2023 marks Leeds as the City of Culture, and this is a great opportunity for event organisers to come together to discover everything the city has to offer, while discovering new venues, developing skills, networking, and gaining inspiration for future events.”

With a key focus on wellness, CHS Leeds will also host an education programme

throughout the show, with four seminar areas taking place across the museum’s main halls to tackle various aspects of wellbeing. Each seminar stage will host a specialist area, which will also include career development and putting ideas into practice.

Global Amenities Direct Founder and industry mentor, Lara Morgan, is set to kickstart the seminars with a keynote lecture on the latest consumer demands and how planners can adapt to the latest industry trends. CHS Leeds’ wellbeing partner, Stress Matters, will also host their own seminar, delivering talks on the importance of self-care as the golden thread for the event industry’s success.

“With CHS Leeds positioned halfway through the year, it makes total sense for us to focus on wellness,” said Emma. “We hope that our education programme will revitalise the people behind our blossoming industry and support all those involved in events with self-care tips, insights into event trends, and demonstrative ways to take the next step in their own careers.

“We’ve worked hard at securing some fantastic speakers for our line-up this year, and really cannot wait to share more over the coming weeks.”

Registration is now open at CHS Leeds, with a dedicated hosted buyer and VIP programme available for event buyers, venue finders, executive assistants and personal Assistants. To find out more, visit Chsleeds.com

Future Proofing

Alden Arnold, Projects Manager of the Association of Event Venues (AEV), discusses the recent changes in leadership of its working groups and the future goals of the organisation.

The Association of Event Venues (AEV) has recently announced several new Chairs and Vice-Chairs of its working groups, with the Event Managers, Marcomms, Finance, and Diversity & Inclusion working groups all gaining new Chairs and Vice-Chairs. The working groups see a change in leadership every two years, a cycle which has just begun again. Alden Arnold, Projects Manager of the AEV, explains what the new blood means for the association.

How were the new Chairs/ ViceChairs of the working groups chosen?

The Chair position usually runs for 12 to 24 months depending on the commitments of the individual and the needs of the group. The Vice-Chair steps up into that position when the time comes. Members from the working group will then be invited to put themselves forward for Vice-Chair election.

What do the working groups do within the AEV?

By bringing together the best specialists in an area, our 14 working groups examine key issues, make valuable connections, share best practice, and suggest improved approaches to build and enhance their specialist areas for the benefit of the whole industry.

NEW FACES

Through regular meetings, they examine key issues, make valuable connections, share best practices, and suggest practical approaches to develop and improve their specialist disciplines.

As well as running our own venue-specific working groups, we also facilitate crossassociation working groups with AEO and ESSA members. These combined groups draw from the broader range of talent and expertise across all areas of the event industry.

What does the new leadership signify for the AEV?

Refreshing the group leadership every two years allows for renewed objective setting and strategy. The two years allow enough time for projects to be embedded and leave a legacy for the new Chair to pick up and mould into the next set of objectives for the new period.

What is the direction for AEV and how does the new working group leadership tie into that?

The working groups will feed into the relevant areas of AEV’s 2022 priorities. We aim to continue to respond to the government on current issues, ensuring we maintain the open status of the sector as well as continue to

support our members through the current crisis within the industry. The groups with also decide on their objectives for 2022. Our association will be focusing on sustainability, focusing on the retention and recruitment of workforce, diversity and inclusion, and developing a deeper relationship with government to ensure further recognition and engagement post-pandemic.

The working group outputs allow us to keep an ear to the ground and the valuable information sharing enables us to identify challenges which are better addressed as a collective, and lobby government when necessary.

How will you achieve these future goals?

We will maintain the momentum and interaction AEV experienced in 2020/21, where we enjoyed over 4 years’ worth of meetings in one year. The working group Chair and Vices have given each group a clear focus to drive thinking and conversations in order to meet their individual group objectives which then feed into the overall 2022 priorities for AEV.

Aev.org.uk

Pamela Newbould, Senior Event Manager, East of England Arena and Events Centre (Event Managers Group Chair): “I look forward to supporting my fellow event managers in my position as Chair, especially in these changing times. I have had to learn and adapt through the last year, experiencing many of the challenges that face our industry first-hand. I have always found the sharing of knowledge to be vital to success. I hope over the coming year to help to find ways to arm our current event managers for the reopen as well as continuing the work with education bodies to encourage the next generation.”

Kate Simpson, Marketing and Communication Director, The Business Design Centre (Marketing and Communication Group Chair): “One of the best things about the working groups is the ability to share knowledge in an open forum and I am certain we all welcome the opportunity to meet again in-person, but the collective experience we’ve had over the past year is one that will stay with us.”

Lucy Merritt, Head of Marketing and Communications, ExCeL London (Marketing and Communication Vice Chair): “Never has there been a more important time to stay connected and engaged with colleagues in the industry. The AEV working groups provide the perfect forum to share our experiences, information, and knowledge and to support each other through this challenging time.”

Keen for Green

With a top demand for net-zero carbon emissions at events this year, we speak to key industry figures about making sustainability a top priority.

Searching Sustainably

Mike McCloy is the Manager of Edinburgh-based Maximilion, one of the UK’s leading corporate team building and events management companies: "With any live event this year, event planners should ensure delegates still have the choice to attend the event in-person or virtually,” he said.

“Allowing the event to be streamed online reduces its carbon footprint if delegates don’t commute to and from the venue. But directing delegates through an eco-friendly search engine to access the event streaming services can take this sustainable method one step further. Search engines such as Ecosia can allow event attendees to contribute to the search engine’s advertising revenue, which in turn will be used to support global environmental causes, such as tree planting and ocean waste removal initiatives.

“Hiring local suppliers and caterers can also make an environmentally friendly impact on the sector. The local economy will be supported this way, and the suppliers will travel less of a distance to reach the venue. Of course, it’s equally important for a delegate to have information readily available that reassures that the event’s food and drinks are from sustainably sourced brands. A quick call or search through the supplier’s website will help you to determine whether the products are environmentally friendly, and importantly, this should be visibly noted on package menus and venue signage.

“Similarly, information on the venue itself should be available to access for a delegate to check the space’s eco-friendly credentials before attending an event. Factors to enquire about are whether the venue uses smart room temperature controls, recycles its own waste, and whether it uses sustainable materials.”

Natural Thinking

Sales Director of ICC Wales, Danielle Bounds, has emphasised event delegates’ renewed appreciation for the natural world post-pandemic, and how this is just as an important factor for future events alongside sustainable efforts:

“Demonstrating that sustainability is at the forefront of an event, incorporating nature into the experience can also help reduce an event’s carbon footprint while helping delegates relieve

stress, boost creativity and productivity, and ultimately make them more engaged. Delegates now want a fresh experience and are likely to be pickier about which events they choose to attend, favouring those which offer these benefits.

“Attendees are also more open-minded to outdoor activities, and so it is important for planners to encourage this enthusiasm no matter the weather forecast. Integrating clothing packs and clothing advice for delegates to encourage outdoor activity while keeping the event agenda flexible allows more time to be spent outdoors along with enough time to reconvene.

“The same effect can be achieved by working on the venue’s interior, and delegates will be kept at ease from the start if they witness various ways in which natural environments are integrated. This can include images of greenery across the walls, windows with access to outside views, and natural sounds and smells projected from audio and scenting equipment.”

Material Cause

Pushing for a sustainable future in the events industry, Ignition is the UK’s only events company to be awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development. Asked how we can do more for our delegates, CEO Sam Rowe touched on the importance of recyclable materials:

“As more event suppliers visibly make use of sustainably sourced materials across all event platforms, it’s a given basic expectation to keep up this effort for future events. The registration areas are usually where most wasteful activities can take place, with some organisers pre-printing all badges before all the potential no-shows.

“Delegates will be glad to have more control during this process if organisers can print badges on demand instead, which curtails wastefulness. Plastic-free ticketing is now largely sought after, along with eco-friendly giveaways which can include plants and seed packets, recycled mugs, reusable tote bags, and recycled notebooks and journals.

“Making this all happen at the event not only satisfies the delegates, but it ensures that the same sustainable message gets through to every delegate for future events and expands the collective effort as an industry.”

MIKE MCCLOY

SAM ROWE

DANIELLE BOUNDS

Set in picturesque parkland the impressive Showground o ers an Epic experience for any event large or small. With over 270 acres of space we can hold events for 10 to 30,000 people within our indoor and outdoor spaces.

Introducing our recently renovated, modern and spacious event venue, EXO Centre

THE X FACTOR

H&E North meets

the

Founder

of

The X Party Group, Rachel Farrington-Allen, to discover how the company’s latest technology is helping to change the events industry and strengthen relationships with clients.

Working to help the events industry recover from the hard-hitting impacts of recent years, The X Party Group are preparing to launch The Wedding Party, a new wedding planning platform using the latest tech that puts clients at the heart of their own event preparations. Officially launching this September, the planning program is the first of several currently being developed by the Cheshirebased company to streamline the event planning process, each tailored individually to specific event formats.

“Technology has developed so much over the last decade, and it is only natural to continue looking for new ways to communicate with our clients,” explains The X Party Group Founder and CEO, Rachel Farrington-Allen. “Several existing platforms are centred solely on the suppliers, where as long as they fit into a client’s budget, they will only make themselves known by showing their latest brochures.”

The initial program focuses on the couples themselves and puts their needs first. The new app will provide a direct link between suppliers and clients, putting their relationship at the forefront: "We’ve identified the

technology currently available and finetuned the process to be able to help our venues and suppliers develop that vital relationship with clients from the very first click. Built in-house by The X Party team, our latest software fills a gap in the wedding planning market by utilising augmented reality and will also be transferable for corporate events.”

Providing a unique connective option for clients, The Wedding Party service creates a comprehensive edge over existing event planning apps. It can be used online through the company website and will also be available as an app for iOS and Android devices: “The app will act as a friend, financial advisor, and a collective of caring thinkers who will have the planner’s back throughout the whole planning process.

“Anyone interested in being part of this innovative new movement to meet clients and to create that all important sales funnel should get in touch with us. Mark our words, revolution is coming.”

Hello@the-wedding-party.com

North in Brief

COP26 Materials Donated to Charity

More than 30 charities have benefited from materials used as part of last year’s COP26 event.

Event Cycle, an organisation set up to repurpose and redistribute items no longer needed by events, ensured anything that could be reused, was reused.

One of the charities which benefited from COP26’s materials was Glasgow The Caring City, whose Project Development Manager said of the donation: “We are looking to maximise the community benefit from all the fixtures and fittings from all the COP26 venues. There will be a range of benefactors, including families who are homeless and moving into homes, schools, community organisations and art groups. We know that from the COP26 blue zone we have 90 sheets of MDF and 90 sheets of plywood which equates to about £25,000 worth of value. That will save community organisations in the city purchasing that. It allows groups to carry out their projects without having to dig into their own pockets.”

Exhibition Centre Liverpool Signs Multi-Year Deals

Exhibition Centre Liverpool has confirmed a series of multi-year deals with various organisations, heralding increasing industry confidence.

One of the events, Comic Con Liverpool, will take space in the adjoining convention centre in addition to three halls in the exhibition centre when it takes place on 21st and 22nd May. The event welcomed 43,000 visitors when it took place at the venue in November. It is set to return twice a year until 2025.

The Outdoor Trade Show was the first trade exhibition to take place in England after COVID event restrictions were eased. The event will take place again in June this year and is set to return for the next two years.

Colm Graham, Exhibitions, Partnership, and Hospitality Manager at The ACC Liverpool Group, said: “Following the easing of government restrictions, we are pleased to be experiencing a significant increase in the number of exhibition organisers signing multi-year deals and also expanding the size of their events.

“This is extremely encouraging given the difficulties the industry has faced, providing an insight into a bounce-back recovery for our resilient sector.

“We always strive to provide a range of options and competitive packages tailored to each client, particularly when they wish to hold their event with us over several years, which we hope provides more support and reassurance after such an uncertain period.”

AEV Announces New Leadership

The Association of Event Venues (AEV) has announced several new Chairs and Vice-Chairs of its working groups, with the Event Managers, Marcomms, Finance, and Diversity & Inclusion working groups all welcoming their new officers to the roles.

The Event Managers Working Group sees Jill Wadge, Team Manager at Event Management SEC, become the new Chair alongside Gemma Hayward, Head of Events, NEC Group Conventions, as the new Vice-Chair.

Louise Day, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications at Manchester Central assumes the role of Vice-Chair of the Marcomms Working Group.

Billy McFadyen, Director of Finance and Development at SEC will step up as Chair of the Finance Working Group.

Mike Sealy, Director of Diversity & Inclusion, Informa Markets, will take the Chair of the Cross-Association Diversity & Inclusion Working Group.

The mia appoints a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director

The Meetings Industry Association (mia) has appointed VisitBritain and VisitEngland’s Debra Lang to its voluntary Board of Directors to lead on its diversity, equity, and inclusion work.

Lang, who is the Director of HR & Professional Services of the national tourism agency, will be using her extensive experience to develop a strategy and best practice framework for the business meetings and events sector to ensure it is recognised as being fair, impartial, and without biases.

Prior to her current role at VisitBritain/VisitEngland, Lang worked for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) where she held several HR roles including Director of People and Workplace, Director of HR and Organisation Development and HR Director. She has also held positions in other UK government departments including HM Revenue & Customs and the Department for Work and Pensions and recently secured a place on the #EX50 list that celebrates HR leaders who excel at employee experience.

Kerrin MacPhie, Chief Executive of the mia, said: “We are delighted that Debra has accepted the non-executive role of Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and alongside her role with VisitBritain and VisitEngland will lead on this crucial area on behalf of the mia. While working at the national tourism agency she has transformed the employee experience, launching a people strategy during lockdown and creating numerous diversity and inclusion networks, which will provide great insight to our work championing best practice in this area.”

Welcome to Yorkshire Goes into Administration

Welcome to Yorkshire, the destination management organisation (DMO) for Yorkshire, has gone into administration after having its funding suspended.

The DMO will no longer receive public funding to promote tourism in the county after local leaders unanimously agreed that a new marketing approach was needed. The effects of the pandemic meant that the DMO would cost taxpayers £2 million per year.

Welcome to Yorkshire Chair Peter Box said: “It was with deep regret that the board of Welcome to Yorkshire took the decision to place the organisation into administration. The past three years have been incredibly difficult for board members and staff as we have endeavoured to deal with well-publicised legacy issues.

“These matters, coupled with the impact of COVID and the task of securing sufficient funding from the public and private sectors to place Welcome to Yorkshire on a sound financial footing, have made the situation increasingly challenging.”

Safer Spaces Launches

Safer Spaces, a community interest organization, has recently launched with the aim of tackling sexual harassment against women at large events. Anna MacGregor and Madeleine North created the organisation in response to their own personal and professional experience and to address violence against women and girls at live events.

The organisation will operate bases at large events where women can go to access specialist support or to take a break in a calm and non-threatening environment. Trained volunteers will offer on-site, face-to-face support. Safer Spaces will also educate delegates, staff, and vendors and encourage a zero-tolerance policy against sexual harassment, in order to de-stigmatise talking about and reporting sexual violence.

Supply and Demand

We speak to Lady Cara Willoughby of North Yorkshire’s Birdsall House about the specific needs of a historic venue when it comes to finding event suppliers.

Great Expectations

Stately homes epitomise luxury and grandeur, meaning expectations are often high for the event delegates. With attendees only expecting the best, it is paramount that catering suppliers have to be adaptable to meet their needs.

“People come expecting a stunning location but are won over by our hospitality,” said Cara. “Like many other stately homes, Birdsall Estate has been a family home for nearly 500 years, and we want people to feel welcome. Therefore, customer service must be impeccable and friendly.

“I’m always keen to hear how suppliers train their staff and keep them motivated because ultimately, each one of us is part of the same team once an event starts.”

Keeping Local

With sustainability a key goal across the entire events industry, heritage venues can also make the most of local suppliers to help reduce the event’s carbon footprint while promoting the local economy and boosting the event’s authenticity for delegates.

“We know clients and guests are increasingly concerned with carbon footprints, food miles, and provenance, and we are so lucky to have Yorkshire as one of England’s naturally rich food larders,” explained Cara. “We can ensure our events are more sustainable by working with as many local suppliers as possible. There is a rich diversity of suppliers

who are based in the same region, and we’ve built a list of great local cocktail specialists, live bands, fireworks providers, and chauffer companies.

“I’d advise any supplier who is pitching to a new venue to highlight all the ways they take responsibility for their own carbon footprint.”

Protect and Admire

Built in 1540, Birdsall House is a home is full of history on display for guests to enjoy. But as Cara emphasises, taking a sensitive approach to their work should be an underlining factor for suppliers:

“We are truly lucky to be able to offer Birdsall House to the events industry and it is always wonderful to see the house being enjoyed by another generation. While we welcome events which allows our delegates to admire the house, the pressures of such events on fragile historic interiors can also be enormous for our partners.

“Suppliers who understand this point are vital for us to work with, and building trust is very important. We love the creativity some of our suppliers have shown in order to respect the interior of our home, and it is a pleasure to have the chance to work with so many wonderful and creative professionals from Yorkshire and beyond.”

Thinking Outside the Box

As the number and variety of events at Birdsall House increases, Cara also adds that utilising all spaces in a stately home is also a winning quality for potential suppliers: “Most

stately homes boast impressive gardens and acres of ground, and we’ve seen stylists, caterers, event planners, and entertainers use our venue in truly breath-taking ways.

“From setting up dining beneath our twelfth century monastic ruins, to organising wild swimming in our lake, it’s always lovely to see the outside space incorporated into an event, and our suppliers have been integral to this.”

Get Networking

As in-person events return with a rising demand for suppliers to come forward and offer their services with heritage venues, Cara explains that attending face-to-face networking events is crucial for suppliers to re-build relationships with an open-minded, family-run event space:

“Each year we hold a networking business brunch for all the suppliers who will be working on our events. It is a superb way of introducing Birdsall to those who haven’t been to the venue, and also a chance for suppliers to meet and catch up in a relaxed environment. Suppliers should always jump at the chance to network in their region.

“It isn’t often that we have the chance to talk when the pressure isn’t on for an event, and we have found our networking events a huge advantage to working with new suppliers and old friends within the industry. It can be tempting after two years of lockdown to think everything can be done remotely, but that face-to-face contact is so important.”

Birdsallestates.co.uk

Expert Medical Support For Your Event

Tactical Medical Rescue was formed in October 2020 with the head office, training centre and ambulance station in Caerphilly, South Wales, servicing the UK providing professional medical cover and covid testing to a wide range of clients for corporate events, sporting, film, television and theatre.

Our team includes qualified Doctors, Paramedic consultants, Paramedics, Ambulance Technicians, FREC4’s and FREC 3’s

Staff follow an enhanced CPD programme to gain further qualifications and specialisations to complement their knowledge and experience

Fleet of emergency vehicles including two Ambulances, 4×4 vehicles, 4 FRV’s and a Quad Bike to provide cover in those hard to reach places at off road events

We are now officially a Qualsafe Registered Centre delivering Ofqual courses and qualifications.

0330 043 9858

SECURITY SERVICES:

• DOG UNITS & MANNED GUARDS • MOBILE PATROL & RESPONSE • EVENT SECURITY & DOOR CONTROL

Leaving a Legacy

Claire Fennelow, Executive Director of EVCOM, discusses how to create a lasting positive impact with team building activities.

When it comes to team building exercises there are a whole host of activities on offer, from incentive travel to competitive problem solving. The name of the game is usually connection and fun, and so it should be. This is an opportunity for teams to connect with each other outside of the context of the office, to develop their relationships and build skills together.

But recently we have seen a trend for team building to do more, to give back, to leave a legacy. In my time, I’ve done several corporate social responsibility focused team building exercises, including picking litter and clearing out spaces so they can be used for new purposes such as gardening space. EVCOM Member DRPG has taken its staff on team building days where the

focus of the day has been working together to build prosthetic hands for those who need them. The Give a Hand programme, delivered by Lightbulb Teams, even sends videos of the recipients of the hands, using them successfully, talking about the impact on their lives. Long term impact on the community is demonstrable.

The same goals of connection and enjoyment are achieved, but the activity goes beyond the day itself. And adding this element to a team building activity isn’t just a good thing to do. This kind of purpose is useful. A sense of community is created when team members must come together for a common goal that benefits others. Morale is boosted by the feeling of contributing. Communication skills are

strengthened. Impact4Good, which offers philanthropic team building activities, has found that “feelings of company loyalty and pride grow when working for a company that cares.” So it’s good for business too.

Team building can and should leave a legacy, both inside and outside the company. And purpose is the key to doing just that.

Evcom.org.uk

Who would have imagined a couple of years ago that we would be in such a state now, with war in Europe, rising inflation, and shortages of everything from people to food? Such uncertainties make life incredibly challenging for events businesses.

Added to this there is still a good degree of caution among the public about large indoor gatherings which means that we all have to anticipate lower attendances at events than we would have done a couple of years ago.

On top of this the government seems intent on ploughing blindly on with policies that add further cost to businesses in our sectors, such as new requirements for calorie labelling; requiring event businesses to stop using red diesel; and environmental packaging taxes. Deferring some of these policy decisions until

Personnel Problems

Jim Winship, Secretary of The Events Industry Forum discusses the recruitment issues strict visa rules are creating.

a time when businesses get back to normal would have little impact on government coffers. Yet pleas for support seem increasingly to fall on deaf ears.

This is not to suggest we have a completely open door policy for immigration, but it could simply be addressed through a visa system that allowed workers to come here to fill specific vacancies with a more flexible approach to skills.

Even the crisis in manpower that many are struggling with could be eased with a little more flexibility. But the Home Office seems committed to making it as difficult to work here. Indeed, we have witnessed just how intransigent they are with the way they have dealt with refugees from Ukraine.

The consequences of manpower shortages were highlighted for me recently by a poll by the UK Crowd Management Association which found that 51% of those businesses responding were extremely worried by staffing levels and 92% said that they had to operate at some events without the required number of staff. In the critical role they play at many events, such shortages can have major implications for public safety.

While there is no magic panacea for everything we face currently, greater flexibility by the government could go a long way to helping our industry get back on its feet again. Afterall, it makes financial sense, as a healthy events sector is a major contributor to the UK economy.

Eventsindustryforum.co.uk

Hi Steven! Tell us how you got to this point in your career?

I’ve always worked in fine dining restaurants following my studies at Runshaw College in Lancashire. From the Black Swan in Helmsley to the White Swan in Pickering, they have each taught me creative skills and techniques which I bring to my role in The Orangery at Rockliffe Hall.

What the experience of working large events at Rockliffe Hall like?

With several event spaces on-property including the Rockliffe Banqueting Suite, I work on large events often, from weddings and conferences to birthday celebrations and company away days. One larger event that springs to mind is a lavish exclusive-use wedding for over 300 highly esteemed guests with no expense spared. All kitchen teams across the resort worked together and the event was a huge success.

How has COVID affected how you operate and serve food, and are there lasting changes from the pandemic?

The day to day running of the resort and The Orangery now feel closer to pre-pandemic. We are adjusting to changing regulations and operating differently while ensuring safety remains at the forefront. Guests are appreciating dining out again and it’s been a joy to see the celebrations, reunions, and pure enjoyment that food can bring.

FINE DINING

We meet Steven Lamb, the new Head Chef at Rockliffe Hall, to find out all about this career highlights, favourite ingredients, and the return to normal after COVID.

Sample Menu

CANAPÉ

Trompette & Truffle Macaron

STARTER

HAND DIVED ORKNEY SCALLOP

Pak Choi – Soy Shimeji – Ramen

MAIN

GIGHA HALIBUT Mussels – Estate 2019 Wild Garlic – Verjus

DESSERT

THE CHOCOLATE ORANGERY

Tropilia 53% – Rutaceae – Pistachio

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Most recently, that would be appearing on BBC’s Great British Menu as one of four chefs representing the North West, my home turf. I have always watched the programme and admired the chefs so to be selected was an honour. Another career highlight would be earning four Rosettes at The Orangery under Chef Richard Allen. Only 10 restaurants in the UK were awarded four new Rosettes so it was a very memorable evening filled with celebration for the whole team.

What would you say is your favourite ingredient?

It would have to be apple marigold, which is underrated and not used enough in my opinion. It’s a zesty herb which leaves an apple flavour, with citrus undertones. I’d recommend it as a garnish or charming finish to cocktails. I would also never give up marigold vinegar gel; I think the stuff is revolutionary!

What meal do you most often eat at home after a long day of cooking professionally?

You really can’t beat a homemade, comforting macaroni cheese. It’s a classic! I also make a delicious gluten-free version for my partner. There are also so many great foods from where I grew up, so I enjoy cooking with those at home, several that come to mind include great cheeses such as the humble Lancashire and Goosnargh duck (a cross between Aylesbury and Peking ducks) renowned for giving the best meat to bone balance.

If you could only eat one snack for the rest of your life, what would it be?

That would have to be Rowntree’s fruit gums, a classic sweet. A fun fact is that they were invented over 125 years ago in York. My grandma’s incredible combination of cheese and onions served on crusty bread with butter is also a great snack and meal in itself.

Less is More

CM Event Recruitment Limited

Founder Chrissie McLaren and Operations Manager Richie McLaren explain the advantages of going to a smaller recruitment agency.

With 270 staff on standby, you’d be forgiven for thinking that CM Event Recruitment Limited were one of the larger event agencies. In fact, this isn’t the case. Some of the larger high street agencies will have over double this number of staff in reserve. However, according to CM Event Recruitment Limited Founder Chrissie McLaren, her agency’s smaller size puts them at an advantage: “Our service is more personal, in the sense that a client can always get a hold of us if there’s a problem. Even if it’s at 10 o’clock at night we will answer. With larger agencies, there tend to be set work hours when they are available.”

Chrissie and Richie are also able to know each and every member of staff they send out, so they can be sure they are sending the correct people for the job: “We know our staff. We know their names, we get to know what they’re about, their families, what they’re studying at university, all those kinds of things. We also know which jobs they are better for. Some of our staff are great workers, but are better at back of house jobs, while some really shine at the front of house.”

This hands-on approach allows Chrissie and Richie to ensure that all of the staff they send out are capable of reflecting well both on CM Event Recruitment Limited, and the client holding the event: “We don’t send people after just looking at a CV. We actually bring them in and do a full induction to make sure they have the skills necessary to be able to meet our client’s requirements. We have a training room, where we cover things like wine pouring, the soft skills of hospitality, how to stand, how to act, that kind of thing. We also don’t use apps, we will actually speak to and meet with people, to make sure that we give the client the best people for the job. There’s more work to do on our side, doing it the old fashioned way, but it’s a lot more personal and hands-on, and the clients love it.”

This personal touch is also appreciated by the staff registered with CM Event Recruitment Limited and is what keeps them working event after event: “The staff genuinely feel cared for,” Chrissie states. “If we have a high level event, we will check in with people and make sure that they feel confident working it. We don’t feel that it’s right to put someone with less experience in that position unless they feel comfortable, especially when their performance is going to be reflecting on not only us but the client as well.”

And the couple aren’t above getting their own hands dirty and helping out when necessary: “Yes, it’s my business, but I’m just as hands on as everybody else. That shocks people sometimes, when they see me in a car heading to an event and putting the hours in with everybody else. I do that because I love it, and because I want the business to grow.”

The hard work Chrissie and Richie have put in has clearly paid off, as the company has a busy diary for the coming year including several events as part of Ferrari Challenge, taking place between May and October this year.

Cmeventrecruitment.co.uk

CHRISSIE AND RICHIE WITH JESS AND EMMA, WHO WORK IN THE CM EVENT RECRUITMENT OFFICE.

North in Brief

Greengage Launches Carbon Calculator Platform

Greengage has launched a new carbon calculator platform to boost industry efforts in responsible event planning. Evaluating carbon emissions for events and meetings, the EVENTsmart platform tracks event planner’s cost of travel, accommodation, catering, and wasted materials against a carbon budget.

“As companies increasingly focus on reducing their carbon footprint, meetings and events are in the spotlight,” said Greengage CEO Andrew Perolls. “Our new software platform will provide accurate data for anything from a virtual meeting to a large-scale conference or exhibition.

“It’s important to be able to measure each emission generated from travel, accommodation, catering, heat, power, and waste, to cut levels of CO2.

“We’re on a mission to work with clients and partners to demonstrate that changing some of the norms in event catering can provide a more environmentally friendly outcome, saving money while meeting the expectations of delegates who want to see a more sustainable approach.”

Manchester Central Opens Incubator Programme

Manchester Central has launched a new incubator programme allowing businesses to submit plans for a new event concept. Believed to be the first scheme of its kind in the events industry, the Incubator by Manchester Central will introduce new events to the venue’s calendar this year, aiming to drive innovation within the sector.

Welcoming new ideas for events with the potential to scale up in future years, a panel will shortlist the submissions and offer support packages for successful applicants, with guidance on logistical expertise, technical production, and marketing strategies.

“Working in the events industry is incredibly rewarding, and we’re keen to inject that buzz once again after a challenging period through the pandemic,” said Manchester Central CEO Shaun Hinds.

“Hosting events like never before is an exciting concept, and by launching this programme we hope to uncover bold, creative, and stand-out events of the future which will shape and innovate the sector for future generations.”

The deadline for stage one submissions is 14th April. For more information and to apply, visit Manchestercentral.co.uk/incubator.

Ventur Launches Travel Service

Leeds based travel management company Ventur has launched a new travel service to support the increasing logistic needs of event organisers. Introduced at the Event Production Show, the service includes an app for users to access travel itineraries, management platforms, and a 24/7 helpline for support on the latest travel regulations and restrictions.

A risk intelligence platform will also be added to the platform later this year, which aims to help companies keep track of traveller’s locations alongside real-time updates on global risks or sudden events.

Clients Services Director at Ventur, Eric Edwards, said: “Event professionals are still navigating complicated COVID-19 requirements, restrictions, and border updates. Brexit implications are also having an impact, from extra time needed on passports, to changes in custom logistics.

“Though travel becomes more accessible by the day, it’s not as simple as it once was. It’s taking specialists up to 25% more time due to the extra considerations required, so we expect it will take even longer for those who aren't travel experts.”

Reports Reveal Comeback of In-Person Events

A new report published by Cvent has revealed that 87% of UK planners are currently sourcing for in-person events, making up the majority of event programmes for European planners this year. Published in March, the Cvent 2022 Planner Sourcing Report also indicates that hybrid events are the most popular format, while just 25% of respondents said that virtual events would make up the bulk of their 2022 programmes.

Launching its survey in January, Cvent contacted over 500 event planners, managers, coordinators, and directors across the UK and Europe to take part in the research.

“As demand for in-person experiences continues to rise in this new era of events, venues digital assets are just as important as their physical ones,” said Cvent Vice President of Marketing, Chris McAndrews.

“It is vital that venues continue to not only adapt their services and onsite expertise to support hybrid events, but to also put that same level of attention and care into where planners begin their planning and venue sourcing processes, which is online.

“The hotels and venues that can successfully showcase their properties and hybrid-ready meeting space in the digital environment will bolster their appeal to attract more MICE business.”

Birmingham Set to Host Esports Championships

The International Convention Centre is set to host the inaugural Commonwealth Esports Championships and Commonwealth Esports Forum this year. The Birmingham venue will host the event in August alongside the Commonwealth Games, independently presenting its own round of medals and titles to competitors, which includes up to 5,000 athletes from 72 countries.

“I am delighted that we are announcing the first Commonwealth Esports Championships and Commonwealth Esports Forum to take place in Birmingham this summer,” said CGF President, Dame Louise Martin.

“Esports is continuing to grow dramatically in terms of popularity and participation, particularly among young people, and we are continuing to look at ways to explore how it can align with the Commonwealth sports movement.”

Green Tourism Launches New Campaign

Green Tourism has launched a new campaign to address the current challenges faced across tourism and hospitality businesses in Scotland. The Care To Make A Difference paper’s key concerns included the security and flexible working hours for staff, while calling for more mental health and wellbeing support for colleagues across the tourism sector.

Backed by the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) and Living Wage Scotland, the campaign also examines the increased supply costs and staff shortages following the pandemic, expressing concerns that one in three businesses are likely to fail in 2022.

“We know how challenging it has been for everyone working in the hospitality and tourism sectors,” said Green Tourism Chief Executive Andrea Nicholas. “We are calling on the industry across Scotland to come together to try to improve the situation for everyone.

“Caring for people, by paying the real Living Wage and treating staff well, along with a long-term focus on sustainability, can make a massive difference to tourism and hospitality and help it ride the current storm.”

Decor Event Equipment Hire

Main

The

Main

The

Main

The

Professional magician Ed Sumner discusses how interactive entertainment can make the difference at corporate events.

Many aspects go into creating an event, from food to venue to decorations. One aspect that is often relegated to further down the list is entertainment. According to professional magician Ed Sumner, this shouldn’t be the case: “There are many types of events that might be considered corporate - an awards night, a Christmas party or even a small team gathering in a restaurant. The constant throughout all events is that at their core they are about people. Close up entertainment is an excellent choice because things like magic are interactive.”

Good entertainment should be flexible and able to tailor their performance to suit your event’s needs: “Close up magic, where the performer mixes with guests, is a great way to welcome people during a drinks reception, or where networking is part of the schedule. It helps to break the ice, set the mood, and start conversations around a shared moment of the impossible. Or after dinner, a stage show is a great way to up the wow factor. Whatever you have in mind, it's worth a conversation.”

Having up-close entertainment also adds a lot to the experience for delegates: “By integrating with guests, up-close performances break down barriers so people want to be involved. The best performance is interactive, not passive! Imagine a room filling with uncontrollable laughter, gasps of amazement and rapturous applause. Imagine people turning to their best friend and asking them, "How did you do that?" That's what entertainment adds to events.”

Finding a way to incorporate this into an event seamlessly can be a tricky process, but

it is well worth the effort: “There is a saying in magic, which I think applies across the whole events planning industry. People are either there to remember, or they are there to forget. With that in mind, the best advice for someone hiring a performer is to make it a feature of the event. Even if you're only adding in a taste of magic, such as during the guest’s arrival, treat it as something special. Tell guests in advance so they can get excited about it. The best events I have performed at are the ones where people have been genuinely enthusiastic about what I do.”

Finding the perfect performer for your event is equally as important as the type of entertainment you choose. Luckily, Ed has a few tricks up his sleeve in that regard: “Much of hiring of talent is about the personality of the performer,” Ed explains. “Do you want this person at your event? I honestly believe the best way to get a feel for someone is to speak to them. While an initial enquiry might come via email, it's always a good idea to speak on the phone. A short ten minute phone call could save you hours of emailing back and forth.

“Another important factor is, of course, experience and being able to solve issues that can come up during the performance. You may look at their online reviews, and photos or videos of them performing to make a shortlist. But speak to those on your shortlist and it will become pretty clear, pretty quickly, whether they know what they are talking about or not. Being confident in who you choose is paramount”

EDSUMNER.COM

Best in Show

Explore the best ground-breaking event tech the exhibitors at International Confex had to offer and see how you can move your event planning into the future.

ExpoPlatform

ExpoPlatform is an AI-powered smart event platform for your community to meet, connect, and do business in-person and year-round. The modular platform enables event organisers to engage their delegates, connect buyers and sellers, grow communities, and promote products and services throughout the year.

ExpoPlatform's popular features include a 365 marketplace to connect buyers and sellers as well as a content hub and community groups to develop regular engagement.

The platform also gives online meetings enhanced engagement options like polls and chats to create an interactive experience. AI matchmaking allows preferencebased recommendations of people, sessions, and content.

The Smart Event Mobile app allows both organisers and delegates to engage at events. The platform also features an exhibitor manual to create a hassle-free onboarding experience, and an interactive facility to create a custom floor plan for events. Expoplatform.com

Vectorworks Spotlight 2022

Vectorworks Spotlight is a first-rate software for event organisers, with all the tools you need to combine your creative expression with maximum efficiency. With an extensive suite of drawing, illustration, and rendering tools, Vectorworks Spotlight allows you to produce remarkable line drawings and stunning 3D presentations, so you’ll impress even the toughest of clients. You can even create an immersive presentation experience with cutting-edge technology like virtual and augmented reality and rendered panoramas.

Vectorworks allows you to incorporate design and technical production information from anywhere, due to its impressive importing and exporting capabilities. Project sharing enables your entire team to work on the same file concurrently. And you can communicate through mobile viewing and sharing with Vectorworks Cloud Services.

Vectorworks.net

Shocklogic Event Registration Tool and Virtual and Hybrid Events Platform

Set the tone for your event with a flawless first impression. Whether online or onsite, Shocklogic’s event registration tools and badging system improve every aspect of delegates arriving at your event. The software includes fully customisable registration forms, profile area, and self-registration kiosks, to streamline arrival and get your delegates on to the good bit. Shocklogic also offers payment processing, a print-ondemand badging system with scannable barcodes or QR codes, survey generation software and certificates of attendance, website creation, and a hotel booking platform.

Supporting its customers to make the transition to virtual and hybrid events for nearly 10 years, well before it was a common occurrence, the business’ visually immersive online experiences can be tailored to any type of event or complexity of programme, with a fully customisable platform that allows you to pick and choose which aspect you need for your project.

The platform features a browser-based interface so there’s no need to download an extra app or software. The platform can also run highvolume parallel sessions and features breakout rooms for easy discussion. With 24-hour technical support available, any issues can be dealt with quickly and effectively, and Shocklogic also offers training for organisers, moderators, and speakers, so everyone can use the platform without a hitch. Post-production services are also available, including full video editing.

The platform also features gamification and interactive tools to keep users engaged and provide data after the event.

Shocklogic.com

DRINK UP

Drink to Good Health

“There was a time when delegates or event professionals would have a boozy lunch meeting during their usual business hours, but a cultural change now means this is not acceptable. Outside of the events industry, we can see this change across the board, where younger generations choose more carefully what they consume,” say founders of Bax Botanics, Chris and Rose Bax, highlighting the many benefits of non-alcoholic alongside a growing healthconscious market.

“The appeal of non-alcoholic drinks goes hand in hand with using authentic ingredients, and delegates are now beginning to look for these specific eco credentials on a drinks menu. A drinks product that has clean deck of ingredients, with no indication of acids or E-numbers, demonstrates it is hand-crafted from people rather than a machine in a lab, which is now something that attendees wish for at an event.

“The ball is now in the court for event organisers to cater for the delegates seeking alcohol-free options which still offer great taste and quality. The stigma we may have had on people who choose not to drink alcohol is now lifted, and if planners want to be responsible for their delegates needs, they have to offer the best of both worlds.”

As the number of alcohol-free drinkers continues to rise in the UK, we speak to drinks industry professionals on how event planners can cater to the growing trend.

A Stress-Free Option

Recognising the importance of mental wellness for both hospitality professionals and event delegates, Bar Events UK Owner Dan Lakin thinks this increased the appeal for alcohol-free drinks:

“There’s been a massive shift of focus over the years for both event delegates and hospitality professionals’ mental health, and I know a lot of bartenders who have

stopped drinking in order to better look after themselves during their lives at work and at home.

“There was certainly a level of social pressure in the past for delegates to go with the crowd and drink alcohol even if they didn’t truly want to. But now, we can see that people are more willing to talk openly about how they feel, without any concern for not fitting into their social group.

“Event planners should now make sure that the alcohol-free beverage options visibly listed on catering menus, just like any other food or drink item. Preferably the full drinks menu should already be available for delegates to see before the day of the event, which can help them overcome any potential confidence hurdles in their decision making. But if this isn’t available, delegates should still not feel awkward or uncomfortable to ask the server directly about their non-alcoholic drinks options.

“For hospitality workers themselves, it’s important to be briefed beforehand about the clientele to know how the drinks menu can be adjusted. Setting up the bar accordingly for specific non-alcohol events, and catering for attendees who are driving to the venue or are underage, will also ensure that everyone involved can have the same great event experience.”

Continued on page 46

Continued from page 45

Mix It Up

“The rising trend of low and no alcohol drink options is super exciting,” says Managing Director of Zest Mixology, Murdo Macleod, emphasising how the rise of alcohol-free spirits has given mocktail options a newfound broader appeal during events.

“Previously the word mocktail drew very bland connotations, often meaning a basic mixture of juice with soda. But the launch of non-alcoholic spirits has allowed mixologists to add a real element of theatre to serving these drinks, with an extra dimension of taste that makes the non-alcohol option far more interesting. As mixologists, it’s our job to cater for this trend and make events even more exciting.

“One famous bartender once said that the first sip of any drink is with the eye. Delegates should now expect to see hospitality staff be as creative as possible when putting mocktails together, applying the same wild factor elements from a regular cocktail reception. When the drinks are made in such a way, it drives the intrigue and perception of quality for witnesses at the bar. If event delegates don’t want to take a picture of my creation and post it on social media, I’ve not done my job well!

“This fun element now associated with crafting non-alcoholic drinks means that delegates can be proud in their decision to not always go for the booze option during the events experience. Life is all about having choices, and having the option to enjoy the benefits of alcohol, or the benefits without, is a great thing that keeps delegates happy.”

TRY THESE MOCKTAIL FAVOURITES

Shirley Temple

• 12oz Collins glass

• 12.5ml Grenadine

• Juice of a full lime

• Top with ginger ale and lemonade

• Garnish with a Machicino cherry

Put all ingredients into the glass, top up with the ginger ale and lemonade and garnish with the Machicino cherry.

Non-Alcoholic G&T

• 50ml Strykk Not Gin

• 200ml Fever Tree Tonic

• Garnish with orange slices, rosemary sprig, blueberries, and a lemon wheel

Fill a balloon glass with cubed ice and add all ingredients. Add all the garnishes, with the lemon wheel fitted on the rim of the glass.

Blueberry Smash

• 50ml Bax Botanics Sea Buckthorn

• 8 mint leaves

• 4 tsp sugar

• 10 blueberries

• Juice of half a lime

• Top up with soda or lemonade

• Garnish with mint, blueberries, and lime

Muddle the mint and blueberries with the sugar. Add the Bax and lime juice then shake with ice. Strain into a tall glass with fresh ice. Garnish with mint, blueberries and lime, then top up with lemonade or soda.

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Everyone is interviewed on a one to one basis to ensure they have the right experience, attitude and skill level.

Redefining Workforce Solutions

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Andrew

Serious About Sustainability

The pandemic has given the events industry an opportunity to rewrite the rulebook. Taking a break from live events has allowed us the time and space to innovate, to think differently about the way we do things, and build back better.

Building back better means building back more sustainably. Before the emergence of COVID-19, climate change posed the biggest threat to humanity. That threat remains strong and a recent report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned that time is running out and urgent action is needed to curb global warming before it’s too late.

As a major contributor to global carbon emissions, the industry have a duty to act now to protect the future of our planet. Sustainability is no longer something that’s nice to have, it’s a must have.

Making the sustainable choice is rapidly becoming one of the main priorities of all decision makers. There is no doubt that having a sustainability policy in place will be an integral part of all event briefs in future, if not part of UK law. Suppliers can help organisers make better choices by incorporating sustainability into their business strategies, which in turn makes them a more attractive choice for potential clients.

Recognising the increasing importance of sustainability, ESSA introduced a comprehensive sustainability module to the ESSA Accredited scheme last summer. The module takes an in-depth look at a companies’ policies, management, and processes relating to sustainability and then marks this against a set criterion, formed in line with ISO standards, current industry standards and the EIA cross-associations supplier’s commitments. It is the only thirdparty audited accreditation for the supply chain currently available, and it is offered to all full ESSA members as part of their membership.

No matter how far along the sustainability journey you are – and it’s important to remember it’s a journey not a race – it is critical you act now. The difficulty our industry faces is that there’s almost too much information out there with regards to the roadmap that companies should be taking, so it can be confusing to know where to start.

It’s easy to get lost in the race to carbon net zero because we don’t refine it down enough or articulate the journey for companies to be

Harrison, Director of

the Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA), discusses how event sustainability should be approached as a journey not a race.

able to embark on that process. There is no one size fits all approach, and the journey will be different depending on whether you are an organiser, supplier, or venue. This is where trade bodies and associations can help – we all have a role to play in guiding our members within the different areas of the market that we look after.

ESSA believes the most important thing is to set goals and measure progress. We must start measuring as it’s the only true way of defining whether we are on target. The ESSA sustainability module is designed to help with setting goals and understanding what to do within a set framework of bite-sized elements, all of which are scalable over time. It encourages companies to build sustainability into their processes and practices by default and gives them a tailored roadmap for continuous improvement and recognition of that progress with four levels of accreditation: bronze, silver, gold, and platinum leaf.

Sustainability is clearly on everyone’s agenda, but with many event organisers and suppliers still in recovery mode and resources already stretched due to the current talent shortage, it is often not as high as it could or should be. But we are all in this together and we must collectively take it seriously to future proof our industry. If we want to be recognised by government and to be seen as an industry which is attaining best practice across the board, sustainability must now be a top priority.

Essa.uk.com

SAFETY FIRST

H&E North speaks to Dean Newman, Director of Newman Event Services, on how planners can deliver a secure event with the expertise of trusted crowd management and event safety providers.

Since the proposal of the government’s Protect Duty legislation earlier this year, venues have taken appropriate steps to consider the report’s potential impact on the events sector and what this means for established safety measures. With the risk of terrorist attacks at events at the core, the new legislation, also known as Martyn’s Law, remains under consultation, while opening up debate over a legislative requirement for planners to employ security measures across their event spaces.

Dean Newman, of Newman Event Services, delved into the vital importance for planners to employ a comprehensive crowd management and event safety provider as Protect Duty comes into fruition: “Event organisers need now more than ever to utilise the professional security personnel available from crowd management and safety groups, who hold strong expertise in the planning, coordination, and provision of world-class crowd management services to ensure that every event is delivered safely.

“The teams behind every event safety service hold a wealth of experience working on a range of major events, including concerts, festivals, and sporting competitions. Their skills include crowd management, health and safety, event consultancy, event parking, event security, and event stewarding.

“The breadth of safety services also encompasses all areas of an event, including access control and personnel search and measures in CCTV, pit, and vehicle security. Employing stewards to oversee the turnstiles, ticketing areas and queue management are also solid foundations that greatly improve event security.”

While deploying qualified and dedicated security personnel to an event will help to secure the events overall success, health and safety and infrastructure services are also important elements to consider when

employing extra security measures, reassuring planners that equipment and guests are protected from any danger or criminal threat. By law, ensuring all employees and delegates are not exposed to health and safety risks remains a legal duty for event organisers. Demonstrating a commitment to managing this effectively, a health and safety policy details that appropriate measures are taken in the planning phases of an event.

Traffic management is also a key service which has shown to be a vital factor to event success. By arranging cost efficient and safe traffic management plan from the initial event planning stages, a positive lasting impression is also made on delegates after experiencing smooth traffic flow in and out of a venue.

“All the comprehensive traffic management solutions an organiser needs are provided by security teams, which help to determine all conditions that must be met to ensure the event can be carried out safely,” said Dean. “This work often involves securing temporary Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO’s) and installing interim speed restrictions on certain access roads.”

With the right security measures in place and utilising a strong crowd management plan, planners can be reassured that the event will run smoothly with the dependable coordination and communication from a crowd safety team.

“Event safety services are much more than a helping hand to planners for crowd behaviour monitoring, hospitality duties, and preventing entry of restricted items,” explains Dean. “The friendly faces of professional event stewards are also a welcoming presence at an event, allowing your delegates to enjoy a comfortable experience.”

Sitting right next to London City Airport and just ten minutes’ walk away from ExCeL London, Marriott’s first Courtyard hotel in Central London is perfectly placed for those heading to London for conferences and events. General Manager, Chris Thomas, tells us why the hotel is a cut above the rest: “One thing that shines through our reviews and feedback from our regular guests is how much our service helps us stand out. Every team member shares our passion for delivering the best guest experience possible, and they’re on hand 24/7 to support guests during their stay. We describe our approach as being informally formal, so at check-in our guest service representatives will make a point of taking the time to find out how we can best help our guests, talking them through our facilities as they escort them from check-in to the lift.”

Food and drink is an important consideration for weary conference-goers finishing a long day on the expo floor, and the venue aims to make their dining experience a highlight of every stay: “Our food offering isn’t your traditional airport restaurant fare,” Chris explains. “We’ve got Arancini, fresh lamb koftas, and locally sourced Billingsgate market fish for the fish and chips. We have free range elements in the menu, freshly produced, locally sourced food. As part of our all-day kitchen & bar dining concept, we’ve also partnered with a local brewery called Fourpure to offer some of their IPAs. We also offer a full buffet breakfast every day.”

Another big draw for those travelling to London for conferences is the ease of access

Stay a While

H&E North sits down with Courtyard by Marriott London City Airport Hotel General Manager Chris Thomas to find out what the hotel can offer business travellers.

and connection that the hotel provides: “The DLR is only five minutes’ walk away, and it’s only five minutes walk to get from the hotel to the airport check-in area, we have direct transport links to central and east London.”

Ideal for group bookings, the hotel also offers convenient on-site meeting spaces for those looking to debrief after an event or meet with clients close to the airport. “We offer three private meeting and event spaces for up to 55 delegates, including our two interactive meeting rooms - one for six delegates, and the other for ten. With their floor-to-ceiling windows, they offer a really good opportunity for anyone who wants a satellite meeting

space. We also have a great private dining room that can seat 25 people and that can also be used as a private meeting room. We have a business centre in-house, including a PC, and colour printer, and scanner, which is completely free to use. And we have high-speed Marriott Bonvoy Wi-Fi which is complementary and unrestricted.”

As for other amenities, the hotel takes care of guests in usual Marriott style: “We’re a Marriott brand, so we’ve got all the core fundamentals of a Marriott hotel. We have a super king-sized bed as standard. “Our luxury signature Marriott bedding is by far the most superior bedding package available right now. We also have 55-inch TVs in all of the rooms, and you can stream your own content directly to the TV, so you have access to Netflix, YouTube, and the like. We also have a fitness suite with cardio machines and free weights. It’s really an all-around experience.”

Courtyardlondoncityairport.com

ON YOUR MARKS, SET, GO…

IT’S TIME TO REVEAL OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKER

LORD SEBASTIAN COE

As the UK’s most prolific world record setter, Seb is no stranger to the podium. So join us as he shares insights learned from organising the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games and much more, in the year that marks not only our 10th edition, but also the 10th anniversary of the 2012 Summer Games.

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DOUBLE OLYMPIC CHAMPION CHAIRMAN OF THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC GAMES FORMER MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

New Spaces

H&E North discovers the hottest new and improved venues across our area ready to host great meetings and events.

Marine Troon

Located in its namesake seaside town of Scotland, the former Marine Hotel will transform into the Marine Troon this year, building a new leisure centre complete with an indoor pool, squash court, sauna, and steam facilities. Adjacent to the worldrenowned Royal Troon golf course, Marine Toon also offers tailored golf packages to host team building activities, with nearly 50 more courses to choose from nearby along the Ayrshire coast. The hotel’s three suites can host up to 200 delegates, with DDR packages including room hire, meeting room equipment, and customised AV options available. Private dining is also provided for up to 50 delegates in the hotel’s newly refurbished space, The Bay, offering panoramic views of the coast and golf courses.

Themarinetroon.co.uk

Capri at the Containers

The Capri Group opened its fifth café and restaurant early this year in Stourton, SouthEast Leeds, with direct transport connections to the city centre and Royal Armouries Museum. Built from eight disused shipping containers, the venue’s industrial exterior hides an intricately decorated interior within, complete with a ground floor café and first floor Italian restaurant which can cater for up to 60 delegates. A rooftop wine bar with open terrace is also available to hire for private functions with bespoke cocktails and live entertainment on offer.

Caprigroup.co.uk

Yotel Manchester

The former Qbic scheme in Manchester had a quick rebrand just months after opening, now taking over as Yotel’s 18th hotel worldwide in the heart of Deansgate. With sustainability in mind, the hotel’s 260 rooms feature solar panels, water-saving showers, and energy-efficient lighting. Four unique spaces can host between eight to 50 delegates, with all AV and presentation equipment provided and large terrace-side doors letting in plenty of natural daylight. Private dining is also available in the events

spaces, with the hotel’s in-house menu using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, and beverages crafted from local breweries and distilleries.

Yotel.com

No.1 Guesthouse

The No.1 Guesthouse is the latest boutique hotel to open in York, catering for smaller corporate meetings and city-based away days. The Grade II listed regency townhouse has kept its original features, including floor-to-ceiling windows, spiral staircases, and period-era art pieces. The hotel’s Bootham Room holds up to 12 delegates as a private dining and meeting room, while the Marmalade Lounge is fitted for board meetings with afternoon tea provided. A new spa has also been fitted in the lower arches of the building’s cellar, containing five treatment rooms and a range of wellbeing packages on offer.

Guesthotels.co.uk

Grosvenor Pulford Hotel

Chesire’s Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa has revamped its bar and events spaces earlier this year, expanding on its renowned corporate meetings and events facilities. Seating up to 200 delegates, the redecorated Grosvenor suite includes its own

LANGDON BECK HOTEL

entrance, private bar, and lounge area, with flexible layout options allowing planners to split the space into separate function rooms. The Westminster and Belgrave suites offer a more contemporary space for boardroom meetings, fitting up to 90 delegates with the latest AV equipment provided for presentations and award ceremonies. The hotel’s dining options include the new Palm Court restaurant and piano bar serving elegant European cuisine, while Nelson’s Bar offers a more informal, gastro pub welcome, featuring open fireplaces and serving traditional pub food and ales. Grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk

Smoke & Mirrors

Opening its doors in Altrincham late last year, Smoke & Mirrors has quickly drawn local attention as Manchester’s only shisha bar, providing unique events opportunities outside of the city centre. Fitting up to 100 delegates, the bar and restaurant includes a VIP area, terrace, and canopy-covered outdoor area with fully catered private hire options. Entertainment, decorations, canapes, and champagne on arrival are all supplied with the event packages, with a set menu containing a fusion of European and Middle Eastern food. Itssmokeandmirrors.com

Langdon Beck Hotel

Raby Estates has recently refurbished an iconic country hotel as part of its extensive regeneration programme of historic buildings across Teesdale in the North Pennines. Fully redecorated while retaining its original authentic features, The Langdon Beck Hotel can now seat up to 50 delegates in its dining room and bar area, with a private function room available for 25 delegates and neighbouring Resident’s Lounge seating up to 15 guests. The hotel also sits along the Pennine Way, with a number of walking routes available for outdoor networking. Raby.co.uk

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Virgin Hotels is set to open its first UK site in Edinburgh this June, home to the newly restored mediaeval Greyfriars Hall. A central event space for banquet dinners, weddings, and corporate events seats up to 120 delegates, with four smaller meeting spaces available for 10 to 20 guests. Dining and drinking outlets include Virgin Hotels’ flagship Commons Club and a new all-day dining space, Eve, housing local artwork inspired by the venue’s location and heritage. Virginhotels.com/edinburgh

The Tytherington Club

Surrounded by picturesque countryside, The Tytherington Club in Macclesfield recently opened its doors within easy reach of Manchester and the Peak District, featuring a new gym, sauna, and 18-hole championship golf course. Seating up to 250 delegates, the hotel’s Dorchester suite can be adapted to suit a range of functions with personalised layout options catered for by an event management team, while also catering for up to 12 delegates in the hotel boardroom. Corporate golf packages are also available

for eight to 200 delegates including set meals at the course-side Pulse Bar. Thetytheringtonclub.com

Contact Theatre

After a £6 million redevelopment, Manchester’s Contact Theatre now offers a full range of meetings and conference spaces alongside its full roster of creative workshops for the performing arts sector. Seating up to 280 delegates, the venue’s main auditorium space is idea for panel events and creative hires with full AV capabilities, while a smaller boardroom for up to 16 delegates comes fully equipped for hybrid conferencing and training days. Rehearsal studios can also be hired to function as break-out networking spaces, with artistic services on offer to enhance events including workshop facilitation, icebreakers, and creative responses. Partially serviced office spaces are also available to hire with access to high-speed internet and private meeting spaces.

Contactmcr.com

MARINE TROON

SMOKE & MIRRORS

CAPRI AT THE CONTAINERS

Wealth of Choice

As the Commonwealth Games comes to venues across Birmingham this July, we explore other award-winning event spaces across Commonwealth countries welcoming delegates during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year.

International Convention Centre Sydney | Australia

Australia’s first fully integrated harbourside convention venue celebrated its fifth anniversary in 2021, after successfully hosting over 2,700 conventions, exhibitions, seminars, and banquets which have contributed well over $2.5 billion dollars of visitor expenditure. Following a multimillion-dollar redevelopment, The International Convention Centre Sydney has over 250 further events secured for the first half of 2022, demonstrating the venue’s resilience and response to future demands of the industry.

Iccsydney.com.au

Cape Town International Conference Centre | South Africa

Award-winning hospitality and exposure to a uniquely diverse culture have become a basic expectation to event delegates in South Africa. Located in the heart of Cape Town, the CTICC has expanded this reputation as the leading venue for conferences, exhibitions, and events on the African continent. Consisting of two separate events spaces connected by a sky bridge, the flexible complex has managed to secure 15 international conferences during the pandemic, welcoming over 22,000 delegates.

Cticc.co.za

Victory Conference Centre Auckland | New Zealand

Spread out over a modern complex with four different event spaces, the Victory Conference Centre is a premier choice for events in New Zealand, with multiple meeting rooms overlooking the Auckland’s picturesque bay. Seating up to 2,200 delegates, The Theatre is the venue’s main function space custom-designed to maximise acoustics, with timber frames, multipart soundproofing, and innovative AV equipment heightening the auditory experience.

Victoryconventioncentre.co.nz

Intercontinental Arena Conference Centre | Malta

With 300 days of sunshine and short transfer times, the Maltese islands are a year-round destination for product launches, exhibitions, and meetings. Set in Malta’s characterful town of St Julian’s, the InterContinental Arena Conference Centre offers modern and stylish spaces with high ceilings offering quality acoustic value. The venue’s main space, the Plenary Room, seats up to 1,7000 delegates and is practically built to lift heavy rigs from multiple hanging points ideal for large presentations and conferences. Ihg.com

Accra Beach Hotel and Spa | Barbados

Holding a strong presence in the UK leisure market, Barbados has continued to grow as a hub for international events with continued development of its hotel facilities. After extensive refurbishment of its guest rooms and suites, Accra Beach Hotel and Spa has hosted a steady rate of board meetings, management retreats, and award ceremonies in the venue’s four flexible spaces with 3.5 acres of beachside space for delegates to explore. Accrabeachhotel.com

Kenyatta International Convention Centre | Kenya

Frequently named as Africa’s leading business travel destination, Nairobi is home to the iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) which continues to boost motivation in the continent’s tourism sector. Built to represent a traditional African hut, the venue’s amphitheatre blends cultural tradition with modernity, equipped to stage international seminars with simultaneous interpretation equipment of up to seven languages with quality PA and AV systems to sustain live broadcasts and TV filming. Kicc.co.ke

Marina Bay Sands | Singapore

Singapore’s signature integrated resort will begin a major reinvestment programme this year, upgrading all rooms and suites in two out of three towers of the hotel. Signature

experiences will also be introduced for delegates across all three towers of the Marina Bay Sands, including revamped executive club lounges, fine dining experiences, and health and wellness offerings. After a long hiatus, the venue is set to host the Singapore International Water Week alongside the CleanEnviro Summit this April, which will welcome over 15,000 inperson and virtual attendees. Marinabaysands.com

Metro Toronto Convention Centre | Canada

Built in 1984, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre has become a landmark destination since securing top position as Canada’s top trade show facility, and a major multipurpose venue within the country’s finance hub. The 600,000 sq. ft venue consists of 64 meeting rooms, two grand ballrooms, and a theatre seating up to 1330 delegates to provide successful high-profile events. Known especially for providing unique and

dedicated exhibitor services, the venue has also created ample business opportunities between buyers and sellers.

Mtccc.com

Limassol Marina | Cyprus

Strategically located in the Mediterranean between Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, Cyprus has long been seen as a meeting place between nations, with international event organisers granted access to the country’s UNESCO-listed sites steeped in history. Attracting millions of visitors every year, the island has made significant investment in its hotels, including the multimillion Limassol Marina, made up of over 270 units, restaurants, and bars. The venue’s multipurpose Trakosal event space houses a marine training school and cultural centre alongside its exhibitions and conferences, while the Marina Square offers a multitude of corporate and promotional gatherings in an outdoor setting.

Limassolmarina.com

MARINA BAY SANDS

Business News

Going Green

City centre events group, thestudio, has announced it has secured the ECOsmart GOLD rating for its environmental impact. Demonstrating its longstanding commitments to sustainability, the company has created extensive measures to embrace environmentally conscious business practices across all four of its UK venues.

Awarded to hotels and meeting venues demonstrating an eco-friendly approach, the Greengage Travel & Event Solutions ECOsmart rating is an industry-standard accreditation. From food and waste management to energy conservation and social responsibility, each venue is assessed on a range of practices and initiatives that contribute to a sustainable and environmentally friendly business.

“We’ve always been keen to explore ways in which we can continue to reduce the impact we have on the environment,” said Commercial Director Julian Kettleborough. “Since we opened in 2006, we’ve done our utmost to ensure that we continue to make the changes needed for an eco-friendly business – it’s wonderful to look back and recognise all of the hard work that’s taken place to achieve this.”

Advice on Protect Duty

Controlled Events Managing Director, Rob Walley, has provided advice for event planners on the proposed Protect Duty legislation.

Also known as Martyn’s Law, the legislation will require venues to develop security plans in response to potential terrorist attacks alongside existing hazards and threats: “There are a range of good practice tips identified from our own support to clients,” said Rob. “Organisers should plan in partnership with their neighbours to share the burden and cost of any support, which will make the process more achievable and sustainable.

“Starting with a vulnerability assessment is also advantageous, which we provide with a focus on key areas including physical, technical, procedural, and personnel capabilities. This enables an organisation to develop proportionate and effective plans, resources, and validation of the response to an incident.

“Terrorism can seem like a very low likelihood event, so running training scenarios and selfcontrolled assessments will effectively bring the project to life.

“Since 2011, Controlled Events has delivered resilience and security planning,

readiness exercises and training, control, and communications solutions to a range of venues, events, organisations in the corporate and public sectors.

“Get in touch to find out more about how we can help protect and support your organisation.”

Controlledevents.com

New Female Senior Team Drives Growth

Owl Live has appointed two new female leading roles at the Liverpool-based brand experience agency. Lauren Mucklow will take the lead on performance of Owl Live’s delivery channels, while Muriel Holdsworth will assume responsibility for client services and all commercial activity.

Announcing the new roles, Owl Live Director, Antony Greenberg, said: “As joint managing partners, I know Lauren and Muriel’s ideas, determination and passion will help Owl Live realise the next phase of its growth journey.”

Muriel said: “I’m excited by what lies ahead and can’t wait to co-lead the agency. I’m confident that we will carry on growing and become a well-known force to be reckoned with in the industry.”

On the new announcement, Lauren said: “It's an absolute privilege to be driving this progressive agency forward with Muriel into our next chapter. Having the opportunity to work with such a talented and passionate bunch of people is inspiring.”

Owl-live.com

CENTRAL HALL VENUES,

At CM Event Recruitment we staff occasions from small private events to large corporate ceremonies. We meet and interview everyone face-to-face and conduct a skills test, ensuring they have the skills required for the job. Matching experience to event, we supply bar staff, waiting-on staff, kitchen porters and cleaners/clearers.