All Timeless products are crafted using materials more commonly found in the marine industry, including Premium grade Western Red Cedar, Bio-epoxys and recycled P.E.T. (a board created from recycled plastic bottles with outstanding insulative properties). The process enables the creation of exceptionally sustainable and beautiful forms that are unlike anything seen before, the ultimate crowd stopper and talking point.
The Acorn, Cabin, and Trailer have found their way to some of the summers most exclusive events and venues, including Royal Ascot, Wentworth PGA and Salon Prive at Blenheim Palace…. exclusive outdoor dining experiences, a luxury champaign bar, the trailer as a cocktail bar, are just a few examples.
Timeless is looking to connect with businesses that share our desire to create memorable experience in extraordinary environments. We would invite and welcome any companies that would be interested in exploring collaboration, hosting or incorporating Timeless in their plans.
Aside from making dramatic centre pieces for events, timeless offers unique living spaces, such as the cabin, creating the opportunity to enjoy extended time immersed in these exquisite creations with all the luxury comforts. Timeless spaces can be adapted to accommodate your bespoke needs, the possibilities are endless.
CONTENTS: JANUARY 2025
FRONT COVER FEATURE
Silver Screen
Make your next event spectacular by choosing one of Showcase Cinema’s spectacular UK locations. Page 56.
AND MORE
Green Thinking
Michael Stausholm, CEO of SproutWorld, talks small changes to make your event greener. Page 7.
Red Tape
Dot the I’s and cross the T’s as we find out about the ins and outs of the legal and safety requirements surrounding using marquees or temporary structures. Page 10.
And the Winner Is...
The second Famtastic Awards night was a smashing success! Check out some of the award winners and snaps from the evening. Starts page 14.
Finding Balance
Find out why you should incorporate wellbeing practices into your events from wellness experts Glo. Page 19.
Together Better
We check out the venues and suppliers and some great team building ideas in the North East. Page 22.
Competition
One lucky reader has the chance to win a luxurious overnight stay for two, including dinner and breakfast, at Crowne Plaza Newcastle. Page 23.
Where Credit’s Due
The ESSA Sustainability
Accreditation could be your ticket to increased revenue and reputation as an event supplier. Page 28.
Get Right In
Transform your event with the power of immersive audio, allowing you to engage your delegates like never before. Page 34.
Up the North
As more event organisers are opting to host their events outside of London, we chat with agencies to find out what’s driving the change. Page 39.
Fit for Purpose
Multi-purpose venues offers you a world of flexible options to curate the perfect event. Page 42.
Make Sense
Tap into the full spectrum of delegate’s senses and transform their experience. Page 50.
Too Good to Be True
Save yourself a world of trouble with these common event industry scams and simple ways how to avoid them. Page 51.
Leading by Example
Jack Saward on leading through a calm, solution focused mindset as an International Event Manager. Page 60.
Stands and Deliver
Your exhibition timeline with Be Exhibitions. Page 62.
Up Close and Personal
Liz Taylor, tells us about the importance of creating personal, impactful experiences at large events. Page 66.
Another year ends, (is it just me or is life speeding up?) and we look forward to 2025 with renewed vigour and anticipation for the industry. We continue to bring you the thoughts and advice from the industry, associations, key people, and organisations on matters that you, the event planners at the coal face need to know about.
We focus on the North East this edition, a hub of event spaces, suppliers and team building ideas, and a great competition to win a stay. Industry guru Liz Taylor chats to us about how
to personalise large events, we review the amazing Famtastic awards night, and talking of industry events, International Confex is back in just a few weeks and we look forward to catching up with you all in the flesh! There’s a look at the flexibility of multi-purpose venues, the latest AV and how your suppliers can get accredited and deliver a top-notch service. Plus, we travel abroad to check out the 2025 Capitals of Culture conference offerings, and some wellness retreats ideal for team building or R&R.
It’s all here; don’t go anywhere else! Elliot Landy.
ABPCO
ACE Seating
AEV
Beam
Be Exhibitions
Catherine Duhaut
EICC
ESSA
Glo Pamper
Hospitality Action
Jack Saward
Contributors
James Dean Jen Tempest
Liz Taylor
Louisa Watson
Maria Harper
MIA
Michael Stausholm NewcastleGateshead Initiative NOEA Publisher
Congrats to Digger Mosey, who won an overnight stay for two, including dinner and breakfast at Ardencote.
Burleigh Court | Loughborough Open now
Loughborough University’s Burleigh Court Conference Centre and Hotel has unveiled its refurbishment, marking a new era for the venue. The project, led by design agency Harrison, has successfully reimagined five key areas of the hotel, creating a vibrant and inspiring space that celebrates the university’s rich history and champions its current talent. With 24 meeting and seminar rooms and 150 sq. metres of exhibition space, Burleigh Court is an ideal meeting environment with comfortable seating, reliable AV equipment, natural daylight, and air-conditioning. If you’re looking for a residential conference, there are 185 bedrooms, capacity of up to 230 delegates, and meals included in the conference package rate.
Burleigh-court.co.uk
Mecure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel
Manchester
| Open now
Manchester’s Mecure Piccadilly has unveiled the next phase of its ambitious £3 million refurbishment with the launch of Garden View, a new room now available for meeting and event bookings. Thoughtfully designed with delegate wellbeing as a priority, this contemporary events space features a captivating garden wall and expansive floor-to-ceiling glass windows, which provide panoramic views of the historic Piccadilly Gardens in the heart of Manchester. Accommodating up to 140 delegates, Garden View offers a versatile and stylish setting, making it an ideal venue for medium-sized meetings, conferences, exhibitions, networking events, and more.
Mecuremanchester.co.uk
Clarion Hotel Charlecote Pheasant Stratford-Upon-Avon | Open now
The newest Choice Hotels EMEA Clarion brand in the UK, the Clarion Hotel Charlecote Pheasant’s refurbishment reflects the new brand proposition which sees hotels weave in hallmarks of the local area to bring out their personality and create a richer experience. Interpreted here with a design showcasing the hotel’s proximity to the birthplace of The Bard, the inspiration for a unique Shakespeare theme throughout the Hotel. The refurbished guestrooms have been designed to showcase the hotel’s character and historic charm, bringing in a modern, comfortable style with a nod to the famous playwright. There are three meeting rooms at the hotel – with a capacity of six to 160 delegates – as well as a five-acre outdoor events space with team building options available.
Charlecotepheasanthotel.co.uk
The Cheshire Venue | Sandbach Open now
Located in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, this new venue is managed by the team at Oh So Sweet Events, who bring years of experience to the table. The Cheshire Venue offers a variety of unique event spaces; there are areas with tipis and stretch tents, as well as Teddie’s Barn, The Twilight Loft, and the newly renovated on-site accommodation, The House at School Farm. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large event, flexible packages are available to suit your needs. Teddie’s Barn provides a blank canvas for your creative vision, while the tipi field is ideal for outdoor events, whatever the weather. With capacity for up to 150 delegates, the team are dedicated to crafting tailored experiences for events of all sizes.
Thecheshirevenue.com
Radisson Blu Hotel | Durham February 2025
Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham has revealed a £5 million refurbishment project to elevate its guest experience and reaffirm its position as a premier destination in the city. The initial phase of the refurbishment has already been completed which includes a new bar area and outdoor terrace overlooking Durham Cathedral and Castle that includes cutting-edge conference and event facilities with a contemporary, sophisticated atmosphere. Tempus Hub is a new dedicated events space within the hotel that provides an ideal setting for remote working, breakout sessions, and intimate gatherings. The hotel is within walking distance of the historical city centre and offers 207 bedrooms and suites – which are the main focus of the second stage of the refurbishment – an on-site pool, sauna, steam room, gym, and spa.
Radissonhotels.com
BURLEIGH COURT
MECURE MANCHESTER PICCADILLY HOTEL
CLARION HOTEL CHARLECOTE PHEASANT
Mollie’s | Manchester
Summer 2025
Mollie’s Manchester is set to become a top choice for business and leisure, offering an array of co-working spaces, meeting rooms, exclusive-use lounges, and private dining options. Located in the heart of the city’s vibrant enterprise quarter, these high-spec spaces have been designed by Soho House, taking inspiration from the building’s striking mid-century architecture. The hotel’s collection of flexible meeting rooms has space for four to 30 delegates and features high ceilings, walnut, and marble. Delegates can make the most of speedy WiFi, wireless printing, a tea and coffee station, rest rooms, and an additional lounge area for round-table co-working. The former Old Granada Studios on Quay Street will also feature 128 beautifully appointed rooms. Guests can enjoy luxury amenities, including a stateof-the-art gym, sauna, and steam room, making Mollie’s Manchester a destination for work, relaxation, and everything in between.
Mollies.com/Manchester
Everton Stadium | Liverpool August 2025
Everton’s new £500 million stadium will be much more than just a home for football –it’s set to become one of Liverpool’s most vibrant and versatile event destinations. Designed with more than just sports fans in mind, the stadium will offer a wide range of facilities, including sleek, modern meeting rooms, state-of-the-art exhibition spaces, and views overlooking the picturesque Bramley-Moore Dock. With its striking architecture and location, the venue promises to provide a memorable corporate event experience. The Plaza, located behind the East Stand, and the stepped terrace behind the West Stand, will provide ample space for a variety of outdoor events throughout the year, ensuring that the stadium becomes a dynamic hub of culture, entertainment, and business in Liverpool.
Evertonstadium.com
Fresh Faces
EVERTON STADIUM
MOLLIE’S
OPEN NOW
TRIBE Manchester Airport is unapologetically modern, thoughtfully designed, and boldly essential –everything you need, nothing you don’t
Just two minutes from Terminal 2, we’ve redefined what it means to stay connected while you travel. With 412 smartly designed rooms spread across eight floors, we are Manchester’s largest hotel. Welcome to TRIBE Manchester Airport –Where Bold Design Meets Travel Ease.
Event organisers are constantly searching for innovative ways to reduce their environmental impact while still providing memorable experiences. One such innovation is the plantable pencil, an eco-friendly promotional product from SproutWorld.
The idea behind the plantable pencil may sound like a quirky novelty, but its origins are grounded in a deep understanding of sustainability. Michael Stausholm, the CEO and Founder of SproutWorld, recently shared his thoughts on how small changes – like switching from plastic pens to plantable pencils – can help event organisers meet their sustainability goals. While Michael did not invent the concept, he was the driving force behind bringing it to a global audience: “The plantable pencil was actually created by three young students at a university in the US over 11 years ago,” Stausholm explains. “I found the idea on Kickstarter, and it immediately resonated with me. To me, the pencil illustrated the very essence of sustainability – use something, and instead of discarding it, give it new life by planting it.” Michael went on to acquire the global rights and patent, founding SproutWorld with the mission of spreading this innovative concept.
For event organisers, one of the key challenges is how to incorporate sustainability without compromising on the quality and memorability of the event experience. Traditionally, non-sustainable promotional items have been a staple at conferences and events. But Michael believes these items often fail to make a lasting impression: “You know, a lot of conferences hand out plastic pens and products with logos, and while they may be used briefly, they often end up in drawers or, worse, in the bin.”
By contrast, a plantable pencil offers something unique: “It’s an immediate icebreaker,” Michael explains. “People want to know what it is, how it works, and what it stands for. It’s a perfect conversation starter about sustainability, something you would never get with a standard pen.” This combination of functionality, sustainability,
and engagement makes the plantable pencil an ideal promotional item for event organisers looking to align their branding with their sustainability goals. Moreover, the ability to customise the pencil with branding or event messaging further strengthens its appeal.
While many companies claim to offer sustainable products, Michael stresses the importance of vigilance in verifying these claims: “One of the biggest challenges event organisers face is sorting through the noise,” he says. “Many products claim to be sustainable, but they may not be. As an organiser, it’s crucial to ensure that the items you choose are genuinely sustainable. Look for documentation, certifications, and lifecycle analyses to verify that the product is truly what it claims to be.”
Michael is a strong advocate for integrating sustainability into business strategies. He believes that companies that embrace ecofriendly products not only help the planet but also create long-term value for themselves: “Sustainability is not just about reducing your carbon footprint; it’s also about aligning your brand with the values of today’s consumers. When you give a sustainable gift, you’re making a statement about your brand. It shows that you care about the planet, and it helps build a positive relationship with your audience. And by choosing products that are sustainable and have a lower carbon footprint, businesses can reduce waste and the cost of resources, which ultimately benefits their bottom line.”
For Michael, the true beauty of plantable products is that they leave a lasting impact on the delegates: “When someone receives a plantable pencil, they take it home, use it, and later plant it. That pencil becomes a reminder of the event and the brand that gave it to them,” he explains. “Instead of throwing it away, they’re nurturing something that will grow, and they’ll remember the event every time they see the plant bloom.”
Sproutworld.com
Michael Stausholm, the CEO and Founder of SproutWorld, shares his thoughts on how event organisers can meet their sustainability goals with an innovative plantable pencil.
When holding every event in a country manor or a swanky hotel with spa attached just isn’t feasible, you can still curate an exceptional experience even in a runof-the-mill venue. With some thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and a focus on exceptional service, you can craft an unforgettable, opulent experience for your guests.
THE INVITE
The invitation sets the first impression, so it should reflect a sophisticated theme. Turn back the years and opt for a physical invitation. Hand-delivered, bespoke invitations with elegant typography and quality paper can instantly signal an upscale experience. For a more modern
also elevates the experience and adds an element of refinement. Pay attention to the presentation, ensuring that every dish is plated artfully and served with impeccable timing.
THE SERVICE
The difference in a luxury event often lies in the service provided. Employ a team of professional, well-trained staff who understand the importance of discretion, attention to detail, and proactive customer service. Your delegates should feel pampered and attended to at every moment. Ensure that waitstaff are dressed in polished uniforms, and that bartenders are skilled in crafting sophisticated cocktails. It’s also worth considering additional touches
approach, digital invitations can still be highly personalised, using elegant designs and perhaps even short videos or animations to entice your guests.
THE CATERING
One of the most significant elements is the food and drink. Rather than relying on basic catering options, hire a renowned catering service that uses high-quality, fresh ingredients and offers a carefully curated menu. Opt for elegant finger foods, bespoke cocktails, or even a gourmet tasting menu, depending on your event’s theme. Offering a selection of fine wines or champagne
like coat check services, concierge staff, or personal assistants to cater to your guests’ individual needs.
THE DECOR
Creating a luxurious atmosphere doesn’t require an extravagant venue, but it does require a sharp eye for style and attention to detail. Carefully curate the decor with a cohesive theme, using high-end materials like velvet, marble, and gold accents. Incorporate fresh flowers in large, ornate arrangements or create striking centrepieces that exude elegance. Keep the colour scheme understated yet opulent, using soft
Red Tape
Dot the I’s and cross the T’s as we find out about the ins and outs of the legal and safety requirements surrounding using marquees or temporary structures for an event.
While temporary structures allow you to create the exact space you need for your event, customisability does give way to a number of logistical and legal concerns to be considered. Here are some to consider.
Planning permission
For most events you won’t need to acquire planning permission to erect a marquee or any other kind of structure. However, there are some exceptions. If the structure you’re planning to use is more than 100 metres squared or more than 25% of the total floor area of your site, planning permission is required. You will also need to get planning permission if you plan to keep the structure around for longer than 28 days, so if you’re putting on a longer exhibition or festival, don’t get caught out! The last thing you want is to get slapped with an Enforcement Notice.
Listed venues
If you’re hoping to erect a marquee on the grounds of a listed building, this is only permitted for 120 days within a year, subject to prior approval by the local council. While this won’t make much difference to most events, for event profs putting out a recurring or seasonal event, it’s something to consider.
Fire safety
All structures are required to be in compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, meaning there are some spacing and safety requirements you have
to follow. Primarily, all marquees must have a minimum of two exits which must be evenly spaced throughout the area, and the distance from any point in the space to the nearest exit shouldn’t be more than 18 metres. Escape routes should be designed to avoid trip hazards or uneven surfaces, and all fire exits should be marked using quickrelease wall flaps. There’s also a requirement that a responsible person ensure there is safe access, which is where professional temporary structure providers can really come in handy.
Spacing
If your space will contain seating, this must be arranged so that people can easily access the exits. There should be at least 30 cm between rows of seats, and no more than seven seats between a seat and a gangway. Aisles and walkthroughs must be at least 1.05 metres wide for any marquee accommodating up to 160 people, 1.65 metres for up to 240 people, and 1.95 metres for up to 320. As for the placement of any temporary structure: at least six metres must be clear all around. Sadly, you can’t attach a tent or marquee to a building, but you can use a covered walkway between the two, provided it ends at least one metre away from the building.
Here at H&E North we work with many capable and knowledgeable temporary structure providers who are able to wade through the red tape for you and suggest the best solutions for your event. Read on!
ITA ROBUST Models
Best Seat in the House
We go behind the scenes with Ace Seating Hire at a dazzling fortnight of outstanding military music and pageantry.
In July 2024, the Massed Bands of His Majesty’s Royal Marines performed a centuries old ceremony, Beating Retreat on Horse Guards Parade in Westminster, featuring more than two hundred military musicians, precision drills of the Corps of Drums and a Royal Navy Honour Guard. A week later, a spectacular of military music was staged by the Massed Bands, Pipes and Drums as well as Mounted State Trumpeters of the Household Division.
This was the third year running Ace Seating Hire had been contracted to provide grandstand seating for these events. Collaborating closely with Cliff Stonestreet of FTF Worldwide Event Management and the Household Division, planning for which had started just after 2023 event had finished. Using its in-house design capability a full CAD drawing was completed showing where the 4,014 seats, in four separate grandstands, would be sited. Following contract signature Ace Seating travelled to London to conduct an all-important site visit, during which all aspects of the project were discussed with the client, including organising access onto Horse Guards during the build-up and pull-down periods.
“Although we have worked on this event previously it is still very important to understand exact requirements for this year’s show,” said Tom Roberts, Director, Ace Seating. “From our perspective there are additional hurdles of operating in central London, the most serious of which is the high security environment of this location, especially as the first build-up day was set to be General Election Day.”
Ace Seating uses a modular seating system consisting of a steel base construction which it bolts together (like a giant Meccano set), a wooden floor is then fitted and is completed with moulded plastic ‘tip-up’ style seats, all of which we delivered to site using our in-house transport.
At 6 am on day one all five trailers were in position on Horse Guards ready for work to start, first each grandstand was marked out. Next, staff unloaded all components in a carefully choreographed order that ensures the right parts were positioned in the correct build sequence, then the in-house team of experienced technicians started construction of the first grandstand. By the end of day one, two grandstands were complete, and work had already begun on the third block. Day two was another early start for the build crew, but by early afternoon all four structures were complete. A thorough safety inspection followed to ensure the structures followed industry standards and were safe for the public to use, then each of the 4,014 seats were also checked for functionality and any damage. During the fortnight of the event Ace Seating also conducted safety inspections to ensure that no damage had occurred during the performances.
“Each job we undertake has its own unique set of challenges whether it is a small grandstand in a school hall, or seating in large indoor arenas, to more unusual locations such as on a Royal Navy aircraft carrier or down a construction tunnel on the London Underground, we pride ourselves that we are able to put seats into just about any situation or location,” Tom added.
Aceseating.co.uk
Horse Guards in numbers… 4,014 seats
The number of seats needed in a layout of four individual grandstands on Horse Guards Parade in Central London.
2,650 nuts and bolts
The grandstand structures we built used more than 2,650 nuts and bolts individually fitted by our expert team of technicians.
22 hours
It took our team of fifteen fully trained technicians 22 hours over two days to construct the four grandstands, and we completed the pull-down in under 18 hours.
Five trailers
To move all the equipment needed at Horse Guards we used five 45ft (13.7m) trailers and three trucks from our in-house fleet. On-site we used a four tonne and a two and a half tonne forklifts to move parts to the correct locations.
And the Winner is...
Famtastic Academic Venue
Ashorne Hill | Winner
Famtastic Agent
Abi Luty Goldcrest Events | Winner
James Manford Successful Events | Highly Commended
Famtastic Agency
Venue Queen | Winner
Ace Bookings | Highly Commended
Magnifisense | Highly Commended
Famtastic Bedroom
Low Wood Bay Hotel & Spa | Winner
Thornbury Castle | Highly Commended
Famtastic Boardroom
Excelerate Obo South Place Hotel | Winner
Classic British Hotels Oddfellows Chester Highly Commended
National Ice Centre & Motorpoint Area
Nottingham | Highly Commended
Famtastic Conference Centre/Hotel
Hilton Glasgow | Winner
Nottingham Venues | Highly Commended
Famtastic Convention Centre/Bureau Visit Malta | Winner
Famtastic Green Initiative
Eventurous | Winner
Wyboston Lakes | Highly Commended
Famtastic Freelancer
Lynda Clayton Hill | Winner
Famtastic Hotel Brand
Leonardo Hotels UK | Winner
Champneys Mottram Hall | Highly Commended
Famtastic Independent Hotel
Matfen Hall Estate | Winner
Buxton Crescent | Highly Commended
Cedar Court Hotels | Highly Commended
Famtastic International Representation
Destinations Unlimited | Winner
Star Your World | Highly Commended
The second Famtastic Awards night was a smashing success! Held at Leonardo Hotel Hinckley Island, over 300 event profs from around the UK gathered for one heck of a party, and H&E North was delighted to present the marketing award. Check out some of the award winners and snaps from the evening.
Famtastic Independent Venue
The Woodlands at Hothorpe Hall | Winner Carden Park | Highly Commended
Famtastic Marketing
Switch Management Ltd: Park Regis
Birmingham | Winner
Famtastic New Talent (Agents)
Leigh Bacon We Are MEaT | Winner
Famtastic New Talent (Suppliers)
Gareth Morris Classic Lodges | Winner
Famtastic Refurbishment
Buxton Crescent | Winner
Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel Highly Commended
The Orchard Hotel (Nottingham Venues) Highly Commended
The Post Barn Newbury (Classic British Hotels) | Winner
Save the date for next year’s event on 31st October 2025!
Cream of the Crop
We take a closer look at some of the fabulous winners at the Famtastic Awards.
Second Famtastic Win for Venue Queen
Venue finding agency Venue Queen recently took home the Agency of the Year award at the Famtastic Awards, for the second year in a row. The agency, founded by Claire Lee, who has three decades of experience working in hospitality sales, specialises in building relationships with all those involved in the event processes in order to produce the best results for clients. Claire explains: “It’s really important for us that we keep and build our longstanding relationships with venues, with clients, and with suppliers, and understand all sides so we can facilitate everything for a smooth customer journey.”
The entire team at Venue Queen has experience working in venues previously, allowing them to facilitate open and honest dialogue between the client and venues. This is beneficial to both parties as it ensures that client needs are met, while offering the venue valuable feedback about its offering.
Winning the award is an excellent feather in the business’ cap, and a moment of wellearned recognition for Claire: “We were all astounded, absolutely amazed. We won last year so we really didn’t think that we would win two years in a row. That has just been amazing!”
Venuequeen.co.uk
Hilton Glasgow Takes Top Spot
A Glaswegian icon for over 30 years, Hilton Glasgow is one of Scotland’s leading conference and events hotels, an accolade which won it Conference Centre/Hotel of the Year at this year’s Famtastic Awards. Featuring 320 stylish bedrooms, a dedicated restaurant and bar, the first Dilmah Tea lounge in the UK, a state-of-the-art gym, indoor pool, sauna, and steam room.
The venue’s event spaces, particularly the Grand Ballroom, are a national benchmark for excellence. Located on level three, the dedicated events and meeting floor includes several meeting rooms with natural daylight, a self-servicing refreshment area, and the Grand Ballroom and Pre-Event Area.
The Grand Ballroom, equipped with the latest technology, revolutionises meeting spaces. The innovative animated wallpaper with 22 ceiling-mounted smart projectors allows customisable backdrops, while 120 remote-controlled spotlights and LED lighting enable varied atmospheres. This versatile space allows a seamless transition from daytime conferences to evening drinks receptions and event dinners.
Moreover, Hilton Glasgow offers 14 flexible meeting rooms with natural daylight, advanced audio-visual equipment, and complimentary delegate stationery. A Carbon Neutral Meetings initiative helps clients minimise their event’s environmental impact.
The experienced team guarantee that if clients can envision it, Hilton Glasgow can make it happen.
Hilton.com/glasgow
Introducing Events – Top Team Wins
Introducing Events crowned Team Building Company of the Year at this year’s Famtastic Awards, wowing judges with its innovative activities, personalised approach, and over two decades of event expertise.
Led by founder Simon Howard, Introducing Events is passionate about delivering exceptional delegate experiences through professionally hosted, creative, and bespoke team-building activities that unite people for shared positive moments.
Their offerings include both indoor and outdoor team-building experiences with real purpose and outcomes. From captivating gameshow experiences and the UK’s most interactive race night to party bingo and musical team-building activities; every event is crafted to deliver impactful results. For global teams, Introducing Events also offers virtual entertainment, including the Crystal Maze Experience and virtual murder mysteries. These activities seamlessly blend fun with team bonding, providing high-energy engagement, no matter where your teams are based.
What truly sets Introducing Events apart is its ability to create bespoke experiences tailored to each client’s specific goals or themes, ensuring every event is unique and exceeds objectives. The team prides itself on meticulous planning, professional hosting, and seamless execution.
“Delegate experience is our passion. By making them the stars of the show, we create unparalleled event engagement. With the right time and budget, we can make anything happen.”
Introducingevents.com/live-events
ClientNews
Silent Seminars Unveils 45-Channel Headset
Silent Seminars, the leader in innovative audio solutions for events, recently launched its cutting-edge 45-channel wireless headset system, designed to revolutionise audio delivery at conferences, exhibitions, and large-scale events. These headsets offer unrivalled versatility, empowering event organisers with more control than ever before, and the ability to have 45 breakout areas in one space.
With 45 channels available, event professionals can now enjoy seamless audio management, even in the busiest event spaces. Operating on licensable frequencies (646 – 672Mhz), these headsets are engineered to avoid interference with other radio signals, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted communication. Each headset features customisable LED lights for easy channel identification and can be pre-programmed and locked to specific channels, reducing the chance of mishaps during high-traffic events.
sustainability efforts. Since, it has been recognised as an expert in sustainable events, going on to win two Sustainability Awards in 2024 alone.
However, sustainability wasn’t the only thing Eventurous was commended for in 2024. The team attended the M&IT Awards in September along with 800 other industry professionals and walked away with the Silver Award for Best Mid-Sized Agency.
The surprises didn’t stop there, the thriving team went on to win Best Event Management at the PA Show Supplier Awards. Both the M&IT and PA Show Supplier Awards were voted for awards meaning Eventurous won purely based on votes cast by corporate event bookers across the UK.
Demonstrating its five-star event management service, the cherry on the cake was a triple win at the MIA List in November. The team took home awards for Sustainability, Agency of the Year, and Supplier of the Year! Eventurous thanks everyone for their support.
Entertaining Edinburgh for Over 230 Years
For more than two centuries, Assembly Rooms Edinburgh has been at the heart of special occasions and celebrations in Scotland’s historic capital city, hosting royalty, celebrities, and nobility.
Situated in Edinburgh’s prestigious George Street, this breathtaking building offers versatile spaces to tailor make memorable events, from intimate meetings to large scale conferences.
The premier venue’s catering panel brings together three of the country’s finest companies to offer a variety of exciting menu options, all using delicious, locally sourced Scottish produce. The team of in-house specialists work year round with businesses and individuals to produce unique celebrations, all against the inspiring backdrop of the Assembly Rooms’ stunning Georgian architecture, elegant interiors and sparkling chandeliers.
Duncan Strain, Director and Owner of Silent Seminars, said: “We are thrilled to bring this cutting-edge solution to the events industry. Our new headsets will transform the way audio is delivered. The ability to have 45 channels gives event organisers incredible flexibility to manage multiple sessions, speakers, or multiple languages, without worrying about interference or noise issues, even in the busiest and most complex environments.”
Silentseminars.com
Eventurous Wins Record Number of Awards
What started out as a small team building company, Eventurous, has expanded into a multi-award-winning corporate event agency, offering premium event management services. The growing team of experts are achieving some outstanding results, which haven’t gone unnoticed by the industry.
In 2022, Eventurous decided to take the leap and shout about its decade long
Eventurous.co.uk
Memorable Events at Holiday Inn Newcastle Gosforth Park
For your next meeting, conference, or exhibition, look no further than Holiday Inn Gosforth Park in Newcastle. Conveniently located just a few miles from major transport links, including motorways, railways, and Newcastle International Airport, the hotel is an ideal destination for delegates travelling from near and far.
With 10 versatile conference and meeting rooms, the hotel can accommodate events of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to grand conferences of up to 300 delegates. Each space can be customised to suit the unique style and needs of your event.
Expect a wide range of state-of-the-art specialist equipment, inclusive and personalised conference packages, and an experienced team of dedicated professionals who will work with you every step of the way to ensure a seamless and successful event.
Looking to host delegates overnight?
Holiday Inn Gosforth Park has 151 bedrooms equipped with 24-hour room service, and guests can also enjoy access to the on-site leisure and spa facilities, including a sauna, swimming pool, and fully equipped gym.
Holiday Inn Gosforth Park offers everything you’ll need for a productive yet relaxing stay.
Enquire now at Hinewcastlegosforthpark.co.uk/contact 0191 201 9988
Just a few minutes’ walk from Waverley and Haymarket stations, Assembly Rooms is ideally located for both local and traveling delegates.
To find out more about the latest offers at Assembly Rooms call 0131 220 4348 or email arenquiries@edinburgh.gov.uk
A Day at the Races
H&E North Publisher Elliot Landy recently enjoyed a memorable corporate hospitality experience at Wetherby Racecourse, where he was treated to an exciting day of racing with clients and partners. Hosted in a private box overlooking the finish line, he was able to soak in the thrilling atmosphere while enjoying a delicious lunch and drinks throughout the day.
Elliot said: “It was a great day, made all the more enjoyable by the pleasant company of hosts CGC Events and fellow guests, creating a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The team provided excellent service throughout, ensuring that every detail was taken care of, offering a seamless hospitality experience. Sadly I didn’t pick a winner on the day, but enjoyable non the less!”
Whether for a corporate event or a day out with clients, Wetherby Racecourse offers a cracking experience.
Wetherbyracing.co.uk
Finding Balance
We find out why you should incorporate wellbeing practices into your events from wellness experts Glo.
As planners look at innovative ways to increase engagement and add some variety to the schedule, integrating wellness practices like yoga and massage into your events can offer delegates much needed moments of relaxation and rejuvenation that are often overlooked, and can maintain a much needed balance between work and personal wellbeing.
Not only can these practices help reduce stress, they’ll also leave participants feeling appreciated and energised. With its blend of physical activity, mindfulness, and stress relief, yoga offers a refreshing and innovative solution to improving delegate wellbeing. If it’s a morning session to energise the day or a relaxing massage break between sessions, delegates can recharge, improve focus, and enjoy a unique and memorable experience.
Glo’s in-house yoga teacher and expert, Anna Hillaby, says: “Incorporating wellbeing practices such as yoga and on-site chair massage can help you create a memorable experience, while associating relaxation and rejuvenation with your brand. These activities are a brilliant way to boost engagement and make your event stand out.”
Delegates can reflect and immerse themselves in the event experience in an innovative way, whether it’s a soothing Indian head massage, a gentle hand massage, or a comforting foot rub, these treatments are a fantastic way to let delegates unwind in what can be an intense environment.
With the primary benefit of stress reduction, it is little wonder that the corporate world has gravitated towards offering yoga classes. Originating in India, yoga has been practiced for thousands of years to unify the body and mind. Its popularity across the globe is due to its ability to enhance physical and mental wellbeing, making it a perfect fit for the events world.
According to Glo, yoga is a great option that works beautifully for conferences, away days, or team-building events. Starting the day with yoga helps delegates clear their minds and set a positive tone for the day ahead, while an end-of-day or mid-event session helps them unwind and reset. There are many styles of yoga to choose from so you can tailor your event to delegates needs. Hatha yoga uses physical techniques to try to preserve and channel vital force or energy and is perfect for a gentle, beginner-friendly experience. For the more well versed in the art of yoga, ashtanga yoga is ideal for a
more energetic and challenging practice, while restorative yoga helps to reduce stress and promote deep relaxation.
Bespoke yoga classes can be arranged led by experienced teachers who provide mats to transform the area into a soothing space. Vinyasa flow yoga is the main focus for Glo’s classes, which connects breath with movement for a practice that suits all levels of ability to ensure everyone feels supported and included. Each class ends with a guided relaxation, ensuring delegates leave feeling completely relaxed.
Planners who book a yoga session with Glo will receive a free Yoga Nidra MP3 — a guided relaxation which is recommended to be practiced before sleep but you can do this at any time of day.
NewcastleGateshead and North East England is a place packed full of adventure. Our dramatic coastlines, tranquil countryside and vibrant towns and cities are all within 30 minutes of each other – so you can go from sunrise paddleboarding in King Edwards Bay, to rambling across ancient history at UNESCO World Heritage Site Hadrian’s Wall to world-class shopping and dining at the iconic Fenwick luxury department store, all in the same 24 hours.
Connected by the largest and busiest light rail system outside of London, the Tyne and Wear Metro and the recently awarded ‘Best Airport in the World’ Newcastle International, getting around is easy with direct air, rail, land and sea connections from London, Europe and further afield –including regular direct flights to and from Dubai with Emirates. Our towns and cities are bursting with fun, but compact enough to get round easily via all kinds of travel allowing you to travel sustainably and conveniently night and day.
Northern Soul
Discover the delights of the North East, as NewcastleGateshead Initiative explains what’s drawing conferences to the region.
The area is known for its eclectic event spaces, from castles to dedicated conference centres, to unique quirky venues and top-notch hotels. Take time to recharge after a busy conference or meeting with one of our carefully created experiences on our regional booking platform Newadventures.org.uk like a culinary adventure in the UK’s oldest dining rooms at Blackfriars or stare in wonder at the night’s sky on an astronomical Dark Skies evening in Northumberland.
Soak up cutting edge contemporary art at the internationally renowned BALTIC, stroll through centuries of history at Durham Cathedral or take in a show direct from the West End at one of the largest theatres outside of London, the magnificent Sunderland Empire. And don’t forget our famous Geordie nightlife – with a mix of bars, pubs, late cafes, restaurants
and clubs to dine and dance the night away. For a spot more culture, surround yourself with the enchanting sounds of the Royal Northern Symphonia at the iconic Glasshouse International Centre for Music or visit lively grassroots music venues which have nurtured music superstars Sam Fender and Sting.
If you’re a film and TV buff, walk in the footsteps of Hollywood A-Listers as you wander through iconic film locations like Alnwick Caste (the home of Harry Potter) and Beamish Open Air Museum – a regular feature in hit ITV drama Downton Abbey. Take in one of Europe’s most beautiful streets – Grey Street – with its stunning sandstone architecture and quaint pavement cafes and restaurants doubling for Paris in the Transformers film franchise or discover the dramatic locations used for crime series Vera in all corners of the North East.
The region is also home to world-class sport, from the famous roar of St James’ Park, home to Newcastle United to thrilling international cricket at the Riverside International Cricket Ground in Chester-leStreet – there’s always a sporting fixture to get swept up in or an exhilarating event space to nook.
And when it comes to settling in for the night, our unrivalled range of accommodation to suit every budget ranges from glamping under the stars in the tranquil countryside to luxury 5-star retreats in the heart of the city.
An unforgettable adventure, with our famed North Eastern welcome awaits you here.
Newcastlegateshead.com
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Together Better
We shine a spotlight on some fantastic team building ideas in the North East.
North East Adventures
Take your team outdoors! From business-orientated development programmes to fun outdoor activities and mental and physical energisers, North East Adventure’s instructors’ knowledge and expertise will ensure that your team take valuable skills and confidence back to the workplace. With a range of activities including coasteering, rope challenges, gorge walking, kayaking, archery, abseiling, and hydrospeeding, there’s plenty to get your team active and encourage them to support each other through a brand-new adventure.
Northeastadventures.co.uk/corporate-activity-days
Turboventure
Fuel up your team building experience high octane with Turboventure. This thrill-ride sits in the grounds of the Maften estate and lets you cruise around on tanks and quad bikes. Just be prepared for a little (or a lot) of mud. The experience starts with being taught how to control the tank or quad bike, and a practice run in the artificial forest to let you get to grips with navigating, before you’re let loose into the woods. You can also play a quick game of quad football, which is sure to bring the team together with a little friendly competition.
Turboventures.co.uk
Escape Key
Sitting in the heart of Newcastle, Escape Key offers a range of themed escape rooms which are sure to delight and challenge your team. Save humanity from an incoming asteroid in Armageddon, or turn back the clock to 1636 to outwit a crazed plague doctor and save yourselves from the Black Death in a room which overlooks a real plague pit. Worth a special mention is the range of outdoor escape games: story-led adventures taking you around the city to explore at your own pace. Bespoke packages for team building are available, so you can tailor the offering to suit your client’s needs.
Escape-key.co.uk/teambuilding
Racing Sims
Racing Sims offers a highly flexible and engaging corporate team building activity where teams can improve skills such as communication, critical thinking, and collaboration, all while having fun. Scenarios like driving with a blindfold or adjusting a Formula One car’s settings foster teamwork and problem-solving. The experience can be customised based on the team’s objectives and time constraints, whether in a half-day session or spread across multiple shorter days. The rig’s full motion and adaptable conditions – such as weather and car responsiveness – ensure the activity fits seamlessly into any environment, and it is brought directly to your office, so it couldn’t be more convenient!
Racingsimsnortheast.co.uk
A1 Event Hire
A1 Event Hire offers a variety of team-building activities from engaging physical challenges to interactive workshops, promising unforgettable experiences. Dedicated Event Managers oversee every detail, ensuring seamless execution. A1 provides both off-the-shelf and bespoke team-building days, designed around your organisation’s goals. Choose from collaborative or competitive activities, such as creating a masterpiece, thrilling rollercoaster building, or problem-solving in Challenge 100. Other popular options include Fantasy Formula One, iPad Movie Making, Krypton Factor, and more. With activities that foster communication, creativity, and teamwork, A1 Event Hire guarantees an impactful and enjoyable event.
A1eventhire.co.uk
Crowning Plaza
For a conference that effortlessly combines elegance, practicality, and sustainability, look no further than Crowne Plaza Newcastle.
Situated in the heart of Newcastle City Centre, this premier venue provides an outstanding backdrop for your next event. With a range of flexible meeting rooms, a skilled team, and a wealth of amenities, Crowne Plaza is committed to ensuring your event’s success while maintaining a focus on sustainability. The hotel is proud to be awarded Green Key certification, recognising its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
Win a luxurious overnight stay for two, including
dinner and breakfast, at Crowne Plaza Newcastle.
Crowne Plaza Newcastle is more than just a hotel – it’s a purpose-built venue dedicated to providing an exceptional conference experience. Delegates can unwind in comfort and style in the hotel’s wellappointed guest rooms, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of conferencing.
When planning your event, you can relax knowing that the venue has its own on-site catering team. The Crowning Glory culinary experience, created by talented chefs, offers regular refreshment breaks and lunches at Hawthorns, the hotel’s modern brasserie, which specialises in authentic local cuisine. This thoughtful dining experience complements the overall conference atmosphere. In line with their commitment to sustainability, Crowne Plaza Newcastle takes great care in sourcing local, seasonal ingredients, reducing food waste, and supporting sustainable practices.
charities to make a positive impact, further strengthening its role as a socially responsible venue.
For those seeking a venue that blends sophistication, functionality, convenience, sustainability, and community support, Crowne Plaza Newcastle is the ultimate choice for hosting conferences. With state-of-the-art facilities, comfortable accommodations, exceptional catering, and a professional team, this venue sets the stage for a conference that exceeds expectations.
A standout feature of the venue is its impressive conference rooms, bathed in natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the dynamic city of Newcastle. The Stephenson Suite, the venue’s highlight, is designed to host conferences and large meetings for up to 500 delegates, depending on your preferred layout. With its contemporary design and spacious interiors, it provides the perfect setting for any professional gathering.
If you need to gather your team during your stay, the hotel offers modern conference rooms equipped with cutting-edge technology and high-speed Wi-Fi. These spaces seamlessly merge functionality with sophistication, providing an ideal environment for productive meetings. The success of any conference is rooted in meticulous planning, and Crowne Plaza Newcastle takes pride in its experienced events team. Working closely with organisers, the team ensures that each event’s unique needs and goals are understood, tailoring every detail to perfection. From initial concept to event execution, the team is dedicated to delivering a smooth and successful experience.
The venue is also committed to supporting local communities. Through its charitable initiatives, it collaborates with local
Choose Crowne Plaza Newcastle for your next conference and elevate your event to new heights of success.
Cpnewcastlehotel.co.uk/meeting-roomsnewcastle
COMPETITION
For your chance to win an overnight stay for two, including dinner and breakfast, please answer the following question:
What is the maximum number of people the Stephenson Suite can accommodate?
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: 24th January 2025
Terms and conditions apply: Prize is non-refundable and cannot be exchanged. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in H&E North Magazine and Crowne Plaza Newcastle’s databases in order to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.
NorthinBrief
MIAList Winners Revealed
The winners that secured a place on the Meetings Industry Association’s (MIA) prestigious miaList 2024 were revealed at a celebratory event held in Liverpool.
A place on the list rewards both individuals as well as organisations and teams who epitomise excellence in the business meetings and events sector.
Ten individuals secured a spot on this year’s list, including Becky Andrews from Pavilions of Harrogate, Clair O’Mara from Radisson Blu East Midlands Airport, and Aziza Yessi from Mercure Manchester Piccadilly.
For the first time in the miaList’s 14year history, a fundraising raffle was incorporated into the proceedings that raised £3,860 for La Salle Hotel School, which is on a mission to empower young people by constructing a facility that nurtures individuals to excel in the hospitality industry.
UK Events Report Published
UKEVENTS, the umbrella organisation of the UK’s events industry, has announced the findings of its UK Events Report 2025. The report, compiled by Great Potential Consultancy, highlights the industry’s critical role in the economy, generating over £61 billion annually and affirming its resilience following the challenges of the COVID pandemic.
Covering a wide range of events, including corporate, public, and charity sectors, the UK events industry has proven itself to be a vital economic driver, contributing not just financially but also culturally and socially. As the nation continues its recovery, the industry is paving the way for future growth and innovation.
The report found that corporate events such as conferences, trade shows, exhibitions, and product launches generate £33.6 billion for the UK economy.
Chris Skeith OBE, Chair of UKEVENTS, commented: “The UK events industry has faced unprecedented challenges over the past few years, but what’s clear from this report is that we’ve not only recovered but are driving forward a growth agenda that will see our sector flourish in the years to come.”
AEO Appoints New CEO
The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) has announced the appointment of Anna Golden as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective from January. With over two decades of experience in the events industry, Golden has a distinguished record in driving growth, leading
strategic change, and building impactful relationships.
Anna extensive experience from her previous role as commercial director at Olympia London. As CEO, she will lead the AEO’s mission to support UK event organisers through advocacy, membership growth, and strategic advancement.
Anna Golden expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating: “I’ve known the AEO and its community for many years, so the opportunity to lead this important organisation is very exciting. I look forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and collaborating closely with the chair, executive committee, team, and members to drive growth and ensure continued relevance. I’m eager to hit the ground running in 2025.”
MIA Insight Survey Results
The MIA’s quarterly report has revealed that just 6% of those surveyed feel that the business events sector is supported by the government and less than a third (27%) believe that government policies will positively impact their business.
However, 74% are confident in the future growth and sustainability of the sector which is a slight increase on sentiment reported in June.
The report showed an average event budget has risen by nearly £7,000 to a reported £34,534 per event. Respondents are also witnessing an increase in a rise in overseas enquiries, suggesting a greater appetite for business meetings and events travel – a positive outlook considering international delegates spend more, stay longer, and support the UK economy.
MIA Chief Executive, Kerrin MacPhie, said: “While confidence in the sector’s growth is bolstered by rising event budgets and increased enquiries from overseas, there remains a clear call for greater government support. This includes no-cost advocacy support, addressing ongoing recruitment challenges and tackling staff shortages that have long been welldocumented.”
Carbon Literacy Course Launched
DECORDIA has launched its Carbon Literacy Course for Events, to offer an accessible and interactive education on how outdoor events can begin – or further reduce their carbon emissions – and look after people and the planet.
Specialists in designing, building, and curating inventive and sustainable sets, decor and theming for festivals, venues and experiences, DECORDIA has been striving for sustainability across the event industry.
The course has been developed with The Carbon Literacy Project, which was recognised as one of 100 worldwide Transformative Action Programs at the UN at COP21, in Paris. The course provides organisations with the tools and resources needed to deliver a day’s worth of climate change training, empowering them to reduce their carbon impacts and supporting their audiences to do the same. To date, over 100,000 people from over 7,800 organisations have officially been certified as Carbon Literate, the aim is to reach one million by 2030.
Founder of DECORDIA, Cordelia Ashwell, said: “Knowledge is power and I know plenty of people who want to do their part in tackling climate change but often don’t know where to start because they don’t have the right resources, so this is where the course comes in – I’m really excited to share insights on how the events sector can be part of the solution. Whether you want to sign up as an individual or book for your whole company, the course is for everyone.”
CrowdComms Achieves Recertification
CrowdComms, a leading provider of event technology solutions, has announced its successful recertification to the ISO 27001:2022 standard by the British Standards Institution. This significant achievement reinforces the company’s commitment to maintaining the highest levels of information security management across the tech and event management industries.
The prestigious ISO 27001 certification is recognised globally as a benchmark for information security management systems. CrowdComms’ recertification underscores its dedication to safeguarding sensitive data and delivering secure, innovative solutions to its wide array of clients in the event planning and management sector.
Donna Fielding, Information Security Officer at CrowdComms, said: “We understand the critical importance of information security in today’s digital landscape, and our recertification to ISO 27001:2022 underlines our promise to deliver trusted, secure, and innovative solutions for our clients in the event planning and management industry.”
Recharge and Relax
Take a break and boost your or your team’s wellbeing with these picks of retreats across Europe, and closer to home.
In an ever more stressful world, wellbeing retreats have become more popular as we desire to escape the chaos of modern life and slow down, focusing on health betterment. These retreats provide a sanctuary where your team can focus on self-care, whether through yoga, meditation, or simply enjoying nature. These retreats are the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the daily life of an event professional, offering a chance to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with yourself and each other. Whether you choose to bask in the beauty of Cornwall, unwind in the hills of Spain, or savour the charm of a French château, these wellness retreats promise a rejuvenating experience at beautiful destinations across UK and Europe.
UK
The Scarlet | Cornwall
Sitting proudly on the stunning cliffs of North Cornwall, The Scarlet is a luxury eco-hotel that harmoniously blends breathtaking sea views with holistic wellness practices. With its unique cliff-top hot tubs and an award-winning spa, it’s a haven for those seeking serenity.
Delegates can kickstart their mornings with yoga on the terrace, followed by a refreshing dip in the ocean or a walk along the beautiful coastline. The Scarlet also offers a variety of holistic treatments, from Ayurvedic massages to rejuvenating facials, ensuring the body and mind feel pampered. Their focus on locally sourced, organic cuisine means you’ll be nourishing yourself from the inside out.
Scarlethotel.co.uk
Grayshott Health Spa | Surrey
For those looking to blend relaxation with a touch of detoxification, Grayshott Health Spa is the perfect escape. Located in the picturesque Surrey Hills, this spa offers a holistic approach to health and wellness.
With a menu of treatments ranging from spa therapies to health-focused cooking classes which could act as an excellent team building activity, Grayshott helps cultivate a balanced lifestyle. The three-day detox programme is particularly popular, combining spa treatments with healthy meals and fitness classes. Plus, the tranquil gardens and serene setting make it easy for guests to find their zen.
Homewoodpark.co.uk
The Lifehouse Spa & Hotel | Essex
The Lifehouse Spa & Hotel is a serene sanctuary set within 12 acres of beautiful gardens. This contemporary retreat combines modern wellness with traditional techniques, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The extensive spa menu includes everything from aromatherapy to reflexology, and the thermal spa offers a blissful escape with saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. Guests can unwind while getting the heart rate up, join one of their fitness classes or take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil grounds. The focus on wellness cuisine ensures that they’ll leave feeling nourished both physically and mentally.
As a group, your team can take part in private yoga, Pilates, or meditation sessions, or go a little more experimental with a group alchemy crystal sound bath.
Lifehouse.co.uk
SURREY
Europe
Château Capitoul | France
For those dreaming of a tranquil escape in the French Riviera, look no further than Château Capitoul. Set in a charming castle surrounded by lush gardens, this retreat offers a unique blend of relaxation and rejuvenation, and packages can be booked for up to 20 guests.
Guests can partake in yoga sessions, spa treatments, and vineyard walks, all designed to promote inner peace and wellbeing. The château’s wellness activities include treatments inspired by traditional techniques, using exotic ingredients to enhance your experience. And of course, no retreat in France would be complete without a touch
SHA Wellness Clinic | Spain
Perched in the hills of Alicante, SHA Wellness Clinic is a luxury health resort that combines Eastern and Western wellness philosophies. This retreat is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive approach to wellness, offering everything from nutritional advice to holistic therapies.
At SHA, you have access to a wide range of activities, including yoga, meditation, and even detox programmes. The cuisine is designed to support a wellness journey, featuring organic, plant-based meals that will leave you feeling revitalised. With stunning views of the Mediterranean and a serene atmosphere, SHA is perfect for those looking to find balance in a beautiful setting.
Shawellness.com/en
Chateaucapitoul.com
Therme Erding | Germany
For a truly unique wellness experience, head to Therme Erding, one of the largest thermal spas in Europe, located just outside Munich, allowing easy access. This oasis combines relaxation with fun, offering a vast array of thermal pools, saunas, and wellness treatments.
Delegates can spend days soaking in the thermal waters or indulging in a variety of spa treatments. Therme Erding also features a tropical area with waterslides and relaxation zones, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and leisure. The focus on wellness extends to the cuisine, with healthy dining options available throughout the resort.
Corporate packages, activities, and discounts for bulk bookings are all available, making this a fabulous destination for the whole team.
Therme-erding.de/en
of gourmet cuisine; healthy, delicious, and nourishing.
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Where Credit’s Due
The ESSA Sustainability Accreditation could be your ticket to increased revenue and reputation as an event supplier.
Let’s face it, this industry is full of impressive suppliers offering exceptional services. With so many fantastic options for event organisers to choose from, suppliers need an edge. In today’s world of Net Zero targets, it’s no surprise then that event organisers are looking for something that sets their chosen supplier apart, and top of the list: a proven commitment to sustainability.
Accreditation is one of the best ways to offer concrete evidence of this to a client, but the problem many suppliers face is that most event industry specific accreditation schemes are aimed at venues. However, the Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) offers an accreditation specifically designed for suppliers. It consists of six different tiers which are achieved on a points basis, with your business’s sustainability level being scored out of 100. The tiers start with Certified, encompassing the most basic level of sustainability, and then range through Tiers 1 to 5. The tiers allow more suppliers to access the accreditation, while leaving room for improvement for those still crafting their sustainability policies.
Here are 12 different areas which are considered and which the score is based upon. ESSA consulted with its own sustainability working group as well as a cross-industry working group to create the areas of consideration, which are:
• Action plan
• Awareness and training
• Modern slavery
• Equality and diversity
• Air quality
• Supporting the community
• Staff engagement
• Energy management
• Procurement
• Waste management
• Carbon footprint
There is a remarkable amount of focus on continuous improvement, and as such the accreditation only lasts for a year, and must be renewed annually, allowing you to consistently review your sustainability policies and potentially achieve higher tiers each year. The accreditation goes beyond current ISO standard, allowing you to stay ahead of the curve, and impress clients with your commitment to staying at the forefront of environmental responsibility.
Your event needs to be ticking the green boxes, or you’ll be left behind. Ask your suppliers about getting sustainability accreditation, if they aren’t on board, they should be.
Up Close and Personal
In today’s world, personalisation has become an expectation rather than a luxury. Live Group has created a solution to this in the form of new platform, Envoku. It utilises Live Group’s AudienceDNA – an industry-first, psychology-based profiling tool that gives insight into your audience –to decode learning, communication, and engagement styles.
Envoku was born when Founder and CEO, Toby Lewis, experienced first-hand how traditional events and workplaces often failed to see different perspectives in the room, leaving many individuals feeling disconnected. The platform was created with a goal to ensure everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to thrive.
The Envoku platform features key features that set it apart from other delegate management tools that enhance personalisation and engagement. One key benefit is its profiling capabilities, which analyses audience personality types to tailor event experiences from the outset. The platform also offers intelligent suggestions and matchmaking by recommending personalised content, agendas, and networking opportunities based on shared communication styles and interests. Additionally, Envoku leverages real-time data collection and dynamic adaptation, continuously tracking engagement and preferences to adjust the experience in real time, ensuring an optimised and interactive event experience.
Live Group has recently launched Envoku, an innovative platform that uses AI to revolutionise communication, engagement, and inclusivity at events and in the workplace.
Offering a revolutionary approach to event management, Envoku creates tailored experiences for both online and in-person events. Powered by AI, it gathers real-time data on audience interactions which allows event organisers to adjust content, agendas, and networking opportunities. With features such as smart matchmaking tools and intelligent content recommendations, Envoku ensures every delegate has an engaging and relevant experience.
Keeping things simple is at the heart of Envoku. From registration to engagement, it automates key tasks and streamlines workflows, providing diverse audiences with designated access, relevant information, and adaptive resources seamlessly and effortlessly.
Stephen D. Pickett, Managing Director of Live Group, said: “As more businesses move towards hybrid and digital events, the need for personalised, inclusive engagement has become paramount. Envoku allows event organisers to design experiences that resonate with attendees, transcending traditional parries or nationality, background, or gender, fostering deeper connections.”
Not only does Envoku provide the tools for personalised event management, but it has also set a new standard for workplace communication and employee
engagement, which some businesses often see as a challenge. Envoku addresses engagement challenges by enabling personalised communication and tailored learning paths that align with individual needs and generational preferences. It integrates buddy mentoring systems and dynamic online communities to foster intergenerational collaboration and promote a sense of belonging within the workforce.
Stephen added: “By bridging generational divides, Envoku creates an inclusive environment where employees feel valued, regardless of their preferred communication style – be it face-toface or digital first. This not only improves retention but also enhances productivity by aligning organisational culture with the diverse needs of today’s workforce.”
With Envoku, security and integration are no longer concerns. Its seamless API integration effortlessly connects with existing systems, enabling organisations to refine their engagement strategies across various touchpoints. Backed by ISO-certified data security and full GDPR compliance, Envoku safeguards sensitive information while delivering powerful and effective engagement solutions.
For more information, and to request a demo visit Envoku.com
Take Care
We chat with James Dean, Director of TLC Welfare, about the world of welfare services at events.
Hi James! What does a typical day of working an event look like for you?
What’s really good about welfare is that it varies from event to event. This last year we’ve worked on 150 different shows or festivals. What the day will look like depends on the location, age demographic and how they behave, and the type of event we’re working at. Especially if it’s an overnight event or will people be leaving at the end of the day. You never know what might be coming through the door.
How do you prep before the event starts?
All the admin, planning, and paperwork and all that boring stuff is taken care of pre-event. For a big festival, we would arrive the day before to get to know the space and figure out what we need from the production side. More tables, more power, lights, toilets, where is the water, all that you need to have to provide the service. For a day show we’ll attend a morning meeting with some of the team to find out what the plans are, gate logistics,
attendee numbers, and any issues we’ll need to know about, so that we can then brief our team, who get ready to come on-site an hour before doors open.
Once the event is up and running, what services are you providing?
From a welfare side of things, with some of the services we will be front facing, putting out suncream, or ponchos, or earplugs. Or giving customers information about where things are – where are the toilets is a frequent one – or where they can charge their phone. Sometimes the questions can seem mundane, but the customers have come to a strange venue and they need someone there to give them a bit of information. And we’re kind of the glue holding everything together, because if there’s a problem and it’s not security, or medical, they come to welfare. If a customer comes to us, it’s usually because they’re unsure or something has gone wrong. They may have overdone it, or they’re not having the best time, or have found themselves vulnerable in some way. They can come to us and we’ll look after them – which could be anything from having a rest, to a cup of tea or some water. We’ll contact someone for them if necessary, and make sure they have a way to get home.
Are you involved post-event as well?
As the day comes to an end, we’re usually the last to finish up, as we’re sticking around to ensure that everyone is clear, and going home safely.
So what’s your favourite part of your role?
The people I get to meet, definitely. Sometimes people come to us and just need someone to listen because something went wrong, and we’ll do that for them. And the team that we have here is amazing, so it’s always a joy to work with them. We have over 800 people registered with us, who work at some of the events, and we couldn’t do it without them.
Tlcwelfare.co.uk
Get Right In
As event organisers, you’re always on the lookout for fresh ways to elevate your events. You’ve mastered the art of stunning visuals, spot-on agendas, and perfectly timed presentations – but have you thought about the power of immersive audio? It’s time to make your next corporate event a sonic experience, one that engages your audience in ways they never expected.
So, what is immersive audio?
Immersive audio is a fancy term for sound that surrounds your delegates from all directions, creating an experience that’s more like being “inside” the event rather than just attending it. Think cinema surround sound, an audio experience that’s dynamic and three-dimensional, where it’s coming from all around you, not just from one speaker at the front of the room, replicated at live events.
This technology uses advanced systems like Dolby Atmos or 3D audio setups, where speakers are placed strategically around the room (even overhead and sometimes below) to create a sense of space and movement with the sound. Imagine hearing the subtle rustle of leaves from behind you, or the hum of distant conversation that suddenly grows louder as you move through a space. It’s a powerful way to bring your events to life.
How does it work?
Immersive audio is made possible by complex technology that involves multi-speaker setups and often includes mixing software designed to map sound to the physical space.
For example, during a keynote presentation, you could have subtle sound effects or music that shifts around the room to match the tone of what the speaker is saying. If they’re talking about growth or expansion, you might hear the sound of wind blowing from the left, gradually building up from a distant speaker to create a feeling of movement. The sounds are placed where they make sense, much like a film soundtrack, but this time, it’s happening live, all around you.
What’s in it for delegates?
Let’s face it: corporate events are often a bit of a mixed bag. You might have a brilliant keynote speaker, but unless your audience is fully engaged, they’ll start checking their phones or staring off into space.
When you use immersive audio, you’re adding a whole new layer to the event. Instead of just listening to someone talk or watching a presentation, your delegates will feel more connected to the environment. Imagine them walking into a space with sound designed to set the mood – maybe a bustling city street for a product launch or calm ocean waves for a wellness retreat. This stimulates both the mind and emotions, making the event feel more memorable.
Music, sound effects, and ambient noise all help set the tone for the event. Whether it’s an inspiring motivational speech or an exciting product reveal, the right soundscapes can heighten emotions and help delegates absorb information better. Plus, it gives your event a more polished and professional feel.
People will remember the atmosphere long after the event ends.
If your event has a specific theme, immersive audio is the perfect tool to bring it to life. Let’s say your event revolves around innovation. You could use audio that mimics the sound of innovation itself – think of the whirring of a machine, digital pings, or the soft hum of the future. Or perhaps your event is all about collaboration – immersive audio can create the sound of a collective buzz as multiple voices and sounds echo in the background, reinforcing the idea of teamwork.
Getting started
Don’t worry – you don’t need to be an audio engineer to get started. Many good AV suppliers now offer immersive audio as a service, and they can help you design a soundscape that fits your event’s theme and objectives. Whether it’s through the latest in surround sound systems or more cutting-edge 3D audio technologies, your chosen supplier will set up everything from the equipment to the sound mixing.
Before you jump in, though, it’s important to consider your venue size and layout. The beauty of immersive audio is that it can be tailored to any space, whether it’s a small meeting room or a grand conference hall. Plus, the speakers can be discreetly hidden so as not to interrupt the aesthetics of the room. All you’ll need to do is focus on your event content and leave the soundscaping to the pros.
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The Welcome Return of the European Works Council
AV Department Limited is seeing European Works Councils (EWCs) make a welcome return to the UK after Brexit.
A works council is a chance for workers and management to discuss company life in a neutral environment.
The meetings take place in the countries a company operates, and this is why they still take place in the UK.
They are planned years in advance so during Brexit they avoided the UK due to the uncertainty of travel arrangements. Until there was certainty the UK was a less favoured destination.
During the meeting it is likely that the participants will speak different languages. To give everyone the opportunity to be understood, interpretation is provided.
It is an opportunity to build relations without the language barrier. To make the best use of time simultaneous interpretation is provided.
To facilitate simultaneous interpretating you need specialist supplier with the correct equipment and experience to make the limited time the delegates have together flow seamlessly without technical hitches.
When sourcing a supplier get two or three quotes and give them all the same details to ensure they are all are working to the same brief.
The three key bits of information needed for a quote are: Venue?, Number of Delegates? and Languages to be used?
Leading Structures Specialists
Special Structures Lab (SSL) has been the leading pioneer in portable, temporary, and permanent tensile fabric structures, membrane roofs, and stage covers since 1978. SSL services range from structural design, engineering, and analysis to CFD modelling, on site testing, and building code certification.
SSL provides specialist services to other engineers and architects who do not normally use structural membranes in their projects. Alternatively, SSL can provide a complete turn-key solution for clients from design, detailing, and prototyping to providing engineering analysis and membrane manufacturing drawings.
SSL’s most recent large-scale project was both Chevron Stages at Reading and Leeds Festival 2024. Both stages were transformed by the addition of a ‘floating LED mesh’ dubbed the LightCloud®. This immersive barrel-vaulted LED web of pixels which was tensioned over an audience of 50,000 people was suspended by a series of bespoke steel tensile catenary cables rigged to vertical steel perimeter truss masts.
With a total span of 60 metres and 10 supporting truss masts, these structures were designed to create unique festival focal points. Audiences were dazzled and immersed with stunning visual content programmed to be an extension of the video, laser, and lighting spectacles around each act on the stages.
Specialstructures.com
R&B Group is a ‘full service’ corporate event production supplier.
During the last 33 years R&B multiple award winning teams have delivered over 15,000 conferences, awards, product launches, event broadcasts and staff update meetings.
R&B have extensive stocks of AV equipment, in-house set design and build facilities, video production and creatives that can help with your presentations, animation and graphics.
More and more event organisers are opting to host their events outside of London, we chat with agencies to find out what’s driving the change.
With cheaper operating costs, the government’s Northern Powerhouse Scheme, and easy accessibility, it’s no wonder that event organisers are waking up to the North as an event destination. The trend of events moving out of London increased post-pandemic and has gone nowhere since. We chat with event profs and, to find out why…
One of the driving reasons behind more events being held up North is that more and more businesses are moving out of London, making a northern event a more accessible option, as Catherine Duhaut, Co-Founder and Director of BeaconHouse Events, explains: “We deliver 80% of our events locally because the region offers such a rich selection of experts that bring real value to the experiences we create. BeaconHouse Events is based in Newcastle upon Tyne which means we can keep the carbon cost of our events low by delivering events in the North, for people in the North, using suppliers, contractors, and speakers from the North.”
Jen Tempest, Business Development Manager at Intouch International is based in Skipton, and agrees with this assessment: “I think pre-pandemic London was the hub and everyone was having their events there. Post-pandemic, people aren’t travelling into London for work as much and a lot of people took the opportunity to move into more rural locations because they could work from home. So, for our clients, their delegates are not all Londonbased, now they’re scattered across the country.”
The fact that delegates tend to come from all over the UK has also led to some clients switching up locations each year, in a push for variety: “A big thing for our clients is having events that aren’t always in the same location,” Jen says. “Ours often go in a rotation across England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, so that everybody isn’t travelling as far every time.”
A good thing then, that our region has so many vibrant and well-connected cities to provide the backdrop to a spectacular event. But what about the venues? Catherine believes that northern venues offer more flexibility, allowing event organisers to curate a better experience for their delegates: “Venues and suppliers are more cost-effective here than other destinations and often we find that they are more accommodating to delivering ‘events with a difference’, such as getting on board with tailoring menus, training hospitality teams in the intricacies of the event, and offering local tourism information to delegates.”
Cost without compromise is a major factor for all planners, and another reason for the shift, according to Jen: “The venues that are more northern are really stepping up the game, not just in price but in service. We recently worked in Birmingham, which has got several great options for clients and it’s so central. But it’s not just the conference space that’s cheaper, it’s bedrooms as well, also a big consideration for clients. A standard bedroom in London, you’re looking at £300 per night plus: in Birmingham, it’ll be more like £150.”
JEN TEMPEST
CATHERINE DUHAUT
Culture Vultures
The European Capitals of Culture for 2025 have been revealed as Chemnitz in Germany, and the twin cities of Nova Gorica and Gorizia, located on the border of Slovenia and Italy. We take a look at some of the top conference venues in these culturally rich cities that are ideal for hosting your delegates.
Each year, the EU designates several cities as Capitals of Culture, a year-long celebration of European cities that puts art and culture at the heart of the cities. The aim of the initiative is to showcase Europe’s diversity, raise the international profile of the cities, and breathe a new life into their cultural landscapes. While not widely recognised as some of Europe’s major tourist destinations, Chemnitz, Nova Gorica, and Gorizia offer a variety of event venues that provide authentic experiences in locations off the beaten path.
CHEMNITZ
Nestled in the heart of Saxony, Chemnitz is a city with an abundant industrial past and is often called the ‘Saxon Manchester’ for its role during the Industrial Revolution, becoming the national centre of textile production and machine construction. Its 2025 Capital of Culture motto, C the Unseen, reflects the city’s mission to bring to light the often-overlooked aspects of its culture, architecture, and communities.
There’s plenty to see and do in Chemnitz for delegates to explore in their downtime. Follow the rich traces of architectural history from the cathedrals of the industrial age to the splendid Art Nouveau and Wilhelminian quarters. With the Kunstsammlungen Chemnitz, delegates can take their pick from five renowned museums. Even the city’s green spaces leave nothing to be desired – the Stadtpark is bigger than New York’s Central Park!
Stadthalle Chemnitz
The Stadthalle Chemnitz combines extravagant architecture with an unbeatable city centre location, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of events. The venue’s largest room can host up to 3,034 delegates, making it an ideal setting for largerscale international events. Beyond its striking architecture, the Stadthalle is also home to beautiful paintings and works of art, adding a unique dimension to any gathering. The lightfilled Galilei area in the city hall foyer provides additional event opportunities, offering a stunning space for receptions, exhibitions, or smaller gatherings.
C3-chemnitz.de/unsere-haeuser/stadthallechemnitz
Delegate capacity: up to 3,034 Event spaces: 2
Biggest space: 1,707 sq. metres
Accommodation: The Congress Hotel
Carlowitz Congress Centre
The Carlowitz Congress Centre is the home for contemporary conferences in the heart of the city centre. Directly connected to the Stadthalle, it’s a creative hotspot with an open ambience and flexible rooms. Not only does the Carlowitz Centre have over 10 spaces with capacity ranging from 20 to 600, but the venue is also passionate and committed to sustainable practices and offers many services to assist you in keeping your event as ecofriendly as possible. This covers everything from regional, seasonal, and fair-trade catering to sustainable service offerings before, during, and after your event.
The Congress Hotel offers 226 modern rooms with direct access to the Congress Centre and Stadthalle. On the 26th floor you’ll find Panorama Restaurant, a panoramic breakfast restaurant with a picturesque view of the Ore Mountains. The hotel also has 10 conference and event rooms for smaller meetings and events.
Located on the southern outskirts of Chemnitz, Klaffenbach Castle was built in the 16th century and has now been turned into a cultural meeting point of a very special kind. Surrounded by idyllic nature, the stately Renaissance castle is a great venue choice if you’re looking to impress your delegates. The Civim Room contains a Bürgersaal (meeting room) with 160 seats that’s surrounded by rustic wooden beams in the roof structure which creates an aesthetically pleasing and fascinating backdrop for any meeting or conference. The castle’s courtyard offers a beautiful space for large, open-air events with incomparable historical charm.
Schlosshotel Klaffenbach sits just beside the grounds of the castle. There are 49 rooms and suites, rustic restaurants, and modern business rooms so delegates can embrace the historical ambience before and after the event as well as during!
While Chemnitz focuses on unveiling the unseen, the joint designation of Nova Gorica and Gorizia represents a celebration of unity across borders. Situated at the crossroads of Slavic and Italian cultures, the region was once divided by the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. Today, it serves as a living example of the power of European integration. These cities carry the slogan ‘GO! Borderless’ which symbolises a commitment to breaking down barriers, both literally and metaphorically.
Delegates will love discovering the natural beauty of the Gorizia region on their visit. The emerald Soča River that flows from its Alpine source, the vineyards of Brda, and the spectacular Vipava Valley, just to name a few! Explore the green architecture and modernist style of Nova Gorica and witness the thousand-year history of Gorizia with its spectacular cathedrals and castles.
Perla
Right in the heart of Nova Gorica, you’ll find the Perla resort. The Perla Conference Centre – located within the resort – offers six conference or event spaces that can accommodate between 20 and 320 delegates. The largest and most modern conference centre in the Gorizia region is complemented by the extensive offerings of the Perla resort – including 225 guest rooms, a casino, and spa – adding extra value to your event.
The Pinta Conference Hall is suitable for conferences, business events, and meetings and is equipped with the latest technical equipment, including simultaneous interpreting in four languages. The Arena Event Hall is the perfect choice for larger events where delegates can comfortably sit in cosy booths with club tables which can accommodate up to 350 people.
Perla-novagorica.com
Delegate capacity: up to 320
Event spaces: 6
Biggest space: 300 sq. metres
Accommodation: 225 rooms
Palazzo Lantieri
Palazzo Lantieri is situated in the historic centre of Gorizia in beautiful surroundings. Delight your delegates with a visit to this prestigious historical dwelling with its harmonious blend of modernity and tradition for a unique event experience. Its spacious and elegant rooms were frequented in the past by royal and stellar literary figures and are now open to those who want the experience of their timeless appeal. History, tradition, and innovation are combined to create a brilliant location for events. The salone dei ricevimenti (reception hall) can host up to 150 delegates, and the three smaller reception rooms at the hotel have a capacity of 50.
Palazzo Lantieri also offers five rooms that are rich in history where your delegates can relax surrounded by vineyards and restaurants, country walks to build up their appetite, and operas and Roman history to quench cultural thirst.
Palazzo-lantieri.com
Delegate capacity: up to 150
Event spaces: 4
Biggest space: 200 sq. metres
Accommodation: 5 rooms
Grand Hotel Entourage
Located just a stone’s throw away from one of Gorizia’s magnificent cathedrals, the Grand Hotel Entourage offers an unforgettable event experience at the centre of the culturally vibrant city. The Charles X Hall of Honour spans approximately 180 sq. metres and can accommodate over 100 delegates. Its distinctive charm lies in the preservation of the original oak flooring once walked upon by the Bourbon royal family of France, creating a distinctive and exclusive event atmosphere.
The four-star hotel has 40 rooms available, with some containing authentic antique furniture that’s the result of patient research and loving restoration. The atmosphere of the rooms gives the sense of a historical appeal at the same time as being welcoming, functional, and elegant. The soft colours of the walls are the background to the lively curtains, tapestries, and prints depicting landscapes, interior scenes, and maps.
Hotelentourage.it
Delegate capacity: up to 100
Event spaces: 1
Biggest space: 180 sq. metres
Accommodation: 40 rooms
PHOTO: LUIGI VITALE
Fit for Purpose
Multi-purpose venues offer you a world of options when it comes to planning an event, allowing you to curate an exceptional experience that will blow your client away.
Event organisers are tasked with ensuring that their events are engaging, memorable, and well-executed. Whether it’s a conference, seminar, product launch, or team building event, the venue plays a crucial role in setting the tone and facilitating a smooth experience for both delegates and organisers. Multi-purpose venues – spaces that can be easily adapted to host a variety of events – offer numerous advantages for corporate event organisers.
One of the primary advantages of multi-purpose venues is their inherent flexibility. These spaces are designed to be
adaptable to a range of event types, from large conferences and trade shows to smaller meetings and networking sessions. Unlike traditional venues with fixed layouts, a multi-purpose venue can be easily reconfigured to suit the specific needs of the event. Organisers can choose from different seating arrangements, staging setups, and decor options to create the ideal environment for the event’s objectives. This flexibility allows organisers to seamlessly transition between different event formats throughout the day, such as hosting a keynote speaker in one part of the venue, followed by breakout sessions in other areas, and concluding with a networking reception. The ability to adjust the space to different activities ensures that the event flows smoothly and meets the expectations of both organisers and delegates.
For many corporate event organisers, budget considerations are paramount, especially when clients are constantly asking for more for less. Multi-purpose venues can be a cost-effective option because they offer the ability to host a variety of events within the same space. Rather than booking multiple spaces for different aspects of the event – such as a conference room, banquet hall,
and networking area – organisers can use a single venue for the entire event. This eliminates the costs associated with multiple bookings, as well as additional expenses like transportation and setup.
Another significant advantage of multipurpose venues is scalability. Whether you’re hosting a small executive retreat or a large-scale conference, these venues can be scaled up or down to accommodate different audience sizes. Many multi-purpose venues offer spaces of varying sizes, so organisers can choose a room that best matches their event requirements. If the event grows in size, organisers can expand the use of the venue’s larger spaces without needing to change locations.
Event organisers also benefit from having on-site catering options, professional staff support, and additional services such as event coordination, security, and technical assistance. These amenities allow organisers to focus on the content and flow of the event, while the venue takes care of the logistics. A fully equipped venue can make a significant difference in creating a seamless, high-quality experience for delegates.
Collaboration the Key
Julie Shorrock, Chair of beam, reflects on the past year as we welcome 2025.
The new year is the perfect moment to reflect on a year of progress, collaboration, and resilience in the business events industry. Our sector continues to face challenges, but the power of partnerships has shone through, helping us navigate economic pressures, rising costs, and evolving client expectations.
Last year, our association has focused on creating spaces where members can tackle the issues that matter most. From Finance Forums exploring payment solutions and prompt, efficient payment processes and methods, to ESG events addressing sustainability and business impact, our resources have been rich in insight. Events held under Chatham House Rules have allowed peers to engage in open, candid conversations, encouraging trust and shared learning across the value chain.
Collaboration was the cornerstone of 2024. Working closely with BTA, MIA, IACC, UKEVENTS, and more, we’ve advanced projects benefiting the industry. A highlight was our September State of the Nation event with MPs. And another is the decision to co-host our 2025 ESG event with the MIA (Meetings Industry Association), combining resources to create a singular, impactful platform and content on this vital subject, and amplifying our collective influence.
Common challenges unite us, from costs and revenue management to sustainability and shifts in client demands. By embracing collaboration, we’ve seen suppliers, agents, and venues share best practices and strengthen their shared purpose. It’s a reminder that we’re at our best when working together.
Lasting Legacy
Louisa Watson, Marketing Director and Sustainability Lead at Wyboston Lakes Resort, details how to leave people talking about your event for years to come.
Ever hosted a party that people wouldn’t stop talking about? The kind where months later, someone’s still gushing about “that one amazing thing”? And that is what event legacy is all about – except instead of leftover balloons and cake crumbs, we’re talking lasting, meaningful change.
So, what exactly is event legacy? Think of it as the footprints left behind after the banners come down and the stage lights fade. It’s the tangible and intangible impact of an event –the park benches donated, the skills shared, the connections sparked. Done right, event legacy isn’t just a warm fuzzy feeling; it’s a gift that keeps on giving to the people, places, and communities touched by our events.
Why it matters
In a world that’s increasingly craving purpose, event legacy is becoming the golden ticket. It’s no longer enough to just bring people together for a few days of learning or fun.
Stakeholders – whether they’re attendees, sponsors, or locals – want to see how that moment of magic can ripple outwards. From sustainability goals to community enrichment, legacy turns an event from a one-hit wonder into a classic that keeps playing long after the curtains close.
Take the London 2012 Olympics, for instance – a masterclass in legacy. Beyond the medals and cheers, it transformed East London with new housing, job opportunities, and green spaces. On a smaller scale, think of conferences that donate leftover meals to food banks or festivals that fund youth art programmes. It’s about being a good guest and leaving a place better than you found it.
Another example is the Wyboston Lakes Resort’s Room2Give campaign – a simple yet powerful initiative where guests staying more than one night can skip their room clean and redirect the savings to one of three local charities. The guest gets to choose which cause to support, making the act of giving personal and meaningful. Not only does this reduce environmental impact, but it also creates a tangible connection between the resort and its surrounding community. It’s a win-win for sustainability and social impact, proving that even small gestures can leave a lasting legacy.
The secret to measuring legacy
Now, here’s the tricky part: how do you measure something that’s all about the afterglow? Start by asking: “What do we want to leave behind?” Then build systems to
Beyond the big issues, it’s the friendships and connections that define our community. Networking events remain a cornerstone of our industry – and at beam – bringing people together to build relationships that outlast any single project or deal.
As we move through 2025, the message is clear – partnerships matter. We’re building a more resilient, sustainable, and vibrant future for the business events industry, and we must support one another to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
Beam-org.uk
track it. Surveys, social media buzz, or even local council reports can help you quantify the impact. Think of it like checking the party photos – who’s still smiling, and what memories did you create?
The future of event legacy
Looking ahead, event legacy is poised to become even more innovative. Imagine pop-up events that leave behind community gardens, or tech-driven conferences that use AI to train local entrepreneurs. Hybrid events might foster international partnerships that reshape industries, while sustainability will likely dominate the conversation.
In five years, we might not just host events; we’ll grow movements. Event legacy won’t be a nice-to-have – it’ll be the headline act. So, as you plan your next big shindig, think beyond the here and now. Ask yourself: what confetti will stick, and how can you make it sparkle for years to come?
Wybostonlakes.co.uk
Where Heritage Meets Innovation
Scotland’s capital city is an event hub which blends history and modernity, drawing in event profs from all over the UK.
While Edinburgh is well known as a city of historic landmarks, there’s much more to this popular tourist destination than its past. Known as the birthplace of Scotland’s enlightenment era, Edinburgh has been a hub of groundbreaking inventions and forwardthinking ideas that continue to influence the modern world today. Beyond its beautiful architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, Edinburgh remains a city of dynamic progress, making it a perfect choice for business events.
Scotland’s capital city has a long-standing commitment to innovation – from hosting some of Europe’s largest urban sustainability projects to supporting a thriving ecosystem of startups and scale-ups. As a city known for its’ intellectual and cultural exchange, Edinburgh provides the inspiration to take your event to the next level. We look at five reasons to choose Edinburgh for your next event:
Venues with a twist
Edinburgh’s unique venues are steeped in narrative and innovation. For example, Dynamic Earth offers a science-inspired backdrop with immersive experiences like rainforest and iceberg exhibits, which make it an exciting choice for hosting an event.
For those interested in sustainable design, The Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) provides a venue that aligns with environmentally conscious goals, whilst offering flexible spaces with the latest tech for up to 2,000 delegates. Or, be inspired by the University of Edinburgh’s impressive academic history, which dates back to 1582. It now boasts a broad portfolio of venues across the city from a purpose-built conference centre through to iconic historic venues such as McEwan Hall and the Playfair Library.
Connectivity
Unlike many other cities, Edinburgh’s compact layout and transport systems allow attendees to navigate the city with ease. Many of the city’s top venues, hotels and cultural sites are situated within a short stroll of each other, minimising time spent on travel and logistics. For those flying in, Edinburgh Airport offers direct flights to over 150 global destinations. The airport is just 7 miles from the city centre and the city’s tram system makes the short commute even easier.
Festivals and fringe benefits
Beyond its claim to the world’s largest arts festival, Edinburgh’s calendar is filled with unique events that give it a lively, welcoming
Continues on page 49
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• Flexible and
• Accommodation:
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• A multi-purpose, unique events venue capable of hosting a wide range of events
• Ideal for conferences, dinners, exhibitions, filming and performance
• Over 230 years old, steeped in history
• £12 million refurbishment has restored the building to it’s former glory, with the addition of the latest customisable technology
• The venue is managed by a specialist team who will ensure every occasion is a
Feast Forward
Maria’s
favourites
At home
I love preparing sushi, it’s one of my favourite foods and one of my most popular canapé options. I make many with fish and shellfish, but I have also developed delicious vegan and vegetarian sushi.
Snack
My favourite snack is a healthy chocolate bon bon, totally irresistible.
Comfort food
Especially at this time of year it’s a lovely homemade soup with my sourdough bread on the side, yum!
Maria Harper from event catering business The Edinburgh Canapé Company tells us about her catering predictions for the upcoming year.
Hi Maria! Tell us about your culinary journey.
I started cooking at a young age because I come from a foodie family, my mum and both my grannies were amazing cooks. Being part of a big family meant lots of birthday parties and lots of great food. I was immediately attracted to these female led gatherings in the kitchen and I always loved being part of the process of making everything from scratch, I was totally in my element.
I studied journalism and photography and had a career in the arts until I had children and decided to stop working, but once my children were in school, I decided to turn my passion for cooking into a business. Five years later, my business is thriving, and I absolutely love what I do. I feel so lucky! Now I get to be part of people’s celebrations; there’s nothing better than a party and sharing food with people.
What can The Edinburgh Canapé Company offer corporate clients?
I offer canapés for functions, lunches, hot bowls, finger-food buffets, luxury buffets, and private dining providing three or four course dinners. I’ve recently created a tasting menu experience as well. I also offer cookery classes as a team building experience in a cookery school, these are super fun.
What catering trends do you think we’ll be seeing more of in 2025?
Health and wellness are huge trends that are here to stay. I’m very passionate about healthy food so my menu focuses on lots of beautiful food that’s not only delicious, but also very good for you. I noticed that my clients asked less for meat these days and tend to be happy with other suggestions that are plant based or sustainable fish or poultry. My clients are increasingly more aware of their guest’s needs in terms of dietary requirements. For every single event last year, I designed
menus including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free variations to meet everyone’s needs.
The trend for sustainable packaging is spreading, but unfortunately, I still see far too much plastic involved in our food supply. In 2025, I think the government should do more like limiting supermarkets from using plastic on their fruit and veg and invest in more sustainable materials.
Clients are continuously more open to food from different cultures these days and welcome new ideas that I might bring to their menus. I love to explore food from different cultures, as a rule I take a cookery class in every country I visit to enrich my repertoire.
Do
you think we’ll see technology playing a bigger part this year?
I think technology plays a part in terms of bookings, payments, and data analysis and it’s slowly getting into the kitchen. Some kitchens are incorporating intelligent gadgets that help us cut corners and save time, but prices are still high. I think we will see these changes in larger businesses like restaurants and hotels rather than to smaller size businesses.
How are price increases affecting the industry?
Food supplies have increased in price dramatically in the last two years as well as energy prices and rent, this had a huge effect on catering businesses. It’s not surprising to notice that some corporate businesses are more cautious about their expenditure. In order to preserve my clientele, I decided not to increase my prices in 2024, and I hope I can sustain that during 2025 too. We will have to wait and see how the new Labour government deals with food inflation in the coming year.
Theedinburghcanapecompany.com
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atmosphere all year long. Attendees can immerse themselves in the Edinburgh Science Festival or visit unique historic and cultural spaces such as the National Museum of Scotland, the Assembly Rooms and the Signet Library. The city is full of cultural touchpoints, allowing event planners to add extra flair to their conference programmes and attendees to experience Edinburgh’s eclectic spirit. Edinburgh’s beautiful natural backdrop provides a plethora of social and networking opportunities that will boost engagement and ensure a memorable event.
Expertise and pioneering knowledge
More than just a beautiful setting, Edinburgh is an active player in industries that drive global change. The city’s Bayes Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at the University of Edinburgh offers insight into the latest innovations, making it a perfect home for speakers and industry partnerships
for tech-driven events. Edinburgh’s reputation as a business and innovation hub makes it a natural choice for events related to finance, technology, life sciences and academia. Event planners can tap into the city’s network of major organisations and research bodies to bring an enriched, forward-thinking perspective to their programmes.
Unique urban and natural spaces
For unforgettable networking settings, Edinburgh has plenty of options. Imagine a rooftop cocktail hour with sweeping views of the city’s skyline from the world-renowned Edinburgh Castle. Or plan a morning hike up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that offers breathtaking views over the city. These unconventional meeting spots foster an inspiring atmosphere that’s perfect for genuine connections, offering attendees more than just another conference experience.
Edinburgh’s unique blend of heritage, innovation and accessibility makes it an ideal choice for impactful business events. By choosing the country’s capital, you’re choosing a destination that impresses with its history and inspires with its commitment to the future. Host your event in a city where ideas thrive, connections are forged, and every corner tells a story.
Get in touch to start planning your next event in Edinburgh conventions@edinburgh.gov.uk
Make Sense
We explore the best ways to tap into the full spectrum of delegate’s senses to transform a good event into an unforgettable one.
In a world where attention spans are shorter than ever and competition for good engagement at events is rapidly increasing, thinking of innovative and creative ways to elevate your event is more crucial than ever. A survey by London & Partners and CWT Meetings & Events found that 78% of event professionals believe that events appealing to multiple senses deliver a more memorable and creative experience for delegates. Creating memorable and immersive experiences that engage all five senses is a unique way to truly stand out.
Barrie James Art | Sight
Perhaps the most powerful yet easily facilitated senses to engage is sight as what your delegates see during an event shapes the vast majority of their experience. A simple way to appeal to the sense of sight is through thoughtful design choices, décor, and room layout. However, for a memorable touch, consider hiring a live artist such as Barrie James, who creates caricatures of delegates during the event. Not only does this provide a fun and unique keepsake, but it also creates talking points and is bound to rekindle positive memories of the event each time they see the artwork.
Barriejamesart.co.uk
Catchbox | Sound
Clear and well-balanced sound is vital, whether you’re creating a relaxed atmosphere, delivering an exclusive conference, or hyping up the crowd. The power of sound is that it can ignite imagination and can create a sense of peaceful calm or vibrant energy in the space, depending on the tone of the event. Add another element to the sound at your event by using Catchbox, a soft throw-able microphone that makes for more fun and engaging sessions through audience participation, allowing more delegates to have their voices heard.
Catchbox.com
Big Bear Promo | Touch
Although often overlooked in the industry, touch is a powerful way to create a more immersive and inclusive sensory experience for delegates. Going beyond the obvious applications such as furniture and surface material choices, touch can play a key role in ensuring events are accessible to everyone, particularly those who are neurodivergent. Providing fidget toys helps delegates to keep their hands engaged while remaining focused on the event, reduces stress, and creates a more comfortable environment – especially for those who may feel overwhelmed in high-pressure environments. Big Bear Promo offers a variety of customisable fidget toys that serve as a thoughtful, inclusive gesture that doubles as a unique marketing opportunity that can feature your client’s logo.
Bigbearpromo.co.uk
Kitchen Theory | Taste
Enhancing the menu at your event to go beyond just a meal or source of energy can really elevate the event experience. We all remember an exceptionally good (or bad) meal we’ve had before, and while food obviously delights the taste buds, immersive catering can engage all the senses to make the experience unforgettable. The phrase ‘you eat with your eyes’ is well-known, but the other senses often take a backseat. Kitchen Theory considers every sense when designing its personalised, multi-sensory dining experiences to make delegates more mindful of the sensory pleasures that we often take for granted when eating.
Kitchentheory.co.uk
Hydur | Smell
Smell is one of the most powerful senses as it’s connected to the emotional and memory centre in our brains. A study conducted by psychologist Silvia Alava found that out of 1000 participants, 35% of people remembered what they smelt and only 5% remembered what they saw. Hydur provides a service called event scenting which uses scent diffusers to spread fragrance throughout your venue. There are options for multiple scent collections that you can match to the theme of your event such as fresh scents that helps to rejuvenate senses and evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, and relaxation.
Hydur.co.uk
PHOTO: KITCHEN THEORY
Too Good to Be True
It may seem obvious, but event planners are getting scammed every day! Save yourself a world of trouble with these common event industry scams and simple ways how to avoid them.
We at H&E North HQ often receive emails from dubious sources offering to provide attendee lists for the various industry exhibitions. These offers may seem helpful, but this is a popular scam aiming to fleece you out of your hardearned money.
Scams like these can be costly, disruptive, and damaging to both your reputation and your business. Understanding how to recognise and protect yourself from fraudulent activities is essential to maintaining the integrity of your operations and safeguarding your clients.
Fake attendee list
One of the more common scams plaguing the industry, you may think it’s easy to spot, but it goes on because event profs are biting! It involves fraudsters posing as event organisers or conference managers to sell or steal attendee lists. Scammers may contact event planners claiming to have access to valuable attendee information, such as emails, job titles, and contact details, which they offer to sell for a fee. These lists are often either inaccurate, outdated, or completely fabricated. In some cases, scammers may also offer to “help” by managing the attendee list for an event, only to take the data and use it for phishing attacks or other malicious purposes.
To protect yourself:
• Delete any emails offering to sell delegate data immediately.
• Never share your attendee lists with unverified third parties.
• Use secure, trusted event management platforms that protect delegate data and ensure compliance with privacy regulations (such as GDPR).
• If a vendor or service provider requests access to the attendee list, ensure they are legitimate and have a clear, welldocumented reason for needing the information. Always handle sensitive data with caution to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.
Fake suppliers
These fraudsters often set up professionallooking websites or social media profiles offering services like catering, entertainment, audio-visual equipment, or even venue booking. They might initially engage with you in a professional manner, offering competitive rates and excellent service, only to disappear after receiving a deposit or full payment.
To protect yourself:
• Verify all vendors and suppliers through multiple channels, including reading reviews, checking references, and confirming business legitimacy.
• Look for established companies with a solid track record in the industry.
• Never agree to payments upfront without a signed contract or clear terms.
Ghost venues
Amazingly, event planners are contacted
by individuals claiming to represent venues that don’t exist or aren’t available for the specified date, and some are taken in. The scammer may create a fake website or share fake photos of a glamorous venue, offering an attractive rate to secure a booking. After receiving a deposit, the scammer will cease all communication leaving you stranded with no venue.
To protect yourself:
• Always visit the venue in-person before making any financial commitments.
• Use well-known event venue directories or trusted sources when sourcing locations.
• Cross-check the venue’s details with other event professionals or agencies who may have used the venue previously.
Overpayment and refund scams
Beware a fraudster pretending to be a legitimate client that overpays for an event service, sending a payment that exceeds the agreed-upon amount, then requesting a refund of the difference. By the time the event planner processes the refund, the original payment turns out to be fraudulent or reversed by the scammer’s bank, leaving you out of pocket.
To protect yourself:
• Be cautious of overpayment or requests to refund money.
• Double-check the legitimacy of payments before issuing any refunds.
• Use secure payment methods and avoid wire transfers or other untraceable methods.
NorthinBrief
Search For 2025 Experts
The Meetings Show is calling for innovators and industry experts to submit their gamechanging ideas and insights for the 2025 show.
Potential speakers and panellists are invited to put forward session ideas for the show’s education programme that will be curated in partnership with The Attendee Experience Company (atex) and take place over both days of the show. Sought-after topics for this year’s education programme, include sustainable practices, hybrid and virtual event technology, AI and tech tools, experiential design, event marketing, wellbeing, diversity and inclusion, and leadership and personal growth.
The team has worked hard to ensure a strong ROI for speakers, providing benefits such as access to VIP networking, profile building and featuring in the 2025 speaker playbook, which creates a longer-lasting legacy and furthers the reach to meetings and events buyers.
Jack Marczewski, Portfolio Event Director, said: “The Meetings Show provides the perfect environment for ideas and innovation to be shared, and education is therefore an integral part of our event. We continue to be committed to delivering a first-class education programme that provides attendees with a wealth of knowledge and expands their horizons and also helps them maximise their time during a visit to the show.”
The deadline for submissions is 17th January. The Meetings Show 2025, co-located with Business Travel Show Europe, will take place on 25th and 26th June 2025.
AEV Teams Up with Excel
The Association of Event Venues (AEV) has announced that its 2025 annual conference will take place at Excel London, on 14th November. AEV Director, Rachel Parker, made the announcement, saying: “Our members requested varied location in venue selection, so we are looking forward to returning to Excel London for our ninth AEV conference.
The conference continues to grow year on year, our members enjoy reconnecting, learning and meeting industry colleagues and we are thrilled to do that at Excel London – perfect timing to mark their 25th year in operation.”
Excel London opened in November 2000, in London’s historic Royal Docks and has been at the forefront of the area’s regeneration. Every year the venue hosts over 400 events, welcoming 40,000 exhibiting companies and over four million people, from across the globe.
Simon Mills, Chief Commercial Officer, Excel London, commented: “We are delighted to be hosting the AEV conference on November 14, 2025. There are lots of benefits to being a member of the AEV, not just for networking but for learning too and hosting the AEV community as they come together for their lead annual event is exciting for us.”
Power of Events Advisory Board
Ahead of its two-year anniversary and at the end of the first full year of operation, The Power of Events not for profit organisation has held its first Advisory Board meeting on 28th November. The extended group of senior leaders invited to join the Advisory Board represent the broadest ever collaborative from across the UK events industry.
“We’ve quite deliberately invited the most unique range of event leaders as possible from across the seven sectors, the venues and supplier services base, in an attempt to achieve the most inclusive representation of our industry as possible around the table,” explained Rick Stainton, Founder of The Power of Events.
He added: “In developing a showcase for everyone working in or aspiring to learn more about the UK event industry, the mission has always been driven by listening to what people from the industry have suggested. The new Advisory Board brings together a huge amount of experience and expertise to deploy the shaping of long-term strategic plans.”
EICC CEO Steps Down
The Edinburgh International Conference Centre’s long-standing CEO, Marshall Dallas, is to step down from his role during the first half of next year.
He took up the CEO role at one of the world’s top conference centres in October 2014, with the EICC reporting its strongest year of revenue and profits in 2023.
Marshall said: “Leading the EICC for the last decade has been the highlight of my career. The venue was loss-making when I took over the reins, we were able to rapidly turn that around with an absolute dedication to being one of the best and most sustainable conference centres on the planet, which translated to holding some of the world’s leading events while creating year-on-year increases to economic impact for Edinburgh.”
DRPG Lends a Hand
Events management agency DRPG kicked off its 45th-anniversary celebrations on 26th November with a live broadcast, partnering with LightBulb Teams to deliver ‘The Big Build’ initiative.
The event, streamed across the globe, brought together clients, agencies, venues and suppliers to construct prosthetic hands as part of the ‘Give a Hand’ programme.
The 60-minute broadcast hosted live from DRPG’s HQ studio complex in the Midlands, guided participants through the assembly process in real time, fostering collaboration across multiple locations.
Teams included DRPG clients, partners and suppliers such as Nationwide Building Society, NEC Birmingham, ExCel London, and Attivo, alongside colleagues from DRPG’s satellite offices in Germany and the US.
Karen Small, Meeting Needs board member, and head of The Giving Committee said: “As the industry’s charity, it’s imperative we give back to causes close to our community, who so generously support us.”
By the end of the broadcast, 62 prosthetic hands had been completed, exceeding DRPG’s goal of 45 hands for 45 years. These prosthetic hands will now be delivered to individuals in lower economically developed countries, providing them with greater independence in their daily lives.
ICCA Conference in Leeds
The UK & Ireland Chapter of ICCA, the global association for the international meetings industry, has opened registration for its 2025 annual conference, set to take place in Leeds from 26th to 28th February 2025.
With the theme ‘business beyond borders’, the conference invites attendees to break down barriers and explore opportunities that go beyond physical, professional, and personal boundaries. The programme will feature international perspectives, inspiring content, and opportunities for personal growth.
The three-day event will include workshops, case studies, and discussions with a global focus, enabling attendees to reflect on how the UK & Ireland are viewed through an international lens. It will also challenge delegates to step outside their comfort zones and explore innovative approaches to their roles within the meetings industry.
Suzanne Singleton, Chair of the ICCA UK & Ireland Chapter, said: “‘Business beyond borders’ reflects not only our international outlook as part of ICCA’s global network but also the importance of personal and professional growth in our ever-evolving industry. Leeds is the perfect host city for this theme, offering a dynamic and forwardthinking setting to inspire delegates.”
Keep it Green
Sustainability Hub for Events platform has officially been launched to empower event planners globally to drive sustainability.
Embracing sustainability and eco-friendly practices is more important than ever and is becoming much easier to implement, thanks to tools such as the Sustainability Hub for Events (SHE) which has been officially launched after a successful beta launch at IMEX Frankfurt. The platform aims to empower event profs to navigate the complexities of sustainability with ease, making it more straightforward to host events that align with both industry standards and broader climate goals.
SHE has been developed by Gevme in collaboration with the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative – which aims to unite the events industry in the fight against climate change by driving the reduction of carbon emissions across the sector – and the Strategic Alliance of National Convention Bureaux of Europe.
The collaborative platform has been created by the events industry, for the events industry, to help event profs plan and deliver sustainable events. It provides tools, guidelines, and AI-driven resources to reduce carbon footprints, manage resources, and create lasting and environmental community impacts. Powered by advance AI technology, SHE aims to make event sustainability manageable by breaking down complex guidelines into actionable, eventspecific plans and creating customised
recommendations tailored to your event’s size, location, and goals.
There have been multiple improvements made to SHE since its beta stage. This includes the introduction of new features such as a learning module, which personalises resources for different stakeholders. The AI model has also been upgraded, leveraging the latest large language models to enhance understanding and reasoning capabilities. This makes for more refined, accurate recommendations tailored to the unique needs of event, making it easier for users to navigate complex sustainability data.
We’re excited to open up access to a tool that has been tested and refined with input from global users in over 25 countries.
The newest version of the SHE focuses on four critical aspects of event sustainability that are each backed by AI-driven recommendations and industry data. The learning module helps to bridge the gap on sustainability by offering diverse educational content – from brief overviews to deep dives – on critical topics like carbon offsetting, measurement, and ecofriendly travel planning. SHE also allows users to optimise resource usage and implement efficient waste management strategies, as well as measuring, tracking, and reducing an event’s carbon footprint. Additionally, the platform now offers guidance on event legacy planning, to
create lasting, positive impacts through events by focusing on community and long-term sustainability goals.
Alexander Alles, Executive Director of Joint Meetings Industry Council, commented: “We’re excited to open up access to a tool that has been tested and refined with input from global users in over 25 countries. The new features and data contributions make the platform even more impactful for event professionals looking to reduce their environmental footprint.”
CEO of Gevme, Veemal Gungadin, commented: “Our goals with the SHE is to provide a transformative tool that leverages AI to deliver actionable insights. By partnering with key industry stakeholders, we’ve created a solutions engine that not only informs but also inspires sustainable action.”
The platform, which is available in over 30 languages, is now accepting contributions from multiple stakeholders. A roadmap for broader stakeholder engagement and continuous updates is in development, ensuring the platform remains relevant as the industry evolves.
Gevme.com/en/sustainability-hub-forevents
ALEXANDER ALLES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF JOINT MEETINGS INDUSTRY COUNCIL
The newly refurbished Crowne Plaza is the perfect setting, where extraordinary moments are shaped.
Scan to book!
Discover our 14 versatile meeting rooms, ranging from intimate spaces for 10 guests to The Ballroom accommodating up to 550 attendees. Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, a social gala, a wedding or a private celebration, our flexible spaces are tailored to meet your unique needs. Our designated events team will assist you in crafting a flawless event, while our riverside restaurant and terrace offers a variety of delectable food and drink options to satisfy every palate.
Experience impeccable service, a welcoming ambiance, and seamless event execution at our hotel, where unforgettable memories are made.
Silver Screen
Each location has a dedicated events team to handle all the logistics, Events Made Spectacular at Showcase Cinemas.
Looking for a big space or simply want something unique and exciting for your next event? Showcase Cinemas can offer just that! With 16 accessible UK locations, each featuring state of the art giant screens that bring presentations and content to life, leading edge comfort seating up to 492 delegates, spacious breakout areas and meeting spaces ideal for a whole host of events.
No matter the event whether it’s a seminar, conference, product launch, training session or even a private film screening, Showcase has the perfect space to make it unforgettable! Offering bespoke event planning, specialist event management services, mouthwatering catering packages, bar service and impeccable technical support, every aspect of your event is certain to run smoothly.
allowing great opportunities for you to communicate with your delegates in an inviting, contemporary and comfortable setting.
Everything will be taken care of; the team encourages you to focus on your events content and delegates, while they look after your technical support, branding opportunities, and catering requirements (this is where popcorn goes down a treat!), so you’ll have the perfect event experience.
Want to leave a lasting impression? There’s no better way than inviting your delegates to a Showcase Cinema Venue for an unforgettable wow factor event! To speak to the events team, or to make an appointment to visit any of our incredible venues, get in touch.
Our latest quarterly benchmarking report that was published in November revealed an optimistic picture, as the year draws to a close. With average event budgets on the rise and almost three-quarters of respondents stating that they are confident in the future growth and sustainability of the sector – it places the sector in good stead as it heads into 2025.
Despite the demands of incoming legislative changes, the sector is, once again, taking a resilient stance. It is confident in its ability to adapt and evolve to the incoming Employment Law changes and is committed to upskilling its workforce
Creating Confidence
In her last column as Chief Executive of the Meetings Industry Association, Kerrin MacPhie shares how confidence in the business meetings and events sector holds steady, while the industry prepares for incoming legislative changes.
to continue tackling its recruitment challenges head on.
Meanwhile, the sector is taking a proactive stance towards the introduction of Martyn’s Law. We’ve had enormous interest in our guidance that has been specifically designed to help the industry navigate its responsibilities to ensure that venues do all they can to mitigate risks and improve safety standards for all. For anyone who hasn’t seen it, the step-by-step guide can be downloaded from the MIA website.
As many of you will be aware, my tenure as Chief Executive of the MIA is now
coming to an end. It has been a true privilege serving the sector and I am immensely proud of all positive changes the association has achieved under my leadership. As Shonali Devereaux takes on the mantle, I am confident that with her passion, expertise, and deep understanding of the sector she will continue to guide the MIA towards realising its strategic goals, while championing the broader business meetings and events industry.
Wishing you all a prosperous 2025. Mia-uk.org
Breaking Barriers
Too many people working in our dynamic industry are experiencing mental health challenges in silence so it’s vital that barriers to accessing mental health support are removed, says Mark Lewis, Chief Executive of Hospitality Action.
We know that seeking help can make a big difference. Unlike a cast on a broken limb, mental struggles reside out of plain sight making it challenging for others to understand the severity of a situation which can lead to perceived misunderstandings or lack of empathy.
In our 2024 mental health survey, over twothirds (69%) of hospitality workers said that they have experienced mental health challenges in the last five years since the Covid-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis, half (49%) in the last two years alone. Therefore, it’s imperative that destigmatising the issue is addressed.
Whilst there is often a fear of being judged,
65% stated that they would be reticent to vocalise a mental health challenge due to fears it could negatively impact their career progression, a crucial point employers must address if they are to succeed in nurturing a truly supportive and open work culture. Ignoring it can result in poor performance, absenteeism or even employees leaving their jobs.
It can be hard to know where to turn but often, overcoming challenges requires a combined effort from both the individual and external support systems and people to help alleviate feelings of isolation and offer solutions before problems escalate too far. Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) have been designed to offer exactly that, offering an
invaluable lifeline for employees, and they are easy for employers to implement.
Despite significant progress in recent years to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and wellbeing, it is evident that we still have a way to go. Employers must take the lead by creating a work environment that prioritises a balanced work/life dynamic, and which encourages open, honest discussions without fear of negative repercussions.
Hospitalityaction.org.uk
Best Practice
Heather Lishman, Association Director, Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO), explains why achieving excellence in event delivery takes meticulous planning, execution, and adherence to best practice.
The industry delivers unforgettable experiences, and as we know, excellence is only achieved by meticulous planning, flawless execution, and adherence to best practice. ABPCO’s members often deliver meetings with high levels of compliance, and so the associations best practice events framework and trusted guidelines are highly valued. ABPCO also believes there are five key areas that make up a Best Practice framework:
Ensuring consistent service quality
Whether it’s a five-star dinner or a corporate conference, standard operating procedures (SOPs), training programmes, skills upgrades and quality checks are cornerstones of best practices that can help ensure uniformity.
Enhancing operational efficiency
Complex logistics and tight deadlines can be stressful, but effective project management, streamlined workflows, and robust communication systems will minimise errors and ensure things come together seamlessly.
Event management software or (CRM) systems, can be a unifying tool that enhances coordination and best practice among teams, reducing manual workload.
Fostering innovation and creativity
Best practice provides a strong foundation for creativity and innovation, allowing planners time to build unique themes and incorporate popular trends like virtual reality experiences. In hospitality, standardised kitchen operations can help chefs to experiment with new cuisines, adding value to the customer experience.
Promoting sustainability and social responsibility
Sustainability – now at the centre of most best practice frameworks – focuses on reducing environmental impact and promoting social responsibility. This can help align businesses with their own values and those of their clients, many of whom prioritise eco-conscious choices and demonstrate a commitment to ethical operation.
Next Generation
The Association of Event Venues (AEV) highlights the importance of investing in the future of the industry and two Event Management students reflect on their experience of attending an industry event.
The events industry is comprised of talented, skilled, hardworking and collaborative event professionals. Recognising the need to invest time and effort in shaping those who will take over the roles in the future, AEV provides a formal foundation for venues and higher education institutions to work together through the AEV Academic Associate membership.
Event Management students Alicia Rees (Birmingham City University) and Chloe Bousfield (Manchester Metropolitan University) attended the AEV annual conference on 14th November at the ICC Birmingham, to experience the value of participating in events and gaining work experience while studying.
Alicia’s reflections:
“The conference was truly inspiring, with a standout panel of event professionals who shared invaluable insights. Hearing their expertise on strategies for setting and achieving goals, maximising the use of AI and embracing emerging technologies was fascinating.
“Their forward-thinking perspectives and passion for the industry left a lasting impression on me. Being in the same room as such accomplished professionals was empowering and motivating for me to apply these lessons in my career.”
Chloe’s view:
“Attending the conference really made me aware of the different types of individuals within the events industry. I
Building resilience and adaptability
COVID-19 highlighted the need for resilience in our industry, and best practice can equip businesses with the framework, strategies and tools to adapt to changing circumstances. Crisis management plans, robust health and safety protocols, and a focus on employee well-being are now essential - allowing businesses to pivot quickly, when facing disruptions.
Best practice is the culmination of experience, trial and error, and therefore these guidelines and processes elevate service quality and operational efficiency and foster innovation, sustainability, and resilience. In an industry where details matter, excellence is achieved when every aspect is guided by proven standards.
Abpco.org
was able to sit in on a few speakers, one being about venue safety. From this I have gained more knowledge into different types of technology and equipment needed to keep venues safe but also doing safety checks swiftly to avoid long queues for attendees. Attending the conference has made me eager to dive deeper into the events industry.”
The collaboration of universities and AEV member venues, brings a network of industry experience, fresh thinking and new talent together, providing students with access to mentorship within the industry and opportunities to enhance the events industry.
Aev.org.uk
ALICIA (LEFT) AND CHLOE (RIGHT).
Leading by Example
Jack Saward offers a look into how he leads through a calm, solution focused mindset as an International Event Manager.
From bustling trade shows in Europe to major sporting events around the world, no two days are the same in event management. What remains constant, however, is the need for strong leadership, quick thinking, and a steady supply of Yorkshire tea to start the day right.
Every event begins with careful preparation. It’s not just about ticking boxes but anticipating what could go wrong and having solutions ready. Time is your greatest ally in solving problems; the earlier you identify an issue, the more chance you have to resolve it.
That doesn’t mean things always go to plan. Events are live, dynamic, and unpredictable. From the moment you step on-site, you’re often faced with the unexpected: a damaged display, weather disrupting an outdoor setup, or a critical piece of equipment arriving late. This is where leadership truly counts. Staying calm and decisive not only keeps the team focused but reassures clients that they’re in safe hands, we call it a ‘professional cuddle’!
In many cases, solutions don’t come from a single person but a team effort. Surrounding yourself with capable people and giving them the autonomy to act is key. Often, all they
need is clear direction and the confidence to move forward. It’s about creating an environment where collaboration thrives under pressure.
Communication is equally vital. Clients don’t need to hear every detail but keeping them informed and confident makes all the difference. Turning potential crises into opportunities to demonstrate professionalism builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Over the years, we’ve handled countless challenges: repairing trade stands, replacing graphics, managing last-minute requests, even helping rebuild entire structures after adverse weather, which weren’t even our own! Each experience has reinforced the importance of adaptability and maintaining a calm, solution focused mindset.
At the end of the day, reflection is essential. What went well? What could be better? Events don’t just end when the last guest
leaves, they’re part of a continuous learning process. Every challenge faced adds to the expertise we bring to the next project.
Our clients choose us not only for our attention to detail but because they trust us to handle the unexpected. When things don’t go as planned, it’s how you respond that matters. Strong leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence ensure that every event we manage isn’t just successful but memorable. As a business our most used hashtag is #wecreateexperiences. It’s because we want to ensure that everyone who is part of an event we have been involved with leaves with a positive experience.
Looking for a partner who thrives under pressure and delivers with confidence? Let’s make your next event extraordinary.
Saward-me.com
NorthinBrief
Net Zero Carbon Events Collaboration
Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE) confirmed its latest development at this year’s COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan: the integration of NZCE methodology into the UN’s reference tool for the measurement of events emissions, the Green Events Tool (GET).
This tool, developed by the United Nations and managed by the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD), is already instrumental in measuring the carbon footprint of UN conferences. Integrating the measurement methodology developed by NZCE for the business events industry will enhance GET’s capabilities and align them with the industry’s specific needs.
James Rees, President of the Joint Meetings Industry Council which hosts the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative for the conference, events and exhibitions industries worldwide said: “This is a very exciting development for Net Zero Carbon Events and for the industry. It takes our cooperation and integration with the United Nations’ standards on measurement a significant step forward.
“The joint Launch Event at COP29 and the signing of an MoU between both institutions marks a commitment to substantive discussions, paving a pathway to future collaboration.
“Since its inception at COP26 in Glasgow, the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative has made remarkable progress in advancing sustainability practices within the business events industry. Thanks to the collective efforts of our community, we have achieved significant clarity on environmental aspects relevant to our sector, clearing the way towards a more sustainable future.”
AEV Conference Success
The AEV brought together over 240 event professionals for another sell out year of their annual conference last week, 14 November 2024, at the ICC Birmingham for a content rich and engaging programme in the theme “20:20 vision. Experience. Educate. Engage.”
Shonali Devereaux, atex, returned as conference host, welcoming the delegates with an overview of the day ahead and introducing Floyd Woodrow, an inspiring keynote speaker who engaged with the guests encouraging them to find their super north star in becoming their most authentic selves and leaving a legacy they can be proud of.
The remaining morning session addressed the role of technology and AI in the visitor
experience with a panel of member venue speakers.
The afternoon sessions kicked off with an update on the political landscape from Emma Barnes, Cavendish, followed by a session on sustainability, keeping our venues safe and secure and a hot topic review on transforming venue safety.
Meet In Wales Shares Trends
AT IBTM in November, Wales Ambassador and Head of Film at Bangor University, Nathan Abrams, shared his thoughts on Wales as both a creative hub and inspiring film location during his session entitled: From Stage to Screen: What the Events Industry Can Learn from the Film Industry. In fact, just this year saw the much-anticipated launch of HBO’s second season of hit show House of the Dragon, which used North Wales as a key location, underlining the destination’s natural landscapes, its affinity with storytelling, and its strong links to the wider international creative and media industries.
Nathan is just one of many influential Ambassadors who are focused on promoting Wales as a destination for business events to nine priority sectors. Head of Business Events, Heledd Williams, imparted her wealth of experience and knowledge during discussions surrounding the ibtm World Trends Report 2025.
Heledd said: “We’re delighted that Wales has been invited to contribute to the discussion surrounding the Trends Report, allowing us to share our own insights and initiatives such as the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act. This has been a transformative year for Wales and its business events division – a year in which we have been recognised at both the M&IT Awards and miaList for the first time. We have attracted some incredible events and helped to cement Wales’ position as a cultural and creative destination for business events.”
Center Parcs Festive Package
Center Parcs Conferences & Events
announced the launch of its first ever endof-year festive event package for business clients – Festive Meetings in the Forest –available at both its Woburn Forest and Sherwood Forest venues.
Bringing together companies for away days and team building activities in the forest since 1987, Center Parcs’ introduction of festive packages for businesses marks a significant development in its 37-year history.
Festive Meetings in The Forest brings the magic of Christmas to corporate meetings, events and conferences, allowing employers to reward their staff or treat external partners to a freshly prepared two
or three course festive lunch as an add-on to their seasonal day delegate package.
Julia Green, Head of Corporate Events, said: “Work Christmas parties have historically always been associated with over-indulgence, but in recent years we’ve seen a significant rise in demand for corporate festivities that strike the right balance between excitement and restoration – particularly as healthconscious, younger generations enter the workforce.”
Event Psychologist Releases Findings
The Event Psychologist, Kelly McCormack, in collaboration with Allianz Stadium, has released research on the importance and understanding of ‘Event Flow’ for successful meetings.
Speaking on the research findings, Kelly McCormack, who is finishing her master’s on event psychology at the University of Leicester, commented: “A good event flow is closely related to Environmental Psychology, a field that emerged examining how individuals respond to their surroundings.”
Kelly also adds that: “Within the flow state, our minds are continuously anticipating what may occur next; therefore, incorporating movement during the event can enhance attendees’ experiences, fostering feelings of excitement, intrigue, and momentum.
“Conversely, remaining stationary may transition attendees into a lower flow state, potentially resulting in emotions such as apathy, worry, anxiety, or boredom, which exists between these two states.”
Commenting on the findings, Johanna Byrane, Head of Business Development, at Allianz Stadium, commented: “Our spaces really inspire movement, flow and activity, and we believe that adds value to the events that come here. The combination of incorporating spaces located in different parts of the stadium really adds to the delegate experience as well as maybe getting a few steps in along the way! We hope these findings will be informative for event professionals and considered as part of the event planning process.”
More information on Event Flow and Flow State research is available on the Allianz Stadium website, with more in-depth insight from Kelly.
On Time
Exhibiting at a trade show can be a gamechanger for your business, but meticulous planning is essential. Be Exhibitions, specialists in exhibition stand building, have put together a quick and easy guide to show you an ideal timeline to ensure your exhibition journey runs smoothly.
Six months before: establishing your foundations
Start your planning by clearly defining your unique exhibiting message. What do you want visitors to remember about your brand? Your message will shape every element of your exhibition strategy. At this stage, begin researching and shortlisting exhibition stand builders who align with your company’s ethos. Look for a partner with a strong track record, innovative ideas, and the ability to bring your vision to life.
Five months before: submitting your brief
Now it’s time to bring your ideas to the table. Submit a detailed brief to the stand builders on your shortlist, outlining your objectives, preferences, and any specific requirements. Open discussions with these builders to obtain quotes and gauge their suitability. These conversations will help you identify the perfect partner for your exhibition.
Four months before: commissioning your stand builder
With your chosen stand builder selected, commission their services to bring your vision to life. Begin working on the graphic design elements of your stand to ensure your branding is front and centre. Use this time to start organising promotional products that complement your overall exhibition theme and strategy.
Three months before: finalising the details
By this stage, your stand builder will be preparing their designs and health and safety arrangements. Take the time to review these carefully, ensuring they comply with the exhibition organiser’s requirements. Confirm that everyone involved is aware of onsite order deadlines to avoid any last-minute stress. Finalise the stand design, so your builder can begin construction without delays.
Two months before: organising key elements
Now is the time to arrange key logistical aspects. Order any required electrics or internet services for your stand, ensuring they are suitable for your display needs. Assemble your exhibition team and begin their preparation, ensuring they’re well-prepared to represent your brand effectively. Finalise orders for any promotional products to ensure timely delivery.
One month before: polishing the plan
With one month to go, choose your stand’s floor covering to complete the look. It’s also crucial to review your exhibitor checklist, ensuring you’ve not overlooked any essential details. Having a detailed plan in place will help you stay on track as the event approaches.
One week before: prepping for success
The week before your exhibition is all about the event. Ensure your team is fully briefed, understands their roles, and has a clear action plan for the expo. Communicate with your stand builder to receive a thorough handover, covering every element of the stand’s construction and setup.
One day before: final checks
Get on-site for your final opportunity to ensure perfection. Inspect every detail of your stand, from construction quality to branding elements. Only take responsibility from your stand builder when you are completely satisfied. Once everything is in place, you’re ready to make a lasting impression! Submit your stand brief here: Beexhibitions.co.uk/ stand-brief-submission/ Visit us at: Beexhibitions.co.uk Call us on 01425 837 005 or email us at info@ beexhibitions.co.uk
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• Shell Scheme Scotland provide display stands, bespoke exhibition design, events set up and take down not only in Scotland but across the UK
• Helping our clients is core to everything we do, from creating CAD layouts and looking at all the little details that matter, right down to efficient breakdown and clearance of the venue
• When you trust us with your event you join the Shell Scheme Scotland family and we give you the highest level of care and attention
• We’re dedicated to creating dynamic exhibition stands that grab attention and leave a lasting impression
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Time
Investing in Accreditation
What is fact and what is fiction in the world of accreditation?
Andrew Harrison, Director at ESSA, explores the myths and truths around time, cost, resources and benefits to industry suppliers.
When it comes to health and safety, time is naturally needed to ensure teams are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to work safely when operating at events.
While there will always be some commitment of time to achieve this effectively and safely, more streamlined processes and aroundthe-clock support means companies and individuals can become accredited quicker than ever before – and accreditation plays a crucial role when it comes to proving your technical competence.
Cost
Accreditation should be viewed not simply as a cost but as an investment that yields substantial cost-saving returns long term.
This is particularly relevant when we look at
reducing accidents. Last year, the average number of sick days a year in the UK per employee reached 7.8 – the highest in a decade. Add the increased risk of accidents that comes with working on events, and this can be even higher.
Safer working therefore means fewer disruptions, fewer sick days and a more positive bottom line.
Resources
While most accrediting bodies will require you to showcase your business’s ability to provide safe working conditions for all, this doesn’t need to be done from scratch.
For example, ESSA provides companies with templates and examples to assist with your application which outline clear steps and a framework to follow. Our templates help you create new examples of evidence
Looking Back
Alistair Turner, on behalf of the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA), reflects on how 2024 will be viewed in the future.
How will we look back on 2024? As a live events industry, it’s difficult, despite so much to the contrary, to look at the year in any other way than positively.
This is despite so many businesses that continue to struggle, so many relationships under pressure, and the continuation of events being cancelled or suffering long term postponement. It comes despite the industry still struggling to find appropriate reward for the creativity and risk its entrepreneurs take.
At NOEA though, we must take the broader view, and look beyond the plight, both negative and positive, of our individual members, and look at the wider perspective of the industry. The fact remains, the industry is on the up.
Equally, all the indicators, from consumer behaviours and demographic patterns, show that the industry will also continue to grow. It may well be entering a golden age, the
experience generation is maturing, people want to enjoy shared experiences. Tickets are being bought, investment is flooding in, there is growth.
Let’s not ignore this positivity. Over the last few years there has been so little to enjoy, we need to celebrate our success when we can. However (yes, there is always a ‘however’), in an age of diversity, equity and inclusion, we need to make sure that this growth is equitable. The industry, by and large, is in growth, but is this growth fair?
At NOEA, over the last few years, one of our primary focuses has been around talent; attraction and retention. But this also applies to audiences as well. How are they growing, where is the growth, and are we retaining as well as attracting new audiences? How diverse are we, both in the professionals that run our events, and the people that attend them?
Inflation and the ever-growing costs of putting
to showcase your commitment to health and safety negating the need for historical documents.
Benefits
Showcasing your commitment to health and safety and promoting safer working conditions are two great benefits that come with accreditation, but that’s not all. Showcasing your abilities through an industry-recognised accreditation improves your reputation and ensures your business stands out as a supplier of choice.
It’s win-win. Companies of all sizes should feel empowered to take this step towards greater success so, what’s stopping you?
Read about one of the accreditations that may help you win more business on page 28. Essa.uk.com
events on is putting fiscal pressure on ticket prices. There is a genuine concern at NOEA that, as tickets become a luxury we are losing cultural and societal diversity. That we are alienating younger, less affluent audiences and are in danger of a ‘lost’ generation of event attendees.
These are tricky problems for an industry, only just starting to see growth after so much suffering, to deal with. It requires incentives put together in the right places. It isn’t just about reducing costs, it’s about creating the right events, at the right scale, for the right audiences.
This is a major challenge, and a critical one. It will define the industry in the long term. It could be one of the most important things we do. Noea.org.uk
is back on 26th and 27th
February; we take a look at what you can expect this time around.
Returning to ExCel London for another year, International Confex boasts a floorplan with over 200 suppliers, venues, tech platforms, and more, alongside seven content theatres. Expect ample opportunities for learning, inspiration, and networking that will allow you to find every resource you could need in one place and gain a new perspective on where the industry is heading.
One of the highlights of Confex every year is its conference programme that’s specifically curated to allow every event prof to arm themselves with the latest industry insights. 2025’s programme is certainly no different; it will see eight topics discussed by industryleading speakers built to inspire and educate attendees.
Sales excellence
Achieving outstanding sales performance requires modern and considerate strategies. Explore the latest trends in personalised selling approaches and the synergy between sales and marketing teams that can elevate sales success. Face today’s competitive marketplace with cutting-edge techniques and motivational strategies to push your sales performance to new heights.
Diversity and inclusion
The events industry is often seen as fun, rewarding, supportive, and inclusive, but do the actions and policies of leading names truly reflect these ideals? At Confex 2025, the aim is to bridge the gap between perception and reality by understanding how to integrate inclusive design principles, craft messaging that resonates with diverse audiences, and foster a workplace culture that values and supports all individuals.
World Class
Marketing innovation
The marketing toolkit has been revitalised with the widespread adoption of AI and social media. Discover innovative strategies and best practices for utilising AI, social media, influencer marketing, and content creation to amplify your event marketing efforts. Explore the power of online communities and brand activations in boosting engagement and driving event success.
Community engagement
Learn how to leverage social media, online networks, and partners to create a wave of promotion and an army of brand ambassadors. Uncover how to turn attendees into advocates, driving ongoing support and success for your events.
Data-driven events
Find out how to effectively use data to enhance your preand post-event experiences. Discover how engagement and gamification technologies can boost participation and satisfaction. Take away relevant insight on the latest tech innovations aimed at making events greener and more sustainable.
Planet first events
Creating eco-friendly events is no longer a choice but a necessity. This portion of the programme will give you practical ways to integrate sustainable materials into your event planning and discuss the importance of a green supply chain.
The future of exhibitions
Events thrive when the creative minds behind them have the right surroundings to explore and be challenged to think outside the box. The agenda is curated to provide you with knowledge of what is to come, delivered by industry figures and new faces that are growing their presence rapidly in the industry.
Risk mitigation, compliance, and event safety
Robust strategies for these areas are crucial to hosting successful events. Identify how to develop comprehensive emergency preparedness plans, from creating evacuation procedures to coordinating with local emergency services. Explore the importance of vendor and contractor management, infrastructure safety, data security, and health protocols to protect your attendees and staff.
Not only does registering for International Confex grant you entry to the biggest gathering of event profs in the UK, but the show is also co-located with The PA Show and Event Production Show. Your visitor badge will grant you access to all of these which will enable you to benefit from additional content and networking opportunities.
With a chance to meet hundreds of suppliers, venues, and clients all under one roof, you’re likely to learn more at International Confex in just one day than you can in months from your office!
For a full list of exhibitors and more information about Confex 2025, visit International-confex.com International
We speak to CEO of Liz Taylor Consultancy and Founder of Taylor Lynn Corporation, Liz Taylor, about the importance of creating personal, impactful experiences at large events.
Delegates are constantly craving more than just the monotonous, generic experience that comes from some large-scale events; they want personal connections, moments that feel tailored to them, and interactions that leave a lasting impression. Incorporating elements of personalisation into your event can transform an otherwise standard experience.
Liz Taylor has 30 years of event planning knowledge, so she understands the musthaves to make every delegate feel like your event makes them feel seen, valued, and connected: “A large corporate event where it’s just video presentations and companies speaking at the audience does not keep
delegates interested. It’s tangible opportunities that make the difference. Bringing people together and breaking down the barrier for delegates will make them feel like they’ve really been thought about.
“If you want your event to feel personal, you must consider the before and after as well as during. I work with a mock paparazzi company quite a lot, who stop guests as they arrive and photograph them like a red carpet. When the event’s ended, every delegate has access to the pictures which is a nice memento to have. I’ve also got an event coming up where delegates are arriving on red double decker buses and the ticket collector is a magician; it’s all about having fun from the very beginning!”
Branding is the best, and most simple, way
A lot of organisers love to include virtual or interactive
facilities.
I don’t believe that creates a personalised experience. It’s all in the attention to detail that delivers the message.”
to start introducing personalisation once delegates have arrived, according to Liz: “The one thing that you can use to create a level of intimacy and atmosphere is the brand. For example, if you’re providing a prosecco on arrival, putting it in something like a tiny
milk bottle, teacup, or some kind of unique vessel that has the brand’s logo on will quickly become a talking point. You’re not actually investing in anything that’s costing the earth to get your message out there and get people engaged in the event.”
Using the latest and most impressive technology is often a priority for planners but consider putting that on the back burner and go back to basics to make personalisation a key focus: “A lot of organisers love to include virtual or interactive facilities. I don’t believe that creates a personalised experience. It’s all in the attention to detail that delivers the message.”
Getting to know your delegates beforehand is key to the event’s engagement: “There’s nothing worse than going to a large event where you’re having a three-course meal and you don’t have anyone to speak to because the table plan hasn’t been fully considered. Investing time in making sure that people are sat with teams or clients that they can actually engage with is very important.”
Although traditional venues are undeniably reliable, they often follow a standard format level which can feel predictable and regimented. Liz encourages event profs to make a conscious choice about their venue and look towards the more unique and unconventional: “With the huge number of diverse venues that are available across the north, it’s always about looking outside the box as there are so many standalone venues that can offer a lot of flexibility. It’s very easy to choose a hotel if you’ve got a large number of delegates that are travelling in, but playing around with an unconventional venue is more fun for planners, but more importantly makes the event more personal and enjoyable.”
Liz-taylor-consulting.co.uk Tlc-ltd.co.uk
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