Issuu

ED ON ITI

On Location: Manchester and Liverpool Unique Venues Team Building Wellbeing

Net Zero Breakdown AI Cyber Safety Green Thinking

Two-night Stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle A Meeting at Leicestershire County Cricket Club

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ISSUE 99 • MARCH 2024 March 2024

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CONTENTS: MARCH 2024 FRONT COVER FEATURE Ready, Steady, Cook!

Nick Nairn Cook School offers a unique team building experience together with excellent corporate hospitality. Page 17.

AND MORE

A Greener Future

We break down the contents of Net Zero Carbon Events’ recent guidance documents. Page 8.

Cyber Safe

Peter Moore, CEO and Founder of software specialist Lolly, discusses how AI can help keep your business safe online. Page 12.

Team Building

Hi-Tech Travel

Life in a Day

CEO of Direct Access, Steven Mifsud MBE, tells us how he thinks the metaverse will impact accessibility for disabled and neurodivergent people. Page 66.

The Big Event

Competitions

Looking to treat a team or take clients out for a thank you? Check out some great events happening around the north this year at venues with top hospitality available. Page 48.

Power Hour

We chat to Rick Stainton, Founder of Power of Events, one year after the platform launched. Page 26.

Win a two-night stay for two including breakfast and dinner on one night at the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport worth £390. Page 11.

Green Thinking

Win a pitch-side meeting for 20 at Leicestershire County Cricket Club. Page 33.

We meet Ben Quarrell, who has recently set up Sustainability Simplified, a consultancy helping event businesses go greener. Page 54.

Something Different

Unique venues can elevate any event to live long in the memory. Page 28.

A look at how team building can improve wellness in the workplace. Page 14.

Virtual World

Charlotte Dawes, Senior Sales Manager of the British Motor Museum, gives us a sneak peek at her role at the iconic venue. Page 37.

And the Winner Is…

Tony Shuttleworth won an overnight stay for two, including breakfast and dinner, at Crowne Plaza Newcastle.

Copyright JLife Ltd. All contents are copyright, all rights are reserved. No part of the contents can be reproduced without permission from the publisher. No responsibility can be accepted for inaccurate information supplied, & content supplied does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. Editorial policies & magazine layouts are purely at the publisher’s discretion & no debate will be entered in to. Printing by PNG Print Management.

“Something different.” How many times do planners hear that from lovely clients? Our front cover features Nick Nairn Cook School offers just that, in a beautiful part of Scotland, as we check out some unique venues and team building ideas that just may tick your “out the box” box. And as business travel starts to move, we look at how to cash in with The PoInts Guy, as well as some cool locations and accessories to take with you.

West, Manchester, and Liverpool: all of which have so much to offer planners, from brilliant venues, culture, and leisure. There’s a look at how AI is helping the industry, some Net Zero support and handy hints for sustainable catering, and how the metaverse is impacting accessibility and diversity. Latest news, views, and great interviews, and you can win stayover in Newcastle or a meeting at the home of Leicestershire cricket. Keep your eyes peeled on our social daily updates and at Hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

Elliot Landy.

International Confex 2024 approaches! We look forward to catching up with clients and readers, plus we focus on the North /HospitalityNrth

/hospitality-and-events-north-magazine

EXPERT HOSPITALITY RECRUITMENT

Publisher

Elliot Landy

Features Editor Adam Freedman

ABPCO Adam Evanson AEV beam Ben Quarrell Charlotte Dawes ESSA EVCOM

Contributors

Meet in Manchester Melanie Thompson Nicky Kelvin Rick Stainton Steven Mifsud Team Wellness Solutions

Published by: JLife Ltd. Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. T: 0845 052 2911 F: 0113 262 5202 E: info@nutsforprint.co.uk W: hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

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NorthinBrief ABPCO Celebrates Growth The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) is celebrating 2023 as a remarkable year of achievements and growth. In particular, ABPCO has achieved a 13% increase in PCO members, bringing the total to 155, a significant step towards its goal of 200 members by 2027. Key Achievements in 2023 included: • Membership Growth: A substantial increase in PCO members, demonstrating the association’s continued relevance and appeal in the industry. • Revenue Increase: A boost in revenue to £137 thousand, fuelled by expanded membership and enhanced sponsorship and partnerships across its event portfolio. • Focus on Sustainability and EDI: Strengthened efforts in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, ensuring ABPCO remains at the forefront of these essential industry issues. • Academic Partnership: The development and rollout of sessions across universities, aiming to attract early-career individuals to the sector. • Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: ABPCO has amplified its external voice, collaborating with Memcom, Elevate, VisitBritain, the Business of Events, Diversity Alliance, and more. • Enhanced Event and Educational Portfolio: ABPCO successfully hosted nearly 20 events, providing excellent opportunities for learning, networking, and sharing best practices. “As ABPCO gears up for 2024, including the highly anticipated Festival of Learning from 29th to 30th April, it remains committed to fostering growth, innovation, and excellence in the conference organising sector,” comments Heather Lishman, ABPCO’s Association Director. “We are all excited about the future of the association, the opportunities we continue to provide for our members, our value proposition and the ongoing success of the association event sector as a whole.”

Rising Star Awarded Eventurous Marketing Manager, Ellie Cashmore, started the year off strong when she took home the Platinum Award for Rising Star of The Year, at the 2024 Greengage Sustainability Awards on 11th January. The awards showcased the work from leaders in sustainable corporate events and the best team building companies. Ellie joined the business at the time when sustainability became a hot topic for the event and hospitality industry. Harnessing the market opportunity and a relationship with Greengage, she worked hard to

March 2024

NEWS IN BRIEF

create a communications strategy and road map for the future, allowing Eventurous to showcase their efforts so far, position themselves as experts and give them the platform to educate and raise awareness of sustainable events within the industry and with their clients. Ellie says, “I had such an inspiring and insightful day at the Greengage Conference and Awards, I came away feeling even more motivated to make a difference, particularly after hearing about other people’s journeys within the industry. I can’t thank our colleagues at Greengage enough for supporting us throughout our journey for a greener future.”

Old Trafford Brings £22.5 Million New research has revealed the estimated economic impact of Emirates Old Trafford’s major events in 2023 to be worth in excess of £22.5 million to the local economy. Marketing Manchester – the not-forprofit agency charged with promoting Greater Manchester on a national and international stage – has helped Emirates Old Trafford to evaluate across a range of economic-related impacts associated with staging major sporting, entertainment and business events. Figures have been calculated utilising the eventIMPACTS Toolkit and based on the number of visitors to Emirates Old Trafford’s highest attended events throughout 2023. These include two sold-out Arctic Monkeys concerts, the Vitality Blast and Hundred fixtures, plus an International T20 versus New Zealand and the Men’s Ashes Test match. Lancashire Cricket Chief Executive, Daniel Gidney, said: “2023 has been another momentous year for Lancashire Cricket and Emirates Old Trafford. The venue delivered another incredible run of events that continue to make a major impact beyond the stadium in supporting the local economy.” Brief2Event Appoints New Board Directors Emma Hardie and Matt Devine have been appointed to join Managing Director Guy Mason as Board Directors at Brief2Event, following rapid growth at the agency which specialises in venue finding, booking accommodation and event management. Emma, who is now Creative Director, has been with the business for 10 years while Matt, Commercial Director, joined the company 15 years ago. Four more members of the team have also been promoted to new roles. Rachel Palmer is now Operations Manager overseeing Olivia Neale and Jon Meakin who have been promoted to Team Leads.

Ewan Whelan’s promotion to Account Manager underpins the company’s commitment to customer service. As part of the company’s further expansion, two new Event Consultants, Emma Mollett and Catherine Tully, have joined the team. Guy Mason, Managing Director says: “These well-deserved promotions reflect the success of our sales and marketing strategy and our plans to continue to grow. Emma and Matt have vast experience across the industry, both agency and venue side, and will be valuable additions to the Board as we drive to maintain our strong momentum. We’re looking forward to an exciting year.”

Wyboston Lakes Signs Pledge Wyboston Lakes Resort has signed the Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge, joining more than 600 leading conference and events industry organisations worldwide since its launch at COP26 in signing it or expressing their support for the campaign. By signing the Pledge, the resort has committed to support the goal of net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 and to actively promote and advocate for industry efforts. It will also: • Publish its pathway to achieve net zero by 2050 at the latest, with an interim target in line with the Paris Agreement’s requirement to reduce global GHG emissions by 50% by 2030. • Collaborate with partners, suppliers and customers to drive change across the value chain. • Measure and track its Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions according to industry best practice. • Report on its progress at least every two years. Louisa Watson, Director of Marketing at Wyboston Lakes Resort explained: ”‘More sustainable, no apology’ is how we express our total commitment to sustainability and to driving down our carbon emissions. In 2022 we published a four-year Green Energy Roadmap, with phase 1 completed this year. Our 2023 ESG report gives further evidence of our commitment to Net Zero and Signing this Pledge is clear indication of our determination to continue to move forward to these goals.”

Explore some of the new and refreshed venues on the scene. Malmaison Manchester Deansgate | Manchester A new Malmaison hotel is set to open in Deansgate in spring this year. With 167 luxury rooms and 13 suites, this will be an ideal spot for both business trips and Manchester based events. The hotel will also feature five different event spaces, with the largest being able to seat 130 delegates. Also on offer is a range of private dining spaces, each with its own unique theme, such as The Boudoir. Malmaison.com

Centre Parcs | Sherwood Forest Center Parcs Conferences & Events recently reopened its doors for corporate bookings at Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, following an extensive £4.5 million refurbishment of its dedicated events space, named The Venue. As part of its multi-million-pound JOHN RYLANDS LIBRARY

CENTRE PARCS

refurbishment, The Venue boasts a major extension which includes four brand new meeting spaces ideal for smaller groups, and an event capacity of up to 550 delegates as a whole. Other additions include a new entrance and reception area overlooking the lake, as well as two outdoor terraces under the forest canopy. A significant investment in the AV and lighting systems also takes events at Sherwood Forest to the next level. Events.centerparcs.co.uk

John Rylands Library | Manchester Owned by the University of Manchester, Grade-I listed John Rylands Library, known for its Victorian Gothic architecture, will embark on a project to transform its exhibition spaces, delivering a refreshed main entrance along with enhanced academic facilities.

PHOTO: N CHADWICK

The library is approaching its 125th birthday and is working closely with conservation architects Donald Insall Associates and Nissen Richards Studio, who are developing the exciting exhibition proposals. Library.manchester.ac.uk/rylands

Platform | Glasgow Events company, Camm & Hooper have bought and will be reopening Platform, an events venue ‘under the arches’ in Glasgow. Featuring six beautifully restored arches across 35,000 sq. ft, Platform provides a flexible capacity for up to 600 seated guests across three arches or 1,800 standing guests. It has served as the backdrop for a variety of events, from intimate private gatherings to large-scale events, cementing itself as a crucial part of Glasgow’s community. Platformgla.co.uk

Edinburgh Arena | Edinburgh AEG Europe, owner of iconic venue The O2, has announced plans for a major new investment in Edinburgh. The industry-leading promoter and venue operator is seeking planning approval for an 8,500-capacity arena in the heart of Edinburgh Park. With unrivalled public transport and motorway access, including two tram stops within an easy walk, two mainline stations, plentiful bus connections and

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

NEW VENUES

excellent motorway links, the site in west Edinburgh is extremely well positioned to become home to the new live entertainment venue. One to keep an eye on, with expected to begin in early 2025 and the first live events taking to the stage in 2027. Aegeurope.com

The Riding School | Durham

The space holds a wealth of unique historical features, including textured walls, authentically irregular lines shaped by centuries of use, and solid timber beams, as well as modern luxuries like underfloor heating, subtle space dividers and a neutral colour palette so that you can truly make the space your own. Raby.co.uk

As part of its ‘The Rising’ project, Raby Castle in Durham has unveiled a new event space, The Riding School, an 18th century architectural gem reimagined as a flexible 500 sq. metres of event space, retaining plenty of its individual character along the way.

THE RIDING SCHOOL

March 2024

New on the Block

EDINBURGH ARENA

NET ZERO

1. Measurement

As outlined in its roadmap at COP 27, Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE) has produced seven guidance documents to ensure the events industry is net zero by 2050. We took a look at what’s in store you if you are planning a read.

2. Carbon Offsetting

3. Travel & Accommodation

With a definition of carbon offsetting this document demonstrates the difference between carbon neutral and net zero. Carbon offsetting purchase, claims, and communication; and an FAQ can also be found in this chapter. A helpful graph details the steps of improving your carbon footprint from offsetting, replacing high carbon activities with lower solutions, reducing high carbon activities, then avoiding carbon intensive activities.

5. Logistics

4. Food & Food Waste

Looking at the carbon footprint of travel and accommodation; aviation; carbon offsetting for travel and accommodation; best practices; case studies and success stories and sustainable aviation fuel. Best practices are broken down into types of events, the advice for corporate events includes requesting information about preferred travel methods to support the measurement of travel, including travel comparison services into the RSVP to provide sustainable travel suggestions, and implementing a reward system for organisers and travellers to incentivise sustainable travel with price reductions or on-site perks.

Addressing smart production, the key principles and best practices of waste management, relevant waste management terms to familiarise yourself with, and includes a materials library. You’ll learn how to use online or digital tools such as floor plans to your sustainable advantage and the principle that you can only manage what you can measure when it comes to waste management.

7. Smart Production & Waste Management

6. Venue Energy

Look here for remote and last mile logistics; on-site logistics; traffic management and smart cities; barrier identification for the implantation of best practices; and future actions. Detailing in-depth the decarbonisation of warehousing, storage, and delivery while also explaining how to reduce the number of trips to and from sites and using flexible time schemes to reduce traffic volume.

Information here includes sustainable sourcing and purchasing and sustainable food strategies with a waste checklist for venues, organisers, and agencies. You’ll also find practical resources for venues, caterers, and organisers in subjects such as switching to plant-based menus and reusable tableware, educating and engaging your clients and suppliers, and focusing on your supply chain and procurement.

NZCE details that tracking energy usage is good for a venue’s cost management, environmental impact, performance benchmarking, regulatory compliance, energy efficiency improvements, and stakeholder communication. Some advice it gives includes switching to LED lighting, using light sensors, and implementing sustainable IT strategy.

All documents can be read in full at: Netzerocarbonevents.org/resources

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

INDUSTRY OPINION

One Voice Julie Shorrock, Chair of beam, discusses why educating politicians at all levels is essential for the industry.

‘Spearheading representation to government and policymakers, elevating the sector voice’ is beam’s long-standing commitment to its members and the industry. As I recently began my year as the new Chair of beam, I spoke about this with three beam board directors – David Tremmil of Inloco Events, Krishna Pastakia from Edgbaston Park Hotel and Linden Beattie of Down Hall Hotel – to gather views from both agency and venue members about what needs to be done to ensure that the industry’s voice is heard. Discussing how the industry can achieve greater understanding and recognition among politicians and senior civil servants, David captured our overall view saying

that educating is the key to change. Linden said we must continue to educate them on the importance the sector plays within the larger economy while Krishna added that education plays an important part in encouraging young talent into the industry. The issues with which we would particularly like government to help the industry are technology and recruitment. David pointed out that the costs associated with adopting and maintaining technologies for event management, registration, and engagement can be a barrier for smaller organisations. Our industry doesn’t actually have a recruitment issue, it has an attraction issue! It would be valuable to have support to

start promoting this incredible industry to younger generations and demonstrate why it is an inspiring place to work. It’s fun and sociable and offers fantastic career opportunities. Linden highlighted that we are struggling to attract enough talent to maintain service levels and at times deliver events while Krishna suggested that building partnerships between industry organisations and educational institutions can address skill gaps. We must educate our government first, and the whole industry should contribute by helping to educate our local MPs. Our strength is speaking with one collaborative voice. Beam-org.uk

A Year of Success ABPCO reflects on the importance of nurturing the industry through diversity and education and looks forward to what this year might bring. Diversity and inclusion is a hot topic at the moment, as ever more businesses putting more time and resources into ensuring that they are operating equitably and encouraging diversity. In line with current industry trends, ABPCO has strengthened its focus on Sustainability and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) through its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Such efforts ensure that ABPCO remains at the forefront of addressing essential industry issues, aligning its operations with broader societal values. Drawing in new talent is vital to the events industry’s survival. The most effective way of bringing people into the industry is by educating students and soon-to-be jobseekers. Which is why ABPCO’s outreach extended into academia, with the development and rollout of sessions across universities aimed at attracting early-career

March 2024

individuals to the sector. This initiative not only broadens the industry’s talent pool but also underscores ABPCO’s commitment to nurturing future leaders. ABPCO’s event and educational portfolio saw significant enhancement, with nearly 20 events hosted successfully. These gatherings provided invaluable opportunities for learning, networking, and sharing best practices, further cementing ABPCO’s role as a key facilitator of professional development within the sector. Encouraging EDI programmes and industry education is not only beneficial for the industry as a whole, but also for each individual organisation or business. The past year has seen ABPCO achieve an impressive 13% increase in PCO members, raising its total to 155. This milestone marks a significant step towards the association’s ambitious

goal of reaching 200 members by 2027. Such growth not only signifies the association’s expanding influence but also highlights its continued relevance and appeal within the industry. Looking forward to 2024, ABPCO is gearing up for the highly anticipated Festival of Learning from 29th to 30th April. Heather Lishman, ABPCO’s Association Director, shares her enthusiasm for the future, emphasising the association’s commitment to fostering growth, innovation, and excellence, commenting: “We are all excited about the future of the association, the opportunities we continue to provide for our members, our value proposition, and the ongoing success of the association event sector as a whole.” For more information, visit Abpco.org

Gather your colleagues, Sizzling and family and Summer BBQ’s friends enjoy our bespoke and at Clayton Hotel Birmingham

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COMPETITION

Win a two-night stay for two at the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport. A perfect venue in the North-East for any meeting or event is The DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport, in a great location by Newcastle International Airport, and a short distance from Newcastle city centre, Durham, and Northumberland. There’s a range of function rooms to choose from hosting from one to 150 delegates in a range of styles. Many of its meeting rooms feature floor to ceiling windows overlooking the local area, creating a light and airy atmosphere for you and your guests to enjoy. You’ll also find all the technical equipment you need, including flat screen panels for presentations.

As members of the HBAA and MIA, with AIM accreditation, its unrivalled location local makes the venue perfect for international clients. Its modern interior and outstanding amenities such as a fitness centre, EV charging, free WiFi, room service, and even a warm chocolate chip cookie at check-in will give guests the most welcoming and comfortable stay. Its delectable restaurant and bar ensure no one will need to leave the hotel, Fratello’s Restaurant serves authentic Italian specialities, most notably a traditionally made pizza with a variety of tempting toppings on offer, excellently paired with a glass of fine Italian wine.

COMPETITION

To win a two-night stay for two including breakfast and dinner on one night at the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport worth £390, answer the following question...

What sweet treat can you expect to be greeted by at check-in?

In true DoubleTree by Hilton style the hotel believes that quality food and refreshments are at the heart of every great meeting and event, which is why it offers bespoke catering packages to keep your guests satisfied throughout the day, whether you’re hosting a small meeting or a large-scale conference. With every event needing special dietary consideration, the team can work with you to design a solution that best fits.

March 2024

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: 5th April 2024 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 DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport’s databases in order to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. This prize excludes the following dates: 22nd May, 7th September, 8th September 20204. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.

EVENT TECH

Cyber Safe

Peter Moore, CEO and Founder of software specialist Lolly, discusses how AI can help keep your business safe online. increasingly adopted and used for anything we can programme it to do: “The adoption of AI will accelerate and become part of our lives. But it needs to be managed and controlled. The only limitations it has are the abilities of the people programming it. As it machine learns and increases in capability, the human race will need to keep up.”

In the fast-paced world of events planning and execution, our reliance on technology has grown exponentially. As the events industry embraces digital transformation, it becomes increasingly vulnerable to cyberthreats. However, artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a powerful ally in fortifying the security infrastructure and protecting sensitive data within the events sector. As Peter Moore, CEO and Founder of software specialist Lolly, says: “AI can be used in many ways to protect ourselves from the increasing numbers of cyber security threats. As an example, you can use AI to build technology that can help to identify threats. This is the future.” AI-powered threat detection systems have the ability to analyse vast amounts of data in real-time. This enables the identification of unusual patterns or behaviours that may indicate a potential cyber threat. For the events industry, where large volumes of data are exchanged during planning and execution, this proactive approach is critical in preventing security breaches. Peter predicts that AI is going to be

By employing machine learning algorithms, AI can understand and learn the normal behaviour of users and systems. Any deviation from these patterns can trigger alerts, helping event organisers and IT teams to swiftly respond to potential security incidents. This level of adaptive security is invaluable in an industry that often handles sensitive information, such as delegate details and payment data. AI’s ability to recognise fraudulent activities plays a crucial role in safeguarding financial transactions and ticketing systems within the events industry. AI algorithms can quickly detect anomalies and fraudulent patterns, preventing unauthorised access and ensuring the integrity of transactions, thereby protecting both event organisers and delegates: “The industry has use for AI because it is so heavily client-based, and consumers expect companies to have this in place in order to ensure they are protected when using services at your locations.” AI contributes to enhancing data protection through advanced encryption techniques. Implementing AI-driven encryption solutions helps secure communications and data storage, reducing the risk of unauthorised access to sensitive information. This is particularly important for events handling personal data, payment details, and other confidential information.

In the face of a cyberattack, AI can streamline incident response by automating certain processes. This includes isolating affected systems, mitigating potential damages, and initiating countermeasures. By reducing response times, AI helps minimise the impact of cyber threats on events, ensuring a swift recovery and maintaining the trust of stakeholders and delegates. AI’s predictive capabilities enable the events industry to assess and mitigate potential risks before they escalate. By analysing historical data and identifying trends, AI can help event organisers proactively address vulnerabilities in their systems, enhancing overall cybersecurity posture. AI-driven monitoring systems provide continuous surveillance of network activities, ensuring that any malicious activities are detected promptly. This continuous monitoring is crucial for events that involve extensive online interactions, such as virtual conferences or hybrid events. The integration of AI into the cybersecurity framework of the events industry is imperative in today’s digital landscape. By leveraging advanced threat detection, behavioural analysis, fraud prevention, secure encryption, automated incident response, predictive analytics, and continuous monitoring, AI empowers event organisers to stay one step ahead of cyberthreats, ensuring the seamless and secure execution of events in an everevolving technological environment: “AI is continually changing and evolving. It is real and it is here now,” Peter affirms.

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

INDUSTRY OPINION

Slowly But Surely Jim Winship, Secretary of the Event Industry Forum, explores some of the signs that the industry is on the road to recovery. With some 1.6 million households facing a hike in mortgage rates due to their agreements coming to an end, challenges to shipping in the Red Sea, and the biggest election year in history with over 50 countries going to the polls, 2024 does not start with great promise. The event and hospitality industries have yet to fully recover from the pandemic or the succession of challenges since which have seen costs spiral for most. Yet there are signs that things are gradually improving. A recent report by LIVE found that in the six months to November, financial pressures eased slightly for those attending music

events, although many remain concerned about the total costs of attending events. They are also leaving it until much later to buy tickets, which may reflect the uncertainties in the market – although not helpful for organisers. An easing of ingredient inflation and energy prices has helped foodservice, there is some evidence that consumers are still prepared to spend on OOH. The sandwich and food to go sector has continued to grow back, with more people returning to their offices since being virtually shut down during the pandemic and top end restaurants are continuing to do reasonably well.

The prediction for the sector in 2024 is continued but gradual growth, with the prospect of better things ahead in 2025. But that assumes no more nasty shocks along the way. We live in very uncertain times, which means that it is more important than ever to understand the shifts in the market. But while caution is called for, opportunities exist for those who read the market well and are able to move with the times. Eventsindustryforum.co.uk

New Life Winter Gardens Blackpool’s recent induction into the Association of Event Venues (AEV) has created a buzz in the town. Suzi Barnes, the venue’s Head of Conference and Events Sales tells us more.

In the landscape of business tourism, Blackpool is re-emerging as a formidable player. The inauguration of the £30 million Blackpool Conference and Exhibition Centre in 2022, in tandem with the historic Winter Gardens Blackpool, has marked a new chapter for this coastal town. This transformation is part of Blackpool’s ambitious £1 billion plus Growth & Prosperity programme, aimed at revitalising the town with modern amenities, quality accommodation, and upgraded transport infrastructure positioning itself as a modern conference and event destination. Since the Conference and Exhibition Centre’s opening, which notably hosted its first major event with the Conservative Party Conference, Blackpool has welcomed an additional 55,000 delegates. This surge in

March 2024

business tourism is a testament to the town’s evolving appeal as a 21st-century event destination. The centre has successfully hosted diverse gatherings ranging from trade unions to e-gaming conventions, contributing significantly to the more than 20 million visitors Blackpool entertained in 2022. The role of this resurgence in the local economy is noteworthy. Major upcoming events, such as those organised by the National Union of Students and Civil Service, are set to further enhance the town’s profile. This aligns with the objectives of the Growth & Prosperity programme, which not only aims to attract visitors but also instils a sense of pride among residents. Winter Gardens Blackpool’s recent induction into the Association of Event

Venues (AEV) symbolises its commitment to maintaining high standards in the event industry. AEV, representing venues both in the UK and globally, fosters connections, learning, and sharing of best practices among its members. This affiliation echoes Winter Gardens Blackpool’s dedication to excellence and innovation in hosting events. Blackpool’s transformation, underpinned by these strategic developments, is reshaping its identity. With a blend of historical elegance and contemporary facilities, the town is rapidly becoming a sought-after destination for business tourism. Aev.org.uk

TEAM BUILDING

WELL BUILT

Matthew Carter from Team Wellness Solutions tells us why you should be incorporating wellness into your team building events. How employers should approach wellbeing

Wellbeing has been a word that has become increasingly popular over the past five to ten years, and ever more so today. People talk about it in general life, GPs, and health professionals now include it in general conversation. Social media has picked up on it and it has grown extremely popular

You will find it relates to everything from how the workplace feels about their work, their working environment, the climate, and the work organisation. But the key factors to remember are that there are direct links to long-term effectiveness, high productivity levels, and the general wellbeing of the workforce. Two simple categories apply to the working environment: Workplace Wellbeing and Health and Wellbeing.

Workplace wellbeing

within the workplace with companies and businesses, employers, and HR professionals mentioning it regularly within their circles. Publications and the growing number of searches on the internet for wellbeing initiatives and team building has risen significantly. But on a recent search for my website’s SEO, there were many more hits for team building in the workplace than wellbeing in the workplace, but you could say that generally wellbeing encompasses team building.

So, what is wellbeing?

Well, I think if you ask anyone randomly what they think wellbeing means to them you would no doubt get answers like: generally being happy, feeling good, healthy in body and mind, or being prosperous. If you ask anyone what they believe workplace wellbeing is then you might get similar answers, such as, having a healthy and happy and contented workforce who work together well, or if you ask a broader question; what do you think the meaning of workplace wellbeing is?

Workplace wellbeing is any activity or initiative that will contribute to the increase in teamwork, team moral, and team spirit: and the main activity here is team building. Team building is a critical tool for creating the right culture and allowing you to form a healthy work environment for you and your team. On every employer’s mind will be getting the team to perform at their best for increased productivity, work output, and to achieve any deadlines set on time. But building and creating a healthy work environment is crucial in achieving this, and, at the end of the day contentment at work will go a long way in keeping your team members happy, enthusiastic, and fulfilled in their roles and not where they dread coming into the workplace but have a sense of belonging and feel valued and happy.

designing a structure, or workshops that look at individual’s personality types with the aim to see who you really are and what your likes and dislikes are in order to build better working and social relationships.

Health and wellbeing

Health and wellbeing workshops will ask an OH (occupational health) advisor, a fitness professional, or nutritional professional to come in and talk about general wellbeing from a fitness and nutritional perspective and what the employees can do differently at work or on your days off to better your wellbeing. The OH professional can approach the workshop from a more clinical perspective where the team members can have their blood pressure, cholesterol, lung capacity, and their BMI (body mass index) calculated and then move into a slightly more physical check, where they can have a press up strength check; a plank core check, a grip strength test, a stretch test and to finish off a cardio test using the bleep test. These health checks are not only fun and interesting for the team but do bring a competitiveness into the fold and not only can they discover a health complaint but overall prove to the team that their company has their best interests in mind. So, wellbeing encompasses team building which improves teamwork – bettering the team moral and spirit, improving the team’s working relationships while fostering a better work environment and overall improving the work ethic, retention, and boosting work output.

Team building comes in two forms: internal and external. External team building events are run up and down the country and range from wine and cheese tasting (culinary) to abseiling (physical) and the escape rooms (challenging), all are good fun and build better relationships in different ways. Internal workshops can be fun filled with games, building or

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BESPOKE ACTIVITIES TO MEET A CLIENTS NEEDS

Team wellness solutions will bring fun team building games and activities to your place of work as an alternative to taking your team to an outside venue.

TEAM WELLNESS SOLUTIONS

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INDUSTRY OPINION

High Standards Kerrin MacPhie, Chief Executive of the Meetings Industry Association (mia), reflects on ongoing UK rail disputes, impending changes in venue legislation, and what this means across the sector. Dealing with disruption is nothing new for the sector, and having the ability to do so as far in advance as possible is crucial for ensuring there is no stone left unturned amidst an incident. This time last year we reported an estimated £336 million of cancelled business across the sector as a result of rail strikes that took place between November 2022 and January 2023. More than twelve months on and with strikes still stifling the sector, cancellation policies are still proving paramount, and ensuring that your contracts are equipped with necessary clauses to protect business is proving a worthy investment of time for many planners and venues. In this case, having the foresight to recognise when disruption may occur

isn’t always possible. We can however prepare contingency and scenario plans and put processes in place to provide ourselves with an added layer of protection. Recognising this, venues across the sector should now be well underway with their preparations for the impending introduction of Martyn’s Law, which is expected to receive Royal Assent later this year. This will require venues to fulfil proportionate steps according to their capacity to enhance their security standards or face a fixed penalty of up to £18 million. Speaking at our latest agent day in December, Figen Murray OBE, the force behind Martyn’s Law, encouraged the sector to establish Counter Terrorism plans and conduct risk assessments as well as utilise the resources and certified courses

available on the Protect UK website. Although venues with a capacity of under 100 are exempt from the new legislation, we’re encouraging they follow the ‘standard tier’ guidelines as best practice. Getting ahead with this process will equip venues, staff and prospects with confidence of your compliance, and once more reinforce our sectors commitment to holding the highest of standards. Readers can also keep up to date with sector developments, guidance and advice by following the mia on social media.

Zero Hero Claire Fennelow, Executive Director of the Event & Visual Communication Association (EVCOM), on the growing popularity of alcohol-free drinks at events.

aren’t drinking. Perhaps an elderflower if they are lucky. This January saw more people than ever embracing ‘dry January’ and choosing to abstain from alcohol for the first month of the year. But as event organisers we need to look beyond January, at what this increase in popularity means for the rest of the year. More and more people are choosing not to drink, or reducing the amount that they drink, for all sorts of reasons including wellbeing and a preference not to drink during work events. And not all events and venues are ready. Yes, there’s always a glass of water or an orange juice available for guests that

But we need to do better than that, and we can. Plenty of companies now produce delicious non-alcoholic beers and wines, spirits and cocktails. Attendees who aren’t drinking should be offered as much choice, and as many appealing options as those who are. Our member Venues of Excellence spoke to one of their clients, Cranfield Management Development Centre, about their journey to stocking alcohol free products. Since introducing a new alcohol-free range, the centre has seen a real uptake in purchases of alcohol-free

options and received plenty of positive feedback. Guests have reported that they now feel much less self-conscious choosing not to drink, and hugely appreciated the range on offer. As more people choose not to drink, we have a responsibility to ensure they are still catered for, and well! It’s time venues make exciting alcohol-free options available, and event organisers build non-alcoholic drinks into the budget. It’s an important step for wellbeing, and it’s an important step for inclusivity, to ensure that the needs of all our guests have been considered. Evcom.org.uk

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FRONT COVER FEATURE

Ready, Steady,

Cook!

Nick Nairn Cook School offers a unique team building experience together with excellent corporate hospitality. An unforgettable luxury experience with a difference is on offer at Nick Nairn Cook School, Port of Menteith, Stirlingshire. Devoting themselves to client experience, the team goes above and beyond to create bespoke packages for delegates adapting the venue’s multifunctional space to meet your needs for meetings, events, team building, product launches, and corporate hospitality. The school’s high customer satisfaction rate has earned high-profile guests such as HSBC, and Volvo, demonstrating its ability service high quality clients. Everyone is the same when they’re in the

apron learning from Nick in a professional kitchen, using high quality restaurant kitchen equipment, as Nick shares top tips and kitchen tricks from his 30+ years in hospitality. Hands on cooking team building opportunities are kept at an intimate group size of 12 people so you can receive the full attention of the chef tutor, menu’s can be personalised on request, past sessions have included

March 2024

skills from homemade pasta making to mastering the art of the perfect souffle. If you want to sit back and watch a live cooking demo rather than cooking yourself, that can be arranged. Demos can fit an audience of 60 to 70 delegates whereas a Demo and Dine night can be arranged for a smaller group of up to 40 delegates. You choose the theme so

whether it’s Japanese or Italian cuisine, your evening’s menu is up to you. Though more well known for the venue’s entertainment facilities due to its excellent food service, the team is there to help you create a fully customisable corporate trip including having meetings on-site in its multifunctional event space. The team will create a bespoke day for you with extras including, cocktail classes, seafood demos, and barbecue demonstrations in its summer outdoor kitchen space. They’ll even help you book travel and

accommodation in the area to extend your stay and enjoy more of its stunning facilities. Nick Nairn Cook School can also act as a central hub for your trip to Scotland just 45 minutes from Edinburgh and Glasgow airport. Many visiting companies choose to structure their visit over two to three days having a welcome dinner and returning to the venue after some activities in the beautiful surrounding area to have a demo and dine package or a cook school team building session. Activities in the area include paddle boarding, white water rafting, and wild water swimming in the nearby lochs. Nairns.co.uk

EVENT TECH

Business travel can be a challenge, but with the right tech on your side you can be well prepared and travelling lighter. These nifty ideas should become mainstays in your hand luggage. work on the go with this model with active noise cancellation. Easy to fit into your bag with their slim design, these headphones have soft, replaceable ear pads which give them great longevity and make them easy to wipe clean. Smallable.com

BigFish Universal Travel Adapter | Amazon | £19.99 Adapters are an easy to forget item on your list, so why not buy one which takes care of everything. The BigFish Universal Travel Adapter guarantees fast charging worldwide with travel plugs for Europe, England, Australia, and America all in one with an additional three USB C slots and Two USB A slots. Amazon.co.uk

ReMarkable 2 | ReMarkable | £279 This digital notebook substitute with a paper-like feel and magnetic stylus will replace all your notepads, pens, and loose papers making it an ideal travel companion. Slip this tablet into your hand luggage for notetaking on the go, you can even send PowerPoints, PDFs, and documents to your ReMarkable to review and annotate. Don’t worry about packing your charger for short stays, each charge lasts two weeks. Remarkable.com

Power Bank Charger | Annabel James | £11.95 Travelling with all your tech means you have to keep an eye on your battery life, but if you have an accessible and reliable power bank you can travel stress-free. Sure not to bury itself at the bottom of a big bag when you need it most, this power bank is credit card size and can easily slip into your wallet or purse. Annabeljames.co.uk

KREAFUNK aHEAD Bluetooth Headphones | Smallable | £129

Bluetooth headphones are a must. Block out background sound to focus on your

Manta Sound Sleep Mask | Manta Sleep | £143 Sleeping in different beds or while on the move can feel like a challenge. But with professionals advising the best way to get a good night’s sleep is to maintain a familiar routine, having the same eye-mask every sleep with a go-to sleep podcast or soundscape to listen to could be the best option. Manta Sleep’s Sound Sleep Mask gives you a 100% blackout eye-mask with embedded Bluetooth headphones. The C-shaped eye cups increase comfort for side sleepers as they stay in place without sliding and are removable and adjustable to suit your eye placement and for easy cleaning. Mantasleep.uk

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Meet in Manchester As the UK’s third largest city, Manchester has plenty to attract event organisers from near and far, as Meet in Manchester illustrates. With an identity that is always evolving, there is a huge buzz around Manchester, making it an in-demand destination for conferences and events in 2024. Its growing reputation as a top visitor destination, sector strengths that have earned it the title of Northern Powerhouse, and its vibrancy, expertise, and variety of events spaces all make Manchester the ideal host city for meetings of all shapes and sizes. Full of classic Mancunian character, the city is going from strength to strength and it’s time you and your delegates saw it for yourselves. Over the next decade, Greater Manchester has big plans to continue its journey as a revolutionary pioneer in innovation, sustainability, and culture. As the first city-region in the UK to set a science-based target to become carbon neutral by 2038, twelve years ahead of the government target, Greater Manchester takes sustainability seriously. With proven dedication to the renewal of green spaces, projects like Castlefield Viaduct and Mayfield Park show Manchester’s dedication to continual eco-conscious growth and new activities for delegates visiting the city. Plus, a city-wide investment in public transport infrastructure means that travelling to and from events in an eco-friendly way has never been easier. As one of the UK’s best-connected cities, delegates can choose between tram, train, bus or active travel methods to get them to and from events, lowering the carbon footprint.

Credit Marketing Manchester and Ellis Meade

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ON LOCATION

It’s not just a sustainability focus, the sector strengths in health innovation, life sciences, digital creativity, and advanced materials form a natural part of the city’s academic DNA and have done for centuries. Home to world-class universities which collaborate with industry to create a cross-sector innovation ecosystem, in Manchester you can find expertise in abundance. 2024 is set to be a big year for the city-region and its visitor economy, with an abundance of new openings, iconic events, and brandnew experiences. As a city with an already infamous social cultural and event scene, Greater Manchester has always been wellreceived by delegates from all over the world.

home though; it was recently announced that the Royal Northern College of Music will be hosting the 2024 Royal Philharmonic Society Awards, considered one of biggest nights in Classical music and it’s first time being hosted outside of London. With an abundance of live entertainment, museums and galleries, restaurants and so much more, there’s something for everyone in Greater Manchester so you can be sure delegate downtime will be unique, memorable and truly Mancunian. One of the largest openings for 2024 is the launch of Coop Live, which is set to be

Recently, the city saw a new cultural landmark emerge with the long-awaited arrival of Aviva Studios, the home to Factory International. The new studios are a hive for invention and discovery, offering a year-round programme of the world’s best theatre, dance, art exhibitions and music to the city. They also offer flexible event spaces without limits, allowing planners to use their full creative powers for proposals. Manchester solidified its position as a globally recognised cultural hub when it recently hosted the 23/24 Metiers d’art Chanel collection, bringing supermodels and fashion’s high rollers to the Northern Quarter. It isn’t just fashion making its way

March 2024

the UK’s largest indoor music arena, giving both international artists and homegrown talent the opportunity to bring their shows to thousands of fans, and for major event planners to think big for exhibitions, congresses, and tournaments. Awarded the title of Top Five Cities in the World Globally for Sport according to BCW, many exciting sports events are coming to the city in 2024, including the WTT Feeder series in Table Tennis. This would not be possible without the Manchester Convention Bureau’s Sporting Bidding Unit. Continues on page 25

t ee f as Fr er Fi p i Su W Manchester city centre’s versatile conference and meeting venue, with excellent public transport and ample local parking. The fully equipped Auditorium is perfect for 400, exhibitions, exams and more. conferences for up to 350, We also have seven smaller rooms. Our friendly team look forward to welcoming you.

0161 276 8194

King’s Church, Sidney Street, Manchester M1 7HB enquiries@kingshouse.co.uk | www.kingshouse.co.uk

A UNIQUE & UNFORGETTABLE SETTING FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT To find out more please contact the team on: sales@concordeconferencecentre.co.uk 0161 489 8299

Scan to visit our website

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PROMOTION

A Place in History Commercial Director Anthony O’Connor tells H&E North about what’s in store for event organisers at the iconic Manchester Cathedral.

can double up as either a reception area or dining room for 15 delegates. The library meanwhile can seat 50 guests for dinner while the refectory has a capacity for 80 delegates theatre style. We aim to generate a sense of welcome for delegates during our dinners with some true Northern hospitality service. Manchester is a multicultural city, and the food provided from our partner caterers offers a hybrid of different ingredients from Lancashire and worldwide to produce authentic, delicious meals that are inclusive for everyone.

Manchester Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings within a great city where people come to connect with others. Nestled between Victoria and Piccadilly stations and surrounded by hotels, this medieval and versatile place has become a reputed place of celebration, hosting a range of evening launch events, shows, conferences and gala dinners.

Being able to set up contemporary events within its original medieval interior has blown delegates away. The building’s architecture speaks for itself, and is an impressive sight to behold from both the outside and inside. We use this to our advantage and have no need to decorate the venue expensively, but instead focus on positioning lighting around the cathedral to illuminate the columns and other key features to showcase the building’s stunning design. For many events we’ve also set up flood lights outside to penetrate through the cathedral’s stained-glass windows, making for a beautiful backdrop and a great way to bring the iconic structure to life.

Built by Henry V in 1421, the cathedral is still a consecrated place of worship today, and main church services always take priority during the day’s schedule while we focus our main events on various dinners and concerts for the night-time economy. It becomes a very fluid environment to work in when moving between these two phases. No evening is the same!

We’ve also had a large back-portfolio of music events, previously housing televised concerts with the BBC and MTV for over 1300 people, and still run our quieter programme of regular Jazz by Candlelight events through the year. Acoustically the cathedral is as good today as when it was first built, with everything sounding clear and sharp without any echoes no matter where the audience are stood. Even during the louder events, there’s still a warm, peaceful atmosphere in the cathedral which keeps all visitors welcome, which in today’s world is a real asset.

The cathedral opens ready for morning prayer services at 9am and the Holy Eucharist service after 1pm. Our choir then comes in to prepare for the choral evensong at 5.30pm before our busy events team quickly clear everything up before our guests arrive. This can all happen by 6.30pm, and delegates can stay in the cathedral till the early hours of next morning before all equipment and furniture is stripped, and the cathedral is restored in time for the next day services. There are several spaces which we use separately or blend together to work for a variety of events. Our largest areas, the nave and regimental chapel, can hold well over 1000 guests when used together while the smaller options such as the chapter house

March 2024

To find out more about planning your next event at Manchester Cathedral and arrange a booking with Anthony, call 0161 833 2220 ext. 233 or visit Manchestercathedral.org

IN THE HEART OF THE CITY Perfectly located within a 1-minute walk of Piccadilly Train Station, the Manchester Piccadilly Hotel is the city’s largest 4-star venue. In addition to offering some of the most spacious rooms in the city, the hotel also boasts state-of-the-art conferencing and access to world-class shopping, nightlife and international business. Join us for a Elemis spa day and take time out in our thermal suite. Our eye-catching expanse dominates the skyline all the way from Piccadilly Station to the Mancunian Way, allowing for quick and easy access to and from all the major motorways.

0161 272 3200

Soon to be

Samantha.Byrne@Marriott.com www.marriott.com/manmp Manchester Piccadilly Hotel | 91 London Road | Manchester

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ON LOCATION

Photo: Marketing Manchester and Rich J Jones Continued from page 21 This dedicated team works closely with UKSport and MCR Active to secure longterm bids to boost the local economy and bring these world-class sporting events to Manchester. However, you don’t have to be spectating to enjoy Manchester’s sporting heritage, the world-famous Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City, can host incredible events - bringing the excitement of the Premier League to your conference whatever the subject matter. With so much to do it’s no surprise that Manchester will see several new hotels open this year, including the long-awaited Treehouse Hotel which is set to become one of the most sustainable hotels in the UK. Manchester Convention Bureau’s Accommodation Booking Service can help you find the perfect hotel for your attendees if you’re booking an event in the city, covering all budgets and requirements. With the ability to host events and conferences of all shapes and sizes, the spaces on offer across Greater Manchester can suit any vision while keeping you and your attendees in the epicentre of Manchester’s hive of activity. One of Manchester’s most sought-after venue is the award-winning Manchester Central, located in the heart of the city with over 2,500 hotel bedrooms within a five minute walk. The Manchester Convention Bureau is already supporting over 80 events for 2024 and beyond. Including WOMEX 24, 19th International Inner Wheel Convention, MeCCSA Conference, DTX 2024 and

March 2024

The Business of Science Conference. When planning an event, the Bureau is on hand to support with all stages of the planning process, from bidding to event management and even helping to provide the classic Mancunian warm welcome for all attending delegates. Stephanie Newton, Head of Business Tourism at the Manchester Convention Bureau says: “There’s never been a more exciting time to host an event in the city. With so many new cultural and entertainment venues, restaurants, and green spaces, the city is in high demand. Our commitment to sustainability is appealing to event planners looking for a more conscious destination and our industrial past combined with our innovative ambitions are fuelling our reputation as the place to make things happen. Luckily, we have a wide variety of event spaces which can be tailored to any event in any sector, each bringing a uniquely Mancunian feel which delegates and planners love. “Manchester is renowned for its collaboration. and we want to make event planning as simple as possible so that you can enjoy our great city and all it has to offer. To assist association planners, we’ve also recently launched our MBassador

programme, helping us to connect with academics and tap into our wealth of academic excellence; providing more innovative, engaging events for all.’’ See Meetinmanchester.com for further information.

INDUSTRY INTERVIEW

Power Hour We catch up with Rick Stainton, Founder of Power of Events, one year after the platform launched. The Power of Events is an online not-forprofit platform operating as a one-stop shop showcasing the entirety of the events industry in the UK, which evolved from the One Industry One Voice campaign during the pandemic. As a response to the lessons learnt during that time and the need to improve the data and research required to support the UK event industry, the Power of Events was established to continue building on the cross-sector collaboration and commitment to showcasing all aspects of the industry. The platform content showcases the seven core sectors including overview videos, 100+ industry community organisations, a collection of news articles, and a research archive. One year after launch, Founder Rick Stainton told us how the platform has been received by the industry: “The first year has been humbling and incredible. We took a huge risk to reach out to all the different parts of the industry, defining the seven different sectors, launching a platform that had never been done before. We asked the biggest companies, the smallest companies, the freelance community, supply chain, venues, production agencies, the rights holders, we asked them all if they would support it. 99% are hugely positive about

it. We’ve encouraged feedback, we’ve encouraged amends and views, because that’s how it works.” One of the biggest developments to come out of Power of Events’ first year is the Event Industry Insight App, which will be launching at the end of this month. The app’s purpose is to help industry partners to conduct industry-wide research to help the events sector become better understood, valued, and respected: “We’ve had some interest already from people who want to use the app. We have over 1,000 registrations of companies and/or individuals ready to help with the data research, and obviously that number will grow, which is amazing.” The recently launched Careers Hub is another aspect of the platform which has developed out of industry feedback. The hub showcases the main routes into the industry and the range of roles it is comprised of.

getting in front of the 4,210 secondary schools in the UK within five years. The EIF very generously gave us a grant to start the pilot programme across 85 schools in the East of England. We’ve had between 20 to 25 ambassadors sign up, who will help us get through those 85 schools in the coming months. We’ve got a deck that gives a really good understanding of what’s on the platform and the range of jobs in the industry. A few weeks ago, I presented to about 300 pupils, when I asked them who knew about the events industry to start with, no one put their hand up. But afterwards around 70% said they’d consider a job in the events industry.” Thepowerofevents.org

The Power of Events is also looking to the future of the industry with its Schools Engagement Programme, which is currently being piloted in East of England region before being launched across the UK: “People were saying: ‘You’ve got this unique community and content for the seven sectors for the first time. Let’s let everyone know.’ We set a target of

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NorthinBrief CHS Leeds Announces 2024 Theme

CHS Leeds has launched the theme of its 2024 outing as the show’s organisers continue to prioritise visitor’s professional and personal growth. Evolving previous themes from Work Life to Love Life, this year’s theme will be Love Life, Live Well, and will be demonstrated through both the show’s educational content and environment created at the Royal Armouries on 23rd April. The event will also prioritise the most practical educational sessions since the end of the pandemic, understanding the increasing pressure on event professionals, with trends from sustainability, accessibility, and technology all taking their toll. Equally, research has indicated that high inflation and the cost-of-living crisis, set against increased expectations around event delivery, are also compounding this pressure, with event professionals looking for day-today workable solutions. Julie Phillips, Chief Operating Officer CHS, commented: “2023 was a positive year for the industry but it was also a highly demanding one for event professionals, with 2024 looking like it’s not going to offer much respite,” she adds: “Our job is to set the tone and provide the business environment that gives them workable tips and hacks to support their jobs and focus on their own wellbeing, all in one day!”

ICE Announces US Expansion The International Corporate Event Community (ICE) is marking its 10th anniversary this year with an expansion – introducing a new US ICE community. The news follows the establishment of its ICEGERMANY, and another stellar year for ICEUK. ICE are the creators of the ICEAWARDS and Conference, ICETALK, and the recently launched ICE Community Platform for the in-house corporate event community, differentiating themselves as the only place exclusively made up of corporate event organisers, and best able to represent their needs within the industry. The creation of ICEUS will replicate the ICE business model with each community being led by in-house organisers within the country. ICE has strong relationships with the US market and there continues to be a large appetite for an ICEAWARDS, as well as tailored educational and information-led resources. Anita Howard, CEO and Founder of ICE, commented: “We’ve built up a really large community of friends and fans in the US and the time is right to give them the full ICE experience. We’re looking forward to bringing together a live community of likeminded event professionals in the US and we couldn’t be more excited.”

March 2024

NEWS IN BRIEF

ESSA Launches Diversity Training

Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) has launched its Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) training which challenges event suppliers to seek a resolution to the issues of diversity through consciously assessing the way they think. As part of ESSA’s continued provision of market-leading services to members, the 11-part easy-to-digest training course aims to show how problems of difference are subjectively created and how they can be overcome. The approach of this training, underpinned by a focus on bite-sized sessions focused on why we think, intends to move away from the standard what we think approach – better helping to understand the problem and help people adapt their thinking accordingly. In doing so, it demonstrates how a change in the way of thinking can provoke a positive response to the way we think about difference, which in turn will improve and promote equality and D&I in the workplace. The benefits of approaching diversity and inclusion in this way include: 1. Empowering employees to better understand how their beliefs influence their thinking. 2. Providing a solution to the issue of unity. 3. Sharing knowledge relevant to collaboration, leadership, and resilience which benefits productivity.

Lunchtime Breathwork Sessions Join EventWell’s Helen Moon (event professional and qualified relaxation and stress management therapist and psychologist) for its new weekly lunchtime online session as she guides you through breathwork and deep (diaphragmatic) breathing exercises designed to support your physical, psychological, and spiritual health. Taking place at 12:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the session will last approximately 20 minutes, and you will need: a comfortable chair or cushion to sit on (or if you prefer somewhere to lie down) and a headset (noise cancelling preferred). Helen Moon says: “We are delighted to be offering these new drop-in weekly sessions for event professionals. Events are incredibly pressured, and the power of our breath as an essential in-built balancing and mental wellbeing tool is hugely underestimated, and not really understood. We have additional classes such as chair yoga coming soon, all designed for the busy event professional at their desk, or on-site.”

AEV Introduces Working Group Chairs The Association of Event Venues (AEV) has announced seven new chair and vice chairs leading four of its 16 working groups. Rachel Parker, AEV Director, said: “Our working groups continue to be a vital part of AEV and our sister associations. Last year we held 72 meetings both in person and online equating to 129.5 hours of collaboration, networking, and sharing best practice. I would like to welcome and thank our new chairs and vice chairs, they play a key role in guiding their group.” Venue Strategy Working Group Chair is Gillian Kiamil, Venue Director at Olympia London. New Vice chair is Nancy Mollett the Venue Director of ICC Wales, and the new appointed Junior Event managers Working Group Chair is Ashleigh Barker, Event Manager at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre, in a role which is new for 2024. AEV Vice Chair is El Afzal, Venue Manager of the new Manchester venue, Co-op Live while Cross Association Sustainability Working Group Co-Chair has been appointed as Lauren Hudson, Sustainability and Safety Advisor at Manchester Central with Co-Chair position Karl Dukes, Sales and Marketing Director of Media Hut. In the new position of Chair of Cross Association Health and Safety Working is Luke Facey, Managing Director of Alfa Display Ltd.

UNIQUE VENUES

Wow Factor A unique venue will add value, offering something that could not be found anywhere else.

When you search a unique venue, often it’s the outside or location that you look for. A castle in the country, or historic space with distinctive architecture or a space with a specific theme. But it’s on the inside where the uniqueness shines through for the delegate experience, and a good event planner will be looking for those special touches, where the venue is a key part of the experience and not just the backdrop.

Trending topics

Get your delegates talking and snapping great photos for social media with a weird and wonderful theme, such as a farm or museum. Amaze your delegates and take them to another world to create a great social media stir ensuring your event gets plenty of online viewers to remember your brand.

W O You’ll never guess

Make your event the subject of juicy gossip and keep them waiting, drawing on people’s natural inclination to know more; sometimes a mere theme without the venue being advertised could create stir.

Special treatment

the heart of Dundee’s waterfront with Discovery Point and Atstunning views across the River Tay, makes RRS Discovery an ideal venue for any event.

Unique venues should make your delegates feel special, offering them something new and different, such as a private tour or an area usually inaccessible, with tastings or a meet and greet.

Fun-filled

Delegates need to forget about work and bond with peers. What better way to achieve this than at a theme park or arcade complex to encompass fun social or team building opportunities and soften those ice breaker moments at the start of the event.

Novelty scenarios

PHOTO: JOHN POW PHOTOGRAPHY

• Tailored venue hire • Dedicated team • Locally sourced menus • Next to train station • Top-class technology • Hotels nearby A truly unique setting overlooking Captain Scott’s Antarctic research ship Discovery – book your unforgettable event today!

Think transportation events on a double decker bus or even in a train carriage, the excitement comes from doing something new in a familiar space. Novelty scenarios are about using your venue to put your delegates into new and interesting situations, so think big and bold to create an event to remember.

conferences@dundeeheritage.co.uk / www.rrsdiscovery.co.uk 01382 309060

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

TRANSFORM YOUR EVENTS FROM THE MUNDANE TO THE MAGNIFICENT Flexible conference and events spaces at the Library of Birmingham and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre.

BOOK ROTUNDA & BASKERVILLE • Iconic setting for gala dinners and drinks receptions. • Amazing backdrop for dinners up to 500. • Access to roof terrace that offers stunning panoramic views across the city.

STUDIO THEATRE • The Studio offers seating for 292 delegates or reduced seating for 229. • Versatility is key with The Studio seating retracing to provide a blank canvas for creating events.

HOUSE THEATRE • 800 seater auditorium with a dividing gouze, creating a more intimate space for 475 delegates. • Dine on the stage up to 240 guests. • Host events on top of theatrical sets. 0121 245 2066 enquiries@uniquevenuesbirmingham.com uniquevenuesbirmingham.com Birmingham Repertory Theatre 6 Centenary Square, Birmingham B1 2EP

March 2024

THE CUTLERS HALL The Cutlers Hall is without question a magnificent venue steeped in history and grandeur. This impressive Grade II listed building in the heart of Sheffield has excellent transport links, complimentary robust Wi-Fi and the flexibility to suit all types of events. The Main Hall is perfect for events up to 550 guests, whilst smaller rooms are able to provide the ideal backgrop of a more itimate affair. With our winning combination of a specacular environment, flexible room space and outstanding service along with exceptional food and drink, we look forward to welcoming you and your guests to The Cutlers Hall.

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

Events Exhibitions Conferences

W O Meetings at your place in

the country

Bring the wow factor and host your next event in our manor

• Over 14,000m2 of exhibition space and dedicated conference facilities • 250 acres of flexible outdoor space • Complimentary parking for over 10,000 vehicles • Central location based in the heart of Warwickshire • In-house catering team • On-site hotel

02476 696969 naecstoneleigh.co.uk

talk-to-us@stoneleighevents.com LinkedIn:@naecstoneleigh

#SeeyouAtNAEC

Scan here for promo code

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

PROMOTION

All Aboard! Sunborn Yacht Hotel creates a memorable luxury experience for your delegates for any corporate occasion.

Impress your delegates with delectable dining and personalised conferencing packages at Sunborn Yacht Hotel. They’ll experience experience London from a serene setting on the Royal Victoria Dock which is perfect for corporate hospitality and conference days and an ideal postexhibition socialising spot due to its short distance from ExCel Exhibition Centre, only a 15-minute walk away.

function rooms allows you to zero in on your event’s specific needs with a luxurious backdrop overlooking the still waters of London’s famous dock. Available rooms include its largest space, an open plan deck which holds 250 for a reception, a fully equipped auditorium with raked seating which fits 45 delegates, and The West India room which can be separated into two rooms, West India Dock 1 and 2, to create a larger or smaller conference space, the smaller rooms fitting 50 in a reception style or, as one large room, 100 delegates. At Sunborn London, high importance is placed on customer experience, when booking an event or conferencing day the same event planner will attend to your booking from the initial enquiry up to the day of your event. Your attendee will help to personalise your package guaranteeing the best possible experience for your clients or team. Not only are the yacht’s conscientious staff ready to assist you with theatre and restaurant bookings around the city, but its onboard decadent private dining offering means you’ll have no need to leave the yacht. Private dining at its Lands End Restaurant will take your taste buds on a voyage of discovery with its modern fusions between British, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisine made from high quality

If you are entertaining, or looking for a venue that offers a experience, you can rest assured that your event will be

memorable at Sunborn London. Packages are also available on request to ensure you receive the extras such as flowers, balloons, sweet treats, cocktail parties, and more which can take your stay to the next level.

Corporate occasions are what Sunborn London does best, in this unique venue you can be sure it will be an unforgettable event for your delegates. Ideal for meetings, awe-inspiring product launches, and glamorous awards evenings, the yacht carries extensive and highly adaptable facilities. Its selection of

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ingredients with cross cultural references. Choose from one of eight impressive settings to host your meal in one of the superyacht’s lounges, bars, docks, decks, or exclusive restaurants and be treated to matchless views of the city’s lights, flickering gently across the water.

Sunbornhotels.com

Howzat.. For a Venue

Do Business in

Style

Looking for an inspiring business venue in Anglesey to host a meeting or hold a conference, look no further. At Château Rhianfa, we invite you to try something different to accomplish your business objectives.

Whether you are holding a conference for 200 or a small meeting for 10, our range of suites all boast a fantastic view of our picturesque grounds. If you are looking for somewhere to host your special event, we have the options and facilities to suit exactly what you need.

0116 245 2469

chateaurhianfa.co.uk/corporate/

www.leicestershireccc.co.uk enquiries@leicestershireccc.co.uk

01248 880090

W O

HIRE BIRMINGHAM’S

BIGGEST SCREEN

SCAN ME TO LEARN MORE

Accommodating up to 354 delegates, our AUDITORIUM is the perfect location for conferences, lectures, product launches, AGM’s, award ceremonies and ﬁlm screenings. Featuring a 30m2 stage and a giant screen, this space is perfect for making a big impression. 354 tiered seats with clear sight lines

14m x 8m screen with up to 4K projection

Hybrid event and live streaming capabilities

City centre location

MILLENNIUMPOINT.ORG.UK/AUDITORIUM

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

COMPETITION

Prepare to Be

Bowled Over Leicestershire County Cricket Club is offering a chance to win a meeting for 20 in one of its exclusive boxes. When it comes to hosting corporate events that leave a lasting impression, the venue plays a crucial role. Leicestershire County Cricket Club, with its rich sporting heritage and iconic grounds, offers a corporate events experience like no other. From exclusive lounges with unparalleled pitch side views to a versatile marquee and the sophisticated suites, this venue provides the perfect backdrop.

The corporate events offering is taken to a new level with exclusive lounges that provide the ultimate VIP treatment. Guests can enjoy unparalleled pitchside views, immersing themselves in the thrilling atmosphere of the stadium. This unique setting is sure to impress clients, partners, and colleagues alike, offering an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. The spacious and versatile marquee at the club is the epitome of luxury, providing an ideal space for hosting unforgettable receptions and parties. With its elegant decor and customisable layout, the marquee ensures a charming and picturesque setting that perfectly complements the beautiful surroundings of the club. The famous Charles Palmer Suite at Leicestershire County Cricket Club offers an elevated and adaptable space for conferences and banquets. Whether you envision a formal dining setup or a theatrestyle arrangement, this versatile suite ensures your event is both memorable and tailored to your specific needs. The suite seamlessly transitions from dining elegance to captivating theatre-style setups. For those seeking a front-row experience, the exclusive boxes available on matchday allow guests to enjoy the action from a unique vantage point, adding an extra layer of excitement to your corporate event.

March 2024

COMPETITION To be in with a chance of winning a meeting for up to 20 delegates in an exclusive box at Leicestershire County Cricket Club, please answer the following question…

What is the name of the club’s famous suite? 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: 5th April 2024 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 Leicestershire County Cricket Club’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.

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PROMOTION

A New Leaf

Corporate Events Sales and Commercial Manager, Julia Green, unveils Center Parcs’ £4.5 million revamp.

Following a multi-million-pound refurbishment of The Venue at Woburn Forest, Center Parcs has now swung open the doors of The Venue at Sherwood Forest to reveal an even more ambitious transformation. Corporate Events Sales and Commercial Manager Julia Green shares her thoughts on what this £4.5 million investment means for conferences and events in the forest. or breakout sessions, new unisex toilets, kitchen, cloakrooms and storage.

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From the raindrop lighting to the living wall, the interior design style is inspired by nature, using natural materials, textures, shapes, and colours to bring the outdoors in. Delegates can relax outside on the two new terraces, spotting wildlife, watching thrill-seekers whiz down the zipwire and enjoying panoramic views of the forest.

We’re beyond excited to have both of our conference venues back open for business together for the first time since COVID. With our two central locations – one in the Midlands, and one closer to London – we’ve made it easy for organisers across the UK to book Center Parcs for their events. And of course, when they get here, they’ve got everything they need all in one place: a variety of accommodation types, premium events spaces, team building activities, restaurants, Aqua Sana Spa, retail outlets. It’s the whole package, all in the heart of the forest. The transformation of The Venue at Sherwood Forest is a key part of our strategy. We’ve reimagined our event space to create an experience that’s really rooted in Center Parcs, immersing delegates in the natural world and bringing our forest surroundings to the forefront. The 300 sq. metre extension and new layout includes a brand-new atrium-style reception and breakout area overlooking the lake, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering beautiful views over the water, plus four new events spaces which are ideally suited for smaller meetings

We’ve made huge investments into stateof-the-art AV, lighting, and super-fast Wi-Fi. Each room is individually controlled, with customisable coloured lighting and digital signage opportunities allowing event organisers to use the space as a blank canvas and create a truly bespoke and branded feel for their events. We’ve also created a dedicated conferences and events car park with over 100 EV charging spaces, making the experience as easy and enjoyable as possible for both organisers and delegates. Sherwood Forest retains the ECOsmart GOLD sustainability accreditation, which we were awarded following a rigorous audit by Greengage Solutions in July 2023.

The refurbishment includes features such as water refilling stations and motionactivated lighting, which we believe will take both Venues closer to Platinum level.

Looking ahead, we’re focusing on creating a real ‘Center Parcs’ experience in our conferences and events offer, such as wellbeing with our Aqua Sana Team, which will include exclusive hire of our award-winning spa for corporate Twilight Spa sessions, and we’re working with our Leisure teams to introduce new exciting team building activities. We’re planning how we can use the treelined area beside The Venue at Sherwood for festival style outside dining, or even silent discos and cinema evenings. Center Parcs is such a beloved brand, and it’s widely known that being in nature works wonders for your wellbeing. Why wouldn’t we play to our strengths? Events.centerparcs.co.uk

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

DISCOVER SHERWOOD FOREST The multi-million pound transformation of The Venue, our conferences and events space at Sherwood Forest, is now complete and we can’t wait to welcome you and your delegates to the forest.

300 ACRES OF FOREST

900

HUNDREDS OF TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES

UP TO

550

AWA R D W I N N I N G A Q U A S A N A S PA

DELEGATES

centerparcs_events Center Parcs Conferences and Events

LUXURY LODGES

W O RANGE OF ONSITE RESTAURANTS

www.centerparcsevents.co.uk

centerparcs.events@centerparcs.co.uk 03448 267715

STYLISH SPACES FOR UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Conferences Dinners . Events 2000m2 exhibition space 6 - 600 delegates 01926 895295 britishmotormuseum.co.uk/conferences Junction 12 M40 Warwickshire

W O Excitement and fun? We’ve got it all going on!

• Group adventures in the heart of Cheshire • We are an outdoor teambuilding company with a meeting space/party barn on-site • We will soon be offering forest bathing sessions with a psychologist in our woodland If you are looking for something different for your company meeting, conference or fun day, we are the venue for you.

01606 882 223

info@cheshireoutdoorscorporate.com cheshireoutdoorscorporate.com

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

DAY IN THE LIFE

Motoring On Charlotte Dawes, Senior Sales Manager of the British Motor Museum, gives us a sneak peek at her role running the event sales at the iconic venue. Hi Charlotte! What does your average day at work look like? My day always starts with a cup of tea. I like to make a to-do list before leaving the night before, so once I have checked my emails, I get started on this if I am in the office. Each day is different; I can either be based in the office or offsite at client appointments. When I am the office, my day is made up of responding to new event briefs, showing clients the amazing spaces here, and attending meetings such as our Environmental team meeting. Being based in the office gives me the opportunity to work closely with the operational teams in order to ensure our clients have the best experience here. When I am offsite, I am meeting with clients and agents, telling them all about our spaces and how we can make them work for their next event.

Does working at such a unique venue have any extra benefits? Yes, it’s great working alongside the world’s largest collection of historic British cars at the British Motor Museum and knowing that, as a registered charity, all the profits generated from conferences and events are going to a good cause.

March 2024

Clients like the fact that their conference is contributing to preserving the history of the British automotive industry. On site visits I like to show our clients the Museum and how they can incorporate this into their event; all of our day delegate packages include access into the Museum for attendees which creates a memorable experience. Clients always see a car they know; my favourite is the Ford Anglia 105E which was used in the filming of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

What’s your favourite part of the job? Definitely the customer interaction and showing clients the venue. Every event brief is different, and I love working with clients to come up with new ways to use our spaces to meet their event objectives. We have 17 meetings spaces in total ranging from our largest suite which seats 600 down to boardrooms for six. Our most unique space is the Sky Suite located on the top floor of the conference centre with large panoramic windows and a roof top balcony making the room perfect for meetings, dinners and summer BBQ’s. We also have 65 acres of outdoor space including grass areas for team building, a vehicle demonstration area and plenty of complimentary parking.

Look at all the different spaces the venue offers to make sure you find one that fits best. Can it seat your delegates in your preferred style? If you have an exhibition, is there an area for this? What about additional breakout rooms?

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How can the venue enhance your event objectives? Unique venues often offer something additional that can be used to enhance your event. We include access to our collection in our day delegate packages and encourage organisers to allow time in the Museum for a fantastic informal networking opportunity and a memorable experience.

Sustainability is increasingly important. Event organisers should look at venue accreditations and how they are working towards a greener future. We have a team responsible for looking at new initiatives and working to constantly improve our sustainability credentials.

Wide World

Jo Joshi, Founder of DCM Finder, gives her pick of business travel destinations worldwide. DISCOVER PORTUGAL WITH FORUM D’IDEIAS: THE ULTIMATE MICE DESTINATION

Portugal is not just a country; it’s a canvas where every stroke paints a picture of history, culture, and modernity, making it an unrivalled destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE). The real magic, however, lies in the execution of these events, and that’s where Forum d’Ideias comes into play. As specialists in the field, they are the key to unlocking Portugal’s potential as a MICE destination.

Seamless Accessibility and Infrastructure

Easily accessible from all corners of the globe, the country boasts robust infrastructure ideal for international gatherings. With major cities like Lisbon and Porto offering direct flights from numerous countries, getting there is hassle-free. Add to this the availability of top-tier convention centres and luxury accommodations, and you have the perfect recipe for a successful event. Forum d’Ideias’ expertise in venue selection ensures your event is housed in a location that’s not just fitting but also equipped with the latest in technology and comfort.

Cultural Immersion and Gastronomic Pleasure

PORTUGAL

A Tapestry of Stunning Locations

From Lisbon’s picturesque streets to the Algarve’s golden beaches, Portugal offers a variety of breathtaking backdrops for any event. Imagine holding a conference in a centuries-old monastery in Porto or a corporate retreat on the sun-drenched shores of Madeira. Forum d’Ideias, with over 20 years of experience, perfectly matches these settings with your event’s theme and purpose, providing a memorable and impactful experience for all attendees.

The rich cultural heritage provides an extraordinary dimension to any MICE event. Imagine an evening of traditional Fado music or a gala dinner in a historic Pousada. Portugal’s culinary scene, famous for its diversity and quality, also adds to the allure. Forum d’Ideias incorporates these cultural elements, ensuring that your event isn’t just a meeting but a journey into the heart of Portuguese tradition.

mind the unique needs and preferences of each client. This meticulous attention to detail translates into events that are not just successful but also resonate on a deeper level with the participants.

Sustainability and Innovation

In an era where sustainability is key, Portugal offers numerous eco-friendly venues and options for green events. Forum d’Ideias is at the forefront of integrating sustainable practices and innovative solutions into their event planning, aligning with global trends towards responsible event management.

Customised Incentive Programs

Portugal’s diverse landscapes and activities make it an ideal location for incentive programs. Forum d’Ideias specializes in creating unique and motivational experiences, whether it’s a private tour of a historic vineyard or an adrenaline-pumping adventure in the Azores. With their unparalleled expertise, creativity, and commitment to excellence, planners can guarantee not just an event, but an unforgettable journey into the heart of a beautiful country.

Professionalism and Local Expertise

With a team fluent in multiple languages and boasting extensive experience in tourism, public relations, and event management, Forum d’Ideias stands out for its professionalism. Their tailored approach means that each event is not just organized but crafted, keeping in

SRI LANKA

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

TRAVEL

Polonnaruwa – Passikudah

Visit Polonnaruwa, the second capital city of Sri Lanka, known for its royal palace, temples, and Buddha statues. Explore ruins like Lankatilake, Thivanka, Thuparama, Rankot Vihara, Kiriwehera, Gal Vihare, and Vata-da-ge, showcasing the artistic prowess of Sinhalese stone carvers. Later, proceed to Passikudah for some sun and sparkling shallow waters of Pasikudah beach.

Colombo

The final destination is the capital Colombo, take a drive or opt for sea plane transfers for a unique experience. ALBUFEIRA IN THE ALGARVE PROVINCE OF PORTUGAL

EXOTIC SRI LANKA

Celebrated as an exciting and diverse holiday destination, Sri Lanka is now Asia’s most sought-after location for MICE. This Island paradise, perfectly placed at the centre of the Indian Ocean, makes for an ideal meeting point for delegates from any part of the world.

height, explore the remains of the sumptuous palace and gardens on its summit, and admire the life-sized frescoes of damsels, a rare surviving example of ancient Sinhala secular painting. Village Experience and Minneriya Safari Explore a local village, witnessing typical houses and taking a short walk to the lake

Visit landmarks like the Colombo Lighthouse, the Prison Cell of the last Sri Lankan King, Galle Face Green, Colombo Port, and various architectural gems from Dutch, Portuguese, and British eras. Explore Hindu Kovils, major Mosques, Beira Lake, and other historical and significant locations.

From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to temples to bustling cities, ideal for every type of traveller. Explore lively cities like Negombo and Kandy, snorkelling colourful reefs at Pasikudah, and roaming through ancient ruins in places like Polonnaruwa for a diverse experience in this beautiful, culturally rich country. Check out this recommended itinerary to fit around your business.

Negombo

The perfect starting point, a lively coastal city with a rich colonial history setting the scene.

Kandy

En route, explore a spice garden in Mawanella, witnessing the cultivation of Cinnamons, Cardamoms, and Pepper plants. Take the opportunity to purchase your desired spices. Upon reaching Kandy, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a scenic drive around the lake, visit the bazaar, arts and crafts centre, a gem museum, and a lapidary. The day concludes with a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, followed by an evening cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dances.

Habarana – Sigiriya

Embark on a morning drive to Habarana to climb the awe-inspiring Sigiriya rock fortress. This 5th-century marvel, also known as the ‘Fortress in the Sky,’ was built by King Kashyapa and stands as a testament to ancient Sri Lankan architecture. Marvel at the rock’s sheer

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COLOMBO SRI LANKA

for a catamaran ride and a visit to a farm, indulging in a local lunch with villagers. In the afternoon, experience a private 4x4 jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, known for attracting large herds of elephants during the dry season. Witness the stunning gathering of around 150 to 200 elephants by the Minneriya tank.

Liverpool Convention Bureau shares why the city is the perfect location to host your next event. It’s not hard to see why Liverpool is a popular destination to hold conferences and events. Offering a rich cultural heritage, lively atmosphere and a wide range of facilities, it’s the perfect place for events of every shape and size. Reasons that no doubt contributed to the decision that Liverpool would be given Eurovision Song Contest hosting duties on behalf of Ukraine in 2023 – and to great success! The city is no stranger to welcoming a range of unique events to its Mersey shores. Over the last few years, the city region has offered its hosting facilities to The Turner Prize competition at Tate Liverpool, the World Gymnastics Championships 2022 and the Labour Party Conference at ACC Liverpool and a food and drink festival to venues across the city.

in the healthiest building in the North West? The Spine is for you. With experts working across the sector owning years of experience and knowledge in what will work best for your event, you’re in safe hands. Venues range from ACC Liverpool which includes the Exhibition Centre and 11,000 capacity M&S Bank Arena, who are looking forward to hosting a range of conferences in 2024 including The 62nd Annual European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology Meeting and Annual Scientific Meeting of the British Gynaecological Cancer Society. RCP Spaces at the Spine in the Knowledge Quarter will welcome the British Society for

PHOTO: MARKETING LIVERPOOL

Maternal and Fetal Medicine Conference, and Symposium of the European Low Gravity Research Association. While Liverpool Cathedral, Anfield Stadium, National Museums Liverpool and the University of Liverpool have also hosted a diverse selection of events in 2023 with more planned for the years ahead. An ideal destination for conferences in specific fields such as infectious diseases, children’s health, veterinary science, gaming and tech, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing, the city is also known as a sporting city, home to Aintree Racecourse, part of England’s Golf Coast and two major football clubs, Liverpool and Everton, with Everton’s brand-new PHOTO: VISIT LIVERPOOL

2024 shows no signs of slowing down either as the city welcomes The Randox Grand National festival to Aintree Racecourse, Comic Con Liverpool to ACC Liverpool, Taylor Swift to Anfield Stadium, and River of Light to the city’s waterfront. Aside from the cultural events offering, incredible things happen across the region for a broad range of conferences. Liverpool has a large selection of modern conference venues, hotels, exhibition spaces and unique venues that can accommodate events of all sizes. Looking for an event space in an historic building? We’ve got them to spare. A meeting

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

ON LOCATION

stadium currently in development. There is also a rich history of maritime trade and is home to major research institutions such as the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, and Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. Ambassadors involved in the Club Liverpool programme share their expertise in these fields and use their passion to help bring more events and conferences to the city. Getting to and navigating around the city region is also a selling point for the destination. Liverpool John Lennon Airport is conveniently located 30 minutes from the city centre and offers many direct flights around Europe. Manchester Airport also services the city with long haul flights and is only 40 minutes from the centre. The walkability factor of Liverpool is a huge selling point too. Taking only 25 minutes to walk across the city; train stations, hotels, restaurants, venues, and visitor attractions are all within easy distance of each other making your time in the city accessible and sustainable. Talking about sustainability, Liverpool was named as ‘Most Improved Destination’ at the Global Destination Sustainability Movement in 2023 so is a great location for sustainably minded travel. Furthermore, the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation are generally lower in Liverpool than in other major UK cities, making it a more affordable option for conference organisers and attendees.

PHOTO: ACC LIVERPOOL

Whether delegates are looking for luxury or budget, there is something for everyone. It’s not just all about the hard work either. A vast collection of activities for delegates to enjoy in their downtime adds to the attractiveness as an event destination, with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and cultural exploration. Famous for its music, art, architecture, The Beatles and a thriving selection of food and drink venues, conference organisers and delegates can relax in downtime or explore what the city region has to offer.

PHOTO: THE MUNICIPAL HOTEL - MGALLERY

March 2024

New venues including, The Municipal Hotel MGallery, The Halyard Hotel, The Maldron Hotel, Flight Club and BOXPARK will be hot spots to check out in 2024, whilst new venues, Gaucho, Hawksmoor, Gravity MAX and Albert’s Schloss make for great additions to any itinerary. You can find out more about the services Liverpool Convention Bureau provides here: Visitliverpool.com/liverpoolconvention-bureau/

INDUSTRY INTERVIEW

Taking Pride As Cluster Director of Sales – North West at Leonardo Hotels, Melanie Thompson currently has the sales of four different Leonardo brand hotels – Manchester Central and Piccadilly, Liverpool, and Chester – under her supervision. These are just the latest in an impressive career spanning big name hotels including accolades such as opening the Crowne Plaza Manchester City Centre and working as Director of Sales for Manchester’s leading five-star hotel, The Lowry. Melanie got the industry bug when she was in school: “I wanted to go into either travel or languages, and when I was 15 I ended up doing a placement at school in a hotel because that was what was available. I loved it so much that I never left hotels. So, I did my degree in International Hospitality & Business Management in Leeds. I remember the first hotel I stayed in when I was in little. It was a big brand hotel, with those mini cans of pop and mini chocolate bars, and I can remember having my own little bed, and it being the most exciting, fascinating thing in the world.” Like many in the industry, Melanie was hit hard by the pandemic: “During COVID I was made redundant, so I joined my husband working at our restaurant Pride & Provenance in Halifax, which we’ve had since 2018. It’s also a bar, retail, and events area.” She puts her events expertise to use in her own business, helping devise a plethora of event ideas: “We do wine

tastings and cocktail masterclasses. We actually have a charcuterie masterclass coming up!” Pride & Provenance even gained celebrity attention when Hollywood A-lister Samuel L Jackson popped in for lunch while filming in Halifax. As of September 2023, Melanie was back in the events industry in her position at Leonardo Hotels. With such a long and varied career behind her, we asked about the highlight: “I think it was opening two dual-branded hotels in the same day. There were 328 bedrooms over the two hotels, one on top of the other, which was at the time Crowne Plaza and Stalybridge Suites. I was in that role 20 months before we even opened so it felt great to get to open it finally. It was actually the same day that my daughter started school, so I missed being there for the opening!” When it comes to the advice she has to pass on from her experience, good interpersonal connections are the most important thing: “Build really strong relationships with people. Over my career, there are people who I’ve worked with over numerous roles, whether that’s clients or colleagues. It’s really nice when you see people who you haven’t dealt with in your last few roles, and it’s lovely to work with them again. That’s really powerful, it makes the job more enjoyable, and for both parties brings more benefits knowing you can trust the people you’re going to be working with.”

Melanie Thompson, Cluster Director of Sales – North West for Leonardo Hotels, gives us an insight into her career and offers some useful advice.

PHOTOS: LEONARDO LIVERPOOL

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

Celebrating 20 years!

PULLMAN

LIVERPOOL

KINGS DOCK, LIVERPOOL L3 4FP

Welcome to the award winning Gateway Conference & Training Facility…

Key Features: 216 Bedrooms Restaurant, Bar & Lounge 3 Flexible Meeting Space Day Delegate Rates and 24 hour Day Delegate Rates City Centre Location On site with ACC and Exhibition Centre Liverpool Meeting space for up to 100 delegates theatre-style

Home of Sustainable Conference Packages Offering superb facilities with professional friendly staff at affordable prices » Charity & NPO discounts » Limited parking but 5mins walk to Lime Street » Coffee bar » Overnight accommodation » Lightening fast WIFI » Air-con and fresh circulated air

https://pullmanliverpool.co.uk/

For more info contact us:

Pullman_Liverpool

gatewayconferencecentre@gmail.com • 0151 298 3200 www.gatewaycentre.org

Pullman_Lpool PullmanLpool

Pullman Liverpool, Kings Dock, Liverpool, L3 4FP 0151 945 1000 H9227-SB2@accor.com

Caterers Creating Lasting Memories with Bespoke Events

Knowsley Hall

A STATELY HOME EXPERIENCE - A magnificent stately home set in 2,500 acres of a private walled estate - Exclusive use offering a stunning backdrop to any event - Award-winning accommodation - Vast outdoor space for team building activities - Selection of breakout rooms - Free onsite parking - Only 25 minute’s drive from Liverpool city centre -

Knowsley Hall, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 4AG 0151 489 4827 | www.knowsleyhallvenue.co.uk events@knowsley.com | @knowsleyhall

March 2024

MEET THE CHEF

We spoke to Adam Evanson, Chef and Hospitality Director at Vanilla In Allseasons on how offering sustainable catering and good value can come with a people-first ethic. ADAM EVANSON

In the Kitchen Adam Evanson, from Cheshire based caterers Vanilla In Allseasons, has a rich history with the hospitality and events sector before starting his own catering company: “My background is in Radisson hotels, I set up the conference and events at Radisson Manchester Airport, Glasgow, and Edwardian Manchester. Afterwards I thought I’d invest in a deli.” Though the deli wasn’t a long-term venture for Adam, it did lead him to an important connection: “One of my suppliers was a guy called Simon who had a background working with Michelin star chefs, he provided me with desserts and cakes for the deli and we did a bit of outside catering. We merged and created Vanilla In Allseasons, I was Allseasons and his company was called Vanilla. We started from nothing to doing about 300 events a year now. A year ago, I bought Simon out and I’m now in business with my old college friend Tim Vincent, who is our Executive Chef and has been working with us for around 10 years.”

Fast facts Favourite meal to make at home? Bouillabaisse (traditional Provençal fish soup) Favourite snack? Flapjack (made by Henry our Pastry Chef) Favourite comfort food? Haggis

“It’s clean, It’s fresh, it’s less heavy,” says Adam when describing the food offering. “Everyone says they get seasonal, local, produce but we really do. Our local butcher and supplier is a three generation butcher based in Boddington’s little village and I can tell you where the piece of beef came from and which field it came from in the Cheshire area.” Continuing on the company’s signature stamp on its food, Adam says: “We’re going away from heavy carbs, it’s now about creating items cooked which you can have à la minute* (*food which is prepared to order, rather than being prepped in advance and held for service) which is really using seasonal vegetables, whether it’s a puree or as an emulsion. It’s just protein, a nice vegetable garnish, and a nice bit of carbohydrate.”

TIM VINCENT

This expertly executed yet simplified approach is mirrored throughout the business, when asked what his catering pet peeve was Adam admits: “For corporate, it’s losing bread. We don’t do bread with our menus unless the client requests it because it doesn’t get finished. It’s just like offering tea and coffee. Why offer tea and coffee that you know isn’t going to get drunk? I’m all about giving good value for money; just simple starter, mains, and desserts.” Adam and Tim’s sustainable awareness of food waste is something which they thoughtfully developed overtime, leading them to reduce their portion sizes: “They weren’t getting value for money because we we’re throwing food away. So now are our plates are 99% clear and our customers are just as full and happy with what they’ve just eaten.” At the heart of the business is Adam’s people-first principle which makes the company down-to-earth and loyal to its customers. Adam explains: “One thing I’m very passionate about is being a trusted partner. We pay our bills as soon as we get the invoice and we’re always hoping to grow our partner’s businesses. The other main catering we do is for the National Football Museum, they’ve got this cafe and we run it, it doesn’t make much money, but we do it for them because we do their corporate event catering. We promote them on social media, and we continue to develop our relationship because we don’t just take the money and run, we take it all very personally.”

Adam’s corporate menu idea.. To Start Charred Heritage Carrots, Goats Curd, tahini, Dukka and Crispy Carrot Main Pork Ribeye, Hispi Cabbage, Bacon Jam, Smashed Roast Potatoes, parsley sauce Dessert Burnt Orange, Panna cotta, Thyme Tuile

ClientNews Manchester Piccadilly Hotel Rebrand The iconic Manchester Piccadilly Hotel – formerly Macdonald Hotel Manchester – a fixture in the city since 2007, is set to embrace a new identity as the Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly. The transition comes after the hotel changed hands in 2021, with the new owners opting for a full brand integration into the Marriott chain. The ambitious project commenced in 2023, with a multi-million-pound refurbishment initiative spanning the entire property. Anticipated to conclude in the summer of 2024, this extensive makeover aims to elevate the hotel’s stature and offer guests a refreshed and contemporary experience. The transformation will culminate in a grand rebranding event, revealing the Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly’s new name and logo. This change marks a pivotal moment for the hotel, promising a fusion of Marriott’s renowned hospitality with the historic charm of Piccadilly. As the largest 4* hotel in the city, the Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly boasts an impressive 338 bedrooms, 11 meeting rooms, and a spacious function suite capable of hosting up to 270 guests. The refurbishment endeavours extend beyond aesthetics, incorporating state-of-the-art technology to facilitate seamless hybrid meetings, aligning with modern business needs. The venue will be the only Marriott hotel in Manchester to feature an MClub Lounge. This exclusive space promises an elevated experience for guests, providing details and amenities that align with Marriott’s commitment to luxury and comfort. Visitors can look forward to a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, making the hotel a standout choice for both leisure and business travellers alike. Marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/manmpmanchester-piccadilly-hotel/events

Team Wellness Solutions’ Crystal Maze Games

one and communicate together to solve the game with the aim to improve working relationships, team moral and improve the overall wellbeing of your teams. Teamwellnesssolutions.co.uk

Improve Workplace Wellness with Cheshire Outdoors Engaging with nature isn’t just for ‘tree huggers’; it holds substantial benefits for organisational performance and employee wellbeing. Amid discussions on mental health, some leaders view it as a 21st-century backache, but evidence from The Sunday Times Best Places to Work reveals the positive impact of investing in staff happiness and the correlation between wellbeing, lower sick leave, and increased productivity in such workplaces. The pandemic highlighted the importance of nature, prompting the UK population to appreciate its benefits. Cheshire Outdoors, situated in Blakemere Village, exemplifies the positive impact of engaging with nature, offering activities like archery, falconry, and forest bathing. The NHS endorses social prescribing, connecting people with community activities for holistic health. GPs on Shetland even prescribe bird watching for mental health. Numerous projects across the UK support nature’s therapeutic benefits. Cheshire Outdoors, with its 15 acres of woodlands, delivers activities and interventions, including team building and leadership programs. Business Psychologists on the team design activities with specific wellbeing outcomes. Feedback from Psychologist Anita Morris emphasise nature’s role in preventing burnout and enhancing overall health. The appeal extends to strategic thinking events and corporate family fun days, showcasing how investing in staff wellbeing is not just compassionate but a sound business practice. 0160 688 2223 info@cheshireoutdoorscokrporate.com Cheshireoutdoorscorporate.com

Bringing a greater degree of excitement to the popular in-house team building workshops from Team Wellness Solutions are the Crystal Maze Games which are based on the hugely popular TV series. These fun and exciting team building games and activities can be utilised as a standalone team workshop or team event for the companies that want to inject some instant fast paced fun and excitement to get their teams motivated for their day ahead, or they can be incorporated into the standard team building workshops.

Catch the MICE Unveils Planning Apps at International Confex In an exclusive with us, Stuart Mitchell, MD of Catch the MICE, reveals two monumental announcements that are set to make waves at this year’s International Confex. Joi Events, having made a remarkable entry into the UK market last year, is now gearing up to enhance its services with the launch of its innovative Event App. This development is a game-changer, especially considering its affordability. Starting at just £30 per month, the Event App is poised to become a staple in the toolbox of every event planner, from students to freelance organisers and large corporate agencies. “This powerful event planning solution is NOW within the reach of every EVERY planner in the UK,” asserts Rob Vass, cofounder of Joi Events. This user-friendly solution promises a centralised platform for teams to manage all aspects of an event, acting as a singular source of truth and eliminating the need for scattered Microsoft documents. Joi enables easy event planning, agenda management, online publishing, mobile access, and integrated budget tracking in one app. The second revelation is Eventene’s US entry into the European market, targeting UK and Ireland event planners. Appointing Catch the MICE for regional business development is a smart strategic move. David Wood, the founder of Eventene and former product design leader at Microsoft, sees Eventene as a strong contender against industry heavyweights such as CVENT, Bizzabo and Whova. “Eventene has already made its mark in the US, and we are enthusiastic about establishing it as a reliable and affordable option in the global event planning market.” Both Joi Events and Eventene will showcase their products at Confex. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the founders and gain first-hand experience with these revolutionary tools. Pre-booking appointments is recommended due to the anticipated interest. For more information contact: Stuart@ CatchtheMICE.com

These games get your employees working against the clock to solve the puzzles in time to progress to the next game; the teams are challenged to think as one, work as

March 2024

CLIENT NEWS

SUPPLIERS

Find out how you can decorate your marquee to fit the trend of bringing your living room outside.

with a runner, coasters, and centrepieces. Coffee table books or magazines should be scattered around– the more indoor typical features you use will make your space look more layered.

Spring is here, which means the start of outdoor events with marquees and outdoor structures. If you’ve found your desired structure, how do you plan to style it away from the dull drab “norm”? A recent trend has seen event planners bring the indoors out, replicating a living room in an outdoor structure to create a comfortable environment for your delegates to socialise.

Lighting Up Creating Zones

Zones can make the space look more homely. Outdoor rugs which can be patterned and ornamented like indoor versions do this well, while room dividers or tall cabinets and bookshelves can section off an area and draw attention to a feature such as a bar area.

An impressive feature to add novelty or theme is freestanding lamps, the tech team will find creative ways to hide the wires or opt for rechargeable lightbulbs to give you more freedom of placement with your furniture, providing you find ones with long battery life.

Furniture

Take a look at outdoor sofas and tables that replicate the indoor type, but offer weatherproof and durable fabrics, you may want to donate, recycle, or reuse after the event so be aware of wear and tear of using actual indoor furniture. Don’t go for the wicker or woven garden type, look for similar styles you’d use indoors that are suitable for your use.

Devil’s in the Detail!

High ornamentation can replicate the comfortable surroundings of the indoors. Most accessories are easier to take outside since they don’t have to be in waterproof fabric (though specifically outdoor sofa cushions are commonly available now). Dress your seating with cushions and throws, and your tables

Think Green

As with most events, keeping your carbon footprint down is a challenge. Keep the fire tags on, and check out the furniture recycle charities and shops near you that will often pick them up for free, but better still can you re-use and re-style.

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

Decor Event Equipment Hire

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STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD

Quality audio-visual equipment and technical support services for events Supporting in the Sheffield City Region

Exhibition stand design and build services to suit all budgets, requirements and deadlines. Providing access to an extensive range of furniture hire, audio-visual hire requirements.

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March 2024

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Looking to treat a team or take clients out for a thank you? Check out some great events happening around the north this year at venues with top hospitality available.

The Big Event

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HOSPITALITY CALENDAR

Bill Bailey Thoughtifier

Beloved comedian Bill Bailey, best known for appearing in Black Books, panel shows, and winning Strictly Come Dancing in 2020, is touring the UK including M&S Arena Liverpool and Edinburgh Playhouse. The show can be expected to be “A magical, musical mystery tour of the human mind, along with some other pressing matters about whales, biophilia and unrequited love. Amplified with music.” Billbailey.co.uk

Michael McIntyre Macnificent

National treasure Michael McIntyre is back with another tour this year at venues including Utilita Arena Sheffield, and AO Arena Manchester, to tell all about his life since his previous tour five years ago. Making mirth from the madness, the long-time comedian and tv show host has a humour loved by many. Michaelmcintyre.co.uk

Cirque du Soleil Kurios – Cabinet of Curiosities

This breathtaking Cirque du Soleil performance, Kurios – Cabinet of Curiosities is showing at Utilita Arena Birmingham and OVO Hydro amongst others. The Seeker believes that in his giant cabinet of curiosities lies a secret to uncover, follow him as his curiosities come to life and he uncovers an invisible universe with characters from another world.

PHOTO: NICK WEBB

Cirquedusoleil.com/kurios

Bruce Springsteen UK Tour

You delegates will love this special event in music history. Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will be coming to the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, the only stop in England or Scotland on their 2024 world tour. Playing songs from his recent album Only the Strong Survive among his classic hits, this will be Springsteen’s first tour in six years. Brucespringsteen.net

Taylor Swift The Eras Tour

A once in a lifetime concert, Taylor Swift is performing the greatest hits from all her albums at Anfield Liverpool and Murrayfield Edinburgh stadia. An unmissable occasion for fans of Taylor Swift’s music but also accessible for those who only know her from her chart-topping hits. A feast for the eyes as well as the ears, The Eras Tour has been widely applauded for its creative set designs and costumes. Taylorswift.com

PHOTO: PAOLO VILLANUEVA

York Races Ladies Day

One for the girls! Racing is one of the best corporate hospitality days, and York Racecourse has an excellent Ladies Day where women can dress to the nines and get top priority on the Knavesmire. Great for a predominantly female team to take the stage. Yorkracecourse.co.uk

Betfred Super League Grand Final (Rugby League)

Treat sports fans to one of the most highly anticipated events of the year with the culmination of the rugby league season. Better yet, its close by at Manchester’s iconic Old Trafford stadium. Rugby-league.com

Peter Kay Better Late Than Never

The continued latest tour of comedian Peter Kay is a great opportunity to share a laugh with your team and clients. The show revisits some of Kay’s classic routines with new touches and a hefty dose of nostalgia. A comedian every northerner can relate to, seeing Peter Kay is a must, corporate opportunities are still available across the tour at venues like AO Arena Manchester and first direct arena in Leeds. Peterkay.co.uk

March 2024

PHOTO: UNIVERSITY OF SALFORD PRESS OFFICE

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PROMOTION

Trust Event In A Tent to add that unmistakable wow factor to your corporate gathering… When it comes to crafting memorable corporate events, the venue is the soul of the occasion, and there’s one company which has captured attention with its innovative and sophisticated approach to event spaces – Event In A Tent. Launched in 2012, Event In A Tent has been on a mission to redefine the art of hosting corporate events. With a diverse range of unique structures fit for multiple uses, the company has earned its stripes as the tent and structure provider for major festivals such as Glastonbury, Reading, the Radio 1 Big Weekend and Download.

Versatility redefined

What truly sets Event In A Tent apart is an unwavering commitment to versatility. Their festival-proven excellence seamlessly translates into the corporate realm, so whether you’re planning a product launch, conference, or team building retreat, they offer the perfect solution. A wide range of nature-inspired structures including Tipis, Stretch Tents and Domes in various sizes and canvas colours can be customised to suit the unique theme and atmosphere of your event. Each structure provides a different aesthetic – Tipis provide a warm, cosey atmosphere for a team building exercise, whereas the bright, spacious Quad Domes are perfect

March 2024

for any Brand Launch or Trade Show. They also offer a unique, discreet weighting system which allows tipis to be erected on hard standing while maintaining aesthetics – this is perfect for indoor exhibition centres or protected ground. With three crews at your service, Event In A Tent can facilitate large-scale events. Think beyond tents to furniture, glamping accommodation, a café and even bar service. In addition, the planning team can recommend suppliers providing great entertainment, catering and activities from equally passionate and dedicated providers so that you can hold the perfect event, ensuring consistent quality.

Transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary

Event In A Tent’s ability to seamlessly integrate events with picturesque surroundings is a game-changer. The thought of hosting a corporate gathering in a tent nestled amid lush greenery or with breathtaking views of the countryside is nothing short of enchanting and turns ordinary locations into extraordinary experiences.

Product launch and brand activations

Bring a new product to market or increase brand awareness with a versatile and temporary structure that makes your

installation stand out from the crowd. Show off your company’s personality with a structure to match. Event In A Tent are capable of custom branding, with options to purchase custom canvas to match your brand colours or sourcing custom vinyl to place on our hire canvas.

Impeccable service from start to finish

From initial consultation to post-event tent dismantling, the dedicated team ensures a seamless experience. The office team will be there to listen to your vision and help bring your ideas to life with over 50 years of combined experience in the events industry, while on-site build crews are highly trained to MUTA trade association standards, and each have a passion for events and the great outdoors.

A choice for the ethical organiser

In an era where sustainability matters, Event In A Tent takes pride in its ecofriendly approach. Tents are crafted with environmentally conscious materials, aligning with the values of organisers who prioritise sustainability. Website: Event-in-a-tent.co.uk Phone: 01978 661449 Email: info@event-in-a-tent.co.uk

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www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

TRAVEL

On Point Nicky Kelvin, Editor at Large at The Points Guy, tells all on how to cash in on rewards from your business travel. With some handy hints you could be getting more benefits from your tiresome business travel than you realised, whether by air or train. The Points Guy, a global brand which inspires people to travel better and cash in on rewards, can help you maximise your expenditure and has over 100 million readers on its website, four million social media followers, and over a million subscribers to its newsletter.

Hi Nicky! For a beginner who hasn’t earned rewards points previously, can you explain how to get started? Hello! You don’t need to be a frequent traveller at all to earn points. There are four key pillars of earning for anyone starting their points and miles journey. 1. Find the right rewards business credit card for you and put as much of your company spending on it as possible. These cards only make sense if you are able to pay them off in full and on time every month. Some cards have a suite of benefits like lounge access and credits for dining out, alongside an ongoing point earning rate. 2. Use the airline’s or travel company’s online shopping portals. like the British Airways Avios eStore to earn huge multiples of points on purchases with most online retailers.

3. Sign up to free airline and hotel loyalty programmes and earn points every time you fly or stay in a hotel.

Are there any reward schemes that you’d particularly recommend? Avios may be the key loyalty currency for United Kingdom travellers. It’s particularly great because Avios is used by loyalty programmes such as British Airways Executive Club, Iberia Plus, Aer Lingus AerClub, Qatar Privilege Club and soon, Finnair Plus will adopt the currency. There are many ways in the UK to earn Avios with a number of dedicated credit cards, shopping portals, and much more. Because several airline loyalty programmes use Avios, earning and redeeming this points currency is easier than ever. While points are often devalued, you may find it easier to redeem Avios for more value as more airlines adopt them.

What is a typical mistake people make? The number one mistake is not earning points and miles on all spend and every time you travel. By not using the right payment method, or forgetting to click through from a shopping portal, or not popping your code number on your booking, the points get left on the table. When beginning your points and miles journey, it can feel like an overcomplicated process however, by following Thepointsguy.com/uk-travel will ensure you have access to some of the most comprehensive advice on how to reap the benefits. I always advise people to do their research and apply for cards and reward schemes which will benefit them and their shopping habits. For example, some reward cards have an associated annual fee which will be beneficial to frequent flyers who are able to access the benefits but will not be viable individuals who travel less frequently. Be sure to follow me on Instagram (@nickykelvin) where I review and look at some of the best deals and offers available across a variety of cards and retailer reward schemes.

March 2024

INDUSTRY INTERVIEW

We speak with Ben Quarrell, who has recently set up Sustainability Simplified, a consultancy helping event industry businesses make go greener. Former isla Co-Founder Ben Quarrell and major event expert Poppy Stephenson have launched Sustainability Simplified, a consultancy that helps event and media businesses achieve their sustainability goals quicker. We spoke with Ben about founding the new consultancy, and he shared how his previous experiences led him to the launch. “My background is in event production, and I then moved into sustainability, which I really enjoyed,” Ben said. “Poppy and I have worked really well together. We first collaborated on a festival back in 2008, so we know each other really well. Both of us are really frustrated that a lot of people who have the knowledge about sustainability want to really prove their knowledge, which ends up with things being surrounded in a lot of jargon. It is a difficult topic, but people seem to make it more complicated than it needs to be. There are so many tools on the market now, but you still need somebody who’s got that events knowledge combined with key experience in sustainability to really help companies navigate a simple path through it. So that’s where Poppy and I decided to team up.” It was a more personal reason, however, that got Ben into sustainability initially: “In 2018, when my daughter was born, I was kind of thinking: ‘What am I going to say in ten years’ time when she asks me what I did to alleviate the climate crisis?’ Then,

I spent all my spare time at the agency I was working at finding out how to be more sustainable and basically trained myself up. I read everything I could and tried to really understand the practical elements of what is required.” The idea behind Sustainability Simplified is making a concrete difference without overcomplicating the process: “With consultancy, often people will come in and advise you on what you should do, and then you end up back where you started. We go into a business, understand how they work, and then try to tweak their existing processes incorporate sustainable processes.” Simple practical advice is the name of the game when it comes to getting event industry businesses to start making a difference: “We start off with getting the client understanding what they need to do track their emissions and then start reducing it. It has to be really practical because we understand the science, but the businesses don’t need to understand that they just need steps to start reducing their impact. Without the complicated science behind it, it becomes much easier for event planners to start making practical decisions.” Make a start to achieve your sustainability goals quicker. Contact Ben at Sustainabilitysimplified.co.uk

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

LEADING PROVIDER OF TEMPORARY WATER SUPPLIES & WELFARE SOLUTIONS FOR LARGE SCALE EVENTS Wicked Event Water Services provides quality assured water solutions. Satisfied long-term clients include Glastonbury festival, Victorious Festival, The BBC, ITV and Netflix. During the pandemic we were involved in two nightingale hospitals and a temporary mortuary in London.

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March 2024

SUPPLIERS

STAND Stick in your client’s mind long after the event with these keepable branded products to give out. USB Stick | Express USB Drives

This USB stick has a sleek 360° rotating metal shell, making it a capless twister flash drive, which can be branded with your logo on both sides. Easy to attach to a set of keys or lanyard thanks to the keyring provided as standard, a USB stick is sure to be used by delegates making your brand a part of their daily work life. Expressusbdrives.co.uk

Eco Bottles | Mr Bamboo Cup

Delegates will stay refreshed UK and EU’s leader in bespoke Chilly style branded water bottles, offering high quality, longest lasting bottles. The powder coating to finish all its bottles is what makes them last over 10 years while ensuring they don’t look or feel tired after a few washes. Mr Bamboo Cup also only makes these bottles from recycled materials, making them sustainable in their production. Mrbamboocup.com

Webcam Cover | Flashbay

Steadily becoming a home and work security mainstay, the webcam cover is a unique gift offering which puts a brand’s logo in the eyeline of your clients every day. The Flashbay shield webcam features an adhesive backing that seamlessly fixes to your laptop or computer. The sliding front cover can slide over your webcam and back to reveal your webcam when in use. Your logo and branded message can be screen or photo printed onto the cover for maximum brand awareness. Flashbay.co.uk

Fincley Ice Scraper | Vistaprint

A frosty car window is very typical in this country’s chilly winters making the plastic ice scraper a useful tool all drivers need. The business name can sit on the handle so the brand is in the mind early on in the day. Vistaprint.co.uk

Fidget Cube | Printed 4 You Promotional Products

If you’d like to show your consideration for mental health and inclusion in the workplace, the fidget cube is an updated and modern version of the stress ball. Providing multiple ways to discreetly work off some nervous energy by clicking buttons or flicking switches on each face of the cube, this fidget cube is can be branded and is memorable and current. Printed4you.co.uk

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

March 2024

SUSTAINABILITY

Green Cuisine Event planners have a responsibility to ensure they avoid damaging or wasting natural resources and contributing to unsustainable practices. In reality, the world isn’t always set up for the climate change principles we’re aiming for and catering at large scale sustainable events can be a challenge. Here’s a handy check list.

Produce Check where your food comes from and how it’s made, highly processed foods are bad for the environment since they use more machinery and chemicals to make. Lowering consumption of ultra-processed foods lower greenhouse gas emissions and energy use while guiding you into using fresher ingredients. Keep it local, this will help you to be ethically and socially sustainable to the area you are hosting in while reducing emissions on transport… more on that later.

Managed, at an outdoor festival 90% of single-use plastic items such as straws and cutlery end up as litter. Swapping your food containers for sustainable alternatives such as Green Man Packing which provides 100% compostable catering disposables is the better way to go. Why not upscale your bins; expect to have more waste and place recycling bins frequently throughout your space.

Food Waste

Transportation Packaging

Consider how your food will arrive and how it will be consumes, ask your catering company how they dispose of food packaging. The rising trend of food trucks at events is a great green alternative, but only if your food containers and cutlery are recyclable! According to Waste

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular among small businesses, so selecting a catering company who utilise EVs will improve your carbon footprint significantly, especially if you’ve selected a catering company which isn’t so local. Otherwise, a catering company which doesn’t have to travel long distances to get to you will be a bonus.

Food waste disposal is a large component to sustainable event management. Over ordering food alone contributes to 15 to 20% of food being wasted at every event, according to Kina Events Management. Not only does over ordering flagrantly waste energy and resources but it also wastes crucial budget. The solution? Always make data driven choices by looking at your ticket sales and expected numbers, any extra that you do have to order make sure you have a plan for where it will go. Charities such as UKHarvest and FareShare pick up food from events for free and repurpose it for those most vulnerable, so keep a look out for surplus food charities in your desired area. Any other left-over food look to dispose of it ethically such as composting.

www.hospitalityandeventsnorth.com

INDUSTRY OPINION

Aiming Higher Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) Director, Andrew Harrison, says we need to work more closely together to help create real change in our industry.

Change in our industry can only happen when we are working towards common goals. This was our mindset here at ESSA when we first set about leading on an external report into our industry back in 2018. The results, collected and published by an independent consultant in 2019, showcased an industry full of highly skilled individuals and companies with a love and a passion for what they do. However, it also revealed there are still plenty of improvements to be made, and these improvements have been the basis of our relaunched initiative, ESSA AIMS, which seeks to help make them a reality. Work has included helping contractors

better display their competence and capability to manage health and safety effectively through our comprehensive health and safety accreditation scheme – the first of its kind specific to our industry. Build up and break down time is also of vital importance, and our aim to collectively collaborate on the creation of a scheduling and gangway management framework, in partnership with AEV and AEO members, is central to our future aims. Change does not happen due to the efforts of one singular group. With the current increased pressures on the supply chain, shortage of labour as well as

increasing costs, it is critical to address the issues outlined in the report collectively with our sister associations and wider industry. Now is the time to get everyone on board and improve our ways of working across the industry. From encouraging more suppliers to become accredited, utilising more ESSA members and ESSA Accredited members to working with other organisations to facilitate best practice in our industry, I believe there can only be a bright future ahead for us all. Essa.uk.com

Back. Better. Bolder. Susan Tanner, CEO of the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA), reflects back on the whirlwind of 2023.

Like every NOEA member, 2023 was a whirlwind for me. It was a mixture of intensity, reward, firefighting, winning, and losing. It wasn’t a year for reflection though, so I welcome this opportunity to look back at the year as we also look forward to 2024. Broadly, we have to view 2023 as a success. Not for everyone, and it came at a cost to many. But, with more spectators and audiences flooding back to outdoor events, sporting occasions and musical and cultural festivals, the demand for what we do as an industry has once again been demonstrated.

March 2024

It was not a year where I think many businesses felt in control. We took on what was thrown at us, we handled it in our usual professional and proficient way, and we delivered, again and again. This year, I hope we can build on this success. This year we know we’re back; we know we’re valued, and we know we’re better than we ever have been. This year we can be bold in our planning; we can be experimental in our thinking and ambitious for our audiences. At NOEA we’re advocating for investment and innovation across the industry.

Investment in people and resources and encouraging bravery in ideas and creativity. We’ve all been through so much, but we’re out the other side now. It’s time to not just #BuildBackBetter, but to acknowledge that we’re back, better, and bolder than ever. The NOEA is the UK’s leading trade association representing and progressing the outdoor events sector, get involved at: Noea.org.uk

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safetygeeks is here to keep raising the standards of Health and Safety throughout the industry. The team is active in associations and discussion groups, and often present at conferences and conventions. The business works hard to keep events on the agenda in the Health and Safety world. Providing professional safety advice, documentation and management solutions, the firm has over 30 years of experience and involvement with everything from local community events, large scale parades, indoor and outdoor circus shows, complex multiday corporate exhibitions and outdoor festivals, spectaculars to location shoots and huge interactive installations. The team can also provide pre-event induction and information as well as on-site advice and supervision for your teams, to enable everyone to safely complete their tasks within the work environment. safetygeeks.co.uk

Zero-to-Landfill You’ve probably heard the term, but what does it mean? Louisa Watson, Marketing Director and Sustainability Lead at Wyboston Lakes Resort, explains more. packaging, repair instead of replace, and buy second-hand. Every small action counts!

Myth 1: Zero-to-Landfill Means No Waste at All It’s not true. When an organisation proudly declares itself “Zeroto-Landfill,” it often involves partnering with waste management companies that specialise in waste diversion, moving waste away through a different path.

Myth 5: It’s Too Expensive Investments can save money in the long run. For example, Wyboston Lakes Resort invested in a food digester. This high-tech gadget not only reduces money spent on food waste leaving our site but also produces a rich soil nutrient. As a result, we’ve cut our expenses and significantly reduced our carbon footprint by reducing the need to transport waste away. So, an apparently pricey investment is benefiting both our bottom line and the environment.

Myth 2: Zero-to-Landfill means ‘my waste does not contribute to Green House Gases’ When we divert waste from landfills and instead recycle or convert waste to biofuels, we certainly reduce emissions. However, some greenhouse gas emissions are still associated with waste management, especially in the case of biofuel production.

So, What Does Zero-to-Landfill Really Mean? Zero-to-Landfill is a laudable goal and shows a commitment to reduce waste but it’s not a magic bullet for eradicating all emissions. Rather, it’s about minimising them and making conscious choices to reduce our carbon footprint throughout the waste management process. Progress, not perfection, must be at the heart of sustainability efforts. It’s about recycling, reusing, and finding better ways to deal with waste.

Myth 3: Achieving Zero-to-Landfill Is Impossible It’s not. Many organisations are already partnering with waste experts to recycle, repurpose, and create biofuels from materials that would otherwise go to landfill. So, while total waste elimination might be a tough goal, it’s not impossible.

It’s an ongoing journey toward a greener, cleaner future. See what we’ve been doing here at Wybostonlakes.co.uk/conferences-trainingevents/sustainability.aspx

Myth 4: Zero-to-Landfill is Only for Businesses Everyone can reduce waste by recycling, composting, and being mindful of their consumption. Choose products with minimal

March 2024

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NorthinBrief Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Investment

The Mercure Manchester Piccadilly hotel has announced a new vision, strategy, and investment plan for the hotel that will revolutionise the hotel throughout 2024 and beyond. The strategy will see major investments across the hotel’s high-profile meetings and investment spaces, including its iconic International Suite. It will also see comprehensive modernising of all of its 280 bedrooms, and a new concept and redesign of its entrance. At the same time, the hotel’s leadership will be announcing a series of partnerships and innovations that will change the way the hotel supports its customers and the wider industry. “This is such an exciting time for Manchester, and for us. We’re seeing a complete revolution of our meetings and events skyline and, as one of the most recognised properties in the city, we’re so proud to be a part of it,” comments Andrew Krawec, General Manager. “We’re investing heavily across the hotel, improving our bedrooms, introducing new concepts to the hotel, and building on our already very special meetings and events spaces.” “This isn’t just about the bricks and mortar though, we’re bringing in new and exciting team members, we’re looking at the way we work with our customers to be more dynamic and supportive of them, and we’ll continue to invest in our industry,” continues Andrew. “It’s a crucial part of our strategy, we want to be easy to work with and to offer a meetings and events product that is exciting and full of personality.”

Manchester Central Announces Departure Manchester Central formally announced in January that Shaun Hinds will be stepping down in June from his role as Chief Executive in June 2024 following seven years in the post to become Chief Executive at Newbury Racecourse, Berkshire. Under his leadership, Manchester Central has grown to attract almost half a million visitors per year, contributing £150 million to the regional economy per year to become a major name in the events industry both nationally and internationally. Speaking on his departure, Shaun Hinds, said: “I am very proud of what Manchester Central has achieved during the past seven years. We have grown and expanded the business to achieve a record year in 2022, introduced new and varied events to our schedule, attracted new audiences to the venue and to the city, and we have also regenerated a part of the venue that had been dormant for 20 years. “Although I have decided to step aside and

March 2024

NEWS IN BRIEF

hand the responsibility for leading our great business over to someone new, I have every faith that Manchester Central will continue its strength for the years ahead. “I would like to thank everyone who has shown me support over the years. I will miss the team, the business and Manchester terribly and my fondness and connection with this business will remain with me forever. The decision to leave has been an incredibly difficult one, but sometimes you just know when the time is right. For now however, I will be focusing on continuing to drive Manchester Central in my final months in this incredible role.”

63% of Event Profs Use AI A whitepaper investigating the current and potential impact of AI within the events industry across Europe has been released by The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau. The key findings of the whitepaper were: 63% of associations and not-for-profits are already utilising AI in event organisation. A significant knowledge gap exists, with 72% not engaging in AI education. 85% have no budget for AI training. The whitepaper not only presents a statistical overview of AI in the association events sector, but also offers in-depth analysis and actionable insights. It emphasises the importance of ethical AI use, especially in data management and privacy. The document serves as a call for industry stakeholders to not only engage in learning and applying AI in their operations but to understand the ethics behind its use and the implications for mismanagement of data and individual privacy. “AI is rapidly becoming a key technology across so many different industries, ours is no different,” adds Bas Schot, Head of The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau. “Our industry must adapt swiftly to stay ahead, and this means investing in knowledge and skills that align with these technological advancements. However, we must be careful to protect our delegates and ourselves as we make the most of what AI has to offer – we already need to consider both the pros and the cons before we entrust vital information and data to third parties – AI usage is no different.”

ExCel Report Says Events Must Evolve The business events industry must respond to the changing needs of attendees and organisers post-pandemic, according to Event with Intent, a new report commissioned by ExCeL London. Following a strong post-pandemic return to in-person events throughout 2023, the research set out to understand more about the key drivers behind event visitor behaviour, and the factors influencing event attendance, with over 300 delegates, event organisers and agencies interviewed.

The report calls for the industry to redefine ROI as ‘Return on Intent’ in order to measure and match event demands with outcomes. The research reveals that while ‘Bleisure’ opportunities – the combination of business and leisure – are still relevant, delegates are more focused than ever on maximising the business value of events and conferences, and ‘networking is King’ when it comes to the most important reason to attend a live event. There is also an emerging need for the industry to better recognise and respond to the changing beliefs which delegates have around social and environmental impacts to ensure that the event activity aligns with these new values and intentions.

Beam Competition Winner Announced Ellen Mutimer, Strategic Events and Meetings Consultant at Inntel has won the inaugural Chris Peacock Young Champion of Change Award. beam’s tribute to Chris Peacock, CoFounder of Conference Care, a new award for a young champion of change has been announced. Chris was an integral driving force for the association for many years and a true advocate for encouraging the industry’s talent to shine, a champion of the future generation and for protecting the planet. beam member companies were invited to nominate someone within their organisation aged 25 or under who made a positive impact in their business or in their wider community in 2023. In announcing Ellen as the winner at the recent beam gala dinner at The Slate at the University of Warwick, Becki Hollis, Operations Director of Conference Care, said: “Ellen not only excels in the core values that Chris believed in, she takes genuine pride in helping and supporting those around her. Her compassion for people and the planet is so effortless we’re convinced it’s ingrained in her DNA. She has been involved in some fantastic initiatives to help save the planet, seamlessly merging her passion and profession to make a positive impact.” Judge Becki was joined in assessing the finalists by Robert Kenward at You Search & Select, and Alistair Turner of EIGHTPR. Ellen said: “Winning the Chris Peacock Young Champion of the Year Award was a great surprise. I feel honoured to receive this recognition and extremely proud to be part of such a progressive and dynamic industry. I am eagerly looking forward to all the positive changes that are yet to come.”

741 Awards

Arden Fox Quote Reference HENORTH when enquire 741 Awards

741 Awards is the sole importer of Prism Crystal in the UK. We offer an extensive range of crystal and glass awards and trophies.

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Official VIP Tickets, Hospitality Packages and Private Boxes for corporate or personal entertainment for sport, culture and music events. DIRECTORY • Major League • Motorsport • Rugby info@741.co.uk | Greenway Lane|Fakenham |Norfolk Baseball (MLB) • Concerts • Cricket • Sport Dinners • Culture • Football • Super Bowl LVII • Rowing/Sailing • Boxing • Darts • Golf • Celebrity • American • Horse Racing Experiences Football (NFL • Polo London Games) • Tennis

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FTS offers award winning coach, minibus and managed taxi travel throughout the UK. We have 3 Contact David Gardner | E: david.a.gardner@firsttravelsolutions.com x ISO accreditations, a 24/7/365 M: 0771 886 2490 | Office: 0345 528 0270 Control Centre and free, no obligation quotes. Contact David Gardner | E: david.a.gardner@firsttravelsolutions.com M: 0771 886 2490 | Office: 0345 528 0270

All Souls Bolton All Souls’ is a beautiful historic church (Grade II*) that has been converted for use as a conference, office, learning and community space. As part of this work, the original building was carefully restored. Renovation work began in September 2013 and was completed November 2014. Why not book your meeting or event with us?

Haycock Manor Hotel

The Haycock Manor Hotel is one of the finest hotels in Cambridgeshire. our hotel offers the best of breathtaking scenery and With direct access to the A1 motorway and only 80 miles from London, our hotel is a popular destination to meet, stay and dine. T: 01780 782223 | E: hello@haycock.co.uk W: www. haycock.co.uk

All Souls-Bolton, Astley Street, Bolton, BL1 8EY 01204 385868 | info@allsoulsbolton.org.uk www.allsoulsbolton.org.uk

Aloft Liverpool

MerseyMade

Aloft Liverpool, a hotel housed in the iconic Grade II-listed Royal Insurance Building. The meeting spaces at Aloft Liverpool are versatile, modern, with natural daylight accommodating 120 theatre style. Contact Lisa Graham dos@aloftliverpool.com | 0151 294 4055 www.aloftliverpool.com

MerseyMade: Shop, Café and event space in Liverpool city centre. Visit to find unique gifts, hold a meeting, enjoy a workshop, or even just for coffee and cake. MerseyMade also has a shop in West Kirby. hello@merseymade.uk | 0151 271 7025 www.merseymade.uk

National Whitewater Centre

Amber & Aster Events

Attract, Engage, Retain Events that elevate your success, tailored to help recruitment and talent firms internationally. Enhance business events, save time and outshine competitors.

Embrace getting soaked at the UK's original and best whitewater rafting venue. With 40 years experience, we offer fantastic whitewater rafting adventures on stunning natural rapids. 01678 521083 | info@nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk www.nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk

amberandaster.co | hello@amberandaster.co

Olympus Crew

Applesound

Two-way Tourguide Systems for presentations, exhibition, interpretation, poster or breakout sessions. ‘Silent’ meetings with talkback – let everyone join the conversation. Self-guided tours & exhibits.

A crewing company based in Leeds and London. We provide services such as general crew, carpenters, av technicians, forklift/ipaf operators. Enquire for more details

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March 2024

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