We design and create digital experience and activations for any environment, any event and any occasion.
From a pop-up experience in a retail environment, a brand activation at an exhibition or venue, through to a digital escape room designed for team building, our experiences guarantee to;
• Attract and drive footfall
• Engage and retain an audience
• Educate through storytelling
• Increase marketing opportunities with fully qualified data capture
Premier Birmingham event venue Millennium Point has everything you need to wow your delegates. Page 18.
On National Stress Awareness Day, we find out about the importance of dealing with stressors in the industry. Page 10.
West Midlands Growth Company shows off the region’s fantastic offering for event organisers, plus we look at Coventry & Warwickshire and the East Midlands. Page 16.
The Events Psychologist, Kelly McCormack, tells us about the psychological impacts of event design. Page 13.
Ardencote is offering one of our readers the chance to win an overnight stay for two, including dinner and breakfast. Page 28.
Looking at an international event for your client? Head of Events at Goho, Jess Kiddle, tells us why it’s a great idea. Page 35.
Phil Oldershaw, Owner of Pose Events, discusses the importance of getting the events industry on the UK government agenda. Page 36.
Gareth Hughes, Head of Production at Walk the Plank, creators of outdoor arts, theatre and spectacle, talks us through the risky business of keeping your delegates safe. Page 41.
After Switzerland’s Eurovision win earlier this year, next year’s host city Basel offers easy access to international delegates, as well and some truly impressive venues. Page 46.
Elevate your client’s logo at your next event with our picks of some of the most unique edible items to give delegates something to digest. Page 55.
Benoit Lawrence, Owner of Evolve Talent & Speakers, offers some advice as to how to support a keynote speaker before, during, and after your event. Page 61.
Clive Morris, COO of event insights and measurement platform Explori, explains how its new AI-powered tool simplifies and enhances the post-event feedback process. Page 62.
Preview the Famtastic Awards 2024, set to take place on 1st November, bringing together event professionals from across the country in a celebration of excellence. Page 67.
Welcome to our November edition of H&E North!
This edition we’re shining a spotlight on the Midlands, just in time for CHS Birmingham on 29th October. Feel free to come say hello; we’ll be wandering the floor and you can get your own copy of the mag in the welcome bags! Conveniently located for delegates across the UK and with vibrant cities like Birmingham, Nottingham, and Coventry and the beautiful and historic surrounds, the Midlands is a hub of event potential.
With the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill – more commonly known as Martyn’s Law – recently introduced in Parliament, we’re also taking a look at health and safety as part of our event safety feature.
Walk the Plank talks through using fire at your event, while Grace & Tailor lays out the main areas to consider when ensuring a safe environment at an event.
We have plenty of other exciting features to get stuck into! Win an overnight stay for two at the gorgeous Ardencote. Tackle improving speaker experience, explore the psychology behind event design, and focus on your mental health with our feature on Stress Awareness Week. Plus, with all eyes on the new government, we’re pushing to ensure our industry is fairly represented.
Follow us on socials to stay up to date with the latest news, and we’ll see you next time!
Landy.
ABPCO AEV Benoit Lawrence Charlotte Horler Cirprean Condrea Clive Morris Conference Coventry and Warwickshire ESSA EVCOM
Gareth Hughes Grace & Tailor Hospitality Action
Jess Kiddle June Glacklin Kate Park
Kelly McCormack Meet in Nottingham Meet Leicester MIA
NOEA Paula Kelsey Pauline Beattie Phil Oldershaw Richard Abrahams Sarah Thackary West Midlands Growth Company William Bartholomew Wyboston Lakes
The Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) has announced its 2024 annual conference theme: Sustainable Events: People, Profit, Planet. This year’s conference aims to spark meaningful discussions on how sustainability will shape the future of both businesses and the broader events industry.
Taking place on 5th December at The Warwick Conferences, six insightful sessions have been designed to explore key aspects of sustainability, providing delegates with practical solutions and actionable strategies.
ESSA Director, Andrew Harrison, said: “ESSA continues to lead the way with its provision of education and training on this complex area. Our goal is to simplify the challenges facing supply chains, while also inviting collaboration where members can actively contribute to sustainable solutions. The primary aim of this year’s conference is for attendees to leave feeling equipped with the tools and knowledge to drive sustainable change towards future proofing their companies and therefore the industry.”
The conference will culminate with the ESSA Awards Dinner, where winners across 14 categories will be celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the industry.
Following the annual general meeting of the Association of Event Venues (AEV) held at Silverstone International Conference and Exhibition Centre, the AEV has revealed alterations to the board.
Steve Sayer, Vice President and General Manager at The O2, was re-elected to the board and the following members were formally elected having filled casual vacancies earlier in the year: Rob Wicks, Managing Director at P&J Live; Andy O’Sullivan, CEO of Olympia Events; Sarah Marshall, Venue Director at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre, and Lori Hoinkes, Chief Executive at Manchester Central.
Rachel Parker, AEV Director, welcomed the new board members: “I am delighted to welcome the formally elected and the re-elected members back to the board. We are busier than ever, and I am looking forward to a productive year ahead, starting with our annual conference being held on 14th November at ICC Birmingham.”
Eastside Rooms, Birmingham’s newest conference venue, has revealed a
significant increase in association-based event turnover for 2024 compared to 2023.
In 2023, the venue reported £1.6 million turnover in association focused business. This figure has surged to £2.2 million in 2024 – a 37.5% increase. Looking ahead, 2025 is already set to surpass even these figures, with £1.9 million of association business secured to date.
The venue’s comprehensive and focussed association events strategy has included joining key industry bodies such as the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), as well as working directly with a specialist association representation company and PR agency.
This focus on bringing association gatherings to Eastside Rooms has resulted in a range of major conference wins including Association of Project Management, Women’s Engineering Society, and American Society of Mechanical Engineering. Additionally, it will host ABPCO’s flagship Festival of Learning in 2025.
The Schools Engagement Programme, launched in January 2024 by The Power of Events with grant support from the Events Industry Forum has announced that Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) has been confirmed as exclusive sponsor of the Edinburgh region.
EICC’s support will enable The Power of Events, in partnership with local event professionals volunteering as Schools Ambassadors, to deliver a unique event industry showcase and overview of career opportunities to secondary schools and colleges across the region, starting in spring 2025.
The programme has already attracted over 200 school ambassador industry volunteers across the country willing to support the programme when it lands in their region or city.
The EICC is supporting the programme to help foster widespread awareness and enthusiasm for a career in the events industry.
Marshall Dallas, CEO of the EICC, commented: “We look forward to our partnership with The Power of Events team, the sponsorship of the Schools Engagement Programme, and the positive outcomes we can achieve together. For the past ten years, the EICC has actively promoted careers in our dynamic industry through initiatives such as our student open days and by welcoming school groups to the EICC.”
The finalists for the Event Technology Awards 2024 (ETA) have been officially announced, celebrating the companies, products, and individuals pushing the boundaries of innovation in the event technology industry. The winners will be announced on day one of Event Tech Live on 20th November.
Now in its 12th year, the ETAs continue to recognise and reward outstanding achievements in event tech, from the latest software and hardware to the brightest minds shaping the future of events. The 2024 finalists represent a diverse range of categories, including Best Event Management Platform, Best Hybrid Event Solution, Best Use of AI in Events, and many more.
Adam Parry, Co-founder of the ETAs, said: “The calibre of entries this year has been nothing short of extraordinary. As the event technology landscape continues to evolve, we’re seeing groundbreaking solutions that are reshaping how events are planned, delivered, and experienced. The 2024 finalists have truly raised the bar, and we can’t wait to see how these innovations continue to shape the future of our industry.”
Glasgow and the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) are reporting the continued increase in delegate numbers across major European conferences. This growth is underlined by the recent success of the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO), which attracted over 7,000 delegates which is the largest ESTRO congress held to date and underlines a growing trend of major congresses expanding in the city.
The news follows the announcement that the AC Forum will be holding its Annual Meeting in January 2025. To date, over 50% of AC Forum members have hosted or are hosting their meeting at the SEC, again underlining the city’s natural affinity with members of the organisation and its ability to work with European congress organisers.
Katleen Warden, Director of Conference Sales at the SEC, commented: “There has been tremendous leadership from our ambassadors and the scientific community within Glasgow to attract and grow these exceptional meetings. We are delighted that events prosper in our city.”
Louisa Watson, Marketing Director & Sustainability Lead at Wyboston Lakes Resort, gives her take on how Gen Z is changing the face of event catering.
Food has become so much more than a necessity – it’s a key part of our social vibe, especially for Gen Z and Gen Alpha. For these younger generations, food isn’t just about eating; it’s a full-on experience. Beige, boring meals simply won’t cut it anymore! Today, food needs to have a story, a personality – and platforms like Instagram and TikTok have taken that to the next level, giving visually exciting, creative dishes their own spotlight.
For Gen Z, food needs to be quick, unfussy, vibrant, and most importantly, delicious. Think colourful, bold flavours that pack a punch, with values baked in – whether it’s sustainability, plant-based options, or locally sourced ingredients. It’s not just about how food tastes, it’s about how it makes you feel – fresh, wholesome, and perfect for a fast-paced, always-on-thego lifestyle.
But here’s the thing: it’s not just about looks or trends – what we eat plays a massive role in how our brains function. At events or conferences, food has to keep attendees alert, engaged, and inspired. Foods rich in healthy fats, like seeds (flaxseeds, chia seeds) or walnuts, and those packed with antioxidants like berries, are perfect for keeping brains in top gear. Add in whole grains for a steady energy boost, and you’ve got the perfect mix to keep people focused and fuelled – no post-lunch slump in sight!
When it comes to conferences, the challenge is real. Chefs have to handle volume, cost, and sustainability while still keeping things exciting. Gone are the days of predictable, mass-produced meals. Delegates want food that’s not only fresh and fun but also reflects the
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a very hot topic. Rarely a day passes without it being mentioned at events or in discussions.
As a sector we were slow to adopt AI. Earlier this year, only 13% of us were utilising it to support our day-to-day operations, according to results gathered from our quarterly mia Insights. Six months later, however, that figure has almost tripled, with 36% now using AI daily to perform tasks such as drafting RFPs and handling customer enquiries. What’s more, 81% believe AI has a key role to play in our sector’s future.
While it’s encouraging to see the industry
things they care about – like zero waste and sustainable sourcing.
This is where creativity and a bit of resourcefulness come in. Chefs are stepping up, rethinking how food is prepared and served to meet these new expectations. They’re embracing local, sustainable sourcing, cutting food waste, and delivering menus that are bold, beautiful, and budget-friendly. It’s all about finding the sweet spot between deliciousness and sustainability while making sure every plate looks like it’s ready for the ‘Gram.
Wybostonlakes.co.uk
As businesses in the industry rapidly embrace AI, Kerrin MacPhie, Chief Executive of the Meetings Industry Association (MIA) questions whether we are fully prepared.
embracing technological advancements, this rapid adoption comes with some concerns. How many of us understand what AI is and what it can do?
Not many, it seems. Our research revealed that just 22% of the sector consider their workforce to hold a high understanding of AI, while less than 24% have a dedicated policy regarding its usage.
As Katie King, author and CEO of AI in Business, says, it’s great to see that some in the sector have embraced the use of AI tools for activities such as copywriting. However, as there are multiple AI services available, the expert advises a more cautious approach.
Katie, who will be sharing her knowledge in
her forthcoming keynote at the miaSummit in Liverpool on 7th November, recommends businesses take a strategic approach to AI, by setting out clear objectives and a roadmap. She also advocates staying abreast of regulation and compliance in this area, which is also moving very fast.
I, for one, am looking forward to hearing more from Katie next month, but in the meantime, if you’re taking the AI plunge, ensure you’re fully prepared before you do.
Readers can keep up to date with sector developments, guidance and advice by following the Meetings Industry Association on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.
Mia-uk.org
Here are some of the top new venues in the North and Scotland to consider for your next event.
A former working stables yard dating back to 1884 has been preserved, restored, and transformed to become a venue that is now home to unique event spaces. The 20,000 sq. ft Grade II listed development – overlooking the River Wear and next to the Stadium of Light – includes two reimagined rooms, each accommodating up to 60 guests (or 120 capacity combined) and includes an adjoining private bar. The Bridlepath is a modern and contemporary spaces that includes full length feature window with scenic views over the River Wear. The Hayloft offers heritage and rustic charm with many original historic features such as wooden trusses and fixtures. Both spaces can be hired for company meetings, breakfast seminars, networking groups, training days, industry workshops, conferences, and more. These event spaces can also accommodate different layouts including theatre, classroom, boardroom, U-shape, cabaret, cocktail, and banquet, with bespoke catering options also available.
Sheepfoldsstables.co.uk
Glasgow Marriott Hotel has recently been refurbished and has now opened all its new meeting rooms that are great for large meetings in the heart of the city. There are 14 multipurpose event spaces, including two function suites and 10 enhanced meeting rooms. The largest meeting room – The Clyde Suite – has 565 sq. metres of space and is designed to accommodate large events of up to 600 people for gatherings including conferences, exhibitions, and gala dinners. The Clyde Suite also boasts 10 breakout rooms that are equipped with the latest
audiovisual technology for smaller meetings and gatherings. There are 303 spacious rooms available at Glasgow Marriott Hotel, perfect for hosting events with a larger delegate number.
Marriott.com
A £1.5 million refurbishment has recently taken place at Mallory Court which has seen a makeover of its 19 luxury bedrooms in the manor house to reflect the ten acres of countryside in which the venue sits. The bedrooms – all of which have their own individual character – now marry together countryside décor with a nod to the influence of art deco. Mallory Court offers bespoke packages to suit any event needs. With its high ceilings and sleek décor, the Knights Suite has the wow factor for exhibitions and product launches. There are also four other event spaces that can accommodate up to 160 delegates for meetings, conferences, and dinners.
Mallory.co.uk
Launched in August, The Forest Courtyard is located a very short distance away from The Venue at Sherwood Forest Center Parcs. It’s in the heart of a tranquil forest and is equipped with large-scale teepees for workshops and presentations. The venue is a versatile outdoor space and can be used as an additional breakout area for conferences, or for al fresco dining, drinks receptions, wellness sessions, and nature inspired team building activities. The Forest Courtyard is available as an add on to corporate booking at Sherwood Forest from March to October every year.
Centerparcs.co.uk
Edinburgh’s newest hotel is due to open next year. The Hoxton will be comprised of 214 rooms, three self-contained apartments, multiple event spaces, and an Italian restaurant. The site is split across two sides of Grosvenor Street and spread across 11 terraced Georgian townhouses. The Get Together will be The Hoxton’s biggest event space for larger celebrations such as conferences and awards ceremonies. It will be able to accommodate up to 250 delegates and can be split into two versatile rooms, The Get Up – with a skylight and stage –and The Get Down – a pre-event area with built in stage and bar. There’ll also be meeting rooms in the hotel that can accommodate up to 31 people. The Living Room is a contemporary townhouse space that features an expandable wall which can be removed to join with the Drawing Room next door, another meeting room which will seat up to 16 people.
Thehoxton.com/Edinburgh
A project at The Belfry in the West Midlands is due for completion next year that will see its 852 sq. metres event space – The Masters Suite – built and designed to host up to 920 delegates. The Masters Suite will also be able to be divided into smaller spaces, so it will have flexibility for a number of events. There’ll be a large pre-function area including a mezzanine level, outdoor terrace, and an executive boardroom. The Green, the hotel’s versatile outdoor team building space, is situated opposite The Masters Suite and is designed to meet the diverse need of event organisers. The interior design of the suite draws in the colours of the hotel and resort’s surroundings, using soft green tones, complemented by gold accents. Expansive floor to ceiling windows will provide panoramic views over the Brabazon golf course, flooding the space with natural light and making it a striking backdrop for any event.
Thebelfry.com
Check out some of the best software on the market to assist with budget management at your next event.
Effective budget management is one of the most important processes for the success of events, where costs can quickly spiral out of control without the right tools to manage them. Luckily, there’s help available to offer innovative solutions that not only streamline logistics but also enhance financial planning. Today’s slick, user-friendly software has meant that managing your event’s finances is easier than ever. From real-time tracking of expenses to tools for supplier management and ROI analysis, apps and software is on hand to provide data-driven decisions, optimise resources, and stay within budget every time.
InEvent’s event management software offers solutions to organise spend management and improve decision making, whether your event is online, hybrid, or in-person. The software helps to overcome challenges and guides you in navigating budget complexities through real-time budget tracking and identifying cost-saving opportunities which helps in optimising spending and ensuring the event stays within financial targets. To ensure you’re getting the best value and quality for your money, InEvent simplifies supplier selection by offering streamlined proposal comparison and easy management of supplier interactions. There are also tools to monitor the status of payments to suppliers available, efficiently tracking payment status to ensure timely and accurate payments. The software will also automate follow-ups for efficiency and generate concise reports throughout the planning process to help you stay on track.
Inevent.com
Software available from Cvent is designed to give a comprehensive view of spending and make ROI information readily available to stakeholders, turning your finances into data for easy presentation. You’ll be able to analyse key aspects of spend – such as spend by category and spend by vendor – view actual versus estimated spend breakdowns, and access at-a-glance reporting with a summary page. There are unlimited budget templates on offer that use formulae to calculate savings and to eliminate any inefficiencies to help you save time and maintain consistency across every event. You can also easily manage all your cards – both physical and virtual – in one location; an integrated solution that allows you to track how your cards are being used.
Cvent.com/uk
Adaptive Planning is Workday’s event budget management software that uses embedded AI and machine learning to empower faster, smarter decisions by eliminating mundane tasks and providing recommendations. Tools available through Adaptive Planning will track expenses such as venue costs, catering, and marketing against the budgeted amounts in real-time and will ensure better financial control and visibility. The software enables users to create financial forecasts and perform ‘what if’ scenarios to evaluate the financial impact of any possible situations that may occur during the planning process. Collaboration features means that you can link workforce plans to financial models and provide up-to-date plans and costs for your whole team.
Workday.com/en-gb
EventPro’s Financial Management Suite has customisation at the heart of it, offering many optional modules so event organisers can tailor the software to meet specific needs. Whether it’s creating budgets per event or analysing data from your entire database, the budgeting software will simplify tracking expenses and revenue. There are budget templates to suit whatever kind of event you’re planning and real-time updates that will automatically reflect any changes you make. You’ll get streamlined invoicing and payment processing, efficient budget management, and expense tracking which integrate with many popular accounting systems – such as QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics, Adept, and many more – ensuring an accurate flow of financial data. Any individual modules can be purchased separately, or you can take advantage of the convenience of the entire integrated suite.
Eventprosoftware.uk
For National Stress Awareness Day on 2nd November, we spoke with Richard Abrahams, a mental health speaker, about how event profs can help combat stressors in an industry where stress is a huge factor.
Recent research from The Culture Creators Report 2023 found that 79% of event professionals find their roles more stressful than ever before. From managing tight deadlines and coordinating multiple suppliers to handling last-minute changes and ensuring client satisfaction, event profs face a unique set of pressures that can lead to chronic stress or burnout that can impact both physical and mental wellbeing.
In 2018, Managing Director of a Leeds based business Elmhurst, Richard Abrahams, suffered from mental health issues that were a product of the pressures of running his business and the stressors of everyday life. After overcoming his problems, Richard is now passionate about spreading awareness about mental health and encouraging people experiencing stress to speak up before it’s too late.
Richard tells us about his personal journey with stress, and how it affected him: “I knew there was something wrong because there was a lot going on within myself, both physically and mentally. I told myself that there must be something wrong with me physically, which in hindsight was probably me masking it but I never even thought about it being stress related. I saw the doctor and described my symptoms, and they told me that it was anxiety, depression, and general stress. Initially, I said that can’t be the case – I was in definitely in denial.”
Stress is inevitable and unfortunately unavoidable in everyday life, particularly in the events industry with the constant juggling of tasks combined with the need for perfection from clients: “The analogy I was
given when I was unwell was that everyone has a so-called stress bucket, we all live with a percentage of stress that’s day-to-day worries such as family issues, paying the bills, and work-related problems. These can be relatively easy to handle so the bucket isn’t always full. However, if you don’t try to destress and deal with these things, the stress bucket is at the point of overload and you feel choked, by which time it’s too late.”
What we don’t realise is that the relationship between mental and physical is so intertwined, mental illness is a culmination of both physical and mental issues.
Warning signs that stress is getting unmanageable can take many different forms, whether it’s emotional, physical, cognitive, or behavioural, and a lot of people don’t realise how closely linked they all are: “In my case, things came on quicker than I anticipated. The anxiety was spiralling out of control quicker than the medication could keep up, it was unmanageable. The physical symptoms of headaches and weird sensations all through my body – that I still can’t explain – were so prominent, I googled them and convinced myself it was a neurological disease. I developed insomnia, that was when I knew something
was very wrong. The two other main things I experienced were irritability and the inability to make even the smallest decisions. Just deciding whether I wanted to go to the shops was a huge struggle. Even though there was clearly an issue, I didn’t really want to accept that it was the start of mental health problems.”
Manageable stress is one thing, but stress that gets out of hand is a huge factor to mental health issues. There’s an undeniable link between stress and mental health.
Richard believes that one of the most vital ways to manage stress is to view how you manage your lifestyle and the way that you work: “People always talk about a work life balance and that is so important. It can be difficult to switch off from work especially in the events industry where its all on, but there are ways to manage it, simple prep to alleviate the problems that may be coming on.”
Not having a typical nine to five structure can make it challenging to create a work life balance. Finding time to step away from work and define and set clear boundaries is invaluable: “In today’s world, we’re always looking at emails, calls, and messages that are coming in sometimes 24/7 and it can be difficult stop yourself. Just switch your phone off when you are off duty! The times where I turn it off feel so good every time, it’s amazing how much better you can feel. I’ve learnt to listen to my body so if I wake up feeling drained after dealing with work, I know I need to take a bit of time away from it. It’s easy to feel guilty about taking time for yourself but taking even just a few minutes out of your day is invaluable.”
In 2021, the University of Hertfordshire conducted research about stress, mental health, and wellbeing in the events industry where 205 event profs from around the UK participated by answering surveys about stress at work. It was found that the most common coping strategy for when things get stressful at work is using exercise to release stress and tension. Not only is exercise great for physical health, but the impact it can have on your mental wellbeing is huge. Exercise can help to distract your mind from the challenges you may be facing, as well as increasing the productions of your brains feel-good neurotransmitters, endorphins, that will improve your mood.
Drawing from his own experiences, Richard advises people that are struggling with their stress levels to talk about it, whether
it’s to friends, family, or colleagues: “Once you know and recognise when the feelings are coming on in any shape or form, get the advice immediately, open up, and talk to the right people. The importance of speaking up is the basic, going for a coffee, beer, or even just a walk with a colleague will make you feel so much better.”
For more information on Richard, and how he can help you to manage workplace stress, visit Richardabrahams.co.uk Struggling to deal with stress? Visit Mentalhealth.org.uk
Discover our central Manchester venue9 sustainable spaces, now with added EVENTSmart!
We’re at CHS Birmingham with Meet Manchester, why not drop by and say hello to us on stand C35?
For further information visit us at: www.thestudio.co.uk call us on 0800 028 6694
I’m Richard... I’ve been closing business in the direct sales industry for 32 years, namely, double glazing, no wonder I went it bit crazy! In 2018, I suffered severely with my mental health and was admitted to a Psychiatric hospital for treatment. During my road to recovery, I decided to devote my time and passion to helping others and today I speak across the UK telling “my story”. Listen to me talk about men’s vulnerability, the mask of masculinity, the challenges of running an SME and the humorous encounters of the work of a double-glazing salesman! As a member of the Inner Game of Sales Institute I’ll expose why the “wise buyer of today” has the power and how the role of the sales person has been challenged.
Today, event profs are increasingly prioritising the social impact of events, aiming to create meaningful emotional connections. Event design goes much further than aesthetics and Instagram appeal. The visual setup of an event plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere and influences the mood and behaviour of delegates. A thoughtfully designed event space not only enhances the overall experience but also creates an environment that will ultimately contribute to the success of the event.
Kelly McCormack has worked in events management for over 10 years after graduating university with a degree in psychology, and is set to be this year’s keynote speaker at CHS Birmingham. Over the years, Kelly has combined her knowledge in both fields and created The Events Psychologist, a collection of research that event profs can use to enhance their events by delving into delegate’s psyches. Kelly highlights the importance of stepping into delegates’ shoes to do this: “When designing an event, you need to take into consideration social psychology and how people behave. This can get a little lost when budgets and resources come
The Events Psychologist, Kelly McCormack, tells us about the psychological impacts of event design.
into play but knowing your attendees is important. Another prominent part of modern-day events is cognitive psychology because there can be such a wide range of delegates who all think differently. You have to take an extra bit of time during the planning stages to think about how
has a huge effect on mood and emotions. Take into consideration the type of playlist you want and what you want the tone to be as upbeat songs will create an energetic and lively atmosphere and slower, more melodic songs will make delegates feel calm and relaxed.”
“One of the key motivators for delegates is escapism, events should allow them to step away from everyday life.”
your event will look to a variety of different people.”
According to the emotional design theory by Don Norman, there are three levels of design that elicit different emotional responses: visceral, behavioural, and reflective. Visceral design refers to the subconscious reaction to the appearance of the event, such as lighting, sound, and colours, as Kelly explains: “There’s been so much research into sensory stimulation and how it affects short- and long-term memory. The conclusion from them all is usually the same, it’s all about feelings. If you can make your attendees, feel really good, they’ll retain information for a much longer time. Music psychology is also important as music
Behavioural design refers to the functional aspects of an event, such as the layout and usability. This is particularly important for reducing stress and anxiety levels for nervous delegates as well as catering to neurodivergent people: “Environmental psychology is super important here. Things like the temperature of the space, how big it is, and if there are any quiet rooms available all need to be considered,” says Kelly. “Both physical and mental space play a huge part in encouraging networking and reflection”
Reflective design is all about the cultural aspects of the event, such as the meaning, value, and identity. Reflective design can influence the attitude and preference of delegates, as well as their loyalty and advocacy of the event. A meaningful and relevant theme is more likely to resonate with and inspire delegates than one that is irrelevant or uninteresting: “When companies host an event, they’ve usually put a lot of money into it so will try and pack out the agenda. However, allowing attendees to have space and time to talk and think about what they’ve just experienced means that it’s going to stay with them for a lot longer.”
Find Kelly on Instagram @The.events.psychologist
Understanding event tech has become essential for profs looking to be at the top of their game and keep up to date with a constantly evolving industry. Developing your understanding of the many different mediums of event tech will provide the skills needed to integrate these tools into business and make for a more efficient workflow. By mastering technologies such as AI, virtual event platforms, and data analytics, operations can be streamlined, and business operations improved.
Co-Chair of the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers, ABPCO, Pauline Beattie commented: “We know that the events industry effectively deploys new technology for events via comprehensive digital platforms and innovative apps, as well as AI and AV software used to deliver exciting and engaging productions and in pre- and post-event communications. So, as well as more formal educational courses, I believe that keeping your operational skills fresh is an important way to ensure you are a relevant and useful proposition to your existing and prospective employers. The good news is that these technology solutions are often supported with modular online training programmes – and these are often free.”
Cvent has many resources available to further your career, including Work Smarter Not Harder: Leveraging Technology to Deliver Impactful Events – a free webinar in partnership with the Financial and Insurance
We find out how improving your knowledge base of event tech can develop your career and round up some of the best resources to help.
Conference Professionals. It brings industry leaders together to discuss their approach to leveraging event technology to work smarter. The webinar covers how to build a strategy around your approach to event tech and get the word out across your organisation, prioritising technology needs for your meetings and events programme, and leveraging technology and delegate engagement data to drive greater ROI on your event investment.
Cvent.com
London School of International Business has a course called the Professional Certificate in Event Technology Tools which delves into key topics such as event management software, ticketing and registration platforms, virtual event platforms, and social media integration. Through real-world case studies and hands-on exercises, you will gain practical insights to enhance your event planning capabilities. The programme approach helps you to leverage cuttingedge technology tools effectively, ensuring successful and engaging events. Expert instructors will guide you through practical applications and best practices, ensuring you graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the world of event technology.
Lsib.co.uk
The Intro to AI for Event Profs guide by Smart Event Academy is designed with the event tech and AI newbie in mind as a comprehensive and easy-to-use starting point, even if you’ve never stepped into the world of event tech before. There’s three step-by-step training videos that will walk you through how to use AI intelligently to enhance your event, seven event specific prompts that cover range of the event design and delivery experience, and five AI best practices for you to follow.
Aiforeventprofs.com
EventAcademy is a two-week course from InEvent that’ll equip you with the skills to navigate the InEvent platform like a professional. It’s been created with a mix of live and on demand content to cover the intricate details of InEvent. You can choose as many courses as you need, with options for everything from the basics of designing your event agenda and registration to managing virtual audiences using different hardware and learning the A-Z of streaming live events. The completion of this course will allow you to establish your status as a hybrid and digital event management company, with the InEvent official seal and backlink.
Inevent.com
Farm Adventure in Shropshire promises to get your team’s head out of the office, bring everyone closer together, and boost employee morale, engagement, and motivation. The farm champions sustainable farming, farm diversification, homely meeting spaces, and inclusive activities that are suitable for all.
Activities include sheep gathering, tractor driving, welly wanging, pig herding, and more! You can enjoy a home-reared BBQ, gorgeous rustic meeting spaces, spending more time out in the countryside, and connecting with nature! Build a package with the team, choosing from either The Ultimate Farmer or The Farmer Warrior — depending on how competitive your team are — and have the opportunity to win the coveted Welly Boot Trophy for outstanding farmer skills! Farmadventure.co.uk
Team building event company Eventurous has got both indoor and outdoor activities covered, with a free venue finding service. The business has a whole host of fun activities to suit your needs, with capabilities to host 10 to 100 participants.
Test the brainpower of your team with The Lost Pages, a team building activity that will take you on a journey through ancient temples and lost cities, as you search for the answers to riddles illustrated in the lost pages of an adventurer’s journal. If you’re looking for more physical activities, you can book an outdoor soapbox derby, multi activity days, and much more to get active.
Eventurous.co.uk
Based in the heart of Sherwood Forest, Centre Parcs is an ideal location for team building activities for teams of all sizes. With around 200 activities to choose from – whether its motivational, problem solving, or a negotiation activity – there’s something for everyone.
Try the Mission Impossible themed challenge, where your team will navigate through the forest to complete a series of tasks to earn points that’s a test of teamwork, orienteering, and problem solving. Or if you’re looking for something to unleash your teams’ daredevil side, take them to one of the adrenaline-fuelled treetop adventure courses, from aerial adventure and tree trekking to a 10-metre platform to jump off.
Centreparcs.co.uk
For a totally unique experience, Shrewsbury Prison – a 200-yearold, decommissioned prison which now serves as a multi-purpose tourist attraction – is a great option if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary for your team building activity; it’s an immersive experience from the moment you step through the gates.
There’s axe throwing, prison themed escape rooms, and archery wars for your team to sink their teeth into, as well as a ghost tour in a Victorian heritage building to test their bravery! As well as a range of activities, the prison is home to flexible conference and meeting spaces that can be used with one of the team building packages to build meaningful work relationships and strengthen morale.
Shrewsburyprison.com
We round up some great ideas in the Midlands to strengthen your team, bring them together, and most importantly have fun!
The Bear Grylls Adventure is a collection 11 activities, all of which offer their own challenges and encourage guests to push their limits. Based in Birmingham, this attraction will challenge your team and build on the core skills of resilience, cooperation, and synergy.
The experience is home to the highest high ropes course in Europe and has a free roam structure where your team can create their own adventure. For something different and exciting, take your team day out underwater with the shark dive and cage snorkel where you can explore a tropical tank that’s home to over 1,000 aquatic creatures, including blacktip reef sharks!
Thebeargryllsadventure.com
West Midlands Growth Company shows off the region’s fantastic offering
A vibrant region in the heart of England, Birmingham and the West Midlands is renowned for its dynamic business environment. With excellent transport links and extensive rail and road networks, the West Midlands is easily accessible and enjoys a diverse range of event spaces.
Between 7th and 11th April, the West Midlands hosted SportAccord, dubbed ‘the Olympics for sporting event organisers’, showcasing once again the region’s ability to deliver world-class events and experiences.
Described as both the “busiest SportAccord exhibition ever” and the “best SportAccord to date”, the five-day global event welcomed 1,700 delegates from over 65 countries (including 46 national governing bodies, 125 International Federations and 650 different organisations). During the event, it was announced that a new Sports Quarter would be created in Birmingham, featuring a world-class stadium and events space for Birmingham City Football Club, all within walking distance to the city centre.
Other major events to take place in the West Midlands in the past 12 months include the Conservative Party Conference; ACM International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management; and the British Educational Research Association (BERA) conference.
One of the region’s key event spaces, Resorts World Arena in Solihull has been renamed following a new partnership between bp Pulse and the NEC Group. Since September, the arena has been known as bp Pulse LIVE.
It is intended that bp pulse LIVE will be a top choice for EV drivers attending events. With its 15,600 capacity arena and one of the UK’s largest public EV charging hubs (180 charging bays), the venue rebranding marks a significant moment in the collaboration between the events and transport sectors.
Two of the West Midlands’ worldclass academic institutions celebrate anniversaries in 2025.
Founded in 1900 as the UK’s first civic university, the University of Birmingham turns 125 and has a great variety of events spaces for organisers, including The Bramall (capacity: 419), The Great Hall (548sqm of flat-floored space) and Edgbaston Park Hotel (up to 240 delegates).
The University of Warwick celebrates its 60th anniversary and has 300 flexible meeting spaces as part of its Warwick Conferences collection. These include a 1,200 capacity in the concert hall of Warwick Arts Centre and Oculus, a two-tiered auditorium with 500seat and 250-seat lecture theatres.
The West Midlands continues to evolve to offer the very best experience for event organisers and delegates.
Continues on page 21
Premier Birmingham event venue Millennium Point has everything you need to wow your delegates.
Millennium Point’s stunning Auditorium is famed for holding Birmingham’s biggest screen. It is an incredible sight to behold and is sure to take your presentation to the
advantage of the Auditorium’s cutting-edge AV offer which includes a digital mixing desk with 40 input channels, high-fidelity audio, an intelligent LED lighting system, and mounted
Birmingham to discuss the future of maritime innovation. To bring their vision to life, the conference organisers were able to take
events@millenniumpoint.org.uk. They are looking forward to helping you present your perfect event.
Hi Charlotte! Tell us about a typical day for you...
Typically, in hospitality no day is ever the same which I love! Whether it’s working alongside the conference and banqueting team to help plan an event or working with the events team to create a new themed seasonal afternoon tea, I’m involved with all departments across the whole hotel. Inbetween department meetings, employee training, budget planning, marketing, and sales strategy, I often like to also get involved with the wider hospitality industry, mentor colleagues and represent the hotel at awards and events.
Sounds busy! How did you get to this point in your career?
I’ve been working in hospitality since I was a teenager as my parents both worked in hospitality when I was a child. For someone who wasn’t overly academic and thrives off no two days being the same, a career in hospitality made sense. I started off my career at Walton Hall & Walton Hotel when I was a late teen as a receptionist and from then the rest is really history. I managed to work my way to Front of House Manager and then to Operations Manager and Deputy General Manager before taking on my role as Hotel Manager 18 months ago now. I have also been fortunate to be awarded both The Caterer’s Acorn Scholarship in 2016 and an Acorn Award in 2018 which really helped to accelerate my career.
We speak to Charlotte Horler, Hotel Manager at The Grand Hotel Birmingham, to find out what her working day looks like.
The versality of my role. Being at the heart of the hotel and involved with every department means I get sight of everything and everyone at the hotel. Our team is truly one of the best and I enjoy being able to support all the teams where I can. Being based at the hotel means I meet our guests, visitors and delegates everyday and there’s nothing better than seeing people genuinely happy from the service and product that you and your team are offering.
It’s hard to pinpoint just one thing, but if I had to, it would be The Grand Ballroom. We’re so lucky to have such a historic and large event space right in the heart of Birmingham. We can host gala dinners, residential conferences, large weddings, and most recently themed afternoon teas for families and individuals to experience the grandeur of the ballroom for themselves.
Following our major refurbishment and only reopening just three years ago, the hotel now features 185 guest rooms and suites along with our Madeleine Bar, Isaac’s restaurant and nine meeting and event spaces. The dedicated board rooms and suites combine the period character of the hotel with modern technology and a dedicated team of chefs to serve business breakfasts to working lunches. Our outside terrace can be used as an extension to our dedicated breakout spaces, and we can host workshops from morning yoga to wine tasting team building events.
We are also fortunate to have so many unique spaces combined with our awardwinning F&B outlets.
For example, our award-winning Madeleine Cocktail Bar, a Parisian-chic bar with tasty cocktails and an impressive afternoon tea offering is available for smaller events. Isaac’s Restaurant is a New York meets Brum conceptual restaurant with its own graffiti-style entrance which can be rented out exclusively for team parties or intimate events.
I can’t express enough just how significant The Grand Hotel Birmingham has been in elevating the hospitality scene in the city. Our offering is truly one of its kind in Birmingham and we can’t wait to welcome you!
Thegrandhotelbirmingham.co.uk
Continued from page 16
The Belfry Hotel & Resort is set to unveil its new flagship event space, The Masters Suite, in September 2025, a month earlier than planned. Spanning 852 sq. metres, the suite features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the room with natural light. It can be divided into smaller sections for added flexibility, with a spacious pre-function area, mezzanine, outdoor terrace, and executive boardroom. Located opposite The Green, The Belfry’s outdoor team-building area, this space caters to the diverse needs of clients, organisers, and attendees. With 468 bedrooms and 23 meeting rooms, The Belfry remains a top choice for meetings and events in the region.
The Eastside Rooms is the latest member of Birmingham’s globally leading business events scene. Launched in 2021, it has quickly made its name as a contemporary and classy place to do business, and a stunning backdrop for events of every kind. This year it celebrated a 37.5% increase in turnover compared with the previous 12 months, showcasing the venue’s growing reputation and influence within the sector.
The Eastside Rooms, providing organisers with over 2,000 sq. metres of events space and a variety of meeting rooms, is conveniently located next door to the Aloft Birmingham Eastside. Part of the Marriott family, the hotel boasts 195 guest rooms, a cocktail lounge, and 120-seater restaurant. Birmingham’s Eastside area also features other popular conference and events venues including Conference Aston, Millennium Point, and the Clayton Hotel.
Radisson has been announced as Edgbaston Stadium’s hotel partner as the world-class sporting venue unveiled more details of its award-winning masterplan redevelopment over the summer. The proposed Radisson RED Birmingham Edgbaston Stadium (part of the group’s RED lifestyle 4-star brand) will feature 146 rooms, including 85 with pitch-facing balconies. It is
expected to be finished by 2027 – in time for the men’s Ashes Test against Australia in that year. Edgbaston Stadium’s event spaces can accommodate 10 to 800 people, with many boasting a panoramic view of the iconic cricket pitch.
Working alongside event organisers, Birmingham and the West Midlands Convention Bureau offers expert advice, guidance and insight with invaluable support to ensure that both organisers and delegates receive the best experience and welcome.
The Bureau, part of the West Midlands Growth Company, provides industry professionals with a range of free services to deliver successful events in the region. These include accommodation booking, venue location and social programme planning.
To learn more about Birmingham and the West Midlands Convention Bureau, call 0121 202 5100, email bcb.conferencesales@wmgrowth.com or visit Meetbirmingham.com
For an inspiring destination to host your next event, look no further than Leicestershire. With a diverse range of venues and an array of leisure options, there are many reasons to bring your next event to this incredible destination. The choice of city and county venues includes large-scale conference centres, contemporary boutique hotels, visitor attractions, and sports stadia, all centrally located in the heart of the country.
Its location of course means excellent transport links, with direct bus services from Luton and Heathrow airports, and train journeys from central London taking just over an hour to reach the city. Leicester is located close to three major motorways, less than 20 miles from East Midlands Airport, and under an hour away from Birmingham Airport, so it’s a great destination with easy access for both domestic and international delegates.
Leicester is a city with a proud sporting heritage and there are many facilities which have an outstanding range of flexible spaces. Leicester Racecourse and the Elite Athletes Centre and Hotel on Loughborough University campus are ideal for events, meetings, and conferences with purpose-built space, along with on-site accommodation, car parking, unique locations, tailored programmes, and topclass service with high-tech conference facilities.
Adjacent to Leicester Tigers’ Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium is the 191-room Voco Leicester hotel, which offers spaces for sophisticated and fun corporate hospitality. A new event room concept is available with a versatile space that can be divided
into three multi-functional rooms, capable of accommodating all manner of events including meetings, celebrations, and even screenings as it boasts state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and lighting.
In the city, The Gresham Aparthotel’s £17 million development saw this Grade II listed Victorian building transformed into a highend, 121-room aparthotel. Completing the extensive development is 12,000 sq. ft of conference facilities and state-of-the-art co-
working spaces. Another one of the newest hotel arrivals is the Novotel complex which comprises a 154-room hotel with executive, junior suites, a presidential suite, and a 98room aparthotel. There are also meeting spaces with breakout rooms for up to 200 delegates.
The city’s Athena and Curve Theatre are in the heart of the Cultural Quarter, both offering large, flexible spaces. The Athena – a stunning and unique art deco architectural building – can host a variety of events and cater for 1,000 in banquet style with superb technology available. Curve is a spectacular, state-ofthe-art theatre boasting a range of distinctive, unconventional, and dynamic spaces. It can host meetings, awards ceremonies, product launches, conferences, and exhibitions in 10 flexible spaces for up to 1,600 delegates.
Leicestershire’s strong tourism offering enriches the experience for any delegate coming to the county. For a truly unique venue, you could opt for the National Space
Meet Leicester shines the spotlight on why Leicestershire is the perfect destination for your next event.
Centre, the UK’s only venue dedicated to the history and exploration of space. This wow factor venue offers many exclusive facilities, including the stunning Rocket Tower, dinner in its space-themed galleries, and the UK’s largest planetarium. Twycross Zoo and the King Richard III Visitor Centre – the original burial site of King Richard III – offer excellent conference facilities, as well as hosting leisure visits.
For something completely different, how about taking delegates to Great Central Railway? The UK’s only main line heritage railway offers exclusive use of its beautifully restored carriages for meeting and evening dinner hire. Belvoir Castle also provides a stunning backdrop to any meeting or event; using the staterooms will not only impress delegates but also provide historic inspiration.
Outdoors in the beautiful county there are many team building opportunities such as National Forest Corporate Experiences, signposted cycle routes around Everards Meadows with Rutland Cycling, and the Canal & River Trust canoe team days.
Whatever you need, Meet Leicester’s free and impartial venue finding service will help you find the right location for your event as it offers a diverse portfolio of over 60 high quality venues in the city and county to suit all event types. The expert team are dedicated to making the planning and delivery of your next event as easy and hassle free as possible.
For more information on Meet Leicester and visiting Leicester and Leicestershire go to: Meetleicester.co.uk
Harrogate Convention Centre (HCC) has signed a five-year contract with Ocean Media Group, organiser of The Flooring Show, which will bring the trade show back to the spa town every year until 2029. The UK’s largest event dedicated to the flooring industry, The Flooring Show is one of the six large-scale exhibitions taking place at the venue this autumn.
The event is set take over six halls including the addition of Hall Q, with a 30% expansion on the previous year. This major growth underscores the thriving flooring sector and reinforces the show’s status as the UK’s premier flooring trade event.
Featuring more than 400 UK and international brands, the upcoming event is expected to attract over 3,000 visitors including retailers, contractors, distributors, fitters, interior designers and developers, generating an estimated economic impact of £450,000 on the spa town.
Paula Lorimer, Director at Harrogate Convention Centre, says: “As the autumn exhibition season begins, I am delighted to renew the relationship with The Flooring Show this year. With the major trade and public exhibitions coming up between now and November, we are expecting a very busy autumn season that will bring significant footfall to the bars, restaurants and hotels in the Harrogate ahead of the festive season.”
Award winning conference, training and leisure venue Wyboston Lakes Resort has again been recognised as one of the best conference venues in the country by being nominated as a finalist for three awards at the event industry’s Famtastic Awards (see page 67).
It has been shortlisted as a finalist for Conference Centre/Hotel of the Year and for Independent Venue of the Year, also for Green Initiative of the Year for its Green Energy project.
Louisa Watson, Marketing Director and Sustainability Lead, said: “It’s particularly exciting to be recognised in these awards because they are voted for by many events professionals across our industry including many of our customers and competitors. It’s a great honour and superb compliment to the team and the venue.”
Charity Hospitality Action has launched a comprehensive new guide: “Next Steps: What the industry can do to improve wellbeing in hospitality.” Developed in partnership with the fundraising initiative Walk for Wellbeing, the guide is available
online and designed to equip hospitality businesses and individuals with effective strategies to enhance employee mental health and wellbeing.
With 76% of hospitality workers reporting mental health challenges in Hospitality Action’s latest survey, the guide addresses the growing concerns within the industry, which have increased in recent years due to the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Chief Executive at Hospitality Action, Mark Lewis, commented: “Hospitality is a dynamic and exciting industry, but it comes with its own pressures. We want to help employers prioritise the wellbeing of their teams, and this guide offers practical solutions and actionable steps to support employees - which are relatively easy to implement - to create a culture that supports the mental health and wellbeing of all, no matter what area of hospitality they work in.”
ACC Liverpool has achieved Platinum status in the Greengage ECOsmart Hotels and Venues Certification.
The accolade recognises the venue’s exceptional commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The Greengage ECOsmart certification is a leading industry standard that assesses venues based on their energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and overall environmental impact. By achieving Platinum status, ACC Liverpool has demonstrated its dedication to creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly venue for events and conferences.
Eddie Dos Santos, Director of Operations and Venue Management at ACC Liverpool commented: “We are incredibly proud to have achieved Platinum status in the Greengage ECOsmart certification. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, who have been working tirelessly to make ACC Liverpool a more sustainable venue. It also sends a strong message to our clients and partners that we are committed to hosting events that have a positive impact on the environment.”
IET Birmingham: Austin Court will host the CHS Birmingham Welcome Reception. The partnership will form a crucial part of the hosted buyer and exhibitor experience for the show, allowing for informal but business focused networking the evening before the event from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
“We’re really thrilled to be working with IET Birmingham, they have been a brilliant
supporter of ours for some time. We’re so pleased to have the opportunity to bring our hosted buyers and exhibitors together the night before CHS Birmingham,” commented Michelle Rennoldson, Event Director, CHS Birmingham. “This is such an important part of the show experience; it means they can immediately start building relationships and network in a more informal way.”
Angena Devi, Sales Office Manager said: “It’s an honour to welcome such a dynamic and passionate community to our historic venue, just around the corner from the ICC Birmingham! We look forward to partnering with CHS Birmingham and creating an unforgettable evening of networking and celebration.”
Yorkshire Z’Own Exclusive Launch
Yorkshire Z’Own, a bespoke events agency with a mission to “Redefine Expectations” and showcase the best of the best from the region, recently held an exciting launch event. Select guests were treated to an unforgettable experience in the hidden, rarely explored areas of the magnificent Harewood House estate, just outside Leeds.
Dedicated to connecting event needs with the perfect locations and experiences, Yorkshire Z’Own taps into the untapped beauty of the region to create experiences that are meaningful, memorable, and unfiltered. Its goal is simple: no enhancements – just Yorkshire in its truest form.
Andrew Winterburn, Director of Yorkshire Z’Own, said: “Yorkshire Z’Own aims to ‘redefine expectations’, both of the stereotypes associated with Yorkshire and the traditional concept of business events. Whether it’s conferences, meetings, or corporate incentives, our mission is to think and act differently, consistently surpassing expectations by introducing fresh ideas and talent from across Yorkshire.”
Andrew also emphasised the personal connection to the region: “Yorkshire Z’Own was born out of a deep love for this incredible county and all it offers the business community. Yorkshire is more than a place; it’s a community, a spirit, and Yorkshire Z’Own embodies that. Our foundation is solid, backed by a team with over 25 years of industry experience – all born and bred in Yorkshire.”
Jane Bartlett, Director of Events, Cranmore Park in Solihull, outlines the merits of dedicated event space venues.
From helicopter hangers to yachts and underground tunnels to mountain retreats, the quest to find a ‘different’ venue sometimes overrides all else. What’s more, interest in scoring ‘wow’ points can be at the sacrifice of the event delivery itself. As a result, dedicated event venues, sometimes get overlooked in venue selection.
Do not underestimate dedicated event spaces.
The term ‘blank canvas’ can overwhelm even the most seasoned of event planners but for a dedicated event venue, this clean starting point is simple – providing a higher level of customisation and flexibility. You can work closely with the venue’s teams to tailor the space to your exact needs, from adjusting the layout, incorporating specific decor, creating
The hospitality industry is well known for being a dynamic and rewarding industry, but it also has its challenges. Add the perfect storm of a pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis, and staff shortages due to Brexit, and the impact on many in recent years has been huge, with 76% of hospitality workers reporting mental health challenges.
These momentous events may seem like a distant memory for some, but we have received an unprecedented number of calls to our helplines throughout 2024 from people struggling with debt, poor mental health, and who are struggling to achieve a good work/ life balance.
As a result, more hospitality businesses recognise the importance of creating a
break out rooms and dietary requirements. Allowing you to create a unique and memorable event with no obstacles.
Cranmore Park demonstrates the core principles of why this event model works, the offer is very straightforward; a venue designed and equipped specifically for hosting events, managed by dedicated event, facilities and hospitality teams. High-quality AV equipment, ample parking, exhibition infrastructure,
comfortable seating, quality dining options are all aligned for events.
The locations of dedicated event venues are thought through. At Cranmore Park, we are at the heart of the motorway network, adjacent to an airport and Birmingham. Yet we are secluded enough to be away from city traffic, omission charges and expensive parking. Our 350 free car parking spaces are very important when final decisions on venue selection.
My top tip for event planners: rely on a dedicated venue’s expertise and take advantage of the infrastructure to free up your time to focus on your event, ensuring a stressfree, successful and memorable experience.
Aev.org.uk
It’s more important than ever for employers to recognise the importance of workplace wellbeing, says Hospitality Action Chief Executive, Mark Lewis.
mindful and balanced work environment and the good news is that there are many simple steps an employer can take. We recently introduced our new guide – ‘Next Steps: What the industry can do to improve wellbeing in hospitality’ – which offers practical solutions and actionable steps every employer can easily implement to equip hospitality businesses and individuals with effective strategies to support employee mental health and wellbeing. It’s also intended to help normalise the conversation, challenging stigma to encourage a more open dialogue.
The guide offers tips on promoting a positive work/life balance, regular monitoring and communication via employee check-ins, feedback surveys and open discussions, to the introduction of wellbeing champions
and mental health first-aiders. Additionally, encouraging teams to support wider wellbeing initiatives like Hospitality Action’s annual Walk for Wellbeing can promote a sense of camaraderie leading to more motivated and productive employees.
At Hospitality Action, we’re on a mission to help all employers prioritise the wellbeing of their teams and actively encourage everyone to take these simple steps which can make an enormous difference towards achieving exactly that.
Hospitalityaction.org.uk
A thriving hub of business, culture and sport –Coventry and Warwickshire is offering a diverse range of experiences for organisers and delegates.
Recent tourism figures for Coventry have revealed 11.39 million people visited the city alone in 2023 and the value of the visitor economy has risen to a record £855 million.
Coventry and Warwickshire’s superb location and connectivity together with its heritage offer have been major drivers behind this and the city offers a great selection of experiences and attractions for event organisers to bolt-on when hosting a conference, exhibition or business event. Delegates can experience four excellent
heritage locations on a short visit to the city centre’s Cathedral Quarter, with the breathtaking Coventry Cathedral and its adjacent Cathedral Ruins, 14th century St Mary’s Guildhall, the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum and Coventry Transport Museum which are all a stone’s throw away. The Herbert Art Gallery is currently home to world-famous dinosaur Dippy the Diplodocus, while Coventry Transport Museum houses the largest publicly owned collection of British vehicles on the planet and offers opportunities to reflect on Coventry’s impact on the global automotive industry.
Coventry held the prestigious title of UK City of Culture in 2021 and culture vultures should visit Coventry Music Museum or take in a production at The Belgrade Theatre. Visitors can also enjoy the heritage and culture of Warwickshire, home to iconic Warwick Castle and a certain world-famous playwright. Of course, a trip to William Shakespeare’s birthplace of Stratfordupon-Avon is a must for any visitors to the area, while visitors can also take a relaxing boat trip down the idyllic River Avon or enjoy a stellar day of racing at Warwick Racecourse or shopping and architectural admiration in Royal Leamington Spa.
There’s plenty to enjoy for food lovers in the region too, with options ranging from vineyards like Blabers Hall, to Michelin star restaurants and distilleries, such as Shakespeare Distillery.
A diverse range of conference and event venues are available for event organisers throughout the area – and Conference Coventry and Warwickshire, part of DMO Destination Coventry, provides a free event enquiry service and support to organisers. Paul McMahon, Managing Director of Destination Coventry, said: “Coventry and Warwickshire is a dynamic destination with a proud history and an exciting future, fuelled by our history, heritage and benefiting from being at the forefront of key sectors like automotive, advanced engineering and green technologies.
“This is a region going from strength to strength. We’ve seen new hotels open their doors, such as Hotel Indigo in the city centre, which have seen immediate success and have demonstrated the growing appeal of the region. It’s a great time to host an event here with outstanding venues, a strong supply chain and attractive incentives to add value and enhance experiences.”
Conferencecoventryandwarwickshire.co.uk
Difference is in the detail... Stylish surroundings, contemporary boardrooms with integrated presentation facilities, and impeccable service so your event goes smoothly, Mallory Court Hotel and Spa is the perfect Midlands conference venue.
Add some fun to your conference or team meetings with our range of bespoke, onsite team building and outdoor activities including: duck herding, falconry and archery.
With a choice of layouts and full use of our integrated conference technology, your event will run like clockwork. Our conference venues in the West Midlands, leaves you feeling free to concentrate on the job at hand.
Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa, CV33 9QB CONFERENCE@MALLORY.CO.UK | T: 01926 330214
• 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
• Coventry Cathedral is a Grade I listed building, comprising of medieval ruins and a 1960s architectural masterpiece designed by Basil Spence
• Highly adaptable and dynamic space events@coventrycathedral.org.uk www.coventrycathedral.org.uk 024 7652 1200 A multi-faceted, unforgettable venue!
• Today, it acts as a diverse cultural venue in the centre of Coventry
• Gala Dinners / Concerts / Conferences Exhibitions/ Meeting rooms
• Excellent transport links
Ardencote offers a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the world, allowing
your delegates to focus and be inspired by its picturesque surroundings.
Tucked away in the Warwickshire countryside, Ardencote is an independent four-star venue situated a few miles from Junction 15 of the M40.
A manor building with historic charm, Ardencote traces its origin back to 1863, originally constructed as a dowry house for Mary Phillips, the daughter of a wealthy
wool manufacturer from Manchester. The property has been developed and extended with great consideration for the original building and the rural countryside since the 1990s.
Owned and managed by a local family for nearly three decades, the venue leans on its surroundings and excels in adding an extra special touch to any event experience. The elegant venue is ideal to host events of up to 175 guests in 10 versatile indoor conference and meeting spaces, all with natural daylight and self-servicing refreshment areas. The Lakeside Wing (Corporate Wing) can also be hired exclusively as a standalone facility offering five flexible meetings and events spaces and 60 bedrooms. Set in 83 acres of manicured parklands with a
three-acre lake, it provides a magnificent setting for team building events for up to 300 delegates. Those planning a multi-day event can rest assured that their delegates will face each day refreshed and ready, as the venue boasts 110 newly refurbished on-site hotel bedrooms. Downtime is also covered at Ardencote with state-ofthe-art leisure facilities, multiple outdoor event spaces, an 18-hole golf course,
tennis courts and a European awardwinning destination spa. The venue is also easily accessible to those travelling from further afield. It is a 30-minute drive from Birmingham International Airport and a convenient 10-minute taxi ride to Warwick Parkway offering continuous train links to London, Birmingham and beyond. Ardencote even offers ample on-site parking for those travelling by car, with electric charging points for EVs.
Ardencote.com
Ardencote is offering one of our readers the chance to win an overnight stay for two, including dinner and breakfast.
To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question…
How many bedrooms does the venue have on-site?
Enter online at Hospitalityandeventsnorth.com/ competitions-5 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: 6th December 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 Ardencote’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.
For more information contact Adam Freedman 0845 052 2911
Chesford Grange is part of The QHotels Collection, our Events Centre was refurbished last year, and with Birmingham Airport (14 miles) and Warwick Parkway Train Station (3 miles) close by, and great links to the M42, M6 and M40, it’s the perfect location.
The newly refurbished Crowne Plaza is the perfect setting, where extraordinary moments are shaped.
Discover our 14 versatile meeting rooms, ranging from intimate spaces for 10 guests, to The Grand Ballroom accommodating up to 550 attendees. Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, a social gala, a wedding or a private celebration, our flexible spaces are tailored to meet your unique needs. Our designated events team will assist you in crafting a flawless event, while our riverside restaurant and terrace offers a variety of delectable food and drink options to satisfy every palate.
Experience impeccable service, a welcoming ambiance, and seamless event execution at our hotel, where unforgettable memories are made.
The Crowne Plaza Stratford Upon Avon brings a harmonious blend of modern elegance and timeless charm. Sitting in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, this riverside hotel combines an extraordinary setting with versatile meeting spaces, impeccable service, and state-of-the-art amenities. With a stunning backdrop of the River Avon and landscaped gardens, the venue offers a unique and inspiring environment for any corporate event
The hotel boasts 14 fully refurbished and flexible meeting rooms. Whether you are hosting an intimate board meeting for 10 or a large corporate conference for 550 guests, Crowne Plaza offers versatile spaces tailored to meet your needs.
The crown jewel of the hotel’s spaces, the Grand Ballroom, is the largest and most adaptable room, accommodating up to 550 guests for conferences and 440 for banquets. Located on the ground floor, this expansive room can be divided into three sections, allowing for a variety of setups depending on the size and nature of your event. The Ballroom also features an adjacent private anteroom with its own bar, perfect for pre-event cocktails or smaller breakout sessions.
For medium-sized events, the East Wing Meeting Centre offers a variety of fully refurbished rooms that can accommodate
up to 150 delegates. Rooms such as the Blenheim Suite, Packwood Suite, and Warwick Suite are all equipped with built-in data projectors, drop-down screens, and access to a self-service Conference Café, ensuring that attendees stay refreshed and focused. Each room in the East Wing is designed with flexibility in mind for varying medium-sized corporate gatherings.
Smaller, more intimate meetings can take place in the stylish Avon Centre, which houses rooms like Hatton (20 delegates), Bancroft (20 delegates), and a deluxe Boardroom (14 delegates). Each room is equipped with the latest Smart Touch Screen technology and wireless capabilities, making them ideal for presentations and executive meetings. For larger gatherings, the Hidcote room can host up to 60 guests and is available for exclusive hire in conjunction with the adjoining meeting spaces within the Avon Centre. There’s also the Seymour room, which is a flexible event space that can be used for social functions and dinners for up to 100.
In addition to flexible spaces, the Crowne Plaza offers a wide range of catering options through its riverside restaurant and terrace. Enjoy a variety of delectable food and drink options which can be tailored to your event, from light refreshments and buffet-style to gourmet banquets.
The hotel’s culinary team is known for its ability to cater to all tastes and dietary requirements, ensuring that every delegate is satisfied.
An undeniable attraction of the venue is its location in the historic market town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Delegates can take a relaxing stroll along the River Avon to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or explore the many boutique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that the town has to offer.
The hotel has its own on-site parking, and is also well-connected, with Stratford-uponAvon Station providing regular trains to Birmingham and London, and Birmingham Airport sits just a 30-minute drive away.
From the grandeur of the Grand Ballroom to the intimate meeting rooms of the Avon Centre, this venue is the ultimate destination for memorable corporate events.
Crowneplaza.com/stratfordavon
Nottinghamshire is a top destination that offers a unique blend of heritage and innovation, with venues ranging from historic landmarks to modern, tech-equipped spaces. With excellent transport links, a thriving cultural scene, and world-class facilities, it makes for a perfect location to ensure your next event is both memorable and successful.
Being in the heart of the UK means accessibility from all corners of the country. With East Midlands Airport just a 30-minute drive away, delegates from international locations can fly in with ease. The city’s train station offers excellent connections, with London just 90 minutes away, and those driving can enjoy easy links via the M1.
The region boasts a wide range of venues for conferences, exhibitions, and business events of all sizes. For large-scale conferences, Nottingham Venues, Eastwood Hall, and Renaissance at Kelham Hall offer a variety of options. The city’s Motorpoint Arena Nottingham offers a capacity of up to 10,000 and access to multiple accommodation choices.
What sets Nottinghamshire apart is its abundance of green spaces, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Sherwood Forest provides a scenic backdrop
for corporate team-building events or natureinspired retreats. Meanwhile, venues like Center Parcs and Holme Pierrepont Country Park – home of the National Water Sports Centre – offer water-based activities and open spaces.
The region’s mix of rural charm and urban convenience ensures that delegates can unwind and enjoy a more holistic event experience.
Nottinghamshire’s iconic sporting venues, Nottinghamshire County Football Club, Nottingham Forest, Trent Bridge, and the region’s racecourses all offer dynamic settings for corporate events that blend sports, culture, and history and help event organisers to create memorable experiences.
Nottingham is a city steeped in history, with a global reputation that stretches back to its associations with the legendary Robin Hood. Beyond the myths and folklore, the city is a centre of historical significance with landmarks like Nottingham Castle and Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem – the oldest inn in England.
Home to two iconic universities – University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University – the city has a thriving academic and research community. A hub for cutting-edge thinking and collaboration, Nottingham is ideal for academic conferences and think tanks.
The city is home to top-rated hotels like the Park Plaza, Hilton, and Crowne Plaza. These hotels will ensure your delegates are well-catered for with tailored conference packages providing seamless integration of work and leisure.
A unique mix of historic charm and modern facilities awaits.
Meetinnottingham.co.uk
This Christmas gather your team for a festive day at Center Parcs Woburn Forest, Bedfordshire, or Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. Enjoy private meeting space in The Venue, explore the twinkling lights of Winter Wonderland together, and indulge in delicious festive food and drink. This magical setting is perfect for creating an unforgettable team day in the forest.
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ENQUIRE ABOUT YOUR NEXT CORPORATE EVENT www.centerparcsevents.co.uk centerparcs.events@centerparcs.co.uk 03448 267715
We explore the best sustainability initiatives, grants, and green loans for events businesses to improve sustainability practices.
With the UK government’s pledge to reach net zero emissions by 2050, the push for sustainability has become more than just a trend – it’s a necessity. Not only does committing to better sustainability practices help to reduce your carbon footprint, but it also improves business reputation. From financial aid for green technologies to tax relief for sustainable initiatives, these resources offer a pathway for event profs to innovate so you can still create memorable and impactful experiences while contributing positively to the environment.
Renewable energy allowances – often referred to as capital allowances for renewable energy assets – are an incentive provided by the government to promote sustainable energy sources. These are designed to encourage venues and suppliers to invest in renewable technologies by offering tax relief opportunities.
Eligible assets include solar panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric systems, ground source heat pumps, and biomass boilers that must be newly installed. One of the most significant benefits of renewable energy allowances is the availability of first-year allowances (FYA) which means that businesses can deduct the entire cost of the qualifying renewable energy assets from taxable profits in the year of purchase. FYA will reduce the payback period on a renewable energy investment once claimed in an annual tax return. Gov.uk/capital-allowances
Once you’ve claimed renewable energy allowances from building sustainable
energy sources, there’s another incentive available from Ofgem which enables smallscale generators to receive payments for electricity which they export back to the National Grid. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) requires licenced electricity suppliers –known as SEG licensees – to offer a tariff and pay eligible generators.
There are five eligible technology types for the SEG: solar photovoltaic, wind, micro combined heat and power (micro-CHP), hydro, and anaerobic digestion (the process through which bacteria break down organic matter in the absence of oxygen) which must be located in Great Britain and have a total installed capacity of no more than five megawatts, or no more than 50 kilowatts for micro-CHP.
Ofgem.gov.uk
Whether you’re beginning a green initiative or enhancing an existing one, there are many business loans available from banks that cater to sustainability investments.
The Co-operative Bank’s Renewable Energy Funding Scheme provides loans from £25,020 to £10 million for businesses to invest in eco-friendly projects such as introducing recycling schemes, relocating to a more energy-efficient premises, and changing to LED lighting.
Co-operativebank.co.uk
Barclay’s Green Loan offers up to £5 million to purchase or refine eligible green assets that will include discounted interest rates. There are over 65 eligible green assets for this loan, including building automation
and insulation, battery storage, and electric vehicles.
Barclays.co.uk
At HSBC, the Go Greener SME Reward offers loans from £25,001 to £300,00 that are designed to make investing in sustainable solutions more accessible and rewarding for small businesses. The loan is available for eligible activities include waste management, clean transportation, and sustainable water management.
Business.hsbc.uk
Local council support
Councils across the country recognise the crucial role that small and mediumsized enterprises play in the economy and many councils have launched support and funding opportunities to incentivise sustainability. Check with your local council to find out what sustainability grants may be on offer.
One example, Birmingham City Counci,l is working with the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to support businesses in the West Midlands to help reduce environmental impact and decrease rising energy costs. The Net Zero Grant Programme assists businesses in the form of a grant contribution that will cover energy and resource efficiency improvements to businesses. The grants will be between £2,500 and £7,500 for new businesses and £5,000 and £100,00 for existing businesses.
Sustainabilitywestmidlands.org.uk
Events have transcended traditional conference spaces and local venues for the more unique and memorable, and with improved transport structures the trend of hosting overseas is rapidly gaining momentum. Not only can it improve your client’s brand image, but a new and exciting experience can also offer fresh perspectives and opportunities for innovation. And for the delegates, much excitement!
Embracing new cultures and experiences at an international event offers invaluable opportunities for both personal and professional growth for delegates. Engaging with others from different countries and being immersed in a new culture will enrich perspectives, while experiencing this firsthand strengthens global business relationships, broadens perspectives, encourages creativity, and enhances team bonding. But don’t underestimate how understanding and appreciating different cultures is increasingly important in today’s global market, not only as a sign of respect but also from a business perspective.
“Delegates always really enjoy events in new locations because it’s completely different to what they’re used to,” says Jess. “However, you have to be hugely sensitive to and respect certain traditions and cultures. A lot of research needs to be done to make sure you’re completely aware of what these may be.”
Looking at an international event for your client? Head of Events at Goho, Jess Kiddle, tells us why it’s a great idea.
The country’s cultural differences are not the only ones to be considered. At an international event, it’s likely that delegates will be attending from all over the world: “It’s important to have an idea of where they are travelling in from, because that will massively determine where the most suitable destination is,” Jess explains. “There may also be cultural differences to be catered to that may clash with the event location.”
often quite surprising; even when factoring in travel, accommodation, and flights, it can work out significantly less expensive. Although this isn’t ideal for planning an event here, it gives event planners such a broad scope to work with when thinking about going overseas.”
Delegates always really enjoy events in new locations because it’s completely different to what they’re used to.
Hearing the words ‘international event’ may strike fear into the hearts of the budget conscious, but Jess believes it doesn’t always have to cost a pretty penny as venues abroad are keen to attract UK business visitors: “It can sometimes be more cost effective to take your event out of the UK as we’re one of the most expensive countries in terms of facilitating events and costs here can be so escalated. It’s
The stress of coordinating across time zones, cultures, and language barriers can be challenging but the payoff is more than worth it. And venues and suppliers are embracing it: “International events are just so joyous; things can become a little bit disconnected at UK events whereas if you’re doing something abroad with a whole group, it tends to be more comprehensive and inclusive. It brings a real sense of community and bonding among delegates. My experience of international hotels, suppliers, and events profs is that they’re amazing at what they do and have realised that international corporate is a big spender for them. Places that historically used to be leisure focused are turning their hats to corporate – and they’re doing it really well!”
Phil Oldershaw, Owner of Pose Events, discusses the importance of getting the events industry on the UK government agenda.
In 2023, the business events industry alone boosted the UK economy by £10.9 billion, according to the Events Industry Alliance, and yet many event professionals feel as though the industry isn’t given the consideration it deserves by the government. This is a point of view which Phil Oldershaw, Owner of Pose Events, agrees with: “I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the events industry — not just for businesses, but for communities and society at large. However, as we emerge from the shadow of the industry crippling pandemic, it has become increasingly clear that we need to amplify our voice and ensure that the events sector is firmly on the UK government’s agenda moving forward.”
If you widen the scope from business events to events in general, the impact of our industry becomes even more apparent: “The events industry is a powerhouse of the UK economy, generating an astonishing £70 billion annually and employing over 600,000 people. From corporate conferences to music festivals, our sector fuels a myriad of other industries, including hospitality, travel, and technology. This ripple effect is vital; it not only sustains jobs but also bolsters local economies across the country.”
The years since the COVID-19 pandemic have only increased our appetite for in-person experiences, as Phil explains: “Moreover, events play a crucial role in enhancing leisure and recreational time, fostering civic engagement, and facilitating social interactions. Whether it’s a community festival that brings neighbours together or a corporate retreat that strengthens team bonds, events are the glue that holds our social fabric together. In a world where digital communication often overshadows face-to-face interactions, the need for live events has never been more critical.”
The importance of our industry is evident, but how can we ensure that the government understands this? Phil believes that a united front is the way forward: “To elevate the events industry in the eyes of policymakers, we must unify our voices. The establishment of a dedicated task force to address the unique challenges we face, such as funding, regulation, and sustainability could be a game-changer. Additionally, showcasing the economic impact of our sector through robust data and compelling storytelling, with a seat at the table, will help demonstrate our immense value to the economy.
“It is an imperative time for us, as an industry, to come together and advocate for our rightful place consistently on the government agenda.”
“It is an imperative time for us, as an industry, to come together and advocate for our rightful place consistently on the government agenda. As a body we are an incredibly powerful voice and should get councillors, MP’s and local authorities, among others, working with us, supporting us, speaking for us – in consultation with us, and recognising what a positive impact we have for every town, city, region, and beyond across the UK. By doing so, we can ensure a thriving future for events in the UK, benefiting everyone from local businesses to the individuals who enjoy them. It is imperative to make our voices not only heard, but duly respected.”
coral orange linen blend blazer
Oliver Bonas | £75
Perfect to add some colour to your formal wardrobe, this linen blend blazer from Oliver Bonas is both lightweight and stylish. Whether it’s for meetings in the summer, or for brightening up grey and wintery office days, this blazer can be your go to in all seasons, for all occasions.
Oliverbonas.com
Polly jersey jumpsuit | Joe Browns | £50
This jumpsuit from Joe Browns is an effortless piece to just throw on and go, while still looking put together and professional. It’s made with a soft jersey fabric, has front pockets, front pleats to emphasise the flattering wide-leg design, and is also available in petite. It’s not only great for the office, but a staple to have in your everyday wardrobe to dress up or down as you please.
Joebrowns.co.uk
Celini slingback courts | Dune London | £90
Available in four different colours, the Celini slingback court shoes can be your new office go-to, no matter what your style. Slingback courts are a Dune London signature, so you know you’ll get your money’s worth. Crafted from the finest leather, the strap of the pointed-toe silhouette is detailed with a supportive buckle for the ideal fit. The heel is only 6cm which means there’s guaranteed comfort that will last all day.
Dunelondon.com
Silk floral foulard print tie | John Lewis | £25
Ties are one of the best ways for men to brighten up a dull, run of the mill office outfit, while still looking professional. This silk floral tie from John Lewis has three different colour combinations to elevate your wardrobe. Crafted from pure silk, the tie provides a subtle nod to smart design and is a staple accessory in your formal attire.
Johnlewis.com
Padded mac with Stormwear™ | Marks and Spencer | £130
Water-repellent technology on this mac from Marks and Spencer’s will have you covered no matter what the weather. It’s equipped with a removable lining so you can transport it from a light raincoat into a cosy layer for colder temperatures. It’s cut to an easy regular fit, perfect for comfort as well as functionality. Combining classic and contemporary styles, this mac is available in black and navy so can elevate any of your office looks all year round.
Marksandspencer.com
Slim fit Oxford striped shirt | Crew Clothing | £59
A good quality shirt is an office wardrobe must, and this one from Crew Clothing is an excellent choice. There are four different colours to suit any and all styles. It’s a soft, high-quality cotton material which is finished with a stylish button-down collar, with Crew Clothing’s iconic crossed oars logo subtly stitched on the chest.
Crewclothing.co.uk
When it comes to delivering any event, health and safety is non-negotiable. From the initial planning stages to the grand finale, a safe environment is key to ensuring everyone has a great time. Grace and Tailor knows that you can’t put on a show-stopping event without a solid health and safety plan –think of it as the invisible superhero of event planning!
Every venue and event organiser has a responsibility to maintain high health and safety standards, whether it’s a buzzing conference or elegant exhibition. Protecting delegates, staff, and visitors should always be top priority.
Health and safety is at the heart of what Grace and Tailor does. Its team is made up of experts who are IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) and NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) qualified, making the company exceptionally equipped to consult on all things even safety.
Risk assessments are the backbone of any solid event plan. Take a close look at factors like venue capacity, layout, and the event’s nature. Develop and practice detailed evacuation procedures tailored to each event. Mark exits clearly, create accessible routes, and train your staff to guide everyone swiftly to safety if needed. Communication is key; all delegates should be informed of evacuation protocols at the start of an event to ensure their safety.
Grace and Tailor guides us on hosting safe and spectacular events.
Whether it’s audio-visual equipment, staging, lighting, or even furniture, regular inspections are a must. Ensure all equipment meets safety standards and is operated by trained personnel. A smooth event hinges on everything running like clockwork, and that includes behind-the-scenes tech and infrastructure.
Everyone loves good food and it’s often the highlight of an event. For events that include food service, adhere strictly to local health regulations for food handling, preparation, and storage. Train your catering teams meticulously, uphold impeccable hygiene standards, and stay vigilant about allergens to avoid cross-contamination. Regular inspections and relevant certifications can go a long way in preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring every bite is a delight!
When it comes to exhibitions, the Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) are your best friend. These regulations ensure safety during the setup and dismantling phases. Event planners and venue managers should collaborate closely, establishing safety protocols that keep everyone – contractors and staff alike – aware of potential hazards.
Martyn’s Law is a crucial legislative development aimed at enhancing security across all venues. This law mandates rigorous risk assessments, comprehensive emergency response plans, and well-trained staff. If you manage or work at a venue, familiarise yourself with these requirements now to stay ahead of the curve when these measures come into play.
Prioritising health and safety is vital for the success of any event. By adhering to food safety standards, developing effective evacuation plans, conducting thorough risk assessments, ensuring equipment safety, and complying with important regulations such as CDM 2015, you can create a secure and enjoyable environment for all delegates.
Grace and Tailor is committed to ensuring that every event is not just memorable but also safe at every turn. Here’s to hosting events that are as secure as they are spectacular!
Graceandtailor.co.uk info@graceandtailor.co.uk 0113 243 8700
Gareth Hughes, Head of Production at Walk the Plank, creators of outdoor arts, theatre and spectacle, talks us through the risky business of keeping your delegates safe.
If you were to propose the modern car as a new invention to most health and safety advisors today, you’d be laughed out of the room! A machine powered by an extremely flammable liquid, that you are legally able to operate up to speeds of 70mph at the age of 17?! Yet here we are.
Here at Walk the Plank, we are in the business of managing risk and delivering the improbable, safely. Two standard hazards noted on most risk assessments – Fire and Water – both of which are in our DNA. We began life 32 years ago, touring a theatre ship around the British Isles, bringing theatrical pyrotechnical spectacles to port towns and cities. We have since dropped anchor in Salford (we are now landlubbers) but have continued to grow and create outdoor fire and firework spectacles presenting our work around the world.
Inherently we all manage risk on a day-to-day basis and I’m sure within our business of events no-one will be unaware of a ‘risk assessment’ (or at least I hope not!). Yet sometimes we fall foul of some simple yet pivotal elements of safety management that apply to all event work, no matter the complexity or scale.
So, here are my top three ‘trip-hazards’ to consider:
A key part of all risk management and assessment processes which time and again can get left behind is the need to review safety documentation to ensure it is relevant to the tasks or processes at hand. We as an industry must deal with dynamic systems that change, with guidance and legislation amendments, and changes to market ambitions. Regular reviewing of key documents keeps
systems of safety current and appropriate; a key example will be the potential new legislation of Martyn’s
called by its official name; The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill.
Within most parts of safety legislation is the notion of competency, in-house and contracted, for specific tasks and to manage specific risks or hazards. Competency can, and should, be measured in a number of ways, including training and experience, but all specific and evidenced to the task at hand.
Develop open means of sharing safety reports, assessments, safe systems of work and keep a means of dialogue-free from blame and recrimination with all who encounter your work practices. Developing a safety culture increases employee trust, and satisfaction and helps enable you to consider bolder and perceived riskier activities that will set your business apart from the rest of the marketplace.
Thankfully the world of event safety is a fully developed vocation, with unprecedented levels of advice and materials from national government and support from your local authority licencing or events department.
Some areas of the events world require more specialist advice and guidance and the use of fire, pyrotechnics, stage effects, and fireworks is one of them. Don’t panic! The improbable is possible with the right methodology, skills, and experience.
R&B Group has had over 33 years’ experience and has delivered well over 15,000 events!
H&E North asked Kevin Floyd, Head of Client Services, how the business bounced back from the pandemic so successfully:
“There is no mystery or newfangled social marketing campaign! It’s the hard work of our experienced team ensuring clients are rewarded with excellent service from event concept through to onsite delivery. Once the world of live events opened up again, we were the AV production supplier of choice for one main reason.
“Ask any event manager and they will tell you that stress levels are hitting a new high — event organisers have the third-most stressful job in the world for 2023 according to World Scholarship Vault. At R&B we reduce stress by going the extra mile; this is not marketing patter, listen to our clients!”
0191 276 3999 | Rbgroup.co.uk | Sales@rbgroup.co.uk
“As always you and your team has been amazing! You really do go above and beyond – helping me clear up leaflets, setting up seating block signs, and moving furniture around for the next session, these little things don’t go unnoticed. You are always so helpful and quick to react to anything that is thrown at you.”
Royal College of Nursing Congress 2024
“You were so quick to respond to everything. How the projector was dealt with just before the start of the event, was fantastic. You anticipated that the venues projector might be below par, so you brought a top-notch projector with you, replacing the venue’s off-colour one. We had last-minute speaker slide changes, which were dealt with brilliantly by the team with such a nice friendly approach, which is a huge positive for us!”
Royal College of Physicians – Update in Medicine 2024
R&B Group is a ‘full service’ corporate event production supplier.
During the last 33 years R&B multiple award winning teams have delivered over 15,000 conferences, awards, product launches, event broadcasts and staff update meetings.
R&B have extensive stocks of AV equipment, in-house set design and build facilities, video production and creatives that can help with your presentations, animation and graphics.
Andrew Harrison, Director at the Event Supplier & Services Association, explores how businesses can choose the right accreditation among increasing competition.
Accreditation has become an increasingly popular option for those in the events industry looking to demonstrate their ability to fulfil their role to an accepted standard. Yet, as the number of accreditation options has grown, as have the number of companies wanting to stand out, I feel we have begun to lose sight of what the purpose of accreditation is.
Ultimately, accreditation is about setting real standards within the industry and working together to achieve them – being part of something bigger and part of a group of like-minded individuals wanting to do better for our industry.
This community aspect of accreditation is something I feel is lacking today. Accreditation is so much more than placing a new logo on your website and social media profiles – it’s a showcase of your commitment to supporting better standards in the events industry with real evidence of your ability to do so.
Accreditation also places a commitment on those to showcase their ability to work to these standards. It’s not simply enough to say you are committed to working to them – you need to be able to demonstrate your ability to do so. The process might seem daunting, but it’s important to know that accreditation
Claire Fennelow (left), Executive Director of the Event & Visual Communication Association (EVCOM) and Ethel Sanchez, Global Strategy – Brand Communications and Creative Solutions at Shell, offer some advice on building a strategy in turbulent times.
This October we met with Senior Leaders from our membership to discuss strategy and positioning in the face of this everchanging landscape that we are all working in.
It’s easy to try and do everything, to want to be able to cover the full spectrum from regular board meetings to the shiniest, most innovative events and campaigns your clients and your teams can dream up.
is designed to support, not overwhelm, something that is very important for both our own Health & Safety Accreditation and Sustainability Accreditation.
Ultimately, accreditation is not about ticking boxes – it’s about helping businesses grow, achieving excellence, and standing out in the competitive events industry. With the support and resources available, companies of all sizes should feel empowered to take this step towards greater success.
Essa.uk.com
But “if we keep doing too many things that leads to a weak market profile,” our speaker Ethel Sanchez (Global Strategy – Brand Communications and Creative Solutions, Shell) said. Clients don’t know what an agency is good at, and the agency in turn doesn’t know what skillsets to build up within their company, what levers to pull to make something happen. Best performing practises, continues Ethel, are often ones that have a clear focus.
When you’re thinking about honing your strategy, Ethel recommends speaking to your clients first: “A practises position is determined not by what we think of ourselves, but what our clients think of us,” she says. Have conversations with them, ask them to fill in surveys, find out how they see you, how you meet their needs and how you don’t. Not only will you hone a strategy that is moving in the direction your clients want to see, but you’ll also build a communicative and trust-fuelled relationship with your client in the process. That being said, Ethel also calls for ambidexterity and a disciplined allocation
of resources between viable and exploratory services. That’ll look different for everyone but she recommends 80% on business as usual and 20% on new business and innovation. Your strategy needs to take into account the fast-moving nature of the sector.
It’s understandable when long-term strategy objectives and structure get lost in the sea of everyday business, but prioritising strategy can help you make sure all the work you and your team are doing isn’t just keeping you going, it’s taking you forward.
Evcom.org.uk
ImmersiveAV is branching out to provide expert short-term tech hire to events in the North.
ImmersiveAV partners with event organisers, venues, corporates and agencies, to name but a few, providing a full technical production service for any short term event or show. Over the past 24 years demand has dictated working with Southern based partners, gaining amazing recognition, receiving awards for ‘Organisers Choice’ and ‘AV Production Company of the Year’.
It’s been a long time coming but ImmersiveAV is now proud to announce that it is actively driving its services North and is keen to engage with new industry partners, sharing its expertise and demonstrating how it can bring new innovation to your events and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Find out how Immersive AV can make a difference at your next event:
DELIVERING CONFERENCE AND AWARD CEREMONIES.
IMMERSIVE ACTIVATIONS FOR EXPERIENTIAL RETAIL ENVIRONMENTS.
WORKING WITH CORPORATES AND AGENCIES WITH INTERACTIVE ENGAGEMENT & EXPERIENCES.
ATTRACT, ENGAGE, AND EDUCATE WITH THE NEW RANGE OF EXPERIENCE ROOMS.
DELIVERING IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR EXHIBITION STANDS.
EQUIPMENT HIRE WITH ITR, THE IN-HOUSE EQUIPMENT HIRE COMPANY.
Technology is at the heart of an event; it’s the window delivering your client’s message. It’s the mechanism driving the engagement and it allows the story to be told. Working alongside you as a partner, rather than supplier, allows ImmersiveAV to collaborate with you seamlessly designing, delivering, and project managing your event, ensuring the service and solution engages the audience and delivers a perfect experience for all.
ImmersiveAV’s team of highly trained experts would love to hear from you
Phone: 01952 953 500
Email: enquiries@immersiveav.com requestabrochure@immersiveav.com
Website: Immersiveav.com
The UK’s wackiest outdoor activities for grown ups
Who says kids should get to have all the fun?
Put your team forward to become The Ultimate Farmers
Everyone can take part in these farm-inspired, wholesome activities
Onsite home-from-home meeting spaces with wood burning stoves
Home-reared BBQ food, with high welfare standards and sustainability at the forefront
01765 689007 www.farmadventure.co.uk info@farmadventure.co.uk
For over 10 years, Mix & Twist has been providing a premium mobile bar service that is more than just drinks - it’s an experience. Our team of experts brings unmatched flair, energy, and imagination to every event.
Discover why we’ve earned hundreds of 5-star online reviews and become the go-to choice for those seeking an extraordinary bar experience.
020 309 60387 | 0113 831 3149 info@mixandtwist.co.uk www.mixandtwist.co.uk
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After Switzerland’s Eurovision win earlier this year, next year’s host city Basel, offers easy access to international delegates due to its location near the borders shared by France and Germany, as well as some truly impressive venues.
Basel, recently announced as the host city for Eurovision 2025, stands out as an exceptional destination for international events. This Swiss city, located at the junction of Switzerland, Germany, and France, is renowned for its thriving cultural scene, rich history, and strong commitment to modernity. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible from major European cities, while its efficient public transportation network ensures a smooth experience for both event organisers and attendees. In addition to its cultural and logistical strengths, Basel is home to world-class venues that cater to events of all sizes, from intimate corporate meetings to large-scale international festivals.
Its more than just a well-connected city; it offers a wealth of experiences that make it a captivating place for any visitor. With its picturesque old town, numerous museums, and vibrant art scene, event attendees have plenty to explore in their downtime. The city’s accommodation options are equally impressive, with everything from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses. Whether it’s a major entertainment event like Eurovision, a corporate conference, or an industry exhibition, Basel is wellequipped to provide a memorable and successful event experience.
One of the premier venues in Basel is St. Jakobshalle, an expansive facility boasting 11 halls under one roof. Situated in the heart of the tri-national region that connects Switzerland, Germany, and France, this venue offers a remarkable 20,000 sq. metres of space, making it an ideal choice for large-scale events. St. Jakobshalle has been a prominent event destination since 1976, and after its renovation in 2018, it now ranks as one of the most versatile event halls in Europe; its adaptability is unmatched.
One of the key advantages is its dedicated in-house team, which provides all-around support for event organisers. From technical expertise to logistical planning, the team is experienced in managing a wide range of events. Moreover, the venue’s gastronomy department ensures that delegates enjoy top-notch catering, tailored to suit the nature of the event.
The arena itself, which can host up to 12,400 delegates, is the heart of the venue. It’s the go-to for large events, with state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and seating facilities, the arena guarantees an unforgettable experience for both performers and audiences.
Stjakobshalle.ch
The Messe Congress Centre is another stellar venue that reflects the city’s capability to host international events. Located near the borders of France and Germany, it is deeply integrated into Europe’s trade fair circuit. The venue boasts five generously sized halls and 25 modern conference rooms, making it highly adaptable for events ranging from trade fairs and congresses to corporate gatherings and public exhibitions. With over 100 years of experience as an exhibition organiser, the Messe Congress Centre has a wealth of knowledge to share with event planners.
This venue is committed to environmentally friendly practices, offering renewable energy options, locally sourced catering, and excellent public transport connectivity. This eco-conscious approach aligns well with the growing demand for sustainable event solutions. The centre’s prime location, just a short walk from Basel’s city centre, also ensures that visitors can enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Messe-basel.com
For a more historic yet equally modern venue, Volkshaus is a fantastic choice. This traditional building has been beautifully renovated to offer state-of-the-art event facilities while maintaining its historical charm. Located in the heart of Basel, Volkshaus features three event venues and a meeting room, with foyer spaces ranging from 16 to 1,200 people, making it suitable for a wide variety of occasions.
What sets Volkshaus Basel apart is its commitment to providing a comprehensive event experience. The team at Volkshaus offers full technical support for events, ensuring that all equipment needs are met. The in-house catering service is another highlight, offering a diverse range of culinary options, from elegant multi-course dinners
MESSE CONGRESS CENTRE
to casual cocktail receptions. This focus on individuality, creativity, and quality makes every event held at Volkshaus a unique and memorable experience.
Volkshaus-basel.ch
The Kunstmuseum offers a distinctive setting for hosting a variety of events, combining world-class art with a unique ambiance. Located in the heart of the city, this renowned museum provides an inspiring backdrop for corporate gatherings and cultural events.
Here event organisers have the opportunity to hold their events amid one of Europe’s most prestigious art collections, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The venue’s spaces cater to a wide range of events, from elegant receptions and gala dinners to intimate meetings and workshops. Each room is designed to accommodate different group sizes, ensuring a tailored experience that fits the occasion perfectly.
The museum offers versatile spaces including the atmospheric Museum Foyer, which can host up to 300 guests, ideal for larger events. For more intimate gatherings, the Rothko Room or Art Café offers a sophisticated yet cosy environment. Additionally, you can even arrange exclusive tours of the museum’s collection or temporary exhibitions, making the event even more engaging and memorable for your delegates.
The blend of contemporary and classical art combined with state-of-the-art facilities offers a truly unique venue for any occasion, turning events into cultural experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Kunstmuseumbasel.ch/en/visit/your-event
Located on the outskirts of the city in Muttenz, Pantheon combines a vintage car museum with an event space, making it one of Switzerland’s most distinctive venues. The Pantheon spans 7,500 sq. metres and is home to the country’s
largest vintage car centre. At the centre of the architecturally striking circular building is an event platform that offers 1,020 sq. metres of flexible space, perfect for fashion shows, trade fairs, weddings, or shareholder meetings.
Pantheon Basel offers two combinable seminar rooms that overlook the vintage car collection, providing a truly unique backdrop for meetings or training sessions. The venue’s glass roof ensures that all event spaces are bathed in natural light, creating a bright and welcoming environment for guests. The venue’s in-house catering service, operated by Brüderli Gastronomie, guarantees a memorable dining experience for all delegates. The Pantheon’s blend of history, innovation, and style will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Pantheonbasel.ch
KUNSTMUSEUM
Located in the Rosental area, Westhive is ideal for tech led events. The Main Stage is the heart of the venue, offering seating for up to 80 people in a conference setting and up to 150 people for a cocktail reception. Westhive stands out for is its state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, which includes 4K projectors, laser screens, wireless microphones, and video conferencing technology.
Westhive’s adjoining restaurant and rooftop terrace provide additional spaces with tech-driven infrastructure and excellent culinary options.
Westhive.com/en/meetings-events
Sammy Connell, Co-Chair of
ABPCO, the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers, discusses why award ceremonies are important to the industry.
With awards season into view, it can sometimes feel like everyone’s chasing a trophy, and this begs the question ‘are awards events so important?’
ABPCO (the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers) has its own Gala Awards lunch in Blackpool in December, and as a national organisation, representing many associations and not-for-profits across the UK we feel that the ABPCO Excellence Awards provides our community with a focus and commitment to celebrate excellence, promote the highest standards, endorse best practice, and recognise innovation and dedication. We feel industry awards hold significant importance for several reasons:
Recognition and credibility
Winning or even being nominated for an industry award provides recognition from peers and industry leaders. This external
validation enhances a company’s credibility and establishes it as a leader in its field. It signals to customers, partners, and competitors that the company meets high standards of quality and innovation.
Marketing and public relations
Awards serve as powerful marketing tools. Companies can leverage awards in their promotional materials, press releases, and social media campaigns which can attract new customers, retain existing ones, and even generate media coverage, which can amplify the company’s reach and reputation.
Employee morale and motivation
Recognition of the company’s achievements is often seen as a recognition of the employees’ hard work and dedication. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, loyalty, and a positive workplace culture. It can also aid in attracting top talent to the organisation.
Competitive advantage
Industry awards can provide a unique selling
point that can be used to win new business and justify premium pricing. Customers and clients often perceive award-winning companies as more trustworthy and capable, which can give them an edge in competitive markets.
Innovation and continuous improvement
The pursuit of industry awards often drives companies to innovate and continuously improve their products, services, and processes. The standards and criteria set by award organisations encourage companies to push the boundaries of what they can achieve, leading to overall growth and advancement within the industry.
If you’re up for an award this season we wish you the very best of luck. If you win, then huge congratulations! If you’re going to an awards event to be with your community – then have a great time recognising and celebrate everyone in the industry that works so hard.
Abpco.org
Make your event the experience of a lifetime with some interactive entertainment options.
As event organisers, we’re always looking for creative ways to create a memorable experience for delegates. The entertainment is always going to be one of the highlights of the night, but in addition to the traditional band or DJ set up on stage, how about something a bit more interactive?
Inviting caricature artists to your corporate event can add a delightful and personalised touch. These skilled artists capture the essence of attendees with exaggerated yet charming illustrations. As guests sit for their portraits, it provides a fun and light-hearted break from formal proceedings. Caricatures not only serve as a conversation starter but also as a unique keepsake for delegates to remember the event. This form of entertainment encourages interaction, as people often gather around to watch the artists at work and share laughs over the playful depictions of their colleagues.
A wandering magician brings an element of surprise and wonder to a corporate event. Unlike stage performances, a roaming magician interacts closely with small groups or individuals, performing
tricks right before their eyes. This creates an intimate and engaging experience, leaving your delegates in awe. The magician’s presence can break the ice, fostering a relaxed atmosphere and encouraging mingling among attendees. Magic, with its universal appeal, captivates diverse audiences, making it an ideal entertainment choice for events aiming to blend fun with professionalism.
For a truly unique and visually stunning experience, consider hiring an aerial bartender. Suspended gracefully from the ceiling, these bartenders serve drinks while performing elegant aerial routines. This not only adds a touch of sophistication and glamour to your event but also offers a memorable spectacle for your guests. The aerial bartender can become a focal point, drawing delegates together to watch the performance and enjoy a drink. This combination of service and entertainment enhances the overall ambiance, making the event feel exclusive and extraordinary.
Music is a universal language that can set the tone for any event. A roaming band brings a dynamic and lively element,
moving through the venue and interacting with guests. Unlike a stationary band, a roaming band can engage with different groups, tailoring their performance to the mood of each area. This mobility ensures that all delegates, regardless of where they are, can enjoy live music. The band can play a variety of genres, catering to diverse tastes and enhancing the overall energy of the event. Their presence encourages dancing, singing along, and spontaneous moments of joy, fostering a vibrant and connected atmosphere.
Incorporating circus acts into your corporate event can provide an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. From acrobats and jugglers to fire-eaters and contortionists, these performers bring a sense of wonder and excitement. Circus acts can be used as a main attraction or as intermittent performances throughout the event. Their dramatic and skillful displays captivate audiences, providing thrilling entertainment that keeps delegates talking long after the event is over. The variety of acts available means you can tailor the entertainment to fit the theme and tone of your event, ensuring a unique and engaging experience for everyone.
Hi Ciprian! Tell us a bit about your background and how you started.
My culinary journey began in Romania, where I attended culinary school and started my career as a chef on the seaside. In 2009, I moved to the UK and began working at Slaley Hall – a four-star property in Newcastle – as a junior sous chef. I quickly climbed the ranks and eventually became head chef there. My career has taken me across the north of England to places including Leeds, Sheffield, the Lake District, and Hull, where I have honed my skills in fine dining establishments.
So, what attracted you to your current role?
I had always aspired to work for a prestigious international brand like Hilton. When the opportunity arose, I was particularly drawn to DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City’s innovative dō deli concept, which sets it apart from other hotels in the local area. The emphasis on fresh ingredients and the chance to continuously improve menu quality particularly appealed to me.
Where have you found inspiration from?
My passion for cooking was ignited in my childhood when I spent a lot of time cooking alongside my mother and that early excitement has stayed with me throughout my career. I also draw inspiration from Michelin-starred chefs and industry icons. When I moved to the UK, I was exposed to new influences – particularly the work of Gordon Ramsay – which has significantly shaped my approach to cuisine.
What are your favourite ingredients to cook with?
I have a particular fondness for lamb as it offers versatility and rich flavours. Dō deli serves a lovely, braised Barnsley lamb chop which showcases the restaurant’s commitment to its appreciation for fine ingredients. When it comes to seafood, turbot is my go-to fish for its delicate taste and texture.
Are there differences between cooking for leisure and corporate guests?
Corporate events often require more standardised, buffet-style offerings. Leisure dining on the other hand allows for more creativity and personalisation. However, regardless of the type of guest, I always strive to maintain the highest attention to detail and quality in every dish that I prepare.
Ciprian Condrea is the Executive Chef at dō deli, a restaurant recently launched by DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City. He tells us about his culinary journey and his biggest inspirations.
I enjoy hosting special BBQs for my family in the garden when the weather is nice.
My top choice has got to be a steak sandwich.
During the colder months, I find comfort in a hearty beef stew with dumplings.
Dodeli.com Dodeli@doubletreesheffieldcity.com 0114 321 4400
Silent Seminars recently provided 1,200 of its headsets at the 2024 at Excel London, providing a seamless and impactful experience for the event’s delegates.
The SME & Watercooler Exhibition is a premier event focusing on networking, knowledge sharing, and showcasing innovations for SMEs. The 2024 event at Excel London featured a packed schedule, including a series of focused workshops and three parallel tracks running across both days – Engage, Embed, and Evolve. The conference, now in its third year, included keynote presentations, fireside chats, and interactive workshops, all conducted in a ‘silent’ format to ensure focused and uninterrupted discussions. Silent Seminars’ objective for the event was to maximise space utilisation, enhance attendee engagement, and successfully deliver the audio in eight adjacent seminar theatres.
Education is a key driver in audience attendance at the expo. Due to the closeknit nature of the education theatres on the show floor with all eight positioned right next to each other along one side of the hall, the organisers knew they could not successfully deliver the audio using a traditional ‘out loud’ PA set up. Each theatre was open plan, separated only by low fencing meaning audio would bleed from one to the other, thus significantly compromising the experience for both attendees and exhibitors.
Using our headsets, we were able to support the diverse and concurrent schedule, ensuring clear audio delivery for
Silent Seminars illustrates how it managed to enhance the SME & Watercooler Exhibition 2024 using an impressive 1,200 pairs of wireless headphones to stream audio directly to delegates.
everyone attending the education sessions throughout the two-day exhibition.
Silent Seminars’ latest model 45 channel conference headphones were distributed across the eight seminar theatres and workshops. The engineers installed transmitters in each theatre which ran on locked, programmable frequencies ensuring there was no on-site interference. Different coloured LED lights on the headsets were used in each theatre to clearly distinguish the areas. The wireless headsets were placed on the backs of the seats for easy audience access and managed throughout the event by Silent Seminars’ team. Headsets were then reset and cleaned after each session.
Throughout the event the audience were able to engage and participate in a wide variety of sessions covering a multitude of topics resulting in increased accessibility and improving the experience for all attendees. The event organisers were able to maximise the use of their busy show floor and exhibitors could successfully network, hold meetings and interact with clients without being disturbed by the audio from the theatres.
The implementation of the technology had a significant positive impact on the event. The innovative wireless headset technology successfully met the objectives of the show organisers helping to significantly enhance attendee engagement, optimise space usage, and provide high-quality audio for a packed and diverse schedule.
Silentseminars.com
“Silent Seminar headsets have transformed the way we host our events. We are now able to position several theatres and workshops in one open space, giving our delegates multiple opportunities to access content across a wide range of different topics. The headsets allow the delegate to focus in on the session and really connect with the speakers. We would not host an event now without this technology, which has hugely elevated our attendee experience.”
Selecting the venue is a vital step in successful event planning. We spoke to June Glackin, Founder of Junie Poonie Events who shares her five top considerations.
The venue can make the difference between a memorable occasion and a logistical nightmare. With over 15 years of industry experience, stylist, designer, and event planner June Glackin understands the red flags to look for. She gives us her ‘five C’s’ to keep in mind during when deciding on a venue to ensure your choice will align with your client’s vision.
June believes that one of the most important factors to consider is whether the communication from venue staff is up to scratch in order to address client concerns promptly and ensure seamless service: “If there’s poor communication from a venue, that’s a huge red flag for me. If your client has questions that you don’t know the answer to, you need those to be covered and the communication to always be on it so that you can provide the best service for your client.”
Just because a venue has an impressive events space or photographs well, doesn’t mean that it’s the right one. June tells us why aesthetic isn’t everything and why working as a team matters: “There are some really incredible venues that I won’t work with anymore because their team didn’t collaborate with me. If a venue is hosting my client, we must become a team.”
“A venue’s team can’t have an us vs. them mentality, if they said to me that a sink needed unblocking or the toilet rolls needed
filling, I’d do it! But I expect the same from them in return, if I’m on hand for any task, they should be as well – regardless of what needs doing. If the team doesn’t match the standard of the vibe and aesthetic of a venue, it isn’t going to work.”
It’s a good idea to step away from thinking as an event planner and put yourself in the shoes of your delegates to think about the little, hidden moments that you might otherwise forget: “I like to be able to go to the venue to walk through what the client is going to see and feel. I look at things such as what the car park is like and if there’ll be enough staff on to make sure all delegates are welcome at the same time. Don’t just look at it from a stylist perspective, logistics and thinking about how the event is going to work are so important. It’s vital that you scour the venue for tiny touchpoints as you would from a customer service perspective.”
One of the most important aspects that often gets overlooked when selecting a venue is the toilet! I’ll always check this when I visit a potential venue because every delegate is guaranteed to be in there at some point. And when you think about a night out, most of the key conversations happen in there!”
Venues have a huge part to play in providing the human experience, and June believes their offerings should be able to cater to a range of event types:
“If a client told me they wanted their event in a boardroom, I’d never put it in a boardroom. I try and push clients to be all about the people and souls that are at an event, rather than the corporate style of it. You have the make sure that the human experience is being met.
“It isn’t necessarily about bending the rules but making new and different things happen to create a better experience by getting clients and venues out of what they’re used to. I’m all about immersive and experiential experiences, and if a venue doesn’t have the option for this – it goes back to collaboration – they should be able make it happen.”
Finally, June thinks the décor of a venue shouldn’t detract from your budget: “It sounds random at first, but there’s nothing worse than having to spend budget on covering horrible carpet. Some venues are still in the era of having a paisley carpet because they think it will hide all sins – but it just puts people off. I’d rather be spending the budget on something that’s experiential or something that will elevate an event, rather than hiding a bad carpet. This also applies to curtains; I’ve been known to take curtains down myself at a venue!”
Juniepoonie.com
Elevate your client’s logo at your next event with our picks of some of the most unique edible items to give delegates something to digest.
It’s often said that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, so why not apply this to your next event? By attaching your branding to edible items, not only are you keeping delegates happy; you’re also creating talking points, being more sustainable, and helping your event and brand to stay in people’s minds. Here are some slightly more unusual ideas...
Adding edible branding to beverages is a great way to stand out from the crowd. Make your event that little bit more Instagram-worthy by hiring a drinks printer which allows you to print your logo and branding onto beers, cocktails, and coffees. Most printers use ink made from natural ingredients with naturally occurring preservatives and no artificial colours, so they’re suitable for any dietary requirements. And the best part is, they don’t affect the taste of the drink, so delegates can still enjoy delicious beverages with the added bonus of your branding.
Burgers are generally a guaranteed crowd pleaser, so elevate them to the next level with a personalised burger stamp. This works by heating up the stamp and then simply pressing it onto the top of the burger bun, creating a burnt mark in the shape of your logo which delegates will see when they’re tucking into their food. If burgers aren’t on the menu then don’t worry, stamps can also be used on other items, such as steaks, bread, or even ice as another way to increase branding opportunities.
by food. These are also a helpful and sustainable tool that can be used to mark any dietary requirements such as gluten free, vegan, or nut free onto the products being served at your event. Wafer paper is also handy to use to turn your business cards edible. But it doesn’t stop there, with options of beef jerky, cookies, nori, or even peanuts, there are numerous materials on the market to print your business cards onto and make them equally delicious and sustainable.
Including fortune cookies in your catering is a fun novelty that will definitely get people talking. With a personalised message inside once the cookies have been opened, you can customise it to say whatever you want. Whether it’s news from your brand, information that you want people to remember, or even just contact details, presenting information that you want to get out there in this format is bound to stick in delegate’s heads even after the event. Fortune cookies are also a great ice breaker for delegates to share which personalised message they received with each other.
Custom print wafer paper labels offer a unique and distinctive way to create brand experience and keep recognisable at every moment of your event, even when usually delegates are distracted
Specialist bakery Eat My Logo caters to countless orders monthly for businesses throughout the UK. Offering a diverse array of treats, from cupcakes to biscuits and brownies, it’s renowned for its top-notch branding and delicious flavours! Eat My Logo ensures its offerings appeal to a broad spectrum of tastes and dietary needs, including options that are veganfriendly and gluten-free.
Treats can be customised with either an edible, full-colour topper, or a premium sticker, based on the product type and client specifications. This makes for a fantastic promotional tool for special events such as product launches, grand openings, and company milestones, providing a perfect way to commemorate an occasion and provide a unique experience for delegates.
Eatmylogo.co.uk
Sounds Commercial runs through how it put together a smashing event which raised over £15,000 for Air Ambulance.
In August, East Midlands Elite – a group of 40+ event professionals who have formed a networking group – came together with multiple businesses from across the East Midlands to host an event at Radisson Blu East Midlands Airport Hotel to raise awareness and money for the Air Ambulance.
The group worked closely with Sounds Commercial to create the hugely successful event where 140 guests put on their glad rags and dug deep to support the charity. Clair O’Mara, Director of Sales and Marketing at Raddison Blu and a Cofounder of East Midlands Elite, discusses the success of the event: “It was a terrific event, we raised over £15,000 through ticket sales and fundraising on the night. We chose to support the Air Ambulance as it’s a local charity who receive no government funding which was also based at East Midlands Airport up until recently.”
With 38 years experience in crafting bespoke events and championing cuttingedge technology, Sounds Commercial prides itself in managing all facets of event production. As a key supplier for the Air Ambulance event, it played a crucial role in designing the event space and providing expert staff and AV systems for the evening.
Craig Tasker, Branch and Operations Manager of the Midlands division at Sounds Commercial, told us about his initial planning process: “We came up with the concept for stage and design, then spoke with other suppliers and the performers to coordinate what they were doing and make sure that we all came together to deliver the best event possible. My goal from the start was to completely transform quite a bland conference room and showcase it to become an impressive event space.”
Working within the spec of the space can be a challenge when putting together an event and Sounds Commercial had to navigate that challenge to pull it together: “We started by understanding what structure to put in as a base and from there we created some CAD visuals to start the design process. The room has a natural portrait orientation that wasn’t working for what was needed so we changed it to landscape. We provided a huge structure
and worked with the colour scheme from the brief to create a ‘wow moment’ as it became an immersive events space.”
Once the space looked the part, it was all about the AV which was vital to inspire delegates to donate. Craig says: “We liaised with Clair about the agenda of the event to make sure that we had enough crew and provisions of equipment to deal with every aspect. Music is such a big part of events, we had to make sure that the right track was playing at the right time to fit the tone of the moment. We created lighting and audio cues to keep the energy up when needed or less so during sombre moments when the speakers were on stage.”
It needed to look special and luxurious so that the attendees felt like they could be more generous and support the charity.
Sounds Commercial received glowing feedback for its involvement in the event, Clair tells us: “Everyone who attended agreed that there wasn’t a single low moment throughout the evening. Craig did an incredible job keeping the energy consistently high and bringing the right emotions at just the right moments. Even other AV suppliers commented on how amazing Sounds Commercial were – we wouldn’t have been able to do it without them.”
The team behind the event meticulously attended to every detail, leaving no stone unturned to ensure a flawlessly executed evening that raised lots of money and
awareness for a great cause: “A key point for me was the delegate journey,” noted Craig. “When the guests arrived, we needed to make it feel like they were at a prestigious event right from the entrance of the hotel. As soon as you left reception you were met with a gold walkway, opulent flowers, an LED sparkle sign, a casino table, and canapes. Within the events space corridor – before guests even entered the main space – they knew it was a luxury evening from the offset. Every element was diligently considered over many months working alongside all the suppliers.”
Soundscommercial.co.uk
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The Business Events sector is a crucial driver of economic growth and innovation, but as we navigate the changing landscape post-pandemic and with a newly placed government, it’s clear that stability and support are more essential than ever. The sector needs government backing to ensure its survival and growth, particularly in the face of mounting challenges. Business rates reform, better recognition of Business Events as separate from the hospitality sector, and more flexible apprentice levy use are just some of the pressing issues that need addressing.
At beam’s State of the Nation event on 19th September, the focus was on the importance of SIC codes and the value of business events in driving the UK economy. Attended by MPs Jack Rankin and Mike Wood, along with industry leaders, the event highlighted the need for visa reform, and an event tax credit
It’s so simplistic to say. If we just sit down and talk it through, everything can be worked out.
We’re in the world of events, and event situations aren’t calming moments with time and focus baked in; they are often intense, instant, and crucial. That isn’t just on-site at an event either, it’s in the run up as the heat slowly rises towards event days.
That’s why, outside of the event, this art of conversation should be so prized, and none more so than now, as we see the end of the summer season and start looking at planning for the next activity to come. Now is a time for review, for reflection, but for us at NOEA, for relationship as well.
The one thing we have noticed among our members over the last three years,
Louisa Watson, ESG Director at beam, the business events accommodation and meetings association, discusses the need for stability and co-operation in the industry.
scheme to attract international events. Beam chair Julie Shorrock emphasised the industry’s critical role in job creation and GDP, while speakers like Martin Fullard and John Rowland provided insights into the political landscape and the industry’s path forward.
However, government support alone is not enough. As an industry, we need to look inward and recognise the power of collaboration between agents, suppliers, and venues. The strength of the sector lies in how well we can work together, sharing knowledge, resources, and support for the benefit of the entire value chain. By uniting, we ensure not only our own success but also the success of our customers – delivering better experiences, services, and outcomes.
We’ve already seen great examples of this in action. Whether through partnerships focused on sustainability or collaborative responses to shifts in client expectations, it’s clear that
working in silos won’t cut it anymore. The days of intense competition without collaboration must be left behind. If we, as agents and suppliers, share insights, best practices, and even resources, we stand a far better chance of delivering outstanding events while also protecting the long-term health of our sector.
The Business Events sector has faced some tough times, and there will be more challenges ahead. But by working together – strengthening our partnerships, advocating for the government support we need, and ensuring collaboration is at the heart of everything we do – we can build a more resilient, sustainable, and successful industry for the future.
Now is the time to lean in, support one another, and push for the changes we need. Beam-org.uk
Susan Tanner, CEO of the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA), highlights the importance of conversations in-person.
is the fundamental breakdown in some crucial relationships. These anxieties and antagonisms have been there a long time; the squeezing of suppliers, the constant rate rises from suppliers, the unfair contracts, the need for more notice, the need for more detail, we know what they are.
Post pandemic debt repayments, the cost-of-living crisis and high inflation all exacerbated these issues by adding a fiscal component to them. One we really didn‘t need, and these often strained relationships have broken. Now they need to be fixed.
Our events community is good at coming together, not least to network, to learn and to have these conversations in a more relaxed setting. It’s one of the reasons our own annual convention has become so popular. This year, more than ever, we’re
turning it into one big conversation, the chance to have the tough chats, as a group, with empathy and care.
Our awards ceremony later in the evening celebrates the joint success that events inevitably are. Between organiser, producer, authority, supplier and venues, the best events are the best, because they hold these relationships together.
This is the essence of the art of conversation. The ability to have the chat, to do so in an empathetic way, and then to celebrate the successes. It’s not always easy, far from it, but that’s why, more than ever, it’s so very important.
Noea.org.uk
We delve into the most impactful strategies for keeping delegates engaged after a small event or meeting, exploring the best ways to create meaningful and personalised follow-ups.
It can be easy to adopt a ‘done and dusted’ mentality once your event wraps up, but a well-crafted post event engagement strategy is crucial for many reasons. Fostering deeper connections with delegates, gathering insightful feedback, building a sense of community and loyalty, and maintaining momentum to boost visibility will all be the result of a successful strategy. Planning this strategy before an event even starts is essential as without it – according to event marketing software company SplashThat – you could experience an estimated 20% drop in engagement for each day that goes by without follow-up.
For small events, meetings, or conferences, your post event engagement strategy will be easily tailored to the event’s scale, intimacy, and objectives. A smaller event’s strategy benefits from customisation that focuses on direct interactions and personalised content, whereas a larger event may rely more on automation and broader community building efforts.
Personalisation is the most significant advantage of hosting a smaller event. Customising thank you messages, social media content, and offers based on interactions during the event will add a personal touch that delegates will appreciate. Addressing the delegate by their name in a thank you message
and referencing specific contributions or memorable moments that made their involvement special will show genuine appreciation and make each delegate feel valued.
With fewer delegates to engage, there’s a greater opportunity for more individualised follow-ups where you can connect directly with attendees, respond to specific concerns, and even organise small follow-up meetings or intimate networking sessions. Sharing memorable moments or achievements from the event will remind delegates of a positive experience that they had, a task that is much more manageable with a smaller audience.
Social media will undoubtedly be your best friend in crafting an effective engagement strategy, particularly for a smaller event. With a smaller audience number, it’s easier to tailor social media posts that will resonate with and be relevant to delegates, rather than making broad generalisations. Competitions and contests can be particularly useful as they will encourage participation, generate excitement, and significantly increase an event’s reach and visibility. Offering incentives or prizes will motivate delegates to engage with the brand, share their experiences, and spread the word about your event. This approach amplifies engagement, especially with a smaller
group, as it encourages people to share the event with their own network through their social media platforms.
Building a close-knit community after a smaller event where delegates will have had more meaningful and in-depth interactions during the event is crucial as they will likely want to develop these networks further once the event has ended. This community will naturally foster stronger emotional connections not only between delegates, but also between the brand or organisation. Social media can play a pivotal role here, creating interactive posts that encourage delegates to engage with not only the brand, but each other as well will strengthen the sense of community.
Developing an effective post event engagement strategy isn’t just crucial from a personal perspective, it has undeniable professional impact. For a smaller group of delegates, it allows for a more detailed and comprehensive feedback process, allowing you to lay the groundwork for refining and enhancing future events. Also, being able to maintain thorough engagement post event means there’s an increased likelihood of turning discussions from the event into tangible outcomes, such as sales leads, networking opportunities, and partnerships.
Benoit Lawrence, Owner of Evolve Talent & Speakers, offers some advice as to how to support a keynote speaker before, during, and after your event.
The keynote speaker is often the stand-out attraction of an event and one of the main things your delegates will remember. It’s the speaker’s job to entertain and charm, all while imparting key information to potentially thousands of onlookers. It’s a substantial task, and one that event organisers can make easier by seeing to a few small details before, during, and after an event.
Providing your speaker with comprehensive details before the event is key to ensuring they are both prepared and comfortable when they arrive, as Benoit Lawrence, Owner of Evolve Talent & Speakers, explains: “Once an event organiser has booked a speaker, we always recommend a briefing call. That allows the event organiser to give the speaker a detailed brief on exactly what they’re looking for. This covers themes and topics but also it’s a chance to let the speaker know a bit more about the event, including who’s attending and logistical admin.”
Ensuring the speaker feels comfortable once they arrive at the event is also important. Even the most experienced of public speakers can feel a few nerves before they get on stage, especially if faced with a large audience: “One thing that’s important to make speakers feel more comfortable, is for them to have a private space where they’re able to relax in and go through their talk. When speakers with a high public profile arrive at an event, often people want to chat to them or get a selfie. Sometimes they may seem rude or standoffish, which is not their intention. If you imagine they’re
speaking to 500 people in 30 minutes time, they want to be in the zone and focus so that they can give the best speech possible.”
Speakers, like any of us, can feel insecure, even if they’ve done it thousands of times before.
On the day of the event, the speaker needs to understand timings, logistics and tech aspects – with time set out to ensure any questions they have are answered: “Introduce yourself and the AV team and make sure the speaker knows who everyone is, in case they have a question, and just be around and aware that they might need something last minute.
Communication with the speaker shouldn’t end as soon as the event is over. Feedback, be it positive or negative, will be greatly appreciated: “Speakers, like any of us, can feel insecure, even if they’ve done it thousands of times before. If they’ve done a good job – or even if they’ve done a bad job – they’ll want to know about it. Feedback is crucial and needs to be given quickly. If it’s in the days after the event, they’ll remember what happened at the event. If its two months down the line it can be difficult to digest because the event was months ago.”
Leading event insights software provider, Explori, has announced the phase one launch of its latest AI-powered text analysis tool, designed to revolutionise how event organisers analyse event feedback. The tool automates the labour-intensive process of coding open-ended comments and introduces the ability to benchmark these responses against industry standards. The result is a faster, more efficient, and more insightful breakdown of responses, removing the need for organisers to scan through thousands of rows of data.
Explori is an event industry supplier that provides solutions to make post-event feedback simple and strategic. Clive Morris explains: “Our main product is built around using feedback as a core tool for corporate event, exhibition, association, and conference organisers. We’ve done this with over 7,000 events so have been able to build these benchmarks for events in any sector. Having these benchmarks allows us to determine whether an event was above or below certain standards, so organisers can quickly understand how well their event has done in context.”
“In addition to the technology, we also deliver a multitude of research projects to really dig into the performance of individual events and entire event programmes, engaging with all key stakeholders from attendees and exhibitors to the event planners themselves.”
The Explori platform encourages organisers to ask open-ended questions that gain an
Clive Morris, COO of event insights and measurement platform Explori, explains how its new AI-powered tool simplifies and enhances the post-event feedback process.
understanding of why participants have scored the events in the way that they have, across a range of best-practice metrics. The new AI tool is a more efficient way of analysing event feedback that will save both time and resources. With time being an ever decreasing luxury for event professionals, Clive believes that this tool is just what the industry needs: “When you think about all the processes that are involved when executing an event and gathering post-event feedback, so much of the admin can genuinely be accelerated by using AI – if it’s used effectively – which means event teams can focus on other tasks that are more value generative.”
“We’ve tailored the tool so finely to the events world that it will actually be helpful and relevant to organisers.”
There’s no denying that AI is huge in today’s world, and with developments in technology, AI-literate generations coming into the workforce, and the increasing desire to adopt more efficient processes, it’s definitely here to stay. With Explori’s new tool, the coding is specified to the events industry allowing it to work more effectively than a standard AI platform, as Clive
explains: “There are a lot of generic AI tools where you can input data, but it will only do a half decent job of summarising what you’ve entered as it’s less aware of the context. Within the events world, there’s a lot of language that isn’t really used every day so there’s no general AI model out there that can properly interpret a lot of the terms. A simple example of this is the word stand, a normal AI tool would think that it was somebody standing upright and not an exhibition stand!”
“The tool is very easy to use; we have a training session that means within around 30 minutes, a client that’s new to Explori can be building surveys, distributing them, and looking at the data. The AI part will just drag and drop a couple of things into the survey which will automatically code all the data, making it a rapid process that requires minimal effort from the organiser. Not only is it a huge time saver, but it will also give organisers more insight than they’ve had before.”
The new tool is currently available to Explori’s organiser clients, with a broader roll-out across corporate teams planned for early 2025.
Explori.com
Feels like Wyboston Lakes Resort.
We’re serious about delicious, creative food.
Whether it’s hearty winter warmers, or themed event food to capture tastes from all over the world, we’ve got you covered.
Getting excited? Us too. Take a look at our menus and event experiences! Simply scan the QR code below.
Get in touch: sales@wybostonlakes.co.uk
With the government announcing proposed plans for employees to request a four-day work week, we hear from event profs about how that could work for our industry.
Under new government plans, employees will have the right to request a shorter working week and have their contracted hours compressed into longer days. This shift could, in principle, improve the mental health and wellbeing for employees. However, the unique nature of events that often require long hours, weekend work, and tight deadlines could pose a challenge to this new model. We speak to event profs about the idea.
From an industry perspective a four-day week is something that’s already not too unusual. Many corporate events take place in the evenings, plus daytime conferences and events require significant set-up and prep, meaning a longer working day. We often arrange time off in lieu for the team, due to the longer working day around an event. We have embraced flexibility to keep attracting the industry’s best to work with us. Our team members like the option to condense their hours to give them more flexibility. Moving forward, flexibility will be key in attracting and keeping talent in the industry.
From a supplier perspective, it’s quite usual for us to not get through to some on a Monday, because they have worked at the weekend. If clients are aware of those only working four days, they can work round it. Or if it is 100% necessary for a supplier to be available on their non-working day, this should be communicated from the outset. Communication throughout the supply chain is vital to ensure both the success of events and the working hours.
Often working in events brings a seven-day week, as those in the business know well. We’re working all hours getting suppliers, catering, and photographers sorted all the way to trackway hire confirmed. I think a four-day week would be marvellous, however it’s difficult to imagine it working, as events are so often planned for days most take off i.e. Friday evenings and weekends. Working seamlessly in events calls for a love of the atmosphere and culture, and the way my business works I love going from one event to the next.
Event professionals will know that long and unconventional hours are commonplace in the industry – so the prospect of a fourday work week and an additional day of recuperation will be attractive to many. A day off in the middle of a jam-packed week facilitating events or a three-day weekend, for example, could help reduce
stress and prevent burnout for employees, while helping businesses attract talent back to an industry that is still reeling from the pandemic.
Event seasons can cause real peaks and troughs in the work patterns needed to deliver for our clients. Event management is well known to be a high stress industry at times, so anything we can do to alleviate that and to help our staff feel more fulfilled, motivated and seen can only be a good thing.
While a four-day week could certainly work in the quieter times, forcing one day per week to be not working could provoke more anxiety in event managers during busy times. By allowing teams to work flexibly to suit them and meet the demands of their events is better. Perhaps if event managers could choose any day of each week to be off it could work better for everyone, but as our clients and delegates expect us to be available to respond on any day of the week, we would still need to ensure cover at all times.
We ensure that we give our team ‘TOIL’ for all the additional hours they work on events. This gives them more control over when they take their time back, allowing them to choose a time when they can relax and recharge instead of forcing days off in the middle of a busy time, which won’t allow sufficient rest and could cause the inverse effect of creating more stress. However, we are always looking at ways to look after our team so never say never to the four-day working week!
We take a look at some of the best and most innovative networking solutions to encourage delegates to build lasting connections at your next
event.
Networking has come a long way from awkward small talk and mundane business card exchanges. Event organisers are constantly thinking of new ways to encourage delegates to build relationships, share knowledge, and collaborate through different mediums. By leveraging the latest technologies and creative strategies, you can create opportunities for authentic interactions and win a lasting impression.
Founder of events industry networking brand Famtastic, Paula Kelsey, knows just how important innovative networking solutions are, she said: “Event profs are always looking at new ways of engagement and post pandemic, how people work has changed significantly. One of the reasons we have managed to establish a successful series of events is to keep them fun, fresh, and to the point – with lots of opportunities for informal interaction that can then lead to more serious business discussions. Making new connections is vital in such a fast-changing landscape.”
Wearable tech is an excellent way to encourage networking, with smart badges being an example. Personalisation is a key feature of smart badges, allowing delegates to input and display personal information, making it quicker to identify relevant connections and easier to exchange contact details. Some smart badges can be
programmed to vibrate when in proximity to another delegate with similar interests or goals which can act as a natural ice breaker and encourage interactions.
Klik SmartBadges help to streamline the check-in process, have a simple click-toconnect feature, and coloured lights to identify different groups, or launch custom cues to light up your event. Klik’s badges also allow organisers to gather real-time data on delegate interactions throughout the event to optimise future event layouts and get a better understanding of networking patterns.
Event apps serve as a one-stop-shop for all event details, granting access to event schedules, speaker information, and attendee lists. This centralisation makes it easier to identify and plan networking opportunities into their time at the event. Most event apps allow for detailed profiles to be created which will help AI or matchmaking algorithms to suggest connections based on the information given – such as professional goals or what industry they’re in – on the profile which maximises networking efforts by connecting delegates with the most relevant people.
Fliplet is a fully customisable event app that helps to establish a strong network at your event. It gives delegates a platform to make sure they can meet effectively, taking away the need for awkward interactions or wandering aimlessly looking for someone to meet. Fliplet lets delegates network before, during, and after the event; providing the tools that facilitate easy connections and continuous engagement.
Speed networking is a structured and fastpaced activity that’s designed to maximise
the number of connections that delegates can make in a short amount of time through a series of brief, timed meetings that last just a few minutes, before rotating to meet a new person.
It can be challenging to meet a large number of people at bigger events, so speed networking is an efficient use of time that ensures every participant has the opportunity to connect with multiple people. Each interaction encourages delegates to get straight to the point, making conversations more focused and purposeful where they can clearly articulate their goals and interests. Speed networking creates an inclusive environment that encourages rapid, meaningful connections; a great way to start an event where delegates may not be familiar.
Incorporating gaming into an event, such as video games and scavenger hunts, serves as natural ice breakers and keep delegates actively engaged. As they work towards goals, they’re more likely to approach others, ask questions, and form connections which in turn will lead to a more dynamic networking environment. The fun and competitive nature of incorporating gaming makes the event more memorable as people are more likely to remember who they interacted with. It’s also a great way to let delegates let their hair down!
Wildgoose Events uses technology to create fun and engaging virtual treasure hunts and escape rooms that are an excellent way to boost energy among delegates. With themes ranging from space survival to spy school, delegates can create potential networking opportunities through collaborative challenges and team-based activities.
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The Famtastic Awards 2024 are set to take place on 1st November, bringing together event professionals from across the country in a celebration of excellence.
After a smash hit inaugural event last year, the Famtastic Awards are set to return on 1st November, bringing the UK events industry together for an evening of celebration and well-earned recognition. This year’s event will take place at the Leonardo Hinckley Island Hotel on the outskirts of Coventry.
The 2024 awards will see finalists and winners recognised across 23 different categories, including two new categories: the Convention Centre/ Bureau of the Year award and the Freelancer of the Year award. The new awards are designed to reflect the expansiveness of the industry, which the Famtastic Awards tries to encapsulate across the event.
Across the other categories, the awards will recognise roles across the entire span of the industry. Just a few of the categories being awarded include Agent of the Year, Independent Venue of the Year, New Talent of the Year, Team Building Company of the Year, and Unique Venue of the Year. Those that attended the awards last year may notice that one category, Caterer of the Year, is absent from the roster this year. This is due to the simple fact that there were no finalists in this category this year, but the absence is more than made up for by this year’s new categories.
One of the attractions which sets the Famtastic Awards apart is its commitment to fairness and transparency in judging. Agencies and buyers are responsible for
judging venue and supplier entries, while suppliers will judge agency entries. Crucially, judges only score and rank entrants they have direct experience working with, ensuring the process is based on genuine expertise and knowledge.
In a return from last year, Famtastic is partnering with Events R Talented to support fundraising for Rare Dementia Support. The initiative was founded in 2018 by Ken Findlay, Paul Tidy, Graeme Saunders, and Matt Curran as a way to raise money for charity while celebrating the events industry and its talented professionals.
Far from being just an awards show, the day’s agenda is packed with activities designed for networking and celebration. After arriving and enjoying light refreshments from 12.00pm, attendees can participate in Speed Dating & Networking from 1.00pm, offering the chance to make valuable connections in the industry. The evening will feature a drinks reception in the Atrium from 7.00pm, followed by
the awards dinner and entertainment starting at 7.30pm and going through to midnight. The dress code during the day is business attire, with a transition to black tie with a hint of Famtastic’s signature pink for the glamorous evening celebration.
Paula Kelsey, Founder of Famtastic, said: “We are excited to recognise our industry stars, and incredible venues at the second annual Famtastic Awards and hope that the date will become a real fixture in our industry calendar. We have already increased our numbers of entries year on year and our guest list has also hugely increased – for 2025 we are going to need somewhere huge!
“We would like to wish all of the finalists this year our congratulations and look forward to celebrating with our winners at the event.”
For a full list of the finalists see Famtastic. rocks/awards
Our latest hidden gem venue enjoys unparallelled views and luxurious versatility.
In the heart of beautiful Northumberland, and just minutes from the breathtaking coastline lies Charlton Hall, an 18th century mansion house, a perfect setting for all types of corporate events. The exclusive awardwinning events venue – which overlooks the rolling countryside and sea in the spectacular distance – offers a choice of exciting and quirky spaces for your events with accommodation on-site for your delegates to enjoy.
The main space, The Looking Glass, which holds up to 200 guests, is light and airy with phenomenal views and grounds to break out in, while the venue also boasts three reception areas for more intimate events that can also be used alongside. The Drawing Room provides a calming oasis where your delegates can unwind and recharge, and there’s even an underground vault ideal for some post event entertainment until 2am.
The Morning Room and The Library offer more versatility with all spaces available exclusively or as a package.
If the offerings at Chorlton Hall aren’t enough, there’s also a tipi with a pizza van available for a fun summer event over at the neighbouring The Tempus, a stylish hotel, bar and restaurant in the grounds that’s featured in ‘The Times’ Top 100 Places to Stay in UK 2024. The hotel offers five-star dining, inside or alfresco, with flexible menus using local fresh ingredients, and caters for all dietary needs and allergies.
One of three venues from The Doxford Group, the privately owned Charlton Hall is tendered by a caring on-site events team that works to ensure your event will be remembered forever. In partnership with The Tempus and local event suppliers, you can enjoy a wide range of catering,
entertainment, and team building ideas both inside or out and around the stunning grounds. Why not try clay pigeon shooting or take a wellness retreat? Doxford Barns, the third venue in the stable, is just a few minutes away offering more amazing courtyard and barn spaces.
Charlton Hall offers a full luxury experience, and for the multi-day events, there is a range of individually designed and extremely spacious suites and cottages, some with hot tubs, and stunning lakeside pods to add some wow factor. Accessibility rooms are available and the grounds are easily accessible from main routes and stations, with car parking on-site, including electric charge points.
For more information
elain.meenaghan@thedoxfordgroup.com or Charltonhall.co.uk | 01665 579 173
Entering its fifth year, Design Festival North 2025 promises to captivate and inspire the Northern architecture and design community. Leveraging over 15 years of experience in the interiors industry, it continues to deliver exceptional design experiences through innovative events and creative workshops.
Starting in Leeds in March, the festival will travel to the North’s most vibrant cities visiting Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield, culminating with a grand finale in Liverpool. Each city will highlight its distinct design characteristics, from Liverpool’s cultural heritage to Newcastle’s innovation, Sheffield’s industrial charm, and Leeds’ vibrant creativity. This journey through creativity and connections is set to shape the future of design in the North.
The festival showcases a diverse range of design-led businesses, including those specialising in acoustics, technology, fabrics, furniture and more. This curated selection ensures that attendees are immersed in creativity, surrounded by top industry players.
Design Festival North is a powerful platform for networking, collaboration, and inspiration. As it moves through these iconic cities, the festival underscores the importance of industry connections. After all, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.
Designsocialnorth.co.uk
Financial stress contributes to absenteeism and reduced productivity, costing UK employers an estimated £6.2 billion annually. In the hospitality sector, where staff retention is crucial, employers who prioritise financial wellbeing can significantly improve employee satisfaction and retention.
Money First Aid was established by Rachel Harte and Stacey Lowman to provide financial training, equipping individuals in the workplace to become Money First Aiders, who can:
• Recognise signs of financial distress
• Conduct compassionate and effective conversations about money
• Understand common financial difficulties
• Signpost colleagues to appropriate professional support
Money First Aiders are not financial advisors; their role is to listen, offer support, and direct colleagues to the right resources.
Kerry Webster, Learning & Development Manager at Ever So Sensible, said: “We completed Money First Aid training to better support our employees should they be facing financial pressures, especially in today’s challenging economic climate. This training has enhanced our ability to approach financial conversations with confidence and empathy, ensuring we can provide appropriate guidance. It strengthens our overall wellbeing initiatives and helps us offer more effective support to our team.”
Moneyfirstaid.org.uk
Events by Tamara is a bespoke event planning and event design service that crafts unforgettable experiences by focusing on engaging the five senses. This unique approach transforms ordinary gatherings into immersive sensory journeys, ensuring every aspect of an event leaves a lasting impression.
From sight to sound, touch, taste, and smell, Owner Tamara Awarieta carefully curates each element to elevate the guest experience. Visually stunning settings, from elegant floral arrangements to striking lighting, create an atmosphere that captivates attendees upon arrival. The power of sound is harnessed through carefully selected music or live performances, ensuring the ambiance perfectly matches the event’s tone.
Taste is indulged with exquisite catering options, tailored to suit any palate, while scent plays a subtle yet powerful role in setting the mood, whether through fresh blooms, candles, or even signature event fragrances. Finally, tactile experiences such as luxurious linens, textured décor, or interactive elements engage guests’ sense of touch, fostering a deeper connection to the event.
Events by Tamara excels in orchestrating these sensory elements, making each occasion distinctive, personal, and memorable. Whether planning a corporate function, wedding, or intimate celebration, their attention to sensory details ensures an event that leaves guests truly immersed in the moment.
Eventsbytamara.co.uk
The Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Coventry recently completed the Level 2 Essential of the Wyndham Green Certification Programme. The programme is designed to help hotels reduce their environmental footprints and operate more efficiently through eco-friendly initiatives.
Wyndham’s President EMEA, Dimitris Manikis, commented: “We are so proud of your commitment to our environment as demonstrated by reaching this certification level. Your dedication to the Wyndham Green Certification Programme helps preserve our natural resources and reduce our environmental footprint. Every time you successfully complete a level of the programme, you will continue to see mounting benefits that can help you reduce cost, increase recognition, stay competitive and drive revenue.”
The hotel’s General Manager, Fabio De Barros, added: “Now’s the time to keep pushing forward and work towards completing Level 3 Proficient, which includes using green cleaning products, further reducing energy waste, and advanced water conservation practises.”
Ramadacoventry.co.uk
In the vibrant world of events, Phil Oldershaw stands out as a beacon of creativity and expertise. As the Managing Director of Pose Events, he leads a fullservice agency dedicated to crafting extraordinary, visionary, and memorable events. With over 30 years of industry experience, Phil’s impressive portfolio includes everything from corporate functions to gala award dinners and product launches, presenters and hosts, to guest speakers and entertainment.
Phil’s multifaceted background as a hospitality operations director, venue owner, broadcaster and BRMB Radio presenter lends him a unique perspective on public relations and event management. His appearances on ITV’s Good Morning Britain showcase his ability to engage audiences and navigate complex discussions, further enhancing Pose Events’ reputation in the industry.
What sets Pose Events apart is its commitment to personalised service. Their mission statement emphasises that they are: “We endeavour to exceed our customers’ expectations at all times, and are big enough to make a successful impact yet small enough to care about you and your vision.” This ethos resonates through their diverse offerings, including guestlist management, unique networking opportunities, and bespoke entertainment solutions.
Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering or a private celebration, Phil Oldershaw and Pose Events are ready to turn your vision into an unforgettable reality.
Poseevents.co.uk
Learning for Enterprise transforms the workplace with industryleading training and business consultancy.
As part of the larger Inspiring Learning group, Inspiring Learning for Enterprise (IL4E) utilises over four decades of transformative training expertise designed to unlock potential at all levels of business. Its offering has emerged from collaborating with best-inclass organisations – such as BMW, Great Western Railway, TUI, and Center Parcs – and establishing a deep understanding of what makes them successful, enabling clients to thrive in rapidly changing business environments. In the events world, it is particularly important to ensure your team is at the top of their game to deliver perfection to your clients time after time – something that IL4E’s training can help to achieve.
Programmes are built in line with the development of behaviours and skills that are crucial for fostering high-performing teams, diverse workplaces, and resilient organisations. Services are dynamic and flexible, with programmes offered at one of ILFE’s 12 UK locations, online for remote teams, or at your own premises.
For training and development, apprenticeships, or leisure consultancy, ILFE helps companies deliver excellence when reputation is business critical. Its range of training workshops are tailored to your specific business culture and values, offering dynamic and unique sessions to enhance key attitudes and behaviours in the workplace.
No matter what your goal, whether it’s to enhance existing in house training by adding innovative delivery in person, deliver exceptional customer experiences, improve feedback and reviews, or increase repeat business and ancillary revenues, IL4E’s diverse selection of courses equips your teams with practical, business-specific skills to meet and exceed expectations.
IL4E also leverages the power of the outdoors as a cornerstone of workforce development. Its outdoor activity programmes focus
on building essential skills like self-belief, communication, confidence, and resilience which fosters both personal and professional growth. These programmes are high impact, offering experiential learning that integrates the development of key behavioural skills through activities. This shapes programme content to deliver specific and tangible benefits on both an individual and team level.
By promoting collaboration, effective communication, and problem-solving skills, diverse teams are empowered to work more efficiently together. IL4E also emphasises safety awareness and the ability to withstand and recover from challenges, ensuring sustained performance under pressure. By investing in your company’s emerging talent, the training will help them to understand and embrace your company’s culture and values which ultimately leads to long-term retention.
• Performing teams: Enhance collaboration and synergy within diverse teams, driving higher efficiency.
• Higher productivity: Improve individual and team performance through superior communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Safety: Instil a culture of safety and awareness, crucial in challenging environments.
• Resilience: Build the capacity to withstand and recover quickly from difficulties, ensuring sustained performance under pressure.
• Retention: Invest in your emerging talent to ensure that they understand and embed your culture and values.
• Customised training programmes: Tailored to address specific skill gaps and meet industry standards.
• Flexible learning locations: Nationwide facilities offering diverse environments for practical training, including programmes delivered to your own premises, or online via webinar for remote teams.
• Expert instructors: Highly skilled professionals passionate about teaching and committed to excellence.
• Comprehensive support: From initial consultation to programme delivery and post-training assessments.
I feel invested in by my employer: 98% agree or strongly agree.
I felt the learning with IL4E was useful: 93% agree or strongly agree.
My self-awareness has improved: 94% agree or strongly agree.
I’ve enjoyed the IL4E programme: 100% agree or strongly agree.
Enterprise@inspiring-learning.com Inspiring-learning.com
• A free venue finding service for all corporate and social events, UK & Overseas
• Over 8+ years of event industry experience
• Extensive network and personalised service
Also, a freelance venue finding agent supporting other agencies. 07936124211 | emily@emilyjaynevenues.co.uk www.emilyjaynevenues.co.uk | @emilyjayne_venues
Unleash your venue’s potential with Hotel Advantage. Hospitality sales & operations specialists, our experienced team work with you to achieve success. • Training • Interim management • Consultancy
www.hoteladvantage.co.uk ask@hoteladvantage.co.uk | 07957 575652
The Leicester Marriott offers 20 meeting rooms, 227 rooms, restaurant, bar, gym & parking. Great transport links for motorway network, train station & midlands airports.
Welcome to our Ramada Hotel & Suites Coventry hotel. Located within walking distance of Coventry rail station and 11 miles from Birmingham Airport, our hotel is conveniently located and easily accessible to popular attractions. Marriott.com/EMALM | 01162 820100
024 7623 8110 | www.ramadacoventry.co.uk reservations@ramadacoventry.co.uk
Seren Ventures provides adventure activities, outdoor skills courses and guided mountain walks in Snowdonia, The Lake District and Scotland. Our guides at Seren Ventures are highly experienced instructors who work, play and live in the outdoors. Our approach is relaxed but professional, whichever adventure you choose, you’re guaranteed to be safe, learn and have FUN!! Whether you have experience already or you’re starting from scratch, we have something for you. andy@serenventures.com
www.serenventures.com
We provide sustainable venue finding and event management for corporate, wellness retreats, celebrations, conferences, and eco-friendly teambuilding. Elevate your impact while staying socially and environmentally conscious.
enquiries@lcvvenues.co.uk | 01225 698668 www.lcvvenues.co.uk
• Event Management Services –let us take the strain
• Stage, Lights, Projection, Streaming, Recording
• Structures, Toilets, Site Design, H & S support
• Provision of audio visual and lighting systems for any location MG Event And Sound office@mgeventandsound.co.uk Anji Forsyth: 07837 370714
A crewing
Dom@olympuscrew.co.uk 07904 903452 www.olympuscrew.co.uk
Located in the city’s famous Jewellery Quarter, we have a wide range of spaces available for conferences, exams, group training, and one-to-one sessions.
roomhire@law.ac.uk for more information venuehire.law.ac.uk
Take the frustrations out of finding the perfect venue – the tobook team are here to help! Whether you are arranging a team away day, skills training, conferences, board meetings, product launches, awards dinners or group accommodation, we can find the perfect venue for just such an occasion.
enquires@tobook.co.uk www.tobook.co.uk | 01676 522868
Our experienced team is your first point of contact when hosting a meeting in Glasgow.
www.visitglasgow.org.uk/convention-bureau/
For brand activations, promotions, conferences and events, from small scale to festivals, we are YOUR go-to Event Production Company. UK and worldwide.
yourgb.co.uk | ask@yourgb.co.uk 0131 558 8354
After a successful beta launch at IMEX Frankfurt, the Sustainability Hub for Events (SHE) is officially moving to public access. Developed by Gevme in collaboration with the Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE) initiative and the Strategic Alliance of National Convention Bureaux of Europe, the platform is designed to simplify sustainable event planning with actionable, AI-powered insights.
Since its beta phase, the platform has seen substantial improvements, introducing new features like a Learning Module, which personalises resources for different stakeholders. This module helps bridge the knowledge gap in sustainability by offering diverse educational content – from brief overviews to deep dives – on critical topics like carbon offsetting, measurement, and eco-friendly travel planning. Additionally, the platform now offers guidance on event legacy planning, helping organisers ensure long-lasting sustainability impacts.
The AI model has also been significantly upgraded, leveraging the latest large language models (LLMs) to enhance understanding and reasoning capabilities.
“We’re excited to open up access to a tool that has been tested and refined with input from global users in over 25 countries,” said Alexander Alles, Executive Director of JMIC. “The new features and data contributions make the platform even more impactful for event professionals looking to reduce their environmental footprint.”
ACC Liverpool has taken a leap forward in sustainability by recently achieving the Green Meetings Gold Accreditation. The accreditation is awarded to venues that demonstrate excellence in sustainable operations, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and promoting green initiatives within the community.
This achievement aligns with ACC Liverpool’s overarching sustainability strategy and its goal to reach carbon net zero by 2030. The venue has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, from installing air sourced heat pumps and LED lighting, promoting sustainable waste management practices, and increasing biodiversity on-site.
Adrian Evans, Director of Sales –Conference & Business Events said: “Achieving the Green Meetings Gold Accreditation is an incredible honour for us. It’s testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to sustainability. This accreditation reaffirms our commitment
to a greener future and inspires us to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable event management. We hope to continue to raise the bar for sustainable practices, making a significant impact on both the local community and the broader events industry.”
The OVO Hydro has become the first live entertainment and conference venue in the world to receive a Commended status for its Greener Arena accreditation, thanks to its ambitious plan to become net zero by 2030.
Awarded by A Greener Future (AGF), a not-for-profit organisation committed to helping events, festivals and venues around the world become more sustainable, Commended status signifies an arena ahead of the curve on sustainability actions with demonstrable improvements and significant engagement in reducing negative and increasing positive environmental and social impacts.
The certification was achieved following a rigorous assessment involving detailed analysis of transport, energy and power, waste, water usage, local environment, CO2 and food and beverages.
Debbie McWilliams, Managing Director of Strategy and People at the SEC, said: “We take our environmental responsibility very seriously and are on an ambitious journey to achieve our net zero 2030 goal. Achieving Commended status for the OVO Hydro shows our plans are working and that our commitment to the sustainability of our business is a top priority. Our team continuously look for innovative ways to lessen our impact on the environment and are incredibly proud to play their part in reducing the impact of live events.”
Lolly, the hospitality software house, has announced a 12-month charity partnership with Braintree Area Foodbank. This collaboration will focus on providing vital support to the foodbank, by way of food and monetary donations internally and volunteering, with Lolly matching financial donations each month with a minimum of £250.
The Braintree Area Foodbank has been a cornerstone of support in the region, ensuring no individual or family goes hungry. As well as being a support network for the recipients, they connect them with resources and support agencies that can offer them more long-term support for their situation.
“This partnership comes at a crucial time. We’ve seen a significant drop in food and
financial donations, creating a bigger resource gap,” said Henry Hopkins, charity manager at Braintree Area Foodbank. “Last year, we spent £85,000 purchasing food, and this year we estimate that number will reach £120,000. Partnerships like this with Lolly are crucial for keeping our services running and raising awareness of the challenges many people face.
Peter Moore, CEO at Lolly, said: “This partnership will help provide essential resources and support to those in need, we are deeply passionate about food poverty and helping to spread awareness of the foodbank’s services and debunking misconceptions about who the foodbank serves. Through partnerships like this, the foodbank can continue to inform, support and uplift our community.”
CHS Birmingham has announced a new raft of exhibiting companies that will add even more to its visitor’s experience when the show opens its doors at the ICC Birmingham, 29th October.
The exhibition will once again provide a mix of domestic and international venues, destinations, unique venues, and support services that will allow event planners to build their events during one day at the show. As well as continuing support from the event’s founding and strategic brand partners, ICC Birmingham and the Birmingham & West Midlands Convention Bureau respectively, CHS Birmingham is also delighted to be welcoming Visit Scotland, Manchester Convention Bureau, Meet Bath & Bristol, Meet Devon South West England, and Meet Blackpool.
As well as the stellar domestic options, visitors will also be able to meet international representatives from VisitMalta Incentives & Meetings, Minor Hotels/Hosmark Hotels, and Maritim Hotels Germany.
“We’re so proud of our exhibitors, not just of their quality but their approach to the show this year,” commented Lou Hindley, Commercial Director, CHS Birmingham.
“They’re there to do business, offering interesting solutions for our buyer’s events and providing up to date and relevant information that means every meeting will have the maximum value for both buyers and exhibitors. It’s going to be an enterprising show.”
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