H&EN November 2025

MORE THAN MEETING expectations

Alexander Stadium offers a worldclass setting for unforgettable corporate events, meetings and private functions.

CONTENTS: NOVEMBER 2025

FRONT COVER FEATURE

Naturally Inspiring

Center Parcs Sherwood Forest offers everything you need to host an event that’s not just impactful, but truly unforgettable. Page 26.

AND MORE

Fam Tastic

All the runners and riders in line for this year’s industry gongs! Page 15.

On Location: The Midlands

We explore all the amazing reasons why holding your events in the Midlands makes perfect sense. Starts page 16.

Show Time

We round-up some of the exciting industry events happening that are rounding off 2025! Page 23.

Thinking Ahead

Tim Rudland, Client Director at Tysers, offers his expert advice on securing the best protection and value from their insurance policies. Page 40.

Get Smart

Smart building technology is transforming passive spaces into intelligent environments that enhance experiences and drive sustainability. Page 43.

Head Space

Events Psychologist, Victoria Matey, speaks to us about how psychological factors can transform events, and the changes that have resulted from the pandemic. Page 44.

It’s the Midlands that take centrestage in our final edition of 2025; we take a look at the best venues and suppliers across the region in advance of CHS Birmingham, and a chance for a stayover at Clayton Hotel in Birmingham. There’s a look to the future with some smart venues, robots, and AI personalisation, with fascinating expert insights in to event psychology, event healthcare, and insurance, while Liz Taylor runs us through a day with a new client.

Health Check

Strategic Health Consultant and Founder of Event Care Solutions, Melissa Way, discusses some upcoming changes in the world of event healthcare. Page 48.

Go Outdoors!

Power of Events’ Claire Drakeley invites event profs to shape the future of outdoor events with a new industry research project. Page 50.

Playing for Keeps

As the events sector transforms from a transient industry to a more viable long-term career path, employers are rethinking the rules of staff engagement. Page 51.

It’s team building with a difference as we look at sparkly festive ideas and how wine tasting could be your taste. And talking of wine, meet the runners and riders at the Famtastic Awards on Page 15. Plus, we hear from the associations helping event profs on a wide range of topics, and the new sustainability network, From Now, gives event profs more responsible venue and supplier choices.

All that and more in your latest edition of the industry’s leading magazine! Enjoy!

Andrew Hickinbotham

Angela Byrne

Anthony Banks

Ben McCarthy

Camilla Woods

Caroline Cartellieri

Charlie Pepperell

Claire Drakeley

Heather Lishman

John Boyde

Johnathan Garry

Julie Vincent

Kelsey Summerfield

Teamwork Sleighed

With Christmas just around the corner (we can’t believe it either!), incorporate some festive fun into your next team building day. Page 53.

The Personal Touch

Experts Patrick Clover and Caroline Cartellieri discuss how AI personalisation is transforming event experiences. Page 56.

Making Memories

The industry is evolving as venues discover the transformative power of experience design. Page 63.

Travel

Discover Marrakech, where a feast for the senses, breathtaking architecture, and centuries of history blend to create an event that’s sure to leave a lasting impression with delegates. Page 68.

Louisa Watson

Melissa Way

Patrick Clover

Paul Evans

Paula Kelsey

Rachel Parker

Richard Jonker

Shonali Devereaux

Sophie Knight

Susan Tanner

Tim Rudland

Victoria Matey

Why not check out one of the new and improved venues across the region for your next event?

Hilton Glasgow | Open now

Hilton Glasgow has recently opened two new spaces – The Dram & Wee Dram and Serenity Suite. The Dram & Wee Dram is an intimate an event space in partnership with The Dalmore UK distillery that has a capacity of up to 150 delegates. Designed to host a range of private, social, and business occasions, the spaces draw inspiration from Scotland’s whisky heritage. Serenity Suite introduces innovative technology with machine-led treatments in three main spaces, offering therapies more associated with health innovation than traditional spa treatments – ideal for delegates’ downtime. The launch of the new spaces marks the completion of a five-year transformation for the hotel, that has invested in many areas of the hotel to boost the MICE sector offering. This includes a new pre-event space and Grand Ballroom with 360° digital wallpaper that gives organisers a tool to create unique event sets that can be projected around the ballroom.

Hilton.com

Cavendish Building | Derby Open now

Located on the fourth floor of the recently opened Cavendish Building at the University of Derby, there’s a new conference and event space that’s been designed with flexibility and modernity at its core. Offering a versatile environment, it’s perfectly suited to host a wide range of professional events, from boardroom-style meetings and interactive training sessions to large-scale networking receptions.

Each room within the venue is equipped with state-of-the-art AV technology, ensuring seamless presentations and engaging hybrid events. Flexible seating configurations allow organisers to tailor layouts to suit their specific needs, while the abundance of natural light and scenic views create an uplifting backdrop for delegates.

For more informal gatherings, the venue features a contemporary Business Hub that doubles as a collaborative workspace and social space. With direct access to a roof terrace, it provides a relaxed yet professional setting for networking breaks, receptions, or smaller events that benefit from a more casual atmosphere.

The venue also offers two dedicated lecture theatres, each designed to support different styles of delivery and engagement. The larger 228-seat theatre is configured in a Turn & Learn format, encouraging collaboration and interaction throughout sessions. Complete with a 4K resolution screen, it delivers highquality visual impact for conferences and keynote speakers. Complementing this, the 88-seat Harvard-style theatre creates a more intimate environment, encouraging discussion and active participation between hosts and delegates.

Derby.ac.uk

National Railway Museum | York Open now

After closing in 2023 for an extensive refurbishment, Station Hall at York’s National Railway Museum has reopened as a premium events space. Funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, the work has restored the building’s original architecture while upgrading the space with modern essentials. The hall – with a capacity of up to 104 – has a dramatic backdrop of historic locomotives, royal carriages, and station-themed exhibits for delegates to enjoy. One of the standout features of the redeveloped space is the addition of

a unique dining experience; delegates can now enjoy afternoon tea aboard a restored 1907 dining saloon carriage. The versatility of Station Hall means it can accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions, with the added benefit of an atmospheric and historic setting unlike any other in York.

Railwaymuseum.org.uk

Castle Meadow Central Nottingham | Open now

After a two year refurbishment as part of the Nottingham Venues portfolio, Castle Meadow Central has reopened as a multifunctional venue for conferences, events, and flexible working. Part of the Castle Meadow Campus, the Grade II listed building can now accommodate events of up to 200. The first-floor event area features panoramic views of the Nottingham Canal and Nottingham Castle with the option to choose from five flexible meeting rooms which are ideal for smaller events and breakout sessions. The venue is also now home to a new food outlet, Deli Central., which serves locally sourced fresh food and 200 Degrees coffee.

Nottinghamvenues.com/venue/castlemeadow-central

HILTON, GLASGOW

CAVENDISH BUILDING, DERBY

PHOTO: ROBERT PERRY

Chotto Matte | Manchester

Open now

Japanese Peruvian restaurant group

Chotto Matte has opened a 20,000 sq. feet restaurant that’s the brands biggest UK site, and the first outside of London. Chotto Matte Manchester offers an array of versatile and avant-garde spaces designed for every occasion, from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations for up to 700 guests. The rooftop spaces – consisting of Claude’s Skyview Bar and Terra – can be hired together or individually, offering views above the city’s dynamic skyline. Inside, there are six other spaces available to hire for events and private gatherings, including a specialist meeting room for 12 and an elegant space right in the heart of the action, dining alongside the venue’s worldrenowned sushi chefs.

Chotto-matte.com/Manchester

The Curling Club | Manchester 24th November

The UK’s favourite alpine-themed winter entertainment destination is set to expand to Manchester for the 2025/26 season, bringing its unique brand of festive fun to the city. Opening at New Jackson and running until 28th February 2026, the venue will deliver its signature combination of high-energy curling, après ski atmosphere,

and indulgent seasonal food and drink. It offers tailored team building packages, Christmas parties, and exclusive private hire for up to 400 delegates. With its dynamic setting and flexible event options, the venue provides a memorable way for teams, clients, or delegates to slide into winder in style.

Thecurlingclub.com

Carnegie Conference and Events Centre | Dunfermline Coming soon

Fife College has recently revealed details of its state-of-the-art conference and events space which is set to open within the new Dunfermline campus later this year. The aim is for it to become a flagship events venue for the city, with four events spaces, seven meeting rooms, and capacity for up to 1,000 delegates. It will also feature a spacious central atrium that’s ideal for large-scale gatherings, as well as modern furnishings, relaxation spaces, and high-quality hospitality to enhance delegate experience. Amenities at the new centre will include free on-site parking, free Wi-Fi, and updated catering menus to suit a wide range of tastes and events.

Carnegieconferencecentre.co.uk

Breath of Fresh Air

NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM | YORK

THE CURLING CLUB

PHOTO: JUSTIN DE SOUZA

NorthinBrief

AEV Board Alterations

Following the annual general meeting of the Association of Event Venues (AEV), the association has announced alterations to its board.

AEV Chair and Managing Director at NEC, Ian Taylor and AEV Vice Chair and Chief Operating Officer at ACC Liverpool, Kerry Villa, remain in situ. Ian commented: “I am pleased to report that the association is in excellent shape. Membership, engagement, interaction, and financial standing are all strong.”

Treasurer Jeremy Rees, Chief Executive Officer, Excel London; Max Bull, Executive Director of Venue Sales, Business Design Centre; Alison Griffin, Managing Director, Telford International Centre; and Dan Thurlow, Director of Exhibition Sales, Scottish Event Campus, were all reelected to the board. Joining the board for the first time is Richard Moorhouse, Events Director, The Great Yorkshire Events Centre.

Rachel Parker, AEV Director, welcomed the new board members: “I am delighted to welcome the re-elected members back to the board and to Richard who joins the board this year. I am looking forward to another productive year, starting with our annual conference being held on 14th November at Excel London.”

EBL Reveals Charity Partner

Event Buyers Live (EBL) has announced a new charity partner for EBL25. This year, the hosted buyer event is raising vital funds for the British Heart Foundation (BHF). Attendees will also have the opportunity to take part in essential CPR and defibrillator training on the final day.

Neil Fagg, Co-Founder of EBL, explained: “Every year, EBL supports a charity and moving forward (after three years supporting Mental Health UK), we have chosen to support the British Heart Foundation.

“We want to raise as much money as possible for the charity and help Team BHF raise awareness of cardiovascular disease. Why? Because every day, in the UK, 270 people are admitted to hospital after having a heart attack and there are more than 40,000 out of hospital cardiac arrests in the UK each year. How many of those heart attacks could take place on your event site or office environment? For those attending EBL25, there’ll be a blind and live auction running on-site, but anyone can support our goal and target of raising £10,000 this year via our JustGiving page.”

Justgiving.com/page/event-buyerslive-2025

Finalists Announced for ETA

The finalists for the 2025 Event Technology Awards (ETA) have been revealed –once again celebrating the very best innovation, creativity, and excellence in the world of event technology.

Reflecting on this year’s entries, Adam Parry, Co-Founder of the ETA, said: “Every year we’re blown away by the quality and diversity of entries, and 2025 is no different. The way technology is evolving, particularly in AI and personalisation, is incredible to see. Our industry thrives on innovation, and these awards are about recognising the teams and solutions driving that change. We can’t wait to celebrate the winners at Event Tech Live (ETL).”

The full list of finalists can be seen on the website, and the winners will be revealed at the annual ETA ceremony on 12th November after day one of ETL 2025 (12th and 13th November).

Eventtechnologyawards.co.uk

beam Launches Second Podcast

Following the success of beam’s recent Finance Forum, the association has launched the second edition of its podcast, focusing on fraud prevention, one of the forum’s most talked-about topics. The event brought together beam’s member community to tackle today’s most urgent financial challenges –from cybersecurity to payment processes.

One area of standout content was a compelling session including insight from John Allcock, Fraud Awareness Analyst at NatWest. Allcock exposed the alarming scale and sophistication of modern fraud tactics. His insights left attendees stunned but significantly better equipped to protect their businesses.

To continue the conversation, beam’s latest podcast episode features John Allcock in conversation with Julie Shorrock, who leads beam’s Finance Advisory Board. Julie commented: “Fraud involves so much more than suspicious emails or fake invoices. Today’s criminals are calculated, patient, and often one step ahead. Our goal at beam is to arm our members with the insight and tools they need to safeguard their operations, and this episode is a vital part of that mission.”

John added: “New regulation came in last year offering individual’s greater protection against fraud, but organisations don’t yet have the same level of protection. So, arming your employees,

and therefore your business, is crucial. And it starts with education, so I’m really supportive of what beam is doing for its members and industry in helping to raise awareness of the threats potential threats, risks, and protection.”

The podcast is now live and available via Beam-org.uk/podcasts

ESSA Conference Theme Announced

The Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) has announced details of its 2025 annual conference, themed ‘What’s Next?’

This year’s event, sponsored by beMatrix and Abraxys, will look firmly into the future, exploring how AI is reshaping the events industry, and how members can harness its potential to streamline operations, unlock efficiencies, and drive smarter ways of working.

Taking place on 4th December at Warwick Conferences in Coventry, the speaker line-up includes an opening address from leading futurist William Higham. As founder of Next Big Thing, he specialises in research-driven predictions of consumer behaviour and emerging trends, equipping businesses with the insight and strategies they need to anticipate change and confidently prepare for what’s next.

CEO of AI in Business and Author of AI Strategy for Sales and Marketing, Katie King, a leading expert in the field of AI, will explore ways the technology can be applied responsibly across business functions – from sales and marketing to customer experience and competitive growth – while keeping ethics at the heart of innovation.

Closing the conference will be Richard McCann, whose inspiring iCan philosophy has transformed the way thousands of people think and act. With a focus on embracing change, overcoming challenges, and creating a positive mindset, Richard will leave delegates energised and ready to face the future.

Working Together

John Boyde, Founder & CEO of Sports Entertainment Tours & Sports Pro Travel, discusses the value of building relationships and local partnerships with suppliers for event organisers and venue operators.

Supplier relations are fundamental to business success, never more so than when delivering a bespoke itinerary at a premium sports or entertainment event. Without a trusted network around us, we simply cannot do what we do. Trust is vital in any relationship, and one wrong move can unravel hours of planning and jeopardise complex programmes for discerning clients. For those of us working in this sector, where expectations are sky-high and margins for error are razor-thin, having the right partners in place is not just helpful – it is essential.

When a client books with us, they are not simply buying a ticket to a sporting fixture or concert; they are investing in an experience. To deliver that consistently, every element of the supply chain must be robust. Venues need to be agile and responsive, with teams capable of adapting when plans change at the last moment. Ground transfer operators must pre-empt every manoeuvre so that clients are always in the right place at the right time, with no stress or delay. Hotels and catering providers need to strike the perfect balance of comfort and efficiency. Even seemingly small details – like how quickly luggage is moved from a coach to a room – can shape how the client perceives the entire event.

From my own experience, the best outcomes always come when suppliers feel like partners rather than contractors. This begins with setting clear expectations and aligning on service standards, so everyone understands the desired outcome. I also stress the importance of clarity in requests: if everyone knows exactly what is needed and by when, mistakes are far less likely to happen. Negotiation plays its part, but I have always found that honest, fair discussions strengthen relationships rather than weaken them. Transparency about budgets is also vital. When suppliers know the parameters they are working within, they can focus on creativity and delivery rather than second-guessing.

Another cornerstone of successful partnerships is prompt payment. It sounds simple, but nothing undermines trust more quickly than a late invoice. If a partner knows they will be treated with respect and paid on time, they are far more likely to go the extra mile when the unexpected arises. And in live events, the unexpected always does arise. Having suppliers who are not only capable but also committed can make the difference between a good client experience and a great one.

There have been occasions where things have not gone to plan; severe weather causing disruption, for example, or last-minute changes to venue access. In those moments, the strength of your local network is tested. This is why I always recommend viewing the venue in advance and meeting the people who will be delivering your event. A walk-through not only identifies potential challenges but also builds confidence on both sides. It reassures clients that every detail has been thought through, while giving venue teams a clear sense of the standards and service levels expected. Face-to-face meetings create trust, and that trust becomes invaluable when quick decisions are needed under pressure.

For me, the lesson has been clear. Strong supplier and local relationships don’t just help events run smoothly; they elevate them. They turn good experiences into unforgettable ones and ensure that, behind the scenes, everyone is working toward the same goal - delivering excellence for the client. Building these partnerships takes time, effort, and commitment, but the return is invaluable. It is the foundation on which memorable, premium experiences are built, and it is what enables us to continually exceed client expectations.

Sportsentertainmenttours.com

PHOTO: DAVID CAVAN PHOTOGRAPHY

From my own experience, the best outcomes always come when suppliers feel like partners rather than contractors.

Renowned for her sharp eye, fearless creativity, and unrivalled contacts, Liz Taylor has spent over 30 years orchestrating extraordinary events for celebrities, global brands, and highnet-worth clients. Today, as CEO of LTC, she takes those transferable skills into new arenas, advising businesses across hospitality, retail, leisure, and beyond. For Liz, it’s about harnessing vision, energy, and personality to transform ideas into tangible success.

No two days are ever the same – projects range from a luxury retail launch to launching a destination restaurant concept. Today is Liz’s first day with her newest clients, Cat and Oli Barker, and she’s hoping to maximise the potential of their two Yorkshire sites, Catgill Farm Glamping and Camping and Howgill Lodge Camping, Glamping and Caravan Park.

8.40am:

On the road

Coffee in hand, I’m in the car heading across the Pennines to visit my new clients. Having researched hospitality consultants, Oli and Cat reached out and the first thing I did was arrange a site visit. Because you have to see it, feel it, breathe it. It’s a sector new to me, but I’m confident that my skills translate.

10:00am:

First glimpse

Driving down the winding lanes, I know immediately this isn’t going to be an ordinary site visit. The Yorkshire hills rise up around me, dramatic and beautiful, and the setting is nothing short of spectacular. Stepping out of the car, the air feels fresher and lighter. Within minutes I can see why Oli and Cat love this land. For me, it’s an experience waiting to be amplified.

All in a Day’s Work

From creating spectacular events to thinking up big ideas for businesses, CEO of Liz Taylor Consultancy (LTC), Liz Taylor, reveals her day with a new client in the Yorkshire countryside.

10.30am: Meeting the team

Sitting down with Oli and Cat, I can see straight away why the sites work. They are hands-on, passionate, and absolutely committed; there’s no corporate façade here, just genuine Yorkshire graft and vision. Within minutes, I’m caught up in their enthusiasm. It’s clear this isn’t just a business to them, it’s their life – something I understand all too well. That kind of passion is infectious and it’s exactly the foundation you need to build something extraordinary.

11.15am:

A walk through the site

Walking the Catgill location I get the full picture; 10 beautifully crafted pods (with plans for 30 more), a quirky igloo concept, and a wellness offering in the works. The campsite is immaculate, facilities gleaming, and there’s pride in presentation that screams quality. Families enjoy fresh coffee and wood-fired pizza at Cat’s Kitchen, the on-site shop stocks local produce and essentials, and children enjoy the outdoor play area. Even alpacas roam the fields – every detail reflects a brand with ambition.

12.30pm:

The big idea

At the top of the hill, adjacent to the pods, sits a breathtaking old Yorkshire stone barn. I can already see it – the honesty bar – rustic, charming, and spectacular views across Wharfedale. Then, looking down the hill and across the farm, I spot another underused space. To me, it has ‘restaurant’ written all over it – a revenue stream just waiting to be realised. This is where my transferable skills show their worth. Recognising opportunities that haven’t yet been spotted and shaping

them into exciting concepts that add real value is what I do best.

2.00pm:

Sister site inspiration

The next stop is Howgill Lodge, Catgill’s sister site. Here, the accommodation offer is beautifully styled timber lodges, camping is encouraged, and the caravan community is welcomed to the tiered hillside. Same concept, completely different personality. That’s the beauty of consultancy – no two projects are ever the same, and my job is to harness what’s unique and make it shine.

3.30pm: Reflection

As Cat heads off to pick up her toddler from nursery, I begin my drive back, enthused and excited. My first call is to my trusted PR, marketing, and social team – people I bring on board to support my vision and deliver results for clients. With their expertise alongside mine, I can focus on the bigger picture bringing fresh thinking and creativity into new industries.

5.00pm: Back at my desk

An acknowledgment to my new clients. Notes written, ideas mapped; I’m clear on the opportunities ahead and Oli and Cat are as excited as I am. Watch this space…

Liz-taylor-consulting.co.uk

Catgillfarm.co.uk

Howgill-lodge.co.uk

Spa Superior

A spectacular setting, luxury accommodation, and outstanding facilities have seen Crow Wood Hotel become one of the region’s most sought-after corporate destinations.

Set in 40 acres of private parkland in Burnley, with breathtaking views of Pendle Hill and the surrounding countryside, the family-owned and run Crow Wood Hotel & Spa has established itself as one of the region’s leading venues in just a few short years since opening its doors in October 2019.

Much of the resort’s appeal lies in its magnificent setting, which is particularly alluring for event profs. A beautiful ornamental lake and fabulous gardens provide natural breakout spaces and networking opportunities; these extensive grounds offer versatility for outdoor activities and team building, making it a highly desirable destination that goes well beyond traditional conference venues.

With 86 luxurious bedrooms and suites, the hotel prides itself on its exceptional accommodation standards, but also has a great deal more to offer. The multi-award-winning Woodland Spa is a particular highlight, having been named Good Spa Guide’s Best UK Spa Hotel for the past four years. This distinguishes Crow Wood as a premium wellness destination, offering groups the opportunity to balance business events with quality time that centres physical and mental wellbeing. Alongside the spa facilities, the Leisure Club provides an extensive range of Technogym equipment, swimming pool

with sauna, steam and spa pool, plus a timetable featuring over 100 fitness classes.

The venue’s meeting facilities can accommodate all manner of corporate events with versatile spaces to suit organisers needs. The main conference suite offers impressive theatre-style seating for up to 400 delegates, and for more intimate requirements, four purpose-built meeting rooms provide flexibility. The Pennine accommodates up to eight delegates, The Lancaster and The Woodland each handle up to 12 delegates, while The Ribble can accommodate up to 40 delegates.

Three excellent restaurants operate in the venue, two of which hold AA Rosette awards, while one currently holds the Taste Lancashire Award, offering superior culinary experiences with variety that caters to formal gala dinners to casual networking sessions, all without leaving the resort grounds.

Crow Wood’s location is also advantageous. With direct links to the

M6 and M62 motorways, the hotel offers accessibility for delegates travelling from across the UK while maintaining the tranquil environment that puts guests at ease.

The family ownership structure brings a personal element, with the Crow Wood team working directly with conference event coordinators and clients to ensure meticulous planning and smooth execution, while a range of packages are available to suit different budget requirements.

The combination of professional conference facilities, luxury accommodation, award-winning dining, and comprehensive wellness amenities creates an environment where organisers can be secure in knowing business objectives are being met while high delegate satisfaction is guaranteed.

Crowwoodhotel.com

YOUR NEXT

BOOKING

We believe we have created a setting that will surpass anything you could begin to expect from a corporate events venue

To us, every function is a bespoke event. We will deliver to your individual, exacting requirements

Charging Point

Chair of beam association, Louisa Watson, discusses the topic of service charges in the industry.

Few topics in our membership and across UK meetings and events currently generate as much debate as service charges. Long established in restaurants and hotels, the practice only recently appeared in corporate events, with a handful of venues introducing them. While the principle may seem simple, the reality is anything but.

UK service charges and tips remain discretionary payments from customers. Since the introduction of the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023, the transparent distribution of tips to staff is a legal obligation, and a Statutory Code of Practice sets clear policy expectations. In a sector where recruitment and retention are ongoing challenges, ensuring staff are properly recognised and rewarded is essential to sustaining a motivated and committed workforce.

From the client side, however, the picture is less straightforward. For corporate buyers already managing tight budgets, added

service charges can feel unwelcome. Many argue that fair pay should be factored into the price from the start, with excellent service assumed rather than something to be ‘topped up’.

There are also practicalities to consider. Event costs are negotiated and preapproved, with purchase orders issued so agencies can consolidate invoices. Discretionary post-event charges disrupt this process, adding challenges for the finance team and risks of late-stage friction between clients and venues.

Planners who see the impact of motivated staff first-hand may take a different view. Service charges can be a way of protecting the delegate experience by ensuring staff feel supported. In a people-driven industry, this investment may be seen as fair and commercially sensible.

To date, the lack of clear sector-specific guidance has left venues, agencies, and

clients navigating these tensions alone. Should service charges be integrated into core pricing for simplicity, or remain a visible supplement, aligned with legislation? There’s a clear need for alignment on what this should look like.

Recognising this, beam has worked with experts and members on official guidance that will be launched after our All Members Meeting on 13th November. It doesn’t endorse or oppose charges, but sets out best practice principles for fair, transparent handling where they’re applied.

The debate reflects a bigger truth – the need to balance commercial realities with retaining the people who define great events and remain central to our sector’s success.

Beam-org.uk

Giving Back

Association Director of the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO), Heather Lishman, on the importance of supporting charitable activities in organisations.

For organisations seeking to build strong cultures and engaged teams, supporting charitable activities can be a powerful lever. Beyond the obvious benefit to the chosen cause, charitable partnerships create opportunities for employees to connect with something meaningful, reinforcing values and shaping a more purposeful workplace.

The alignment of a charity with an organisation’s culture and values is critical. When the cause reflects what the business stands for – whether that’s community, sustainability, education, or wellbeing – employees are more likely to feel authentic pride in their involvement. This sense of alignment creates a bridge between corporate purpose and individual motivation, cultivating morale and reinforcing the organisation’s identity. Crucially, effective charitable engagement

extends beyond fundraising. While donations are important, many employees derive greater satisfaction from hands-on involvement – volunteering, mentoring, or contributing their professional skills to a cause. These experiences not only deepen the connection to the charity but also foster teamwork, empathy, and problem-solving within the organisation. Employees see their impact first-hand, which can be more energising and rewarding than financial support alone.

From a cultural perspective, charitable activity can act as a catalyst for collaboration and inclusion. Colleagues at different levels of the business come together with a shared goal, breaking down silos and creating stronger interpersonal bonds. This shared sense of purpose often translates into improved morale and motivation in day-to-day work.

ABPCO actively champions neurodiversity in events, recognising the importance of inclusivity and different ways of thinking.

The association has chosen Mind Over Mountains as its charity partner, reflecting its commitment to wellbeing, balance, and resilience – and its values of sharing, community, and belonging – all of which are central to its members and the wider events industry. Together, these commitments reinforce ABPCO’s culture of care, purpose, and progress, demonstrating how charity partnerships can strengthen both organisations and the communities they serve.

Abpco.org | Mindovermountains.org.uk

Among the many challenges event profs face, a new one is emerging – how to satisfy delegates from up to five distinct generations simultaneously. With millennials and generation Z on course to comprise an increasing portion of the workforce in the coming decades, while generation X and baby boomers retain budget control and decision-making power, creating inclusive events has become a strategic necessity.

Julie Vincent, Head of Meet Blackpool, understands this balancing act: “The greatest challenges concern delegate expectations and how to meet or manage them, coupled with the various communication preferences. Baby boomers and gen X tend to prefer more formalised types of communication, while millennials and gen Z like more informal and engaging interactions. It’s important for event profs to consider all this when creating communications strategies that prioritise email initiatives, social media promotions, or in-person communication.”

This multi-channel approach reflects the broader demographic reality facing the industry. The current professional landscape spans baby boomers (1946 to 1964), generation X (1965 to 1980), generation Z (1997 to 2012), and the emerging generation Alpha (2013+). Each group has its own behaviour preferences with technology, work culture, and social interaction.

Baby boomers favour structured networking opportunities and traditional formats such as keynote presentations, while generation X values efficiency and practical takeaways with flexible arrangements. Millennials gravitate toward interactive sessions and social media integration, expecting authentic connections throughout events while generation Z demands highly visual content, gamification, and tech-forward experiences as standard.

Generational differences are perhaps most apparent in technology adoption. Julie identifies this as a critical consideration for event planners: “Younger, more tech-savvy generations increasingly prefer more techfirst events with hybrid formats that merge in-person with virtual events, while older

Bridging the Gaps

Event professionals can navigate the complexities of multi-generational delegate expectations, says Julie Vincent from Meet Blackpool.

generations prefer events with a large room and in-person meetings.”

The practical implications are significant: “These days, many MICE events encourage delegates to download an app ahead of the event to book meetings and access the floor plan. And while the apps have proven popular with digitally native younger delegates, older generations can find the tech complicated, preferring event planners to provide physical maps and to visit stands to conduct in-person meetings.”

Younger, techsavvy generations prefer tech-first events with hybrid formats that merge inperson with virtual events, while older generations prefer a large room and in-person meetings.

Julie’s solution involves thoughtful technology integration; apps with comprehensive schedules, networking opportunities, and live Q&A functions can serve all generations when properly supported. The key lies in offering alternatives: digital solutions for those who

want them and traditional options for those who prefer them.

Another challenge Julie highlights concerns differing attitudes toward work-life balance: “Gen X often expect events to be familyfriendly so that they can better integrate events into their lives, while gen Z generally prefer a much clearer separation between their work life and their free time. “

The key lies in recognising shared objectives beneath generational preferences: “Ultimately, all delegates share the common goal of achieving better team cohesion, but they just have slightly different views on how to get there. But through understanding the delegates’ wants and needs, it’s possible to implement creative and balanced solutions to please most people.”

Julie describes the challenge as: “Walking a tightrope that balances keeping events exciting and interactive for the younger generations who have shorter attention spans and prefer constant stimulation, while also ensuring that events are accessible for older generations who still crave in-person, authentic human connection.”

Successful multi-generational events require careful planning of common ground across several key areas. Venue selection becomes crucial, with the most effective spaces combining elegant architecture with advanced technology, offering multiple environments within one location. Programming must incorporate varied presentation styles: live keynote speeches and panel discussions alongside interactive workshops and bite-sized content. Networking opportunities should reflect this diversity too – structured events for older generations, casual settings for millennials, and collaborative content creation opportunities for generation Z.

For event professionals willing to embrace this complexity, multi-generational events offer the potential for deeper connections, enhanced learning, and more meaningful outcomes that last far beyond the events themselves.

Meetblackpool.com

Industry Excellence

Back for a third year, the Famtastic Awards are heading to Blackpool on 31st October at the Village Hotel for an evening that will celebrate agents and venues nationwide and recognise the rewarding relationships between buyers and suppliers.

Famtastic understands that this year’s awards fall during half term and Halloween so is going the extra mile to ensure the event is as family-friendly as possible. Ray of Stars will be providing an on-site crèche at the Village Hotel, staffed by fully qualified and experienced professionals, with three rooms tailored to different age groups.

This year’s awards will celebrate finalists and winners across 23 categories, including an exciting new addition for 2025: Best Use of AI in Events. This category highlights the growing influence of AI within the industry and honours innovative, positive AI-driven experiences. Competing for the inaugural title are Millenium Point, Park Hall Chorley, and The Luxe 360 Booths!

Across the other categories, the awards will celebrate achievements spanning the full breadth of the industry. Highlights include Team Building Company of the Year, Academic Venue of the Year, Agent of the Year, Marketing Campaign of the Year, and Independent Venue of the Year – with many more that will showcase the sector’s talent and innovation.

As has been the case in previous years, the Famtastic judging process continues to uphold its fairness and transparency. Judges are only asked to score entries from organisations or individuals they know directly or have worked with, ensuring fair and informed assessments. The more judges involved, the stronger the collective representation, making each score a true reflection of the industry at large.

Far from being just an awards show, the day’s agenda is packed with activities designed for both networking and celebration. After arriving and registering at the Village Hotel from 10am, attendees will enjoy a lunch in the Helter Skelter restaurant from 12pm. A networking session will take place from 1.30pm to 4pm where finalists, attendees, and guests can meet and mingle before a couple of hours of leisure time ahead of a drinks reception at 6.30pm. This will be followed by the awards dinner and entertainment starting at 7.15pm and going through to midnight.

Founder of Famtastic, Paula Kelsey, said: “We’ve been delighted with the response to the Famtastic Awards this year and have had well over 300 entries, so it’s been a challenge for our judges across all of the categories. At a time when the hospitality industry is increasingly tough, it’s been incredibly positive to see the passion, dedication, and investment being demonstrated in our industry’s people, properties, and projects. We’re looking forward to welcoming a great number of industry professionals to Blackpool for what promises to be a great night of recognition and rewards, with the usual sparkling of Famtastic fun.”

For all the nominees check Famtastic.rocks/awards

Top Spot

Record-breaking rankings and major investment are positioning the West Midlands as England’s most dynamic destination for business events.

The West Midlands has emphatically announced its arrival as the premier destination for corporate events. This summer, Birmingham claimed the top spot as the UK’s leading regional destination for meetings, according to global events technology provider Cvent, outranking established European venues including Hamburg, Stockholm, and Zurich.

This recognition reflects substantial investment across the region’s event infrastructure. The Belfry Hotel & Resort has completed a transformational £80 million expansion, unveiling The Masters Suite – an 852 sq. metres space accommodating 920 delegates with floor-to-ceiling views. The venue secured over £80 million in enquiries before opening, with high-profile clients including DP World Tour already committed.

Birmingham City Football Club’s ambitious Sports Quarter development promises to inject £450 million annually into the local economy by 2035, while the newly redesigned conference facilities at St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park offer panoramic pitch views for corporate events.

The region’s accommodation sector has seen equally impressive development.

Hilton Birmingham Metropole, England’s largest hotel outside of London (with 795 bedrooms) has undergone a sleek 1920s-themed refurbishment ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2026. Meanwhile, Hilton Garden Inn Brindleyplace has completed a comprehensive renovation of all 238 bedrooms.

Adding character to the mix, The Barn Hotel has opened within rolling Warwickshire countryside, combining 33 bedrooms with 2 AA Rosette dining and event spaces on a fourth-generation family farm. The innovative Garner brand has also launched in Birmingham’s Acocks Green, featuring flexible meeting spaces for up to 100 delegates.

What distinguishes the area aside from the central location is its extraordinary diversity of experiences. CircusMASH, the awardwinning beacon of circus arts, has opened a spectacular new £3.1 million facility in Kings Heath, perfect for incentive programmes. Historic venues like Birmingham Pen Museum in the Jewellery Quarter offer characterful spaces for intimate gatherings, while Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum provides educational backdrops with its 180-capacity theatre and 70-seat planetarium.

PAGE 22

Alexander the Great

Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium combines world-class sporting heritage with modern, versatile event spaces.

Rebuilt in 2022 following a £72 million transformation for the Commonwealth Games, this striking landmark is more than an elite athletics arena, it has quickly emerged as one of the UK’s premier destinations for conferences, hospitality, and events.

With a permanent seating capacity of 18,000 (expandable to 30,000), Alexander Stadium has welcomed record-breaking performances and international crowds. That legacy of world-class spectacle now extends into its conferencing and events portfolio, where inspiring trackside views, cutting-edge technology, and flexible hospitality spaces combine to create a unique delegate experience.

The redevelopment has redefined the stadium as both a centre of sporting

excellence and a venue for exceptional events. At the heart of this transformation are its reimagined hospitality and events spaces.

The Hospitality Suite has been redeveloped into a striking 526 sq. metre events space. Flooded with natural light and fitted with the latest audiovisual technology, the suite now boasts panoramic, floor-to-ceiling views over the World Athletics Category 1 track.

Capable of hosting up to 250 seated guests or 450 standing, it offers an unforgettable backdrop for conferences, gala dinners,

award ceremonies, and receptions, ensuring every event feels elevated and unique.

Alongside it, the six VIP hospitality boxes have been transformed into modern, versatile meeting rooms. Stylish interiors, highspeed Wi-Fi, and integrated presentation

facilities make them ideal for board meetings, client entertaining, and team building away days. With capacity for eight to 32 guests, each box combines corporate polish with the excitement of unrivalled trackside views, inspiring creativity, and leaving a lasting impression.

Delegates enjoy all the conveniences of a professional venue, complimentary parking, on-site catering, and a dedicated events team, while experiencing the buzz of a stadium that has played host to global champions.

Every detail has been designed with organisers in mind. Flexible room layouts, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and state-of-the-art AV ensure smooth delivery for events of any scale. A typical day delegate package includes everything from arrival refreshments and working lunches to stationery, flipcharts, projectors, and the support of a dedicated events manager to oversee every stage of the occasion.

On-site catering provides menus tailored to your brief, from networking canapés to fine

dining. With free parking, excellent transport connections, and assistance with travel and accommodation bookings, the events team takes the stress out of logistics so organisers can focus on creating impact.

Beyond the boardrooms and boxes, the wider site offers access to Birmingham’s only dedicated Gymnastics and Martial Arts Centre, a state-of-the-art fitness suite and professional-standard pitches, which can be incorporated into bespoke packages for team building activities, large scale events, or corporate wellness days.

Alexander Stadium is more than just a venue; it’s a hub of collaboration, innovation, and connection. Partnerships with organisations like Birmingham City University, which has invested £5 million into advanced teaching spaces on-site, underline the stadium’s role as a space for learning and performance. Meanwhile, its doors remain open to local clubs, grassroots groups and community organisations, ensuring it remains a vibrant space for all.

Whether you are planning a corporate conference, a gala dinner, a private celebration, or a community gathering, Alexander Stadium offers spaces designed to impress and inspire, providing the setting, the service, and the story to make your occasion unforgettable.

Contact the events team on 0121 675 2222 or visit Alexander-stadium.co.uk to find out more.

ALL PHOTOS: ALEX WILKINSON MEDIA

Picture this... the stage is set, the audience is seated, the speakers are ready, and it’s time to go live. But if your production partner lets you down, it’s the thing that’s remembered when everyone leaves. Poor visuals, bad audio, and lack of impact can make a perfectly executed event turn into a nightmare. AV should enhance an event; you shouldn’t think about it, it should just immerse you into it.

Driven by a shared vision to elevate industry standards, Katie Haddock joined forces with Technical Director Jack Berry, and together they founded Berry Productions: an AVfocused event company where creativity meets cutting-edge technology. Katie knows the challenges event managers face firsthand as she has walked in those shoes. The team doesn’t just deliver events – it crafts unforgettable experiences, partnering closely with clients from concept to creation to ensure every detail resonates.

It’s that close relationship that ensures the AV creation fits the tone of the event. At a Birmingham Children’s Hospital charity event, the spotlight was on the people who make a difference behind the scenes. Berry Production’s team helped shape an evening that felt as incredible as the people being celebrated. From first impressions – where lights and visuals were used for impact – to quiet speeches, followed by live music and Gok Wan on the DJ decks, the evening had it all. But it was the AV that quietly held everything

Concept to Creation

Katie Haddock, Director of Events and Co-Founder of Berry Productions, shares how you can better use AV technology to enhance events and create experiences.

together, adapting to the mood, creating a smooth flow through the evening, and filling three spaces with three different energies.

Katie believes in weaving AV into a vision, using it for impact, and employing it to help achieve the event’s aims and objectives: “At Berry Productions, everything starts with your vision – the look, the feel, and the outcome you want to create. From there, we dive into planning: crafting visuals, building proposals,

Everything starts with your vision –the look, the feel, and the outcome you want to create.

and hosting collaborative sessions where we break things down as much or as little as you need. You don’t need to know what every piece of kit does – that’s our job. But every step of the way, you’ll understand the why behind every decision.”

Once the team is on-site, that’s where the rest of the magic unfolds. Whether it’s a largescale production or an intimate gathering, the

same precision applies, from seamless cable runs to meticulous alignments. Because at Berry Productions, the small details aren’t just extras – they’re everything.

So now, picture this again: the stage is set, the audience is seated, the speakers are ready – and this time, everything works in harmony. The visuals captivate, the sound resonates, and the atmosphere is electric. And just like that, it all goes live – Berry Production’s favourite part.

Berryproductionsltd.co.uk

Thinking about how to bring AV into your event planning? Katie offers some practical tips…

• Start with your story: What do you want people to feel? AV should support that feeling, not distract from it.

• Design with purpose: Use lighting, sound, and visuals to guide people through the event. From the entrance to the final moment, everything should have a reason for being there.

• Know when to dial it up (and down): Not every moment needs a big effect. Use AV to highlight key transitions and let quieter moments land naturally.

• Keep it on-brand: Colours, sounds, and visuals should reflect your identity and theme.

• Get your AV team involved early: The sooner the collaboration begins, the better everything can work together.

IN THE HEART OF BIRMINGHAM CITY CENTRE

The Birmingham Conference & Events Centre (BCEC) is located in the heart of Birmingham city centre, just a minute’s walk from New Street Station. With 24 versatile meeting spaces spread over three floors, we can host more than 1,000 delegates -making us one of the city’s largest event venues.

Conveniently adjoining the Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, we offer the perfect setting for conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events.

Hill St, Birmingham B5 4EW 0121 634 6211 meeting@thebcec.co.uk thebcec.co.uk

• 9 meeting rooms for 2 to 210 delegates

• Birmingham City Centre location

• Not-for-profit venue

• 3 late night openings until 9pm

• A range of catering options Birminghams Meeting & Conference

0121 236 2317

enquiries@theprioryrooms.co.uk

Centrally located with free parking. At the heart of the UK’s transport network with hotels nearby – your delegates arrive easily; you stay on budget.

Scale from 10 to 2,500 guests. Intimate boardrooms to one of the UK’s largest auditoriums. Flexible spaces that adapt to your vision.

Exceptional value, flawless delivery. Competitive pricing backed by our established team. Cutting-edge AV, high-speed connectivity, and a professional alcohol-free environment where focus meets success. Make your next event effortless.

Making Business Personal

Clayton Hotel Birmingham is giving you the chance to win a night’s stay for two with dinner and breakfast included.

Clayton Hotel Birmingham is perfectly situated in the heart of the city, just a short two-minute walk from Moor Street station and 10 minutes from New Street station, offering easy access to Birmingham’s best shopping, dining, culture, and entertainment. From family-friendly attractions to vibrant events, everything you need for an unforgettable break is right on the hotel’s doorstep.

The hotel team is dedicated to creating experiences that are all about you. With 218 luxurious guest bedrooms, you can relax in comfort, making it a complete destination for both business and leisure stays. Rooms and suites are designed with your comfort in mind, ensuring every guest enjoys a relaxing and restful stay in calm surroundings, stylish designs, and a perfect night’s sleep.

Personal touches make dining at the hotel truly special. At the Grill Restaurant, the chefs prepare irresistible dishes using only the finest local ingredients. From classic favourites like fish and chips to bold flavours such as grilled chimichurri tuna steak, there’s something to satisfy every taste. Breakfast is a highlight with the Vitality menu, offering a wide selection of hot and cold options – from a full English breakfast to fresh fruit, cereals, yoghurt, and continental cold cuts.

The team understands that every meeting and event should feel effortless, professional, and personal. That’s why they’re dedicated to delivering spaces and services that not only meet your business needs but exceed your expectations. The purpose-built conference floor is designed with flexibility in mind, featuring two spacious meeting rooms with capacity for up to 130 delegates that can be adapted and partitioned to suit your event’s requirements. There are also five stylish boardrooms, ideal for smaller gatherings, strategy sessions, or interviews, giving you the versatility to host events of any size. Rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art AV technology – including HD screens, wireless AMX, projectors, microphones, and Clevertouch video conferencing in all boardrooms. This makes hosting hybrid events simple, ensuring both in-room and remote delegates can engage with ease.

Behind the scenes, the conferences and events team are on hand at every stage, providing a personal touch that ensures your event is memorable for all the right reasons. From tailored setups to bespoke catering, they take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most.

Claytonhotels.com/birmingham

COMPETITION

To win an overnight stay for two with dinner and breakfast included, simply answer the following question…

How many guest bedrooms are there at Clayton Hotel Birmingham?

Enter online at Hospitalityandeventsnorth.com/ competitions/or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 28th November 2025

Terms and conditions apply: Prize is non-refundable and cannot be exchanged. 12 months to redeem. Subject to availability. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in H&E North Magazine and Clayton Hotel Birmingham’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.

The region’s event calendar demonstrates its growing international appeal. The UK conference debut of Australian engineering innovator MAINSTREAM brings 300 international delegates to Millennium Point, while The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology’s 85th Annual Meeting attracts 1,200 scientists from worldwide to ICC Birmingham.

Looking ahead, 2026 promises even greater excitement. DreamHack Birmingham will mark the first UK festival in the event’s 20-year history, celebrating gaming and esports culture. The European Athletics Championships will grace Alexander Stadium – the first time this prestigious competition has been held in the UK. Meanwhile, the IWG Global Summit comes

to ICC Birmingham, providing insights into women and girls in physical activity.

Not forgetting The National Exhibition Centre, featuring Resorts World entertainment complex and bp pulse LIVE concert arena, which celebrates its golden anniversary, underlining the region’s established credentials alongside its innovative developments.

Central to this success is the expert support provided by Birmingham and the West Midlands Convention Bureau. As part of the West Midlands Growth Company, the bureau offers comprehensive free services including accommodation booking, venue location and social programme planning, ensuring seamless event delivery.

The numbers speak volumes about the region’s momentum. With more than 120,000 bed spaces, world-class facilities, and a cultural offering spanning Michelin-starred dining to edge-of-the-seat sporting action, the West Midlands provides everything needed for memorable corporate events.

Meetbirmingham.com

In today’s events industry, businesses are expected to deliver positive social and environmental outcomes, more than ever before. One effective way to elevate corporate social responsibility is by partnering with venues that prioritise community and ethical values.

Did you know that the UK events sector contributes approximately £62 billion annually to the economy, with business events accounting for over £16 billion of that figure (Events Insurance, UK Events Report 2024)?

If even a small fraction of that spend were directed towards venues that reinvest in their communities, the social impact would be substantial. Choosing a venue that offers not only outstanding facilities, but also tangible social and environmental benefits can really boost corporate credentials.

Employee participation in volunteering and giving programmes rose 25% in the UK in 2023, reaching 14% overall, far outpacing the

CHS Birmingham

Good Point

Head of Event Sales at Millennium Point, Victoria Webb, discusses the long-term value in hosting events with ethically and community-minded venues.

global average (Benevity, 2023 CSR Impact Report) for that year. And 2024 showed travel in a similar direction for such activity. When events are hosted in community-minded venues, they can build on this momentum by energising staff and guests around a purpose.

At the SME level, four in every five UK businesses report considering social implications in their business decisions at least some of the time (The Meetings Show, CSR in the Events Industry; Enterprise Research Centre, 2022). Yet fewer than half actively generate social benefits for their communities. Booking venues that embed CSR into what they do helps close the gap by localising impact. When businesses choose venues with a community focus, the ripple effect can be wide-reaching. Profits from events can support local education initiatives, fund community centres, or provide grants for grassroots projects. Some venues even offer free or discounted event space for charities and social enterprises, ensuring that the

Show Business

benefits of corporate events extend well beyond the day itself.

For venue bookers and event organisers, the opportunity is right there for the taking. Choosing an ethical, community-focused venue goes beyond mere logistics. It becomes an act of accountable leadership, supporting social value, boosting reputation, and fostering meaningful impact in the communities you are a part of.

Event organisers are in a unique position to influence positive change. By choosing venues that prioritise community investment and ethical practices, each booking becomes more than a transaction. It’s a chance to align business objectives with the wider social good, creating events that not only meet expectations but also leave a lasting, responsible legacy.

Millenniumpoint.org.uk

The industry is packed with exciting events happening to round off an equally exciting 2025. Look out for the H&E North team!

CHS Birmingham is returning to the ICC Birmingham on 28th October. With a host of new exhibitors joining the show for the first time – and some returning favourites expanding their presence – the event is set to deliver a vibrant mix of inspiration, ideas, and connections for event professionals across the UK. The exhibitors join the show under the banner of its new theme, ‘You + AI – Hype, Hope, or Headache?’, with many of the leading names offering new insights to events in an AI influenced world.

There’ll be another stacked speaker programme, with one highlight coming from Cally Stewart, The Success Psychologist. Cally’s keynote ‘AI: Frenemy or Foe? The Psychology of Our Most Complicated Relationship Yet’ will address how AI is reshaping not just how we work, but how we connect with each other, and with it, as our digital support system. As machines increasingly take on the roles of coach, therapist, strategist, and even friend, Cally will explore what that means for our confidence, wellbeing, and identity in the workplace.

New to the floor this year are some of the most dynamic names in the sector, including Blackberry Events, Tottenham Hotspur, Albert’s Schloss, The Conference Works, Doyle Collection, Legacy Hotels, Evolution Dome,

and Marriott MCR, which joins as part of a refreshed regional presence. De Vere Hotels also returns for 2025 as a group exhibitor, giving planners even more choice when it comes to venues across the UK.

Hello-chs.com/Birmingham

Event Buyers Live

Brought to you by the same team behind StandOut magazine, Event Buyers Live (EBL) will take place from 10th to 12th November at Carden Park Estate in Cheshire. The deadline for applications is open until 31st October.

The hosted buyer event provides live event organisers with a personalised itinerary that includes pre-arranged one-on-one meetings with suppliers, networking opportunities, and an education programme packed with relatable, inspiring, and useful content.

Janine Walmsley, Delegate Manager at EBL, said: “For the last 10 years, we’ve taken on board all the feedback from every single iteration of EBL. This year’s event has some brilliant new additions that are all designed to get people talking and help with strategy and the decision-making process so I urge everyone to jump online, fill in an application, and apply for one of our 100 spaces now.”

Eventbuyerslive.com

Event Tech Live

The world’s leading showcase of technology and innovation is back for another year at Excel London on 12th and 13th November. With four stages of educational content, Event Tech Live (ETL) will bring together the most influential voices in the events and technology industries. Attendees will be able explore the latest advancements, hear from trailblazing innovators, and connect with the best event tech suppliers from across the globe.

One keynote spotlight comes from ‘The Death of Imagination: Creative Apocalypse or Renaissance?’ where Co-Founders of allpointsAI Anton Christodoulou (Global Tech Futurist and AI Expert) and Max Fellows (Strategic Consultant and Events Industry Advisor) will explore the GenAI ‘big bang’ and its disruption of traditional agency models, the rise of bold new creative formats, and why imagination isn’t dying.

Adam Parry, Co-Founder of ETL, said: “2025 is shaping up to be out most ambitious edition yet – with more content, more global exhibitors, and more opportunities to connect. If you want to understand where technology is taking the events industry, ETL 2025 is where you need to be.”

Eventtechlive.com

Bullseye

When planning an event, success often comes down to finding the right balance: a destination that’s accessible yet distinctive, professional yet characterful, and forwardthinking yet grounded in experience. In Nottinghamshire, event organisers will find a region that adds not just one, but several strings to their bow.

City of connections

Nottingham’s central location makes it easy to bring delegates together. Direct train links place London just 90 minutes away, while the M1 motorway and East Midlands Airport connect the city with the rest of the UK and international hubs.

Its connections go far deeper than transport; this is a city of ideas and networks. Home to the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, the city thrives on academic exchange, international research, and knowledge-sharing. These institutions not only contribute venues and expertise, but also anchor thriving clusters in life sciences, healthcare, medical technology, advanced manufacturing, and the creative industries.

Conferences here benefit from these ecosystems, drawing specialist audiences and creating content-rich programmes. Whether at BioCity – one of Europe’s largest bioscience innovation centres – or in the creative spaces of Confetti X, the city’s knowledge economy ensures your event is plugged into something bigger.

Heritage inspires innovation

Few destinations balance heritage and modernity as naturally as Nottingham itself. History is more than a backdrop; it inspires the events of today. Nottingham Castle, Wollaton Hall, and the storied Trent Bridge cricket ground provide settings where centuries of tradition meet 21st-century event delivery.

Just steps away, innovation-led spaces like the new Central Building at Castle Meadow Campus deliver adaptable rooms, breakout

From heritage venues to cutting-edge innovation, from cultural character to green ambition, Nottinghamshire offers a full arsenal for event planners aiming to hit the target.

areas, and a modern central atrium. The Motorpoint Arena and National Ice Centre remain the flagships for scale, hosting up to 10,000 delegates with flexible formats and VIP spaces that rival the UK’s largest arenas.

Events with character

Residential packages are well served by the Crowne Plaza, Hilton, and Park Plaza, each with extensive meeting suites alongside comfortable accommodation and dining. For more distinctive choices, planners can look to cultural venues like Nottingham Contemporary or the quirky National Justice Museum, where heritage adds flair to receptions and networking events.

Binks Yard and Cleaver & Wake bring a canalside setting with both indoor and outdoor flexibility, perfect for festivals, workshops, or corporate dinners. Metronome’s striking design suits launches and hybrid events, while Confetti X provides a contemporary hub for media-rich experiences.

Delegates can move from hotel to meeting venue to restaurant on foot, enjoying the buzz of the city centre without the stress of lengthy transfers. For organisers, this means logistics that are smoother and delegates that feel more connected.

Step outside the city and the county broadens the palette. Eastwood Hall, Renaissance at Kelham Hall, Center Parcs Sherwood Forest, and Newark Showground all bring their own unique personality, from

countryside retreats to grand Victorian Gothic backdrops, ensuring every event can reflect the individuality of its host.

Big thinking, human scale

Nottinghamshire’s large-scale venues like the Motorpoint Arena, Trent Conference Centre, and Newark Showground deliver the scale required for national conferences and exhibitions. These are balanced by intimate spaces like Wollaton Hall’s Camellia House or Trent Bridge’s boundary-side suites, where smaller groups can meet without sacrificing atmosphere.

Green places

Nottingham is on track to become the UK’s first carbon-neutral city by 2028, already achieving a 41% reduction in emissions since 2005. The city operates one of the largest fleets of electric buses in the country, complemented by an award-winning tram system which runs entirely on renewable energy. Together, these networks provide a level of accessibility unparalleled in the East Midlands, ensuring delegates can move around the city quickly, affordably, and with minimal environmental impact.

Nottingham’s venues are increasingly adopting green policies, from waste reduction and renewable energy use to sustainable catering that highlights regional produce. Local AV and production partners are skilled in hybrid formats, reducing unnecessary travel while still maximising reach. Venues like Center Parcs Sherwood Forest bring natural settings that encourage wellbeing alongside low-impact activities, while heritage sites like Wollaton Hall and Renaissance at Kelham Hall demonstrate how historic venues can adapt to modern environmental expectations.

Nottingham and Nottinghamshire offer a rare combination: the ease of central connections, the inspiration of history and innovation, venues with true character, and a sustainability story that points to the future. Events here are equipped not only to succeed but to leave a lasting impression.

For tailored support, familiarisation visits, and free venue-finding, visit Meetinnottingham. co.uk or contact conferences@visitnottinghamshire.co.uk

Something Different

Center Parcs Sherwood Forest offers everything you need to host an event that’s not just impactful, but truly unforgettable.

When businesses are searching for a venue that blends natural beauty, premium facilities, and opportunities for team connection, Center Parcs Sherwood Forest stands out as a unique choice.

Nestled in the heart of Nottinghamshire, this 400-acre woodland setting offers a refreshing alternative to conventional venues. Delegates step away from the everyday and into an environment that inspires fresh thinking, collaboration, and wellbeing.

As the original UK Center Parcs village, Sherwood Forest remains one of the most sought-after destinations for conferences and events. Its location – close to the M1, A1, and just an hour from East Midlands Airport – makes it ideal for national gatherings. Yet, as soon as delegates arrive, they’re met by ancient pines, lakes, and wildlife, creating a sense of calm and creativity perfect for strategy sessions, workshops, or celebrations.

The Venue

At the heart of the village is The Venue, a purpose-built conference centre that was fully refurbished in 2024. With suites that range from board meetings for 10 to theatrestyle events for 600, The Venue is adaptable to most corporate needs. Rooms feature modern AV, natural light, and access to outdoor space, while flexible layouts allow for exhibitions, training, gala dinners, or product launches.

Breakout spaces, networking areas, and private dining options complement the larger rooms, giving organisers freedom to design event flow. Whether a morning plenary followed by forest team building or a formal conference ending with a celebratory dinner in the Forest Courtyard, Sherwood delivers the flexibility required.

More than a meeting venue

Sherwood offers much more than meeting rooms. A wide range of executive lodges make residential events easy to arrange and lodges balance private bedrooms and bathrooms with shared social spaces – ideal for fostering team connection.

Delegates can enjoy premium hospitality with catering from working lunches to gala dinners, with menus crafted for quality, variety, and every dietary need. Beyond the agenda, guests can explore the Subtropical Swimming Paradise, unwind at Aqua Sana Forest Spa, or enjoy activities from archery and segways to pottery and woodcraft. This balance of work and play makes events both memorable and motivating.

Wellbeing and sustainability

Wellbeing is increasingly a business priority, and Sherwood’s forest setting directly supports it perfectly. Time outdoors is proven to reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve concentration. Many organisers build forest walks or team building into their programmes to maximise these benefits.

Sustainability is central to the Center Parcs ethos. The venue holds EcoSmart Gold certification, with initiatives including refillable water stations, electric car charging, ecoconscious menus, and a longstanding commitment to protecting the woodland environment. This dedication to sustainability means that corporate clients can align events with their own CSR (corporate social responsibility) goals.

Tailored support

The conferences and events team provide expert support from first enquiry to final delivery. Experiences coordinators advise on layouts, dining, accommodation, and

delegate experiences, ensuring that each event reflects the host organisation’s culture and objectives. For large conferences, the team operate as an extension of your own to create a seamless delegate journey.

A unique value proposition

In a competitive market, Sherwood offers something rare: professional capability combined with memorable experiences. Delegates leave not only with new ideas but with a sense of connection, relaxation, and inspiration – value that lasts long after the event.

Whether it’s a leadership retreat, product launch, or multi-day conference, Center Parcs Sherwood Forest provides an exceptional environment where business goals and delegate wellbeing go hand in hand.

Discover the difference with Center Parcs Conferences & Events. Its unique venues at Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire and Woburn Forest in Bedfordshire offer inspiring spaces where business meets the beauty of nature. To explore the possibilities or discuss your next event, the experienced team would love to hear from you.

Centerparcsevents.co.uk | 0334 826 7715 centerparcs.events@centerparcs.co.uk

Leicester is More!

Leicester and Leicestershire offer the perfect destination for your next conference or corporate event.

For an inspiring destination to host your next conference or event, look no further than Leicestershire. With easy access for both national and international delegates, a diverse range of venues from which to choose, and an array of leisure options, there are many reasons to come to this incredible destination. The choice of city and county venues include large-scale conference centres, contemporary boutique hotels, award-winning visitor attractions, and topflight sports stadia, all centrally located in the heart of the East Midlands.

The city and county benefit from excellent air, rail, and road connections, making Leicester easily accessible from across the UK and further afield. Direct bus services operate from both Luton and Heathrow airports, while trains from central London take just over an hour to reach the city. Leicester also sits close to three major motorways (M1, M69, and M6), is less than 20 miles from East Midlands Airport (around 30 minutes by car), and under an hour from Birmingham Airport -- positioning it perfectly for both domestic and international delegates.

Leicester itself is a city with a proud sporting heritage, as evidenced by the success of the Leicester Tigers rugby team and the Leicester Riders basketball team.

The city is also home to former Premier League and FA Cup winners, Leicester City Football Club, and Leicestershire County Cricket Club. All these stadiums have an outstanding range of flexible conference facilities.

Adjacent to the Tigers’ Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium is the 191-room Voco Leicester hotel, offering 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 (Guys, Dolls, and Curveballs), capable of accommodating all manner of events from meetings, celebrations, weddings, and even screenings, with its state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and lighting.

Sporting venues also include Leicester Racecourse and on Loughborough University campus, the Elite Athletes Centre and Hotel is one of four hotels and conference spaces which form the award-winning Imago Venues including Burleigh Court Conference Centre and Holywell Park. These spaces are ideal for corporate hospitality events, meetings, and conferences because they offer easily accessible, purpose-built spaces, along with on-site accommodation, car parking, unique locations, tailored programmes

and top-class service with high-tech conference facilities.

There are a number of centrally located spaces with meeting facilities, including The Gresham Aparthotel. The £17 million development saw this Grade II listed Victorian building transformed from a department store into a high-end, 121-room aparthotel. Completing the extensive development is 12,000 sq. feet of conference facilities and co-working spaces. Another fantastic choice is the Novotel Leicester, with a 154-room hotel with executive, junior suites, and a presidential suite, with meeting and conference space for up to 200 delegates.

Newly refurbished is the illustrious Grand Hotel Leicester, boasting seven different spaces, offering a range of facilities for various functions, catering for up to 350 in the King’s Hall while the city’s Athena and Curve Theatre are in the heart of the Cultural Quarter offering large, flexible spaces. The Athena -- with its stunning and unique art deco architectural building -- can host a variety of events from shows, exhibitions, sporting events, dinners, and large corporate Christmas parties catering for 1,000 in banquet style with superb top of the range technology available. Curve is a spectacular, state-of-the-art theatre boasting a range of distinctive, unconventional, and dynamic event and conference spaces. It can host meetings, show-stopping awards ceremonies, product launches, conferences, or exhibitions in 10 flexible spaces for up to 1,600 delegates.

Leicestershire’s strong tourism offering enriches the experience for any conference delegate. For a truly unique experience for social programmes, corporate hospitality conference organisers can opt for the award-winning National Space Centre, the UK’s only venue dedicated to the excitement, history, and exploration of space. This

wow factor venue can offer team building facilities that delegates and guests can have exclusive use of, including the stunning Rocket Tower, dinner in its space-themed galleries, and the UK’s largest planetarium. Twycross Zoo is an award-winning conservation charity and renowned as a World Primate Centre, while at the King Richard III Visitor Centre you can discover the most incredible archaeological detective story ever told after the remains of the lost King of England were found buried beneath a Leicester car park. Both have unrivalled corporate events offerings. And for delegates looking to investigate the area further, discover the newly refurbished and reopened Jewry Wall Museum, where Roman Leicester comes to life, perfect for delegates interested in culture, history, and inspiration, just minutes from the city centre.

For something completely different, take your delegates to Great Central Railway, the UK’s only main line heritage railway, offering exclusive use of its beautifully restored carriages for meeting and

evening dinner hire. Belvoir Castle, used in the filming of the Netflix series The Crown, provides a stunning backdrop to any meeting or event. Using the staterooms will impress any potential clients or provide inspiration for any boardroom gathering.

The area is renowned for team building activities too and there’s plenty to choose from outdoors in the beautiful county, such as National Forest Corporate Experiences, signposted cycle routes around Everards Meadows, and the Canal & River Trust canoe team days.

As one of the UK’s fastest growing business locations, Leicestershire’s diverse economy includes strengths in a range of sectors including advanced logistics, space and aerospace technology, professional and financial services, agri-food and drink, textiles and fashion, life sciences, creative and digital, advanced manufacturing and engineering, and sport science.

With over 60 high quality venues across the city and county to suit all event types, Leicestershire offers an unparalleled choice for event organisers. From intimate boardroom meetings to large-scale conferences, the destination provides flexible solutions with expert local support to ensure your event runs seamlessly.

For more information on conferences and events in Leicestershire, contact conference@leicester.gov.uk

Jewry Wall Meet in

History

Historic Venue: Host your event beside the iconic Roman bathhouse remains.

Flexible Spaces: Rooms for 20–150 guests, plus café and catering facilities.

Modern Features: Multi-media hall and exhibition access included.

Ideal For: Meetings, workshops, and receptions.

jewrywall.com

jewry.wall@leicester.gov.uk 0116 454 4554

National Training Centre 3 Gilmour Close, Beaumont Leys Leicester, LE4 1EZ

Conference and meeting room space available for events of all sizes

8 meeting rooms with projectors/plasma screens Holds up to 220 delegates Free parking and full wheelchair access

For all enquiries contact: ntcevents@nspcc.org.uk

Scan the QR code for more information

The perfect venue in Leicester for meetings, conferences and events.

Unique Setting: Historic Old Town venue beside the Richard III statue.

Character Space: King’s Suite with AV, bar, and natural light.

Exclusive Access: Exhibitions, grave site, café, and courtyard.

Fully Accessible: Lift and level access throughout.

Versatile Hire: Perfect for meetings, launches, and receptions.

• Central Leicester -2 minute walk to the train station

• Complimentary parking 60 spaces

• 8 meeting rooms seating 4 to 100+ people

• 74 bedrooms

• Bar & restaurant

• Day delegate, 24 hour & bespoke packages available

To book or for more information www.belmonthotel.co.uk Events@belmonthotel.co.uk 0116 2529607

Move Quick

From spending his £1,000 student overdraft to buy a mobile disco, to running a global events agency predicted to turnover £10 million this year, Ben McCarthy has seen firsthand how the speed of execution can make or break a business. As Managing Director of an award-winning full-service agency, we check in with Ben on how to grow faster, smarter, and stronger.

Keep the pipeline short

Great ideas are the heart of our industry, but whether it’s a new product, bold pitch, or daring acquisition, the real value lies in execution. Premier has worked hard to keep the distance between ‘idea’ and ‘action’ as short as possible.

This means stripping away unnecessary hoops, cutting down on 100-page pitch decks, and empowering the team to make bold decisions in real time. In practice, this looks like rapid sign-off structures, clear ownership, and seeking action – instead of debating every detail, launch, test, and adapt. The sooner your idea is live, the sooner you can gauge impact and adjust before competitors catch up.

Reward speed, not perfection

It’s tempting to wait until a plan feels flawless, but the reality of waiting is you risk missing the moment. Some of Premier’s biggest wins have come from moving at speed; these projects could have taken six months or longer if the team had waited for the perfect conditions. Instead, they gained first-mover advantage, winning clients and credibility that slower rivals never caught.

This same principle can be applied on any scale. Speed helps you seize opportunities before they go stale and harness the creative energy of your team.

Fail fast, learn faster

Not every idea will work, and that’s fine! In fact, it’s essential. The faster you test an idea, the faster you’ll discover if it isn’t viable, saving you from investing months of effort and budget into something that’s going to fall flat.

Failure is one of the best teachers when approached with the right mindset. Over the years, Premier has had to accept that not every concept will land. But arriving at that realisation quickly has always saved more than it cost. Quick experiments lead to quick lessons and those lessons fuel better decisions in the long run.

Hesitation is a silent killer

The clearest example of hesitation has been social media. This is now a key lead generator for the business but the team was slow to put money behind it. While people across sectors were building engaged audiences and gaining brand equity online, Ben was still doing the social media in his spare time. By the time the team acted with intention and hired a dedicated social media manager, they had lost valuable months of learning and growing.

The lesson: hesitation is a silent killer. Every day you sit on an idea, you risk losing relevance or losing the idea altogether. In this industry – with shifting trends, a constant need for creativity, and clients demanding fresh thinking – speed is essential for staying relevant.

Build a team that thrives on action

Speed is both a leadership choice and a cultural one. To consistently execute fast, you need a team that thrives on action. Premier rewards initiative, celebrates progress, and treats mistakes as

opportunities to learn. As a business owner, this means hiring for attitude as much as skill, creating a safe space for mistakes so teams feel comfortable experimenting without fear of blame, and sharing learnings openly.

A culture of action spreads quickly. Once people see that progress is valued more than never getting things wrong, they become braver, more creative, and open to even the biggest ideas.

Make speed work for you

Speed isn’t enough if your project is lacking purpose, you’ll just waste energy. The key is finding a balance between pace and direction. Ask yourself what your clear goal is, what can be simplified, and who’s responsible.

From humble beginnings in 2002 to delivering the company’s best year to date in 2025, the biggest constant has been Premier’s ability to move fast, learn quickly, and act decisively. Speed has helped the team win pitches, reinvent or expand the company’s services, and build things that others said couldn’t be done.

Ben’s advice to other event profs and business owners: once you know where you’re heading, don’t wait for conditions to be perfect to make the first move. Surround yourself with people you trust to deliver at pace and keep the pipeline between idea and delivery as short as possible. So just start and start fast! Premierevents.co.uk

For over half a decade, Sheer Edge has been the trusted event partner of a leading IT association, guiding it through a dynamic journey of transformation, innovation, and growth. What began as a straightforward venue sourcing project has evolved into a strategic collaboration that has redefined how the association engages with its members, both seasoned professionals and emerging talent.

2019: Laying the foundations

In 2019, Sheer Edge was tasked with securing a venue for the association’s flagship annual conference. The brief was clear: find a space that reflected the professionalism and technical excellence of the mainframe community, while offering flexibility for breakout sessions, networking, and exhibitions. Sheer Edge delivered, identifying a venue that ticked every box and laid the groundwork for a high-impact event. However, the pandemic in 2020 brought those plans to a halt. With the live event cancelled, the association faced a critical decision: postpone or pivot.

2020: A virtual leap forward

Sheer Edge proposed a bold alternative: what if the conference was transformed into a fully virtual experience? Drawing on the team’s expertise in digital event management, they curated and delivered the association’s first-ever online conference, and the results were remarkable.

Not only did the virtual format allow the association to maintain continuity, but it also expanded reach far beyond the UK. Attendance surged, with delegates joining from across Europe and North America. The

accessibility of the digital platform attracted new members, particularly younger professionals who might not have travelled for a traditional event. Membership numbers rose and the association’s visibility within the global mainframe community grew exponentially.

2021: Back to live, better than ever

As restrictions eased, Sheer Edge supported the association’s return to in-person events, but this wasn’t a simple rewind. The team reimagined the live experience, blending the best of physical and digital formats. Hybrid elements were introduced, allowing remote delegates to participate in keynotes and panel discussions. The venue selection reflected a renewed emphasis on collaboration and inclusivity, with spaces designed to foster dialogue between generations of IT professionals.

Sheer Edge handled all the details – venue sourcing, negotiations, and securing the ideal venue for the association’s next phase of events – ensuring a seamless transition back to live events while preserving the expanded reach achieved in 2020.

2023: Deepening engagement

By 2023, Sheer Edge’s role had grown beyond event execution. The team became strategic advisors, helping the association refine its offering to better serve its evolving membership. This included enhancing the exhibitor experience as well as managing accommodation, transportation, event production, and supporting the committee with the running order and logistics for the event. Attendee numbers also increased significantly enough that the venue had to host a second formal dinner to cater for the higher numbers. The association’s annual conference became more than a gathering; it became a platform for thought leadership, mentorship, and community-building.

Evolving Events

Looking ahead: A new chapter

Now, as the association looks toward its 2025 conference, Sheer Edge is once again leading the charge. With a clear vision to attract younger, grassroots talent into the mainframe industry while continuing to support long-standing members, the association is rethinking its entire conference model.

The team is guiding this shift, advising on a new calendar slot for future years to better align with academic cycles and industry trends. The company is also supporting the association to reshape the event’s structure, introducing new friendly evening networking and entertainment options. The goal is to create a multi-generational experience that bridges legacy expertise with fresh perspectives.

A partnership built on progress

From venue sourcing and vendor support to hybrid innovation and event production, Sheer Edge has added a new layer of value each year. The team’s ability to anticipate change, adapt quickly, and deliver with precision has made them an indispensable partner to the association. As the industry evolves, so too does the conference. Sheer Edge remains at the heart of that evolution, supporting the association to host events that are not just successful, but transformative.

If you feel that you would like a similar event support team working with you for your future events, get in touch with the Sheer Edge team, who would be more than happy to help.

hello@sheeredge.co.uk | 0330 223 3176

City of Innovation

There’s no destination better-suited to make an impact at CHS Birmingham on 28th October than the UK’s ‘pioneering city’ of makers and innovators, Derby.

Derby, the city of trailblazers who are impacting the world in their field of expertise is alive with recent, current, and future changes that will see it become one of the UK’s top locations for meetings, events, and group travel.

Building on its inaugural appearance at CHS Birmingham back in 2023, Derby is back in 2025 as part of a long-term strategy built entirely on the transformative changes currently taking place throughout the city centre. Recent developments include the complete reconfiguration of the site of the world’s first factory into an award-winning museum called the Museum of Making as well as the creation of a new 3,500 capacity performance and conference venue managed by worldleading venue operator, Legends Global – Vaillant Live.

The £18 million Museum of Making, which was shortlisted down to the last five for the 2022 ‘Museum of the Year’ prize, has

also scooped three architecture awards and houses The Italian Mill – a dedicated events space that stands on the banks of the River Derwent, within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vaillant Live is one of the most comprehensive city centre regeneration schemes and future planned phases will include office and commercial space as well as a new hotel.

Joining the pioneering party of spectacular venues after a multi-millionpound refurbishment is the stunning Grade II listed Derby Market Hall. The Victorian buildings most iconic feature – the striking cast iron, copper, and glass roof – was designed by Derbyshire born Engineer, Rowland Mason Ordish, whose later work included the roof of London St. Pancras railway station.

Derby Market Hall is so much more than just a market! Street food traders serve

up delicious cuisine from across the globe, artists of all sorts deliver a buzzing programme of events and activities, and local creatives offer up a mix of unique products and experiences. The flexible space features meeting rooms or private hire/hybrid options for exhibitions, events, and conferences looking for a truly unique and memorable venue.

Other partners on the Derby stand at CHS Birmingham will include the world-class Derby Arena that stands adjacent to Derby County FC’s Pride Park, the stateof-the-art Derby Conference Centre, Leonardo Hotel Derby, Holiday Inn Derby Riverlights, and, of course, VisitDerby itself.

Derby’s Visitor Economy Development Manager, Stella Birks, explains: “This is an opportunity of a lifetime for the city, which historically has an incredible track record for making the most of a moment like this. What I would say to anyone who doesn’t already truly know Derby, is: we’re aiming to make an impact and shape some very positive opinions at CHS Birmingham. We want everyone to find out exactly what’s making us so different from similar UK destinations. Please come along and see us to find out more!”

CHS Birmingham stands at the very forefront of Derby’s strategy to create a stir among the meetings, events, and group travel market segments. Bringing a new level of confidence and vibrancy to the autumn event, the VisitDerby stand D20 will be offering a themed familiarisation visit in March 2026.

For anyone unable to attend the event, further details can be found at Visitderby.co.uk/conferences

ALL PHOTO: VISITDERBY DERBY CATHEDRAL

DERBY CONFERENCE CENTRE

It’s all in the planning!

• Event Planning & Management

- seamless coordination from concept to completion.

• Event Styling, Décor & Props

- bespoke designs that transform any space.

• Entertainment Management & Production

- engaging acts, talent, and show production.

• 27 Years International Experience - delivering events across the UK and worldwide.

• Private & Corporate Clients - trusted by families, brands, and businesses alike.

rachael@rsevents.uk www.rsevents.uk @rseventsderby

Elevating Events

In an industry where meticulous preparation and attention to detail separates the exceptional from the ordinary, RS Events has earned distinction as a premium events planning, styling, and entertainment provider. Based in Derbyshire, the company operates across the UK, providing both private and corporate clients with the highest possible standard of service.

With over 27 years of experience in global events and entertainment, RS Events brings extensive industry knowledge and expertise to every project. From intimate family celebrations to 500 guest corporate galas, no request or budget is considered too large or too small.

The company’s full-service approach covers everything from initial concept development to post-event management. RS Events provides a complete service for unforgettable occasions, offering expert event planning and seamless coordination, bespoke styling and décor that transforms spaces, and a trusted in-house network of entertainment.

What really sets RS Events apart is its network of quality, handpicked partners and suppliers, ensuring clients always receive the best rates while maintaining premium standards.

Whether handling corporate functions, private celebrations, or managing venues entertainment rosters, from concept to completion, the team at RS Events ensures every aspect is delivered with creativity, precision, and flair.

Rsevents.uk

Major investment and strategic positioning are cementing Coventry and Warwickshire’s reputation as one of England’s most versatile destinations for business events.

Coventry and Warwickshire has quietly established itself as one of England’s most compelling regional destinations for corporate events. The region’s appeal lies in its perfect positioning – just one hour by train from London and 20 minutes from Birmingham Airport – making it the ideal location for delegates travelling from across the country. But accessibility is only part of the story. Major investment is reshaping what the region can offer, creating modern facilities while preserving its distinctive historic character.

Paul McMahon, Managing Director of Coventry & Warwickshire Convention Bureau, explains the transformation taking place: “This is a region with an incredible story to tell, it’s a forward-thinking destination with a proud history and a passion from its venues to contribute to its bright future. The investment we are seeing right across the patch is a huge positive and demonstrates the confidence that exists in the conference, exhibition, and meetings sectors in Coventry and Warwickshire.”

This confidence is apparent in substantial developments. Coventry Building Society Arena, the region’s largest conference and exhibition venue, celebrated its 20th anniversary by launching a new 1,000 sq. metre multi-functional space, bringing total event space to over 20,000 sq. metres. The venue also completed a full refurbishment of its on-site 121-bedroom DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, resulting in enquiry levels rising by 50% compared to 2023.

What sets the area apart is the extraordinary range of venues available. The region offers everything from cuttingedge conference centres to unique locations steeped in history. As the UK’s City of Culture in 2021, Coventry offers attractions like the Transport Museum

Middle Ground

and the iconic Cathedral Quarter. St Mary’s Guildhall provides events with the atmosphere of a 14th century medieval building, while the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum offers the unique opportunity to host events in the shadow of the nation’s favourite dinosaur, Dippy the Diplodocus.

The Belgrade Theatre, the city’s largest professional theatre, is growing as a corporate event destination with its pair of auditoriums providing flexibility in space size – the main stage seating up to 858 delegates, supported by expert teams experienced in delivering world-class productions.

Beyond Coventry’s city centre, Warwickshire delivers distinctive experiences. The British Motor Museum in Gaydon provides events with the backdrop of the world’s largest collection of historic British cars. NAEC Stoneleigh offers more than 14,000 sq. metres of exhibition space and 250 acres of flexible outdoor space, having seen 46% growth in consumer exhibitions following recent investment in its onsite 57-bedroom hotel and bistro.

For those seeking something special, The IXL Events Centre at Dallas Burston Polo Club provides glamour and flexibility across 600 acres of countryside, where delegates can enjoy coffee breaks with views over polo pitches.

Top notch conference centres are offering state-of-the-art excellence. Coventry Conferences has refreshed its bistro, kitchen and restaurant facilities, while award-winning Warwick Conferences has entered a new strategic partnership to deliver large-scale conferences and accommodation, reinforcing its reputation as a leading destination for professional events.

Paul emphasises how the region’s infrastructure supports successful events: “Venues are retaining their unique character but investing to meet modern needs, whether that is upgrading existing

facilities, creating spaces or developing new experiences. But it’s not only the quality of our venues, it’s our supply chain and the way we work across the region to provide great experiences that is also proving popular with event organisers.”

The region’s rich history and cultural experiences provide added value for event itineraries. Coventry itself benefits from excellent public transport connections and proximity to local amenities, ensuring delegates can move easily between meetings, accommodation, restaurants, and attractions without needing to drive. Beyond the city limits, Warwick Castle and Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon tempt delegates to extend their stays.

Business tourism receives additional support through the newly launched Coventry & Warwickshire Convention Bureau, which provides free services including venue finding and event planning guides to streamline the planning process. This coordinated approach reflects growing confidence in the sector, with the visitor economy outperforming other West Midlands areas and attracting more than 11 million visitors annually to Coventry alone.

For event organisers seeking venues that combine accessibility with authenticity, convenience with character, Coventry and Warwickshire presents an enticing proposition. It’s a region where heritage and innovation converge, creating opportunities for memorable corporate events in the true heart of England.

Visitcoventry.co.uk/ meetcoventryandwarwickshire

After 14 years as Association Director at the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO), Heather Lishman will be retiring following the annual ABPCO Excellence Awards at Manchester Central on 11th and 12th December.

Speaking about the professional and personal impact the role has had on her, Heather said: “I did a degree in hotel and catering management and worked in hotels and training and conference centres as an account manager, so I originally came into this role from that perspective. I’d never run an association – I had to look up what a PCO was before my interview!

“I think what stood me in good stead was my ability to listen, understand, develop, and look after our members; I’m not into them just being a number! This helped me to grow both personally and professionally with our members and the association as a whole.”

Speaking of ABPCO’s growth, the association has come a long way in 14 years: “In the beginning I was worried that there literally wasn’t enough money in the bank to pay me the next month! But we’ve grown into a respected association now with lots of really engaged members. ABPCO membership is considered the quality mark for professional conference organisers and organisations seeking to recruit quality individuals to in-house roles.

“The introduction of our values was huge,” Heather recalls one of her proudest moments in the role. “We realised that we had objectives and goals, but we didn’t actually communicate our values. So, we did a big member-wide initiative to work

Next Chapter

ABPCO’s Heather Lishman reflects on 14 years in the role of Association Director ahead of her upcoming retirement.

out what those values would be, and we came out with excellence, learning, and belonging. As soon as they came out, there was almost a sigh in the room because, of course, that’s what sums us up! We’ve used those to absolutely hone what we’ve done since.

“They must have hated me at first! I came in, changed the website, logo, and how the organisation works! I introduced our iconic colourful hands logo because I wanted to emphasise us all being a big team – it’s all about the stakeholders coming together to produce the amazing conferences that we’re renowned for.”

We realised that we had objectives and goals, but we didn’t actually communicate our values.

Looking ahead to life after ABPCO, it’s the people that Heather will miss the most: “It’s going to be hard! I pride myself on really getting to know my members; we have coffee and chats where we discuss everything from work to holidays. It’s going

to be slightly peculiar not being there and just watching from the sidelines.”

Despite her reservations about missing the industry, Heather firmly believes that now is the right time for her to go: “When you know, you know. My life has revolved around the ABPCO calendar for so long, it’ll be nice to have a bit of time to breathe. We’re hosting our awards in Manchester this year and I’m from Oldham originally so it’s going to be so nice finishing in the North West and going out on a high. I feel like – just like with my kids who are now grown up and off flying by themselves – I’ve done a pretty sturdy job of developing ABPCO through the primary and secondary school stage! Now the association is looking for somebody to come in, be more strategic, and evolve it in a whole new way.”

Addressing her successor, who will be announced soon, Heather said: “I wouldn’t presume to give them advice; they’ll come in with a wealth of knowledge that I probably still haven’t got after all these years. I would just ask them to continue to listen to our members and be open, honest, and reactive to what they need. My plea is simply for them to continue to look after our values and our members, and I think the rest will work amazing.”

Abpco.org

Stress Less

For National Stress Awareness Day (5th November), we explore some small and manageable DIY stress relief techniques that can be incorporated into your everyday routine.

In this industry, long days, constant problem solving, and the pressure of keeping everything running smoothly can become extremely draining for event profs. The good news is that even quick habits can make a huge difference in keeping your focus up and stress down throughout the day. Check out some of the best practices to reduce stress in under five minutes that can be done at your desk, on-site, or anywhere!

Micro moments

Meditation might sound appealing but unrealistic when you’re juggling the demands of clients and suppliers but an easy way to incorporate this into your routine is with micro meditation – just a few minutes of mindful breathing.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to pay attention to your breathing by focusing on slow, deep breaths for instant relaxation. Find a comfortable position, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Slowly inhale, hold for a moment, and then exhale steadily. Repeat this process a few times to help ease tension and clear your mind.

Be grateful

Take one minute to reflect on things in your journey that you appreciate – it’s easy to only focus on what’s going wrong. Flip the script, help shift your mindset, and build resilience as you navigate your day.

Think about three things you’re grateful for today, big or small. It doesn’t matter if it’s appreciation for your morning coffee or a successful conversation with a client –what matters is that you acknowledge it. Practicing gratitude on-site not only reduces stress but also reminds you of the wins that often get overshadowed by the chaos. Over time, this quick and simple practice can train your brain to focus more on what’s going well, reducing stress and improving your overall outlook.

Handy work

Whether you’re holding a radio, typing, or carrying materials, your hands (and stress levels) can take a hit. Not only do hand massages help to relieve stress and anxiety, but they can also help to reduce fatigue, increase circulation, and relieve achy muscles due to the pressure increasing blood flow.

The Union Valley pressure point is located on the hand in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. By activating this, you trigger your body’s natural relaxation response. With your index finger and thumb, simply apply firm pressure to this spot for five seconds and breathe deep to feel the pressure melting off.

Another hand massage technique is to hold your left hand up with your palm facing you

and your fingers together. Use your right thumb to massage the fleshy spot between your left thumb and index finger for a slow count of 15. Switch hands and repeat to slow your breathing and heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and bring your mind and body back into balance before diving back into your to-do list.

Muscle relief

After hours on your feet, your body holds as much stress as your mind does. Progressive muscle relaxation is a technique that’s used to control stress and anxiety, relieve insomnia, and reduce symptoms of some types of chronic pain. It’s a simple practice that’s based upon tensing one muscle group at a time followed by a relaxation phase with release of the tension.

While inhaling, contract one muscle group (for example your upper thighs) for five to 10 seconds, then exhale and suddenly release the tension. While doing this, try to focus on the changes you feel when the muscles are relaxed as imagery may be helpful in conjunction with the release as tension, such as imagining that stressful feelings are flowing out of your body as you relax. Take 10 to 20 seconds to relax and then repeat the process, working your way up the body.

Suppliers

Glorious Food

We chat with Anthony Banks, Head of Ribble Valley Group: a mobile catering business that’s built its reputation on honest portions, transparent pricing, and bringing people together through shared food experiences across Yorkshire and beyond.

From washing dishes at 13 to running one of the region’s most successful catering operations, Anthony Banks embodies the classic kitchen success story. Anthony worked his way through hotels and fine dining restaurants, becoming head chef of a 90-bedroom hotel on the outskirts of London at just 21.

Having grown tired of working for others, Anthony made the leap into starting his own business 12 years ago: “When I first started out, I bought a little catering trailer and we were doing food for sporting events such as triathlons and Iron Man competitions, providing healthy food for participants and spectators.” As he began to establish himself, a series of customer requests would lead to him reshaping his business model.

“People started asking, ‘Could you do a hog roast?’ and I thought, ‘I’ll work it out,’” he laughs. “Then someone at a hog roast asked if we could do a three-course meal for a birthday party, and I realised there could be good money in it, and things really escalated from there.”

Today, Ribble Valley operates three vans and has carved out a distinctive niche in the competitive catering market through transparent, all-inclusive pricing.

While most catering companies quote per person and then add charges for equipment hire, Ribble Valley includes everything: “We own all our plates, cutlery, equipment, the lot; from serving dishes to kebab machines. We’re a one-stop shop.”

At the heart of Anthony’s approach is his signature sharing platter concept – fourfoot boards serving eight people across three courses: “When people share food, you can sit anyone next to anyone, and by the end of breakfast, they’re friends,” Anthony explains. “You have to ask people to pass your food, so it’s a natural conversation starter.”

The starter board features charcuterie, cheeses, breads, dips, olives, mozzarella tomato skewers, and house-made beetroot arancini. The main course showcases roast lamb, beef, and chicken alongside fresh vegetables, roast potatoes, and, of course, plenty of Yorkshire puddings! There’s a beetroot Wellington vegetarian choice and dessert features cheesecakes, lemon tarts, Eton mess, sticky toffee pudding, and chocolate brownies.

“We do about 30 of these sharing events a year,” says Anthony. The evening includes ‘pizza tables’ where four types of pizza are made fresh and served with coleslaw and fries. “We don’t like pizza envy. Everyone gets to try all four pizzas rather than wishing you’d ordered something different.”

Anthony’s approach to food service is refreshingly straightforward and unpretentious: “We’re not a Michelin star affair – it’s not a large plate with a tiny piece of food. It’s proper portions. I married a Yorkshire lass, so it’s Yorkshire portions!” This no-nonsense ethos is evident in his client relationships, where customisation is key.

The business has built its reputation on word-of-mouth: “We pay attention to detail and care about style. We’ve built our business on recommendations and we get fantastic feedback,” Anthony says. The corporate sector is showing increasing promise: “In the past two weeks, we’ve

done one of the largest corporate events in our history,” says Anthony. “This time of year, people are trying to treat their staff and get everyone on board with the ‘we’ve nearly made it through the year’ feeling.” Recent corporate offerings have included Yorkshire pudding wraps and fish and chip vans – comfort food that hits the spot for end-of-year celebrations.

This December, Ribble Valley is returning to Ilkley with its Christmas teepees venture, run in partnership with Bar Events UK: “We work well together because we like to problem-solve and complement each other perfectly,” Anthony says of the collaboration. “We do street food – and festive food offerings to enjoy around the fire.”

Based in the Ribble Valley, the team is well positioned to provide catering services to the whole of Lancashire, Cumbria, and North Yorkshire.

Anthony still maintains the enthusiasm that first drew him to kitchens: “We’re mad busy at the moment, which is exactly where we want to be. I like nothing better than hearing guests say: ‘That was amazing!’”

Theribblevalleygroup.co.uk

Thinking Ahead

Tim Rudland, Client Director at Tysers, offers his expert advice to event professionals on securing the best protection and value from their insurance policies.

Planning a successful event means more than just securing the right venue and suppliers, it also requires protecting your investment against the unexpected. From supply chain disruptions and equipment mishaps to speaker cancellations and even cyber risks, event insurance can often be overlooked but is an essential safeguard.

Tim Rudland from insurance brokers Tysers, believes leaving insurance cover until the final stages of planning could leave you exposed to unnecessary risks: “Don’t leave it until the last minute because it’s not any cheaper and you won’t benefit as much from the cover – it’ll be the same cost whether you buy it a week before or a year before. Take a step back at the beginning and think about what could go wrong, what could cause this event to be a problem, and if you’re properly insured for it. If you aren’t, think about whether you would be comfortable taking the fall for it yourself.”

One thing that event profs often aren’t aware of is that they can be liable for hired equipment: “A lot of the time, people assume that the hire company will take responsibility for any damages but there’s a chance it could fall to you, so it’s important to find that out beforehand.”

Vulnerabilities in the supply chain can cause a whole range of problems; being properly insured can stop these affecting your event: “Let’s say you’ve got a truck of equipment

coming to your event and it’s involved in an accident. Alternative hire means that you’re covered for the replacement value of that and you can also spend money to hire last minute replacements for any equipment that might be missing.”

Tim advises a handful of policies that should be non-negotiables for event profs: “If something goes wrong with a supplier that’s outside of their control, a solid cancellation policy should cover it. Employers’ and public liability insurance are another two policies that all organisers should definitely have.

“There can be various strands of the cancellation policy. If you’ve sold tickets based on a speaker or performer being present and integral to the event and there’s a big issue – for example like the Icelandic ash cloud in 2010 – that means people can’t get there, you need to make sure you have some sort of catastrophe non-appearance cover that’s reflected in the wording of your policy.”

There are other policies too that could be worth consideration: “Cyber insurance is more of an issue as it’s not generally covered under the contingency policy. Management liability (which can protect businesses and their leaders from personal and financial risks related to claims of wrongdoing, including legal and regulatory challenges) and professional indemnity (which covers the cost of compensating clients for loss or damage

resulting from negligent services or advice provided by a business or an individual) are particularly important if you’re heavily reliant on sponsors.”

Offering his most valuable piece of advice, Tim says: “We’re going into a softer market where rates have been going up and there’s a bit more competition – you’re having to squeeze insurers a little bit to get some better deals. Try being a bit clever and get as much for your money as you can – don’t do a rinse and repeat, make the most informed decisions possible based on open and thorough conversations with your broker for each event.

“Working with a broker that specialises in events will mean they have loads of tips and tricks around getting the best deal for the right cover. They can help by making sure you’re not underinsured but by taking things out of your policy that aren’t relevant to your event. Insurance spend can’t be claimed back so you can look at first loss discounts on equipment (which covers a specified portion of a larger potential loss, rather than the entire asset value, typically for situations where a total loss is unlikely) and if you’ve got multiple events you can benefit from scale and make some savings.”

Tysers.com

Scottish Food, Whisky & Wine Pairing Tours, Edinburgh

Freelance Wine & Whisky Specialist offering

• Epicurean Dining Experiences in Edinburgh

• Small Group Corporate Away Days

• Wine And Whisky Incentive Experiences

• Immersive Wine Pairing Dinner Parties

• Unique Entertainment for Weddings and Events

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Game Changer Game Changer

Meet the PUDU HolaBot – the autonomous delivery robot that’s revolutionising service across events and hospitality.

From leading global technology company, PUDU Robotics, comes the HolaBot: the smart service robot set to boost your team efficiency and catapult your event management and service into a brave new world.

Whether you’re managing a multi-day conference, or coordinating large-scale catering operations, this innovative robot elevates your service standards while streamlining back-of-house operations.

The HolaBot was recently employed by Parkhotel Eisenstadt in Austria, alongside other PUDU products, taking on responsibilities such as floor cleaning, item and food delivery, and serving as a welcoming assistant to engage with guests. Hotel staff and guests reported high satisfaction with the performance of the amiable robot.

The HolaBot boasts robust 60kg carrying capacity with a generous 120L volume distributed across four large-capacity trays, which are completely detachable, and you get five adjustable levels to customise the holding area exactly how you need it. This flexibility means whether you’re delivering welcome packages to conference delegates, transporting catering supplies between venues, or providing seamless room service in your hotel, the HolaBot adapts perfectly to your specific requirements.

In today’s hospitality landscape, contactless service is increasingly becoming the norm. The HolaBot’s Air Motion technology eliminates the need to touch any buttons, making every interaction completely hands-free and hygiene friendly.

Where the HolaBot really shows its service intelligence is in features such as its ‘Hola Hola’ voice recognition technology powered by a sophisticated 6-array omnidirectional microphone system. Your event staff can simply call out to the robot from across a busy venue, and it will locate the sound source in real-time and respond intelligently. Combined with the pager function, your team can assign tasks to the robot from anywhere on-site.

The 4G watch connectivity takes this even further. It supports both 4G and Wi-Fi communication, while the innovative centralised NFC (Near Field Communication) technology with NFC call sticker cards makes calling operations faster than ever. You’re essentially getting a mobile command centre that integrates seamlessly into your event operations.

Events venues can be demanding environments. Spilled drinks, busy kitchens, and high-traffic areas are all part of the territory. That’s why the HolaBot comes with a waterproof inner cabin that effectively resists liquid splashes while keeping the machine body pristine. This robust construction means it can navigate everything from cocktail receptions to outdoor events with ease.

PUDU offers a range of robotic assistants capable of performing all manner of service duties. Browse the website and get in touch to find the bot that best suits your needs.

Pudu.com

PUDU Holabot £11,665

Get Smart

Smart building technology is transforming passive spaces into intelligent environments that enhance experiences and drive sustainability.

Event venues have long invested in smart building infrastructure – sensors that control lighting, heating systems that adjust automatically, and security cameras that monitor spaces. But the next generation of intelligent venues is taking this concept to another level, creating spaces which are a joy for event profs and staff to work with, helping to create memorable experiences.

While automated lighting and climate control improve efficiency, true smart venues integrate technology, process, and service to create seamless experiences. At the core of smart venue operations is an immersive data platform that touches every aspect of an event – parking, registration, functions, seating, food, billing, and beyond. IoT (Internet of Things) sensors form the backbone of these systems, monitoring everything from occupancy levels and air quality to energy consumption and crowd flow.

“Venues are increasingly turning to smart tech to make events run smoother and more sustainably,” says Richard Jonker, VP Marketing & Business Development at NETGEAR Enterprise. “Think AI-driven automation, next-gen Wi-Fi 7 networks, and Power over Ethernet systems – all working together to improve performance while cutting energy use.”

Advanced sensors can detect when rooms are unoccupied and automatically adjust lighting and climate control, potentially reducing energy consumption by up to 50%: “Tools like intelligent scheduling, occupancy sensors, and centralised AV control help ensure delegates enjoy seamless connectivity and better service.”

IoT-powered systems can make crowd control more manageable by tracking visitor movements and density in real time. For large conferences or exhibitions, this enables proactive management of bottlenecks and safety concerns while providing valuable data for future event planning. This technology means access control systems, security cameras, motion

detectors, and door locks can all be connected on a single system rather than each requiring a separate network. Smart venues can also create new opportunities for personalised experiences. Connected displays and interactive systems can provide real-time information about sessions, networking opportunities,

Tools like intelligent scheduling, occupancy sensors, and

centralised AV control help ensure delegates enjoy seamless connectivity and better service.

and venue services: “To create great experiences, personalisation is key –data-driven systems can adapt lighting, climate, and connectivity to craft tailored environments,” says Richard. “For conferences, AI tools can handle live translation, note-taking, and collaboration support, while robust wireless systems keep attendees connected without a

hitch. Exhibitions benefit from smarter infrastructure that cuts down on downtime and avoids unnecessary energy waste. Modern systems enable predictive optimisation and maintenance which reduces disruptions, while integration with AI-powered apps offers personalisation.”

As tech integration becomes ubiquitous, the human element is more important than ever. Outstanding experiences aren’t created by technology alone –smart venues require smart staff who are informed and empowered to utilise these tools effectively.

“Behind the scenes, teams gain from predictive monitoring, modular upgrades, and cloud-based management – making operations more efficient and costeffective, while ensuring attendees always get a high-quality experience,” Richard explains.

Going forward, the future promises significant developments: “AI will play an even bigger role, from predicting how AV systems should be optimised to finetuning energy use in real time and even guiding crowd management and safety. Cloud-first and hybrid infrastructures will simplify management while enabling more advanced event applications like immersive AR/VR experiences for exhibitors and attendees.”

Sustainability also remains a central objective for Richard: “Modular and upgradeable systems will help extend hardware lifecycles and reduce electronic waste. Venues will be pushed to adopt smarter, more measurable ways of running energy-efficient operations.”

For forward-thinking venue operators, the question is not whether to invest in smart building technology, but how quickly and comprehensively to implement these systems to retain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Netgear.com

Head Space

Events Psychologist, Victoria Matey, speaks to us about how psychological factors can transform events, and the changes that have resulted from the pandemic.

Victoria’s top tips

Observe

What people say and what they do are two different things 99% of the time, so observing their behaviour is the ultimate hack for better insights.

Get out

Sending your team to events outside of the industry will spark innovative ideas, break the mould, and help new neurons connect in their brains. This gives them a different perspective.

Bring in expertise

Often, it’s the smallest tweaks, grounded in the latest research, that can tip the scale in your favour. Learning from a psychology expert about where to look and what to do next can help you achieve better results, faster.

Hi Victoria! So how did you transition into psychology consultancy specifically for the events industry?

I studied Linguistics and Psychology at my first university, and I ended up writing my thesis on cognitive linguistics. My involvement in events came about by accident. For several years, I planned events and became passionate about it, going on to study for a Master’s in International Events Management. Eventually, I decided to set up a consultancy to share my expertise and international experience with others. About a decade ago I realised I could combine my passions and connect the dots between psychology and events. I have been exclusively focusing on event psychology since then.

What role can psychology play in understanding and enhancing delegate experiences?

Experiences take place in people’s minds first and foremost. We need to understand how people ‘work’ to make experiences more memorable, productive, and engaging.

There’s a growing demand to get more value out of attending, and that means catering to human needs: the need to be seen, valued, and cared for. Understanding behavioural patterns and root causes has always been a must and is finally getting the attention it deserves.

What psychological principles do successful event managers tend to apply?

Successful event managers approach it in a systemic and comprehensive way. They naturally think in terms of context: how the space, timing, social dynamics, language, and other details all interact to shape behaviour. Instead of applying specific principles as patches, they look

at underlying issues and focus on higherlevel aspects like motivations, barriers to behaviour change, and the connections between different ways our brains work.

How do you address burnout and mental health concerns in an industry known for its demanding schedules? It’s so important to look after both physical and mental wellbeing, and the key is to do it intentionally. Science shows that the connection between body and mind is built right into our brain structure. Getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and exercising are hugely important and social habits are also critical to our emotional and mental wellbeing. Taking specific steps to improve your social life habits is absolutely necessary if you want to reduce stress, be happier, and be more productive.

How did the pandemic change the psychological landscape for event professionals and attendees?

There has been a significant change in attendee behaviour patterns. People today value their time much more than they did in the past. This means you’re not just competing with other events, but also with family time, vacation time, and mental downtime, and events must offer real value to attract and retain attendees.

We also see much greater awareness around the importance of connecting with other people. It’s not that humans didn’t connect before, but new societal norms, tech advancements, and major disruptions such as the pandemic have amplified this. Industry reports confirm that people’s goals have shifted toward networking, and to respond effectively, we should look at the psychology behind how people communicate and bond, translating those insights into practical event strategies.

People First

Paul Evans,

Founder of PJ Staffngand Managing Director

of the Year, discusses his award-winning business that prioritises staff retention, client trust, and exceptional guest experiences.

In the world of events, it is easy to think success is all about logistics, headcounts, and keeping costs under control. In my experience, those things matter, but they are never the real reason an event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression. The real difference is always people. At PJ Staffing, we’ve built our business on one simple principle: if you look after your people, everything else follows. That approach has helped us win awards, grow year after year, and most importantly, deliver the level of consistency and trust our clients rely on.

Retention through recognition

Temporary staff are often seen as replaceable, but we take a very different view. We know that when people feel recognised and appreciated, they come back. They enjoy being part of something that values them. For our clients, that recognition translates into continuity. Having the same trusted faces season after season gives event organisers confidence that standards will be maintained, no matter how busy things get.

Consistency across the calendar

Events have their peaks and troughs. Summer brings festivals, race meetings, and outdoor hospitality, while December is packed with corporate parties and seasonal celebrations. The challenge for venues and organisers is making sure they can access the right talent at the right time, even when demand is high. This is where planning, communication, and flexibility are crucial. Our role is to smooth out those seasonal highs and lows by maintaining a pool of trained and motivated staff who are ready to step in. Because we invest in people and build strong relationships, we can provide the same high level of service in the quieter months as we do at the height of the busy season.

Diversity delivers

Another reason our approach works is diversity. The most memorable events are the ones where teams reflect the wide mix of people in the audience. At PJ Staffing we are proud to bring together staff of different ages, backgrounds, and skillsets.

Diversity isn’t just the right thing to pursue from an ethical standpoint; it’s also good business. A varied team brings energy, empathy, and fresh perspectives, which improves guest experiences and helps clients connect with a broader audience. When guests feel seen and understood, the event itself becomes stronger.

Over the years, we have built a strong community of talented people and encouraged the diverse community groups they represent to evolve and prosper, which ultimately creates a valued, respected, and loyal workforce.

Beyond the shift

Too many agencies focus only on filling the next shift. We believe in thinking beyond that. By offering training, constructive feedback, and opportunities to grow, we show that we care about our staff as individuals. That support builds loyalty and motivation, which in turn benefits every client we serve. Investing in people also creates pathways into other careers. Many of our temporary staff have gone on to take supervisory roles, move into full-time hospitality management, or even pursue careers outside the industry with transferable skills gained through event work.

The outcomes

This people-first philosophy has shaped every decision we make as a business. It has earned us recognition through industry awards, but more importantly, it has created a sustainable model where staff, clients, and attendees all feel supported. The events industry will always be fastmoving and unpredictable, but by putting people at the heart of what we do, PJ Staffing has been able to provide stability and excellence in every season.

Looking ahead, our commitment remains the same. We will continue to build on our success by ensuring that every member of our team feels valued, every client feels supported, and every event benefits from the power of people.

Pjstaffing.co.uk | info@pjstaffing.co.uk 0113 450 8505

Sharing the Passion

Wine Education and Training for Hospitality:

• As a Diploma Certified Educator for the Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET),

the highest quality education for your team is available

• Wine school in Liverpool city centre

and on-site training around the UK

• Wine list consultation and bespoke wine service training also available Corporate Team Building & Event Days

• Specialist aroma & flavour workshops

• Blind wine tasting

• Private chef & sommelier experiences

• Bespoke events for teams and clients alike

• Corporate wine gifts

www.bacchuswinetasting.co.uk

Instagram & Facebook: @bacchuswinetasting

Linked-In: Johnathan Garry

Tried, Tested, Trusted

We offer a wide range of both contemporary & modern furniture items such as tables, stools & chairs which suit all tastes and budgets.

Splendid service – We pride ourselves on the service we deliver, with knowledgeable staff who really care.

bright-events-hospitality-north-outlines.pdf

In-house manufacturing – full manufacturing facilities to build bespoke furniture, as well as two professional spray booths and an upholstery department.

Own fleet of modern transport – from vans to articulated lorries and everything in between.

www.conceptfurniture.co.uk sales@conceptfurniture.co.uk

Uncorking Potential

Wine tasting sessions provide a unique corporate team building offering and enhanced educational development for hospitality staff.

As event organisers look for something different, the science of wine offers a uniquely appealing option. With a Diploma in Wine, Johnathan Garry operates wine tasting workshops for corporations as well as running his own mobile wine school to upskill hospitality teams.

Johnathan explains why such team building and training is important for teams: “It’s the language that excludes people from wine; it can make people feel inferior, like they don’t belong to the club. That’s when customers (and staff) start avoiding wine. If a team can communicate well around wine, then they can do the opposite and open the club up, which helps drive sales.”

A corporate team session with Bacchus probably doesn’t look how you might expect. Johnathan likes to take things beyond simple tastings: “Many formats are possible, but I personally enjoy my aromas and flavours workshop!” This session is carefully structured, with tables arranged according to specific aroma and flavour characteristics and, crucially, where they originate from.

At the start of the session, it’s all very mysterious: “It’s a blind tasting scenario to begin with. No clues, no tricks. Just you and your team to help each other out… or lead each other down the garden path as can sometimes be the case.” This initial phase encourages genuine teamwork and communication. “It’s serious fun tasting alongside your colleagues, especially those you may know less well, to see what each of you pick up on.” This naturally breaks down workplace barriers as participants compare their experiences. Awkward responses are welcome, red faces too; it all adds to the fun of the day. All the learning is still yet to happen.

Then comes the support: “After the blind phase, I’ll start to drip feed some further information to help the tasters refocus their discipline. We’ll start to build a common language here. Big cheers for anyone who was already on the right track. Some teams have been known to go all out celebration here; they’re so thrilled!”

The big reveal marks the beginning of the end, and this revelation phase takes the experience up a notch: “What’s nice here is, I can now add all the context and science that was missing at the start (when it was just you and your nose). It would have been a tad full-on to dive into methoxypyrazine compounds, monoterpenes, and linalool to begin with, but now we’ve all smelled them, it now makes perfect sense. It really is a eureka moment! Find about the wines, the variety, the region, and the winemaking. This isn’t hocus pocus in a glass, it’s not down to the power of suggestion! All those wonderful aromas and flavours really are there. With my carefully curated wines, I’ve simply been the catalyst to helping people make the right associations and I’m only too happy to impart that know-how to all the participants. Now everyone is genuinely excited about wine and… selling it!”

Johnathan brings a unique sensory element to his sessions too: “After the reveal, I add some additional flair by inviting teams to my ‘aroma table’. Come smell flowers, fruits, herbs, spices, and even butter. They were all there in the wines but now you get to compare.” This hands-on approach reinforces learning by connecting wine characteristics to familiar scents, making abstract concepts tangible and memorable for participants. Feedback is always sensational: “I’ve had so much fun AND I’ve learnt so much,” is a common mantra.

Johnathan outlines the advantages for corporate wine tasting workshops and wine courses alike. Teams recognise the investment in enjoyable social events and the balance between work and recreation, while building confidence around wine communication. The sessions take team members out of their comfort zones, sparking new areas of interest and getting them talking about common topics. For hospitality teams specifically, wine education builds confidence in service roles, enhances upselling capabilities and improves the ability to curate interesting wine lists. Staff gain skills in advising guests for better experiences, encouraging repeat visits and further wine list exploration. Venues typically observe increased wine sales following team education and the heightened service experience benefits team members by introducing a new sense of enjoyment and challenge to their roles.

Bacchus Wine Tasting travels throughout the UK and can provide team building days or WSET (Wine & Spirits Education Trust) courses on-site or in central locations to meet specific requirements for different organisational needs. Whether for a team who would enjoy a wine experience day, or one working directly in hospitality, Johnathan would love to discuss your needs.

For more information, contact: Johnathan Garry DipWSET bacchuswinetasting.co.uk

Socials: @bacchuswinetasting

LinkedIn: Johnathan Garry

Health Check

Strategic Health Consultant and Founder of Event Care Solutions, Melissa Way, discusses some upcoming changes in the world of event healthcare.

After 21 years in the NHS – including managing Winchester’s A&E department – Melissa Way first stepped into the events industry with a local festival, Boomtown. She later founded Event Care Solutions, which brings event organisers, medical providers, and welfare teams together to deliver exemplary care at all types of events.

There have been changes to what’s expected from event organisers in recent years, as Melissa tells us: “As a result of the Manchester Arena Inquiry, there’s been quite a big shake up in event medical cover. Martyn’s Law is the big one, but there are others too. Up until this point, medical providers that supply cover at events and festivals didn’t have to be registered under the Care Quality Commission (CQC) which will all be changing soon. This was meant to come in at the same time as Martyn’s Law, but I think it’s been a little bit more complicated than the government had signed up for. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is developing an event healthcare standard that will change the focus of the treatment of disease, disorder, and injury (TDDI), providing suggestions and recommendations that each event will need to align themselves with those standards.

“Although on-site medical providers don’t need to be registered with the CQC, a lot of them are already. However, smaller event providers haven’t necessarily had to come up against it as registering is quite expensive and a long process.”

Not all the changes will affect organisers though, explains Melissa: “In some cases, for smaller events, just having a first aider will be enough – let’s not overcomplicate things for everybody! But I think as soon as you have things like high-risk activities, an overnight stay, or alcohol on-site, you’ll

need to have CQC-registered provider. Alongside CQC change, the DHSC is creating an event healthcare standard review committee, and I suspect there’ll be a phased implementation of this.

“I think phase one will look at the overarching principles such as whether there’s a medical risk assessment in place or not. All events and festivals will definitely have a risk assessment, but it’s doubtful that many will have a specific section about what their medical resourcing for the event will look like, as well as the preparations they have so they won’t rely on the NHS. The NHS is under significant pressure, so local authorities and safety advisory groups are really emphasising

that events can happen but there can’t be a reliance on police, fire, or health services.

“Phase two will probably be the actual guidelines that come out. This will include the event healthcare standard that’s being piloted at the moment. I think it will eventually be law, but we’re not there yet – let’s not panic!”

I think phase one will look at the overarching principles such as whether there’s a medical risk assessment in place or

not.

For event profs planning health assessments for upcoming projects, Melissa offers her advice: “One of the first things all event organisers should be doing is looking to see if their current medical provider is already registered with the CQC. All medical providers know this change will be happening and the process takes at least six months so there’s a chance they’re already on with it. I wouldn’t recommend that people cut relationships with existing providers, it’s about working together with them.

“The onus is shifting a little so it’s important that event organisers are aware of this. The CQC doesn’t have the capacity to assess hundreds of medical providers in the next two years, so I think we’ll see organisers being expected to take more responsibility for the healthcare side of things. Thinking about both things before any legislation comes in will help organisers to be a little bit more prepared.”

Eventcaresolutions.co.uk

Go Outdoors!

Power of Events’ Claire Drakeley invites event profs to shape the future of outdoor events with a new industry research project.

Outdoor event industry professionals are invited to contribute to The Purple Guide and The Power of Events (PoE) collaborative research project, which will be launched in October. The research will provide valuable information for event businesses as well as data to support the industry when dealing with government and wider networks.

Strategic Lead for Research, Insights, and Policy with PoE and Senior Lecturer and Researcher at the University of Northampton, Claire Drakeley, is leading the research: “I bring academic credibility and experience into the mix, and I really love research and data because they help us understand the world and get a better picture of what’s going on. Events management is such a diverse subject, but it’s also a baby as far as academia is concerned and we don’t have a large body of research – luckily, it’s growing all the time.”

PoE is working with The Purple Guide for this new research, building on from a report done by Bournemouth University in 2018: “Obviously, things have changed a lot since then, and there’s a need to make sure that we’re doing this in a way that’s relevant and appropriate. Being able to represent the outdoor events sector in government – and in local authorities – is one of the key aims of this research.

“We’re constantly campaigning for funding and support, and we want to work

collectively to address these problems and issues. It’s so important that we collect data that’s driven by industry and the people that are in it.”

The research will be a general approach to the UK industry as a whole and Claire emphasises the fact that the data won’t be used for the purposes of holding anyone accountable: “No individual or organisation is going to be picked out or have their data reported in any way. We’ll regionalise the data for our analysis purposes, but it won’t be specifically individual. There’s no personal data going anywhere, and there’s no judgment! We’re simply using it to calculate the overall value.”

Claire is hopeful research will be collected from as many voices from the industry as possible: “The research will be done through two surveys, some focus groups, and a mapping exercise. The first survey launches on 23rd October and the second on 11th November for the supply chain. It’s important to recognise that events never are an isolated thing; they’re a team game, and the supply chain is important in this mix. It’s not just about the event in its bubble; it’s also about those suppliers and traders that are a big part of the process.”

The findings from the research will be published in a report early next year: “When published, the report will go out to everybody who has participated. It’ll go out through all the associations, PR,

and social media; we’ll shout about it and share it far and wide! What I hope is that there’ll be insights gathered that will be valuable to every event organiser.

“The more we can articulate our industry to the wider world, the more we can articulate the value of what we do to local authorities, communities, stakeholders, sponsors, and so on. Then the more credible our reputation, the greater argument we can make for collaboration across other areas such as government funding.

The team behind the research hopes to update the research annually: “We want to keep it as simple and straightforward as possible so it won’t be about having to reinvent the wheel every time or deal with inconsistent data, which means that we can build up a really clear argument about what’s going on in the industry and improve year on year.”

When the surveys go live on the Power of Events app and website, event profs will have until December to provide feedback. The results will be published across multiple platforms in in Q1 2026.

Any questions? Claire is happy to help! claire@thepowerofevents.org Thepowerofevents.org/research

Playing for Keeps

As the events sector transforms from a transient industry to a more viable long-term career path, employers are rethinking the rules of staff engagement.

While traditionally characterised by high staff turnover, the industry’s growing prestige and career opportunities are challenging assumptions about workforce stability. High turnover creates a vicious cycle which impacts operational performance and delegate experience. Beyond financial implications, constantly losing experienced workers means many roles are filled by relatively new, less experienced staff, undermining the quality of service.

Working conditions can contribute to and exacerbate the problem. Many roles are stressful and are physically and

ANGELA BYRNE

mentally strenuous, and the combination of demanding attendees, difficult working conditions, and relatively low pay can lead to burnout and people leaving the industry. As such, progressive employers are recognising that retention starts with culture rather than recruitment. “Retaining great people in the events industry comes down to creating an environment where they feel valued, supported, and part of something bigger than just the next shift,” explains Angela Byrne, CEO and Founder of Ginger Hospitality. “Too often, the focus is only on recruitment when in reality retention starts with culture: clear communication, fair pay, opportunities to grow, and above all, respect for the pressures people face.”

This cultural shift requires changes in management approach. Employees are

more likely to be strongly motivated to do an outstanding job at work when they receive regular feedback from managers. Establishing monthly one-on-one meetings between employees and managers builds trust, allows issues to be addressed early, and strengthens retention.

Beyond competitive compensation, recognition plays a crucial role in retention. Recognition matters and workplaces that take time to applaud their employees’ accomplishments have higher morale and better retention than those who take employees for granted. This doesn’t require significant investment – a shout out during a staff meeting or a simple thank you go a long way towards making employees feel good about their work.

Paul Evans, Founder and Managing Director of PJ Staffing, emphasises this approach: “Our seasonal staff return year on year not because they have to, but because they choose to. This is a primary reason for our success. Our priority is in how we approach staff welfare, and shine on talent; recognition is a fundamental part of the culture we have created.”

The new generation of hospitality and events staffing expects flexibility that previously wasn’t prioritised: “Our flexible solution accommodates variable situations, not just for our candidates but also our clients, ensuring staff welfare, safety, and remaining a people first business. It is also about encouraging a diverse community, where our people feel valued, respected and heard. That’s our key to staff retention.” Technology can also be useful in tackling staff turnover issues; modern PMS systems, staff scheduling applications, and communication platforms can reduce administrative strain and improve work-life balance.

Creating clear advancement pathways transforms hospitality from a stopgap job

into a real career prospect. By expanding your team’s horizons of what’s possible, you can encourage employees to grow within your organisation. This requires investment in training programmes, mentorship initiatives, and transparent promotion criteria.

As gen Z becomes more prominent in the workforce, consider their expectations and preferences. This generation values purpose-driven work, sustainability initiatives, and social consciousness alongside traditional benefits. Smart employers are adapting their values to reflect these changing priorities.

Companies that take seriously workforce needs and circumstances position themselves as employers of choice in an increasingly competitive market.

As Angela Byrne points out: “At Ginger Hospitality, we’ve seen that when venues build strong relationships with their teams and listen to what really matters to them, loyalty and consistency naturally follow.”

In an industry built on service, investing in those who deliver it isn’t just good practice - it’s essential for long-term success.

Pjstaffing.co.uk Gingerhospitality.co.uk

PAUL EVANS

Teamwork Sleighed

Through the looking glass

This workshop is a unique festive activity where your team can bond while learning the art of glass fusing. Over two hours, groups of anything from 10 to 200 will design and create four glass decorations each – snowmen, penguins, festive scenes, or Santa himself! The expert instructor provides all tools, materials, and guidance, ensuring everyone crafts something memorable. Once fired in the kiln, finished ornaments are delivered to your workplace, ready to display or gift. Fun, creative, and mobile across the UK – this workshop brings festive cheer and unique keepsakes to your team building.

Teamtactics.co.uk

Giving back

The festive season is the perfect time to give back and support those in need. In partnership with Sleep Pod, this meaningful hands-on experience begins with an uplifting introduction from the charity’s co-founder, who shares its mission to tackle rough sleeping during the harsh winter months. Working in small teams of two to four, participants rotate through engaging stations to build life-saving sleep pods, with all tools and materials provided. Each completed pod is delivered directly to someone facing homelessness. Fully mobile across the UK, this impactful event combines festive spirit, teamwork, and giving back where it matters most.

Funktionevents.co.uk

Ice your creativity

Unleash creativity and teamwork with an ice sculpting challenge, a unique and festive team building event. Guided by an expert ice sculptor, teams receive specialist tuition before donning gloves and goggles to carve their own masterpiece from a solid ice block. Within minutes, the chisels are out, and the race begins – creativity, precision, and teamwork are key! Teams can design festive characters, iconic figures, or even sculptures tied to your company theme. Judged on originality and skill, the winners receive medals and a bottle of sherry. With mince pies and Christmas music included, it’s the ultimate festive icebreaker!

Kdmevents.co.uk

Around the world

Celebrate the season with the Festive Around the World Challenge, the ultimate virtual or hybrid team experience! Perfect for remote and global teams, this 60-to-90-minute adventure takes you on a journey through worldwide festive traditions, flavours, and languages. Guided live via Zoom, teams will race against the clock to solve puzzles, tackle trivia, and complete interactive scavenger hunts. With six to 1,000+ participants, it’s inclusive, carbon neutral, and packed with energy. To wrap up, the remote host will showcase the best photos and videos in a fun finale. An exhilarating way to connect, celebrate, and share festive cheer together from anywhere!

Wearewildgoose.com

Big events, smaller footprint

Sustainability at Christmas doesn’t mean being a Scrooge. Eventurous team casino nights, game shows, or bandeoke, provide all the glitz and none of the guilt. Let your guests celebrate in style and strengthen team bonds without compromising brand values.

From locally sourced festive feasts and thrilling entertainment to eco-friendly décor and gifts, Eventurous can arrange everything or lend a hand with whatever you need. The awardwinning, full-service team makes sure your festive events run as sustainably and smoothly as possible for plenty of stress-free fun.

With 30 years under the team’s belts, they’ve brought thousands of people together to create memorable moments across the UK. And with a sustainable focus, the positivity lasts long after everyone’s left. Less waste, less carbon, less of the icky feeling (although they can’t help with the hangovers unfortunately). Low-carbon events with high impact, for a Christmas ‘yule’ remember.

For a free quote, email sales@eventurous.co.uk or call 01827 215 200

With Christmas just around the corner (we can’t believe it either!), incorporate some festive fun into your next team building day.

Mission Statement

From Now is a holistic sustainability consultancy which is part of the emc3 Collective that has recently launched the From Now Network, a directory of audited venues and suppliers designed to support event planners in creating more responsible choices.

Each supplier will have undergone a comprehensive holistic audit, assessing the five main categories: environmental sustainability, GEDI (Geographies of Ethnic Diversity and Inequalities), wellbeing, accessibility, and community impact. From venues and caterers to logistics and production, event professionals can make informed choices that align with their ESG (Environment Social Governance) goals.

Explaining From Now’s mission, Business Development Manager, Charlie Pepperell said: “When working with our agency partners, such as emc3, we attach a From Now consultant to every event. This means the event team have that extra sustainability support they can lean on while still delivering an incredible experience, and the client gets the ESG data and insights they need.”

The From Now Network was created after the team recognised the need for suppliers’ sustainability information to be gathered in one, easily accessible place: “One of the main questions we kept being asked –especially when at meetings or trade shows – was ‘I’m looking for a venue/supplier that can do this, do you have any suggestions?’ and rather than us keep telling people, we decided to put it out there as a onestop shop that everyone can check out. It

shouldn’t be difficult to find a supplier that matches your values!”

Any venue or supplier ready to make a difference can join the network through a simple process: “The supplier completes a self-audit where they answer questions such as: do you have a service policy in place? What’s your employee wellbeing strategy? Do you partner with charities in your local area? Do you donate food waste? Alongside other ESG impact questions. Our consulting team will have a look at that and make any suggestions if they feel the supplier needs to bolster up on an area before we let them onto our network.

“It’s not about getting a score to pass, it’s more of us helping you to make sure that we’re spotlighting the best of the best. Nobody’s going to get it completely right, it’s impossible for every venue and supplier to be 100% sustainable – we don’t force that on anyone!”

Reflecting on the concerns of many suppliers, Charlie notes: “We find it interesting how many suppliers and venues are a bit nervous because people are so worried about greenwashing. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or 20 years in, it doesn’t matter! Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good – everyone has to start somewhere. We want to see progress in this industry and the only way we’re going to do that is by talking about it and highlighting people doing well.”

Charlie believes that the quality of your event shouldn’t suffer because you want to be more sustainable: “A lot of people think

that just because something’s sustainable, it’s lower quality – this just isn’t true! My main piece of advice for event those looking to make their events more sustainable would be to just ask questions. The more the industry will then respond and the more venues and suppliers will make the sustainable changes that are needed.

“Ask your clients questions too! Ask them what they’re passionate about – they’ll be thrilled that an event can match their values, which will enhance the event overall. We had an interesting workshop recently where we spoke about how to get sustainability at the forefront from the beginning, rather than it being an add on at the end. Another organisation told us they’re working with a client who only wants to work with venues that are linked to food banks –which is something that never would have come up if the client hadn’t expressed what they’re passionate about. It really is as simple as just asking relevant questions.”

From-now.com

R&B Group is a ‘full service’ corporate event production supplier.

During the last 33 years R&B multiple award winning teams have delivered over 15,000 conferences, awards, product launches, event broadcasts and staff update meetings.

R&B have extensive stocks of AV equipment, in-house set design and build facilities, video production and creatives that can help with your presentations, animation and graphics.

The Personal Touch

Technology offers the events industry unprecedented opportunities to personalise attendee experiences, but most organisers struggle to move beyond basic data collection to meaningful engagement.

Stampede AI Founder, Patrick Clover, brings a decade of experience solving personalisation challenges, while Caroline Cartellieri, Founder of C-Squared Consulting, offers 25 years of strategic insight across major hospitality and travel brands.

Both experts identify data integration as the primary obstacle facing event organisers. Patrick’s frustration with disconnected systems led to Stampede’s development: “Typically, you might have separate systems for Wi-Fi, payments, bookings, and email. There are lots of touchpoints where customers get tracked, but they’re not connected at all.”

Caroline agrees: “The real impact comes when you connect these data points with analytics tools, pulling the information together from different sources to build useful audience segmentations and deliver experiences that feel genuinely relevant.”

Comparing a disjointed approach to data use with those of successful digital platforms reveals stark differences. As Patrick observes: “If you think about Amazon, they can recommend you buy toilet paper three days before you need it because they’ve stitched together your payment data, browsing history, and email interactions.”

Both experts emphasise that collection alone achieves little: “Collecting data

is just the necessary first step – it doesn’t achieve much on its own,” Caroline points out. “Personalisation is about using that data to create moments that feel thoughtful, relevant, and human.”

Patrick’s experience coordinating Wi-Fi systems for large events demonstrates practical application: “We figured Wi-Fi was a good way to create a nice exchange - customers get connectivity, and in exchange they give their details once, then every subsequent visit can be automatically recognised.” At Download Festival, this connectivity enabled contextual marketing to 90,000 of the 150,000 attendees, generating relevant sponsorship messages based on activity participation.

A significant challenge is how to address privacy concerns while enabling meaningful personalisation. When it comes to responsible data collection, Caroline advocates an approach that goes beyond basic compliance: “Be transparent: clearly inform attendees – at registration and throughout the event – what data you’re collecting, why it’s needed, and how it will be used for personalisation to benefit the attendees.”

Artificial intelligence applications are increasingly being practically implemented, and Caroline identifies immediate opportunities: “The biggest opportunities for AI to enhance event personalisation right now lie in real-time smart recommendations that adapt to attendee behaviour, AI-powered matchmaking that connects people with the right contacts, and predictive analytics that help anticipate what attendees want or need next.”

A common misconception is that sophisticated personalisation requires massive budgets: “Smaller organisers don’t need huge budgets to get started – many event platforms, apps, and CRM tools already come with AI capabilities built-in,” counters Caroline. “Tools like personalised agenda building and matchmaking are accessible without hefty upfront investments.”

Patrick envisions comprehensive personalisation going forward: “With better personalisation leading up to an event, there should be information about what’s

Industry experts Patrick Clover and Caroline Cartellieri discuss how AI personalisation is

happening, setting expectations and tone – the types of people attending, the offerings available. We think about before, during, and after – we have solutions for each phase. You should get a message and think ‘I really like the sound of that.’ You’d show up and get greeted by your first name, ideally wouldn’t need your phone at all. Your venue experience could be entirely tailored.”

“Virtual assistants that act like personal guides, accompanying visitors throughout an event and pointing out key contacts, giving live directions to event locations, and recording/summarising sessions,” predicts Caroline.

In the face of rapid technological advancement, both experts maintain human-centred perspectives: “Our platform is engineered to get people out in real life forming connections with other human beings,” says Patrick. “With better personalisation, you might end up at venues targeting people like you, finding communities and going to events surrounded by like-minded people.”

Caroline reinforces this approach: “Successful AI implementation in events requires understanding that technology serves human needs rather than replacing human judgment. The goal isn’t technological sophistication for its own sake, but rather creating meaningful connections between people, content, and experiences.”

C-squaredconsulting.com | Stampede.ai

CAROLINE CARTELLIERI

PATRICK CLOVER

Price. Design. Quality. The events and exhibitions industry has always juggled competing priorities. But when it comes to sustainability, the balance looks less like a triangle and more like a seesaw, with moral responsibility on one side and commercial opportunity on the other.

Sustainability Seesaw

Andrew Hickinbotham, Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) Board Member and Head of Sales at stand designers, Tecna, examines how the events and exhibitions industry can strike a balance between moral responsibility and commercial opportunity.

bags for the homeless. It reduces landfill waste and disposal costs while providing vital support to vulnerable communities. Here, sustainability delivers both moral and commercial value.

For some, sustainability begins with conviction: the belief that our industry must do better environmentally and socially. For others, it starts with commercial drivers such as client demand, cost savings, and competitive advantage. Neither is wrong. In fact, when both ends of the seesaw work together, real momentum is created.

Take the ShelterSuit initiative: repurposing event graphics into weather-resistant sleeping

It’s a proud milestone; four and a half decades of supporting the UK outdoor events industry through representation, education, and community. From small festivals on the Orkney Isles and car rallies in Wales to landmark gatherings in London’s parks, our association has stood alongside the people and businesses who make events happen.

As we look to the end of 2025 and ahead to 2026, we’re often told there has never been a better time to be in events. Our own convention on 27th November will explore exactly why. From the joy of shared cultural moments to the power of business gatherings, the social, economic, and human impact of events has never been more visible, or more valued.

The evidence is clear: after decades of hard work building a community of world-class organisers, events are no longer ‘nice to

Crucially, sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Too often businesses hesitate, fearing they aren’t ‘green enough’. At ESSA, our sustainability accreditation encourages small steps that build both credibility with clients and confidence within our teams; small wins, repeated and shared, create bigger change.

From sole traders to major contractors and everybody in between, everyone’s sustainability journey looks different. A freelance designer working from a home office might leave a minuscule carbon

footprint compared with a logistics-heavy contractor, yet their contribution is no less important.

Make no mistake though, our differences are our strength, proving that sustainability is as much about community and culture as it is about recycling or materials.

We won’t achieve perfect sustainability, but we can achieve progress. Whether large or small, every business has a lever to pull. Collective action will ensure benefits for both our businesses and our planet.

Essa.uk.com

Risk Worth the Reward?

Susan Tanner, CEO of the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA), discusses the mounting challenges for organisers ahead of the association’s 45th anniversary.

have.’ They are essential, a cornerstone of music, sport, culture, commerce, and even national and local identity. That recognition brings a new kind of stability to our industry.

And yet, we know the paradox. While demand for events grows, staging them has never been more challenging. Costs of goods, services, and skilled people are all rising. The fiscal pressures of the past 45 years have not gone away; instead, they’ve been compounded by the wider economy and the long tail of COVID-era debt. Too often, organisers are forced to weigh up whether the risk is worth the reward.

To those outside of the industry looking in, the answer is yes. Businesses love events, whether to stimulate local economies, build brands, or strengthen communities. Local authorities, too, are recognising their value, investing in events for placemaking and economic growth. And

audiences are not just showing up; they’re growing.

The world wants events; the real question is whether organisers are still willing, or able, to shoulder the risk of delivering them. Too often, the burden falls on individuals whose homes, livelihoods, and creativity are on the line, without the support they deserve.

This is the dilemma we’ll debate at the NOEA Convention. Are we truly live at 45 – thriving, growing, and confident – or simply alive at 45 – surviving against the odds?

I hope you’ll join us to be part of that conversation.

Noea.org.uk

• Family owned and UK based, trusted supplier to leading Hotels, resorts and hospitality groups

• Extensive stock portfolio (over £40 million) ensures fast availability across the UK

• Business Accounts – With agreed payment terms to simplify your purchasing process.

• Dedicated service — every client is treated individually, big or small

• Custom uniform programs tailored to front-of-house, housekeeping, concierge, bar, and kitchen staff

• Cohesive aesthetic — matching men’s and women’s pieces that preserve a unified brand image

BIG PURPLE BUILD

Flying High

In early September, ACE Seating Hire was contracted by the Imperial War Museum’s Duxford facility to build a 1,518-seat raised grandstand for the Cambridgeshire airfield’s annual Battle of Britain Air Show. This was one of the venue’s largest displays of the year and featured aircraft dating back to the First World War, running through to those that served during the Second World War. This included 15 Supermarine Spitfires, seven Hawker Hurricanes, as well as the iconic Avro Lancaster operated by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Bringing the flying display right up to date was a flight demonstration by the Royal Air Force’s state-of-the-art frontline fighter, the Eurofighter Typhoon.

Planning for this year’s event started shortly after the 2024 show had finished. Using ACE Seating’s in-house design capability, a full CAD drawing was completed showing where the structure would be positioned on the display line. The grandstand, which measured almost 80m (262 ft.) in length was constructed by ACE’s team of fully trained technicians during the week preceding the air show. All the components needed in the construction, which is like a giant Meccano set, were transported to site using the company’s own transport fleet.

ACE Seating’s raised front riser system structure allows people sitting in the front row to have a sightline that is approximately 2.2m (7 ft.) above ground level giving them unobstructed views of the high-flying action over the heads of people standing in front of the grandstand. It also featured our stylish black ‘tip-up’ style plastic seating, and due to the grandstand’s length, four sets of frontloading steps were used for the event to enable safe loading as well as quick

unloading in the case of any unforeseen circumstances.

“Our ability to raise the grandstand off the ground to allow spectators to see all the action over the heads of people standing in front is a huge advantage,” explained ACE Seating Director, Tom Roberts. “The raised system is ideal for both indoor and outdoor events where people will be standing between the grandstand and the action. Despite this being one of the longest grandstands that we build during the year, the work was completed comfortably within the day by our skilled in-house team.”

Following completion, a full and comprehensive safety check was carried out on the grandstand structure and plastic seating to ensure all was secure for public use and a sign-off sheet was completed and given to the client that enabled the structure to be used for the event. A further check was conducted the day before the air show started to guarantee everything was compliant.

There is also a provision to individually number seats and aisles. Labels can be provided ready for the client to add to the seats themselves, or for a small charge ACE Seating can conduct the work on the client’s behalf. This is particularly useful if the venue is selling certain seats at a premium rate.

With design expertise and highly trained, efficient technicians, the ACE Seating team ensured the show was a soaring success.

Aceseating.co.uk

ACE Seating Hire brought high-level expertise and professionalism to the Imperial War Museum’s Battle of Britain Spectacular.

Fast facts

• Number of seats: 1,518 seats in single span grandstand

• Components: 2,800 individual parts

• Nuts and bolts: 2,270 nuts and bolts

• Working hours: 14 technicians completed the build in just under nine hours, with the break down in seven hours

ClientNews

Ramada Coventry Celebrates 20 years

Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Coventry celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year, having opened on August 29, 2005, and the milestone was marked recently with a celebratory lunch attended by local clients, partners, and organisations, with a plaque unveiled by the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Rachel Lancaster.

As well as being the largest hotel in Coventry city centre, it’s also the city’s most conveniently located four-star hotel, less than a 10-minute walk from the railway station and Birmingham NEC just a seven-minute train journey away. Over the last 20 years the Ramada has welcomed over 3/4 million guests to the largest hotel in Coventry city centre, with over £86M spend and economic activity.

“It’s fantastic to be celebrating our 20th anniversary having provided exceptional service for both business and leisure guests for two decades,” said Jan Gelbert, Director of Sales at Ramada Coventry. “This year we’ve made a significant investment in upgrading the air conditioning in our bedrooms to ensure we can continue providing state-of-the-art facilities to our guests.”

Ramada is part of the Wyndham brand, and its Wyndham Green programme helps its hotels reduce their environmental footprints and operate more efficiently through ecofriendly initiatives.

Ramadacoventry.co.uk

North Wales’ Unique Events Destination

Nestled on the shores of the Menai Strait with breathtaking Snowdonia views, Château Rhianfa stands as Wales’ only authentic French château-style venue. Built in 1849 and Grade II-listed, this remarkable property has evolved from a private residence into one of North Wales’ premier hospitality destinations.

The château offers 26 beautifully designed bedrooms and versatile event spaces, including a main banquet hall accommodating up to 100 guests and eight function rooms for corporate events hosting up to 120 delegates. What sets Château Rhianfa apart is its commitment to local sourcing and in-house excellence. The awardwinning kitchen team creates seasonal menus featuring Welsh lamb and beef, while maintaining strong partnerships with local suppliers including gin and whiskey makers.

The adaptable team can cater for all dietary

requirements, including recent veganfocused conferences. The business has seen significant growth, with wedding season now extending until late December. The venue also offers team-building experiences from wine tasting in atmospheric wine caves to zip-lining.

With its distinctive architecture, waterside location, and commitment to showcasing the best local produce, Château Rhianfa represents something truly unique in the North Wales hospitality landscape.

Chateaurhianfa.co.uk

Big Purple’s New Division

Big Purple Group is proud to announce the launch of Big Purple Build, a new division within its family of companies. This exciting addition specialises in set building, prop fabrication, and exhibition builds – further strengthening the group’s position as a leader in delivering imaginative, high-quality creative solutions.

From theatre and television to live events and large-scale installations, Big Purple Build brings concepts to life through innovative design and expert craftsmanship. The division is equipped to deliver fully immersive environments from initial idea through to completion, ensuring clients receive both creative vision and flawless execution.

“We’re thrilled to add Big Purple Build under the Big Purple Group umbrella,” said Sam Gordon, Director of Big Purple Group. “Our clients already know us as a trusted partner for creativity and reliability. Now, with Big Purple Build, we’re expanding the ways we can collaborate – building the physical worlds that turn ideas into unforgettable experiences.”

Big Purple Build launches with the same dedicated team that clients know and trust, now offering even more avenues to create, inspire, and innovate.

Bigpurple-productions.com

Secure Partnership

Leading event security specialists Showsec are proud to mark 30 years of continuous partnership with Manchester’s AO Arena.

Since the venue opened in July 1995 as the Nynex Arena, Showsec has provided crowd management and security services for thousands of events, from global music icons and major sporting fixtures to comedy, family shows, and landmark public events.

“The AO Arena has played an important role in our history,” said Mark Logan, Co - CEO at Showsec. “We’ve grown alongside the venue, continually evolving to meet the changing demands of the live events sector.”

The relationship has remained strong throughout the arena’s transformation, including changes in naming rights,

ownership, and a recent £70 million redevelopment that has modernised the venue and significantly enhanced the fan experience. Looking to the future, Showsec remains focused on strengthening this partnership and continuing to support the AO Arena in delivering memorable live experiences.

Showsec.co.uk

Extraordinary Events in Birmingham

Unique Venues Birmingham is a collection of fantastically unusual venues with over 25 amazing event spaces giving event organisers the flexibility to create a variety of events.

With the theatrical backdrop, lighting and AV tech available in the Rep and with the large customisable spaces in the Library, the UVB team can design the biggest, fully themed event you can think of!

For an event that requires something truly dramatic, The House never fails to impress. The largest space at UVB, accommodates up to 800 in tiered seating, with an option to partition the space for smaller events up to 461 delegates. To complement your event in The House, there’s a range of breakout spaces, networking areas, exhibition space and dedicated registration areas.

From the famous Book Rotunda to the historic Shakespeare Memorial Room and the fantastic city skyline views from the rooftop Terrace, the Library of Birmingham has an array of outstanding event spaces to choose from. Immerse your guests in your event with full theming possibilities and let the iconic Library set the scene for your drinks reception, awards celebration, music event, festival or exhibition.

Uniquevenuesbirmingham.com

Bringing History to Life

Multi award-winning tour guide, historian, and Nottingham Ambassador, Ade Andrews, brings Robin Hood to life. The ‘Robin Hood Town Tour’ is Nottingham’s leading tour attraction with 96% ‘Excellent’ reviews from over 660 global travellers. Ade works closely with Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and partners like VisitEngland to entertain corporate clients who visit the city.

Ade’s bespoke tours can traverse the city, or Robin Hood can come to your venue for a meet and greet, to act as host, or afterdinner speaker. If costume is not appropriate, then presentations and bespoke experiences can be done suited and booted. With Ade’s character work and yarn-spinning skills he shines a light on Nottingham as England’s unsung hero with one of the most fascinating stories of any city in the UK.

As Robin Hood, Ade features regularly in national and international media, including on the History, Discovery, and Travel Channels. He’s promoted the city on some of Europe’s biggest sports programmes in connection with Nottingham Forest F.C.’s premiership. Working with the National Trust, English Heritage, and Historic England, Ade has also delivered workshops for teacher training. He works closely with both Nottingham and Trent University producing bespoke tours for visiting scholars from all over the world.

If you want to give your personnel or clients an experience they’ll never forget, then join Nottingham’s most famous son, Robin Hood, and discover a 21st century city steeped in fascinating history!

Ezekialbone.com

The Hospitality Edge Hospitality leaders - are your teams delivering “good” service… but missing the chance to deliver “WOW”?

Industry data shows 25 to 30% of guests score seven or eight out of 10. That’s one in three guests who could have been “wowed” into offering a nine or 10! Imagine the impact on your reviews, revenue, loyalty, and repeat business if your team consistently created memorable, emotional connections with every guest.

That’s where The Hospitality Edge comes in. This course offered by JS Learning isn’t just dry training, it’s an interactive, hands-on experience using tools like LEGO Serious Play, real-world guest journey debates, and powerful workshops to inspire and energise your team.

JS Learning doesn’t just “train” – it builds confidence, creativity, and ownership so your team members see themselves as Champions of Hospitality. Supported by a 12-week action programme, they’ll embed the mindset and behaviours that move scores, shift culture, and boost loyalty.

Among the benefits you can expect from The Hospitality Edge training are higher guest satisfaction, boosted ADR, repeat bookings, expanded revenue opportunities, reputation enhancement, and engaged teams with lower turnover.

Venues who’ve partnered with JS Learning have consistently hit their guest experience targets and transformed their service standards. So, if you’re ready to turn “good” into unforgettable then get in touch using the details below.

Jslearning.co.uk | justin@jslearning.co.uk | 07966 631 998

Hydro Power

Wicked Event Water Services is the leading provider of water supplies and welfare solutions. Winner of the 2017 festival supplier of the year, the company has established itself as the go-to specialist for comprehensive water infrastructure across the UK’s most prestigious events.

With satisfied long-term clients including Glastonbury festival, Victorious Festival, The BBC, ITV, and Netflix, Wicked Event Water Services supply network inclusive water storage tanks, water pumps, ring mains, and distribution points and connections to facilities including shower, toilets, and catering units, providing portable water for all customers.

Demonstrating its versatility and reliability, during the pandemic the company was also involved in two nightingale hospitals and a temporary mortuary in London, highlighting the ability to provide critical infrastructure solutions across diverse sectors, from entertainment to healthcare.

Wicked Event Water Services combines technical expertise with proven reliability, making it the trusted choice for event organisers requiring comprehensive water solutions that meet the highest quality and safety standards, offering exceptional service that never runs dry.

Wews.biz

COMING

Making Memories

The events industry is evolving as venues discover the transformative power of experience design.

What delegates expect and hope to take away from events is changing and this experience centred mindset is reshaping the industry. The most successful venues and event profs understand this fundamental shift: delegates are seeking memorable experiences, not just functional spaces, and those who deliver this are reaping significant rewards.

When venues focus purely on efficiency, they’re delivering standard service, essentially the bare minimum to be expected. But memorable experiences create emotional connections that distinguish venues in an increasingly competitive marketplace and justify premium pricing.

“One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is how organisers use storytelling through venue choice,” says Sophie Knight, MD of VenueScanner for Business. “It’s not just about finding a backdrop anymore - the venue itself has become part of the brand and the emotional impact of the event. Companies are taking over entire spaces, hunting out hidden gems that competitors haven’t touched, and creating that ‘oh wow’ moment as soon as guests walk through the door. The right space sets the tone just as much as the content you put in it.”

This evolution extends to programming choices, with organisers moving beyond traditional formats: “On the programme side, there’s a clear move towards more human, meaningful experiences,” Sophie says. “Clients are asking for content that gets people talking and collaborating, with less reliance on the traditional ‘drink and network’ model. We’re seeing more wellbeing-led activities, and specialist speakers on subjects like mental health and sustainable ways of working. It’s all about creating events that people not only remember but can also genuinely

connect with.”

Kelsey Summerfield, Key Account Manager at Valor Hospitality UK & Europe, also recognises the shift in delegate expectations that’s driving industry transformation: “Events are expected to deliver not just return on investment, but a return on experience too. As worklife balance is increasingly prioritised, delegates are asking themselves ‘what will I really get out of attending?’ As such, events need to deliver high value to attendees, with many seeking events that blend personal and professional development.”

This expectation has led to experiencefocused services being rolled out across all levels of the industry, as Kelly stresses: “At Valor Hospitality, we have seen an increased demand for experiential events. Before the pandemic, this was reserved for large-scale events in big venues, but now there is an expectation that even small meetings will have an experiential element.”

Venues are incorporating experience elements into their operations through various approaches. Some create novelty through immersive technology that transforms meeting spaces throughout the day. Others add personal relevance by incorporating guests’ professional achievements into welcome displays or creating bespoke elements that reflect the event’s purpose.

Valor Hospitality’s approach demonstrates how venues can expand beyond traditional conference rooms: “We have worked with our investors to redesign the outdoor areas at several of the hotels in our management portfolio so events can seamlessly flow outdoors. It gives events more fluidity and promotes better wellbeing of attendees,” explains Kelsey.

The company has also grown local partnership networks to create unique events: “At DoubleTree by Hilton Chester and Crowne Plaza Chester, we work with local organisations to offer delegate walking tours around the city. As part of our event package at Crowne Plaza Stratford Upon Avon, we even offer delegates Shakespeare Gin classes on a private boat tour directly from the hotel.”

Initiatives with positive social impact are another growing consideration for both organisers and attendees: “We supported delegates to pack food parcels for the local community during the time usually

reserved for a conference’s afternoon break,” says Kelsey. “Activities like this ensure that events are truly impactful, not just for the attendees, but the wider community too.”

As the events industry becomes increasingly competitive, venues that fail to embrace experience design risk being left behind. Corporate clients are demanding evidence that their events create lasting impact rather than fleeting moments.

When events create memorable moments, clients are more likely to return and recommend the venue to their networks. Staff satisfaction also improves when employees understand their role as experience creators rather than just service providers.

The transition requires event profs and venues to think beyond traditional hospitality and consider how every element contributes to the overall experience narrative. This might include pre-event communication that builds anticipation, welcome sequences that create immediate positive impressions, and follow-up activities that extend the event’s impact.

The most successful events understand they’re not just providing space or service – they’re offering emotional engagement, connection, and memory.

Valorhospitality.com/uk-europe Venuescanner.com

KELSEY SUMMERFIELD

SOPHIE KNIGHT

At the MIA, we are committed to helping venues implement Martyn’s Law as straightforwardly as possible, with clear guidance designed to cut through complexity.

Martyn’s Law – named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack – is proposed legislation designed to improve public safety by ensuring venues are better prepared against the risk of terrorism. Officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, it was introduced to Parliament in September 2024. Once enacted, it will require venues to take proportionate steps to assess and manage security risks, creating safer environments for all who visit.

Further progress has been made in 2025, with refinements to the Bill and sector

Safe Place

Shonali Devereaux, Chief Executive of The Meetings Industry Association (MIA), gives her advice for venues beginning to navigate Martyn’s Law.

briefings providing greater clarity on how the requirements will operate, including the distinction between standard tier (over 200 capacity) and enhanced tier (over 800 capacity) venues. To support preparations, the MIA has partnered with security experts GSA Global and ASG Rescue to create practical, sector-specific guidance…

Risk assessment preparation

While only mandatory for enhanced tier venues, conducting thorough and regular risk assessments remains best practice for all, helping to identify threats, assess vulnerabilities, and develop effective mitigation strategies.

Registration and designated individuals

All venues will be required to register their premises and responsible person with the Security Industry Authority (SIA). Enhanced tier venues must also appoint a Designated Senior Individual (DSI) to oversee compliance and security planning.

Developing a security framework

For standard tier venues, straightforward, low-cost measures such as staff training, maintaining clear sight lines, basic CCTV, and accessible exits are recommended. Enhanced tier venues must implement more advanced measures, including extensive CCTV, access controls, vehicle barriers, security teams, and detailed emergency response plans.

Communication and reporting

Clear reporting structures and a culture of vigilance are vital. Regular staff briefings and drills will ensure venues can respond swiftly to incidents.

As Martyn’s Law moves closer to becoming legally binding, venues should remain flexible, informed, and ready to adapt. At the MIA, we’ll continue to share updated guidance to support compliance every step of the way.

Mia-uk.org/martyns-law

Staff Support

Services Director at Hospitality Action, Camilla Woods, explains the importance of having a complete Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

In today’s hospitality workplace, pressures on team members can often extend well beyond the job description. Personal and work pressures can affect wellbeing, performance, and ultimately the stability of whole organisations, which is why a comprehensive EAP has become more than just a perk – it’s essential.

Any EAP worth its salt is more than just a helpline. It provides continuity and depth and recognises that many issues cannot be resolved in a single call, which is why our whole health approach provides the time and space to build trust, explore solutions, and feel genuinely supported.

Our gold-standard EAP programme already includes 24/7 access to clinical support alongside a range of wellbeing resources and critical incident support to

help staff navigate the toughest of times. This support now goes even further with the introduction of our virtual GP service, a fully integrated service within Hospitality Action’s wellbeing platform where employees can book GP or advanced nurse practitioner appointments anytime, anywhere via the app or online. This means team members can access realtime physical and mental healthcare from one single app on their phones.

The service is available to clients on the Wellbeing Plus and Total Wellbeing packages and addresses everyday health concerns, prescriptions, referral letters, and sick notes. The service helps keep staff healthy while reducing absence and boosting productivity.

Whatever the issue – from grief or addiction to financial strain or physical health issues – our industry has never been

under more pressure, which means it’s more important than ever for employees to know they won’t be left to cope alone.

What’s in it for employers? By providing a place to turn in times of need, they enable resilient, healthier teams who feel supported and better able to continue to give their best at work. Unlike other providers, our services are fully integrated which means employers can track the physical and mental wellbeing of their workforce from one platform.

At a time of intense competition for recruitment and retention, organisations that invest in a comprehensive EAP send a powerful message to their employees: they value their people not just as employees, but as individuals – a message that builds loyalty and trust money can’t buy.

Hospitalityaction.org.uk/eap

• Your choice of venue: From modern, purpose-built conference centres to historic spaces full of character.

• A world-class setting: Edinburgh’s culture, heritage and iconic views on your doorstep.

• Flexible spaces: Perfect for everything from intimate meetings to large-scale conferences.

• Stay with us: University of Edinburgh hotels and campus accommodation for every need.

• Expert support: From catering and AV to full event management, our team handles every detail.

www.uoecollection.com/conferences-events

NorthinBrief

Crowne Plaza Newcastle Celebrates

The Crowne Plaza Newcastle celebrated its 10th anniversary recently, marking a decade as one of the city’s leading hotels for meetings and events.

The hotel has hosted brands such as BP and Construction Excellence in the North East while also being a go-to home for charity events, from the Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue to the Children’s Heart Unit Fund Christmas Party and Children North East charity ball.

Over the last decade, the Crowne Plaza Newcastle has acted as a gateway to the city, attracting thousands of delegates and supporting organisers to integrate local culture, knowledge, and hospitality into their programmes.

“The Crowne Plaza Newcastle continues to be an integral part of the city’s meetings and events offering,” said Laura Freer, Assistant Director of Visitor Economy at NewcastleGateshead Initiative. “Our partnership with the hotel is a strong one, and one that recognises the importance of the business events sector as a key driver in the growth of our visitor economy. We look forward to collaborating for years to come as we continue to put Newcastle on the international map.”

Cpnewcastlehotel.co.uk

Venues of Excellence Conference

Venues of Excellence (VOE) has announced details of its Annual Conference Event conneX 2026 taking place at Horwood House Hotel, Spa & Estate 26th and 27th January 2026.

A key fixture in the hospitality industry calendar, the 2026 conference will focus on the theme of ‘Shaping Excellence Through Connection’ setting the stage for an inspiring and dynamic programme. The aim is to create an environment where both VOE members and industry colleagues can connect, share knowledge, and grow together – while being informed, inspired, and motivated by exceptional creative content, panel discussions, and relevant workshop sessions.

The event also includes interactive workshop sessions with a host of industry-relevant content including AI & Cyber Security, Data Driven Decisions, Culture in the Kitchen, Meeting Room of the Future, Revealing Customer Insights, and Positive PMS.

Venues of Excellence will make a charitable donation to CRISIS UK from every ticket sold for this event. This event is open to both VOE members and nonmembers.

Venuesofexcellence.co.uk

Education Initiative Launched

A Greener Future (AGF) is bringing together its wealth of accumulated knowledge and experience in sustainability training under a brand-new identity, the not-for-profit company is introducing AGFe – A Greener Future Education. Dedicated to providing practice-led, research-informed, actionable training and education, AGFe will support the efforts of the events industry to decarbonise and meet the challenges of climate change.

AGF’s industry-leading training and education programmes draw upon this pioneering work, together with 20 years of global experience and knowledge developed through helping events, festivals, arenas, suppliers, and artists to become more sustainable and reduce their environmental impact. To date, AGF has trained over 1,000 participants globally through its assessor training online and in-person courses hosted by universities across the UK and beyond.

“AGF has been conscious for some time that there is a sustainability knowledge and skills gap across the cultural and creative sectors, as well as the wider events industry,” says AGF Director and Head of AGFe, Dr Teresa Moore. “Without skilled and knowledgeable practitioners, decarbonising the sector will be much slower than it should be. We are acutely aware that time is not on our side regarding climate change.

AGFe will continue to provide in-house and bespoke training for organisations in the UK and internationally having previously worked with the Royal Parks, Manchester City Council, Bristol City Council, The Royal Horticultural Society, Circular Culture Mexico, British Council India, and staff teams from Bournemouth Arts University, University of the West of England, and Falmouth University.

Agreenerfuture.com

C2events Launches New Identity

Event management agency, C2events, has undergone a rebrand following some significant milestones. The company became employee owned at the end of 2024 having celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier in the year. Reflecting on these landmarks, the team felt it was a good time to revisit its vision and values and refresh its logo and brand identity.

“With so many exciting developments at C2 it seemed the right decision and timing to launch a new identity to set out our stall for the future,” said Director Danni Gunn. “We received some wonderful feedback following our 20th anniversary and this helped to inform our vision to be the most

outstanding event agency.” In addition to its logo redesign, the company has launched a new website and undergone an upgrade to its office interior.

“Employee ownership is the fastest growing form of business ownership in the UK with very positive statistics in relation to growth of businesses that have undergone this transition,” said Executive Director Mark Saxby. “As we enter this exciting phase of C2’s development, we wanted a new and fresh identity to reflect the beginning of an exciting new era.’

C2events.net

New Survey to Tackle Diversity

Elevate NewGen has partnered with Diversity Alliance to launch a landmark survey exploring diversity in the UK events sector. Designed for 18 to 25-year-olds from underrepresented backgrounds, the survey focuses on race and socioeconomic background and can be completed by individuals or adopted by organisations looking to better understand their workforce. Its findings will provide a foundation for more inclusive recruitment, progression and retention strategies across the industry.

“Growing up in a single-parent family on a council estate, being the first in my family to attend university, and entering the events industry as a woman of colour, I’ve experienced barriers that many pretend don’t exist,” says Diversity Alliance Founder, Gabby Austen Browne. “It’s fuelled my passion to create the change I wish I’d seen. I’ve partnered with Elevate NewGen because I believe in their commitment to building pathways for underrepresented talent.”

The Elevate Mentoring programme has supported more than 2,000 people into the industry. NewGen takes this further by reaching those who often lack the networks, visibility or guidance to get started.

Fully anonymous, the survey will help shape industry benchmarks and guide frameworks for a more inclusive and equitable events sector.

Elevateme.co/survey

Jewel of Morocco

Discover Marrakech, where

architecture, and

a feast for the senses, breathtaking

centuries of history blend to create an event that’s sure to leave a lasting impression with delegates.

Welcoming and full of surprises, Marrakech is an ideal location for events thanks to its unique landscapes, warm and welcoming nature, creativity, and highend infrastructure. Only a few hours’ flight from many UK airports – now including Leeds with Jet2 – it’s also easily accessible for international attendees. The magical destination offers a whole new world without the commitment of a long-haul journey, and the best part? It operates on Greenwich Mean Time, so UK delegates can skip the jet lag, make the most of their trip, and start exploring straight away.

The recommended best times to visit are between September and November or between March and May, when the days are warm but not unbearably hot, rainfall is low, and the conditions are perfect for wandering the streets and getting the most out of an overseas event.

There are many assets that make Marrakech a fantastic event destination. A recently renovated international airport at the gates of the city, an eco-responsible destination of international reference with a privileged climate, exceptional natural landscapes, preserved historical, artistic, and architectural heritage, and certified gastronomy – just to name a few! The city boasts an array of impressive luxury hotels that can serve as both event venues and top notch accommodation for delegates. Set amid lush gardens filled with exotic plants and flowers, the Sofitel Palais Impérial offers eight meeting rooms – from modern business spaces to an elegant ballroom – accommodating up to 180. The hotel also provides a wide selection of accommodations, ranging from standard rooms to penthouse apartments. For moments of relaxation, delegates can enjoy the deluxe spa, where ancestral traditions are seamlessly woven into the experience.

Hotel is nestled in the historical heart of the Hivernage neighbourhood among palaces, markets, and mosques, blending the vibrant sights of centuries-old traditions of the Red City with signature Nobu style. The hotel has 71 spacious guest rooms and offers eight meeting spaces with capacity for up to 200. The rooftop terrace is a particular highlight, with panoramic views of the historic medina and the Atlas Mountains in the distance. There’s also the option to host an exclusive indoor or outdoor private dining experience, featuring iconic Nobu cuisine and curated set menus.

The Palmeraie Conference Centre is a purpose-built meetings and events destination with state-of-the-art equipment and multi-functional spaces designed to host up to 3,500. Highlights include the recently added

Space, Diafa Hall, four large rooms – Orangeraie, Oliveraie, Roseraie, and Palmeraie – each with a 200-delegate capacity, and 19 other rooms with various capacities and configuration options.

Just steps away from the centre, the Hotel du Golf Rotana Palmeraie and Palmeraie Palace offer a range of desirable spaces that can be adapted to accommodate bespoke private events. Palmeraie Palace offers seven meeting room options designed for boardroom meetings, seminars, workshops, and more. The largest venue, Cristal Room, can accommodate up to 1,200 for a cocktail reception. Hotel du Golf Rotana Palmeraie features three intimate venues for gatherings of up to 30 people and larger spaces that can accommodate up to 600.

Outside of work, delegates will find no shortage of

Sofitel Palais Impérial

Nobu

Orion

activities to enjoy in Marrakech. Perhaps the most famous attraction in the city – and a definite must-visit – is the main square, Jemma el-Fnaa, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bustling plaza has been in the city’s cultural hub for centuries and visitors can enjoy a melting pot of traditions, arts, and commerce by experiencing snake charmers, musicians, street performers, and exotic food stalls, all surrounded by a rich history dating back to the 11th century.

Dedicated shopaholics or those that are simply curious wanderers must take a trip to the city’s souks. Nestled within the ancient medina, these bustling markets are a sensory adventure from the moment you enter. Walking these streets is like stepping back in time! A maze-like network of narrow alleys reveals stalls piled high with colourful spices, aromatic teas, handcrafted leather goods, handmade garments, carpets, jewellery, and so much more.

History buffs will be right at home here. Since the city was founded in the 11th century by the Almoravids, it’s passed through dynasties and has become an imperial capital and cultural crossroads. The Menara Gardens is one of the oldest gardens in the Muslim west, with ancient authors attributing the verdant oasis’ first development to the 1100s. The Saadian Tombs are another example of breathtaking architecture with

hundreds of years of history behind them. The tombs are located in one of the oldest mosques in Morocco, the Kasbah Mosque, and contain several chambers that are beautifully decorated with intricate stucco carvings and colourful tiles.

For delegates looking to get their culture fix, the city is also home to a selection of fascinating museums that showcase its history and vibrant arts scene. The Museum of Marrakech, set in a beautifully restored palace, displays traditional Moroccan art, ceramics, and textiles, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum offers a glimpse into the legendary designer’s creative world and his deep connection to the city.

For events designed with R&R in mind, the area is also an ideal place to unwind due to the amount of traditional

Palmeraie Conference Centre

hammams, where the centuries-old bathing ritual combines hot steam with cleansing treatments for a deep, rejuvenating refresh. The tradition of bathing is an integral part of Middle Eastern and North African culture, often taking place in beautiful bathhouses. Today, the hammam bath is still highly prevalent in Morocco, with many Moroccans attending baths weekly – it’s the perfect way to be immersed in the culture!

With its rich cultural tapestry and endless opportunities for discovery, Marrakech is more than just a destination, it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a large-scale conference or an incentive trip designed to inspire, the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity makes it a stage like no other.

Nobu Hotel

Driving Growth

CEO of the Association of Events Venues (AEV) and Events Industry Alliance (EIA), Rachel Parker, discusses the importance of events for the UK economy.

If you ever wondered about your strength or contribution as an event professional, let me share it in black and white. Recently, the EIA published the latest Economic Impact Study, showing just how much you impact the economy. In 2024 alone, the UK’s exhibitions sector generated £11.5 billion in business sales, representing almost a 6% increase over the past two years.

Our industry acts as a catalyst for trade, innovation, and inward investment. Each year, we attract more than 7.2 million visitors to the UK to attend exhibitions, creating a ripple effect of spending extending into hospitality, transport, and tourism.

The study incorporates data from the Size and Scale Index for Exhibitions (SASIE) report published earlier this year, which revealed 1,145 exhibitions were held in 2024 by 132,000 exhibiting companies with a total output per exhibitor of approximately £87,000. The organisers, venues, and event suppliers generate 126,000 jobs accounting for £6 billion of UK gross domestic product.

How can you help further? Our industry proves its resilience year on year but still needs support from the government and recognition as a key contributor to national growth. The report is invaluable to us and our industry: it provides a clear snapshot of industry metrics and direct

Smart Thinking

Marketing Director and Sustainability Lead at Wyboston Lakes Resort, Louisa Watson, discusses the move towards a combination of tech and the human touch.

Right now, the hospitality industry is facing some big challenges. The cost of employment continues to rise – with increased National Insurance contributions, higher living wage commitments, and growing pressure on margins. At the same time, guest expectations are shifting, especially among younger generations who want everything quicker, easier, and to be more intuitive.

At Wyboston Lakes, we’ve taken a proactive approach. We’re embracing technology and automation – not to replace hospitality, but to enhance it. Self-check-in, digital registration, inroom information via QR codes or tablets, and even some robotic support – these changes help us remove friction from the guest and

delegate journey. It’s faster, more efficient, and it meets modern expectations.

But what matters most is what this shift frees up for our teams. By removing some of the more repetitive or transactional parts of the experience, our team can focus on delivering great service where it counts – in the moments that truly make a difference. A warm welcome, genuine conversation, and thoughtful touches are where hospitality shines.

Drift Inn, our newly refurbished property on the resort, brings this vision to life – with integrated tech, self-service check-in, robots, and a streamlined guest experience that’s both

spending, analysis of the economic impact, and the methods used to calculate those.

Your strength and impact are clear. Exhibitions and business events are not simply gatherings; they are platforms for progress. They drive productivity, spark innovation, and connect industries. As the UK looks to strengthen its economic future, the events sector stands as one of its most dynamic and underappreciated engines of growth.

The full report is available to view at Eventsindustryalliance.com

modern and warm. This balance is essential –because the economic pressures aren’t going anywhere. As a sector, we’ll all need to rethink how we deliver service in a way that makes sense both for our guests, delegates, team members and our bottom line.

For us, it’s not about doing less – it’s about doing things smarter. And we believe that combining smart tech with genuine, human hospitality is the future. It’s what today’s guest wants, and what tomorrow’s hotels and venues will need to thrive.

Wybostonlakes.co.uk

Autograph Events

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S eren Ventures

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.

As trusted AV specialists, we love bringing events to life with incredible sound, lighting, sets, and staging. We handle the tech so you can focus on your audience! From conferences, awards and exhibitions, with a live, virtual, or hybrid audience, our dedicated team is ready to add the wow factor!

(Come and see us CHS Stand A10)

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

NorthinBrief

Showcasing Yorkshire’s Leading Venues

Legends Global, a new merger offering a fully integrated, white-label service for live events and venues has showcased four of Yorkshire’s leading venues: York Barbican, Connexin Live in Hull, Sheffield City Hall, and First Direct Bank Arena in Leeds to leading MICE buyers.

Delegates were given operational walk throughs and hosted hospitality to show how one centralised team simplifies planning, contracting, and delivery under a single brief and contract.

Legends Global was formed just over a year after US-based sports events and venue management operation Legends completed its acquisition of global venues giant ASM Global.

Stable Events Launches StablePay

The National Shooting Show has announced a major new initiative designed to support the industry during challenging times. The show’s organiser, Stable Events, has launched StablePay, a pay delay scheme allowing stands to be booked with a £200 admin fee.

The scheme is offering exhibitors a payment machine to boost on-site trading. Stable Events will collect 20% of revenue until stand fees are paid off, ensuring businesses only pay in full if the event delivers the promised audience. The business says the move demonstrates a commitment to sharing the risk and supporting traders, offering a more accessible and flexible way to exhibit. “No other show is listening to the industry and acting in this way,” says Jude Coverdale, Sales Manager at The National Shooting Show. “We’re making it easier, fairer, and more sustainable for businesses to succeed at the National Shooting Show.”

The show for shooting enthusiasts will not take place in Harrogate in 2026. Instead, the organising team has revealed that National Shooting Show will relocate to NAEC Stoneleigh, in the Midlands, because visitors have requested a more central location.

“This move represents a bold and positive step forward for the show and for the wider shooting community,” said Managing Director James Gower. “We are proud of everything we’ve achieved in Harrogate, but we are equally excited about what’s ahead. NAEC Stoneleigh gives us the scope to create the kind of immersive, inclusive, and celebratory experience that our audience has been asking for.”

The Eastside Rooms Wins Gold

The Eastside Rooms was recently awarded Gold in Best Venue at the Memcom Excellence Awards, celebrating leading organisations and partners across the associations and membership sector. The Best Venue category spotlights sustainability, innovation, state-of-the-art facilities, and phenomenal customer service, all delivered with the needs of membership bodies in mind.

Located in the heart of Birmingham’s Knowledge Quarter, The Eastside Rooms is the city’s newest purpose-built venue, designed around the evolving needs of associations and membership organisations. Its Affinity Suite connects to the adjacent Aloft hotel with 195 four-star bedrooms and is the largest pillar free ballroom in Birmingham, with theatre capacity for up to 1,200.

“Winning Gold at Memcom is a proud moment for our whole team,” said General Manager Tim Sparrow. “We set out to build a venue that truly serves our clients with technology that works, food that fuels great conversations, and an experience that is inclusive and sustainable. This award is recognition of that purpose, delivered by brilliant people who care about every detail.”

The venue’s sustainability programme includes a Green Tourism Silver Award and a new partnership with Greengage Solutions that equips organisers with Scope 3 tracking, delegate carbon intensity data, and carbon measured menus. The team complements this with local sourcing and energy efficient systems, delivering measurable impact for clients focused on ESG outcomes.

Acumen Safety Launches IOSHApproved Training

Acumen Safety, the health and safety consultancy committed to simple, practical, and proportionate solutions, has announced the launch of its virtual IOSH-approved training courses tailored specifically for the events sector.

Developed by founder Olly Galvin, who brings over 20 years of hands-on experience building and managing festival sites, the courses are designed to bridge the gap between compliance and real-world application. The flagship programme – Managing Safely in Events (19th to 21st November, online) – helps everyone from site crew to senior professionals build competence and confidence in keeping events safe.

“The events industry depends on people – from freelancers to suppliers and venue teams – yet health and safety training has often been overlooked or too generic

to be useful,” said Olly. “Our courses are built around real-world event challenges, so participants acquire skills they can put into practice straight away, wherever they work. These courses are ideal for freelancers and mid-career professionals who want to enhance their credentials, stand out in a competitive market, and bring event-specific safety expertise to their roles.”

Acumen Safety provides consultancy, training, and ongoing support to suppliers, venues, and organisers across the UK and the Middle East. Operating to ISOaccredited standards, the company is recognised for delivering tailored, proportionate safety management systems that save time and money while protecting staff, customers, and businesses.

For course registration, contact olly@acumensafety.co.uk

ABPCO Awards Charity Announced

This year, Mind Over Mountains has been selected as the official charity partner for the ABPCO Excellence Awards, which take place at Manchester Central on 11th and 12th December. The awards bring together all those delivering events for associations, not-for-profits, charities, unions, societies, councils, and other professional bodies and membership organisations, with the aim of celebrating success and recognising excellence.

Mind Over Mountains is a UK-based mental health charity that blends nature, mindfulness, and counselling to support people’s wellbeing. Founded in 2020 by Alex Staniforth and Chris Spray, the organisation offers guided walks, naturebased retreats, and ongoing coaching or counselling support.

ABPCO is launching a raffle and all fundraising during the flagship event will go to Mind Over Mountains’ vital work. This partnership ensures that every contribution made by delegates and sponsors will go further to supporting mental wellbeing.

Ian Sansbury, CEO of Mind Over Mountains, said: “Mind Over Mountains is delighted to be the official charity partner of this year’s ABPCO Excellence Awards. As an award winning and researchbacked mental health charity, we know the excitement and huge importance of events like this. And we’re excited that all you contribute at this fantastic event will help to support people who are really struggling with their mental health and wellbeing to get to a better place through the healing power of nature. Thank you for all your support!”

Event and meeting spaces to cater from 2 to 250 delegates

HISTORIC EVENTS ARE MADE Where

A momentous meeting or meeting for a moment?

Your next event deserves a venue as inspiring as your vision. At Bisham Abbey and Lilleshall National Sports Centres, we offer exceptional spaces designed to make every meeting, conference, or event extraordinary.

Onsite accommodation & catering facilities

Extensive grounds & facilities for teambuilding activities

An award winning staffing agency nestled in the vibrant city of Leeds

Consistency Across the Calendar

From summer festivals to winter galas, our flexible staffing model ensures top-tier talent is always available, whatever the season.

Diversity That Delivers We champion a diverse, inclusive workforce that reflects the audiences we serve—bringing energy, empathy and fresh perspectives to every event.

Retention Through Recognition

Beyond the Shift

We invest in our people with training, feedback and career growth—creating motivated teams and future leaders in hospitality.

Award-Winning Excellence

Led by Managing Director of the Year Paul Evans, PJ Staffing is one of Yorkshire’s leading agencies—trusted by clients, respected by staff and powered by people.

Our seasonal staff return year after year; not because they have to, but because they choose to. That loyalty means trusted faces and consistent service for every event. Reward and recognition are central to this. Agency workers can sometimes be overlooked at venues, but to us they are an integral part of the team. From regular “Racing Star” and “Festival Star” awards to our annual Staff Awards and Thank You Party in October 2025, we make sure every team member feels valued and celebrated.