Corporate Venues & Entertainment 5

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WINTER 2008

Lord Bath

Painter, poet, novelist, songwriter, conservationist, innovator, showman‌

PLUS News | Movers | Ideas | Awards | Investment | Destinations Sporting | Academia | Heritage | Unusual | Teambuilding

International Confex preview

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Llangollen, North Wales

Now booking for the 2008/9 Season

Within easy reach of the Snowdonia National Park, situated in the Vale of Llangollen, this 80 bed residential facility can provide all your activity-based team development needs Q 3 varieties of accommodation standards; Yurt Camp, ^ ^ Coach House and our fabulous Ty’n Dwr Hall residence Q On-site mountain bike, archery, climbing wall and high ropes facilities Q Teaching facilities available Q Catering packages Q Client-tailored team development activities

Contact: jford@uclan.ac.uk Or Call: 01772 894500 for further details and bookings

University of Central Lancashire

OUTDOOR

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Contents

In this issue...

10

15

18

28

36

37

News

p4

Latest research shows 63 percent increase in exhibition generated revenue.

Design

p15

Feeling blue at The Berkeley.

Movers

p3

Purpose-built venues

p6

p16

Adam Baggs goes to the pub.

Top scores for Warwick Conferences.

From the Chair

p22

We look at the special role played by academic venues.

The movers and the groovers.

Awards

Academia

p17

Consolidation or threat says Hamish Reid.

BACD viewpoint.

Conference Centres & Hotels

p26

Michael Kennedy investigates the advantages of marketing consortia.

Destination Report

p28

Sarah Evans is in Yorkshire South.

Ideas & Products

p7

Londonlaunch.com creates Event Planner on Facebook®.

Retro

p18

Major new venue concept from Shell.

p34

The Big Show!

Teambuilding

p8

Sustainabitity

p19

Sarah Evans meets Russell Downing.

Lifeguards go ape!

Exclusive!

Confex Unusual venues

p36

Theme parks can offer an exciting alternative.

p10

We meet Lord Bath of Longleat.

Sporting venues

p20

Sports hospitality expert Nadeem Ansari investigates the stadium experience.

Events calendar

p38

What and where and when.

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

www.CorporateVenuesMagazine.co.uk

Editorial Office

Advertising Office

PO Box 7433

Venues Magazine.

Milton Keynes, MK14 6WQ

Open Box Publishing,

Tel: 01908 232596

Tel: 0121 608 2300

Email: info@corporatevenuesmagazine.co.uk

Email: venues@openboxpublishing.co.uk

Features Editor: Graham McCann Contributors: Adam Baggs, Sarah Evans, Freddie Alexander, Simon Stewart, Hamish Reid, Ella Salt, Nadeem Ansari.

Advertising sales: Open Box Publishing

Distribution: Paula Dodds, Presstream

Designers: Ben Taylor, Richard Legg (CLE Print)

Printed by: CLE Print, St Ives, Cambridgeshire

© Corporate Venues & Entertainment Magazine Limited. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher, but we’re a pretty relaxed bunch so cross our palms with a Cadbury’s Crème Egg and we’re likely to agree to pretty much anything. The contents and advertisements of this magazine are compiled and published in good faith and the publisher accepts no liability for any claim arising from them whether the loss is direct or indirect. The opinions expressed may not be those of the publishers.

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Winter 2007

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News

Latest research shows 63 percent increase in exhibition generated revenue.

Sales achieved through exhibitions and live events have leapt from 30 percent to 49 percent (a 63 percent increase) according to the latest research from Nexus Collections, the UK’s leading supplier of conference bags. For the second year running, Nexus has published its in-house research, which clearly details the source of all their new business. The latest figures show a dramatic rise for exhibitions, particularly International Confex, which has knocked the internet off the top spot. Nexus Collections’ managing director, Nick Jones: “The last year has been great for Nexus, with the company seeing a substantial increase in turnover. Knowing the source of our success is vital as it helps us plan for the future.

Therefore, on the basis of our first year’s figures we decided to invest more in Confex ’07, including a new stand, doubling our floor space and greater promotion‌ it has certainly paid off. Whilst it looks like the internet and other shows have faired badly compared to International Confex in percentage terms, their actual revenues have remained the same; EIBTM and IMEX in particular remain important shows for us to reach the European market.

Top Honours for Sheepdrove Eco Sheepdrove Eco conference centre has won Conde Nast Johansens “Most Excellent Dedicated Venue� for 2008. At the recent awards dinner hosted by Johansens at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower, London, Sheepdrove Eco Conference centre beat of stiff competition to claim the award.

Russell Downing, Centre manager said “This is a fantastic achievement for a business still in its infancy, and demonstrates that you can still enjoy state of the art meeting facilities in an environment where sustainability and bio diversity are paramount. The venue is extremely flexible and can host anything from product launches, AGM’s or meetings up to 200 delegates to more relaxed “Blue sky� thinking room on sheepskin beanbags. The venues is also licensed for civil wedding ceremonies, and the more different your event or team building activity is the more you should feel at home.� www.sheepdrove.com

!

A Marriage made in Harrogate Ocean Media Group, owners of the British Bridal Exhibition, and Harrogate International Centre, have agreed a contract confirming that this twice-yearly trade show will return to Harrogate in 2008. Stuart Quin, Director at Harrogate International Centre commented, “It will be wonderful to welcome the Bridal Exhibition back once again. It is a high profile and glamorous event bringing back old acquaintances as well newcomers to Harrogate each year�. The British Bridal Exhibition is Europe’s foremost bridal trade show and occupies six exhibition halls, three hotels, a fashion theatre and the HIC’s Queens Suite. Ocean Media’s Event Director, Wendy Adams, said, “Harrogate is loved by exhibitors and visitors for its intimacy and night time party atmosphere. Our visitors see coming to Harrogate as a real social treat, as well as a great place to do business�.

Photo shows the contract signing, from left -Stuart Quin, Director Harrogate International Centre; David Moran and Wendy Adams of Ocean Media.

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Corporate Venues & Entertainment

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News - Movers

Nexus demonstrates personnel investments with board appointment Nexus Collections, the UK’s leading provider of conference bags and folders, has promoted Jacqui Sharpe to its board of directors. Sharpe has risen to this role from the most junior position in the company in just six years, demonstrating both her commitment to the company and their investment in staff training. Sharpe’s board responsibilities will include operations and customer service, building on her most recent role, where she oversaw the sales and delivery of more than 250,000 bags to 600 customers in the UK each year.

Nexus Collections, managing director, Nick Jones: “Our staff have always been fundamental to our success and investing in their future is both rewarding and exciting. Jacqui is not only a very capable person but has given 110% since the day she started .We look forward to her lively and creative input at board meetings.”

University of Leeds appoints new refectory manager The University of Leeds has strengthened its catering services team with the promotion of Fiona Rushworth, who has taken up the new post of retail services manager for the University’s largest catering venue, the refectory.

Fiona said: “The new refectory is a flagship catering venue for the University. It has already attracted a lot of interest from other universities and has gained positive feedback from customers who are enjoying the new cutting edge service we are now able to offer. Our main objectives will be to carry on achieving customer satisfaction and provide an enhanced dining experience for the refectory. We’ll be looking to introduce new ideas all the time to keep our service fresh and exciting and will also be working towards a Nutritional Standards Award in the coming months.”

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

Russell Downing appointed new Centre Manager at Sheepdrove Eco Conference Centre.

Russell’s career in the Hospitality Industry began with Trust House Forte in 1989 and has seen him work in many areas of the UK, more latterly working in Central London with IHG. Russell’s primary responsibility at Sheepdrove will be over seeing the day-to-day running of the Eco Conference Centre with a strong emphasis on sales and marketing. The Centre is a model for sustainability and bio diversity whilst still offering state of the art conference facilities. The centre is situated at the heart of an organic farm which provides fresh food for conference delegates! www.sheepdrove.com

Harrogate International Centre appoints Jane Nicholls as new head of sales Harrogate International Centre, (HIC) has appointed Jane Nicholls as their new head of sales. The move comes amid exciting times at HIC which recently announced plans for a £48m site redevelopment scheme over a six-year period.

Alison Griffin, deputy director and head of marketing at HIC said, “With Harrogate’s Royal Hall reopening in April next year, and also with the Sun Pavilion venue now in our portfolio, the time is right for expansion in our sales team to cope with the many new events enquiries we are receiving. We value our existing list of clients too and we wish to ensure they continue to receive the high level of service they have become accustomed to at HIC. Jane brings an impressive track record with her which perfectly suits the HIC brand.

Jane has previously worked for the Jorvik Viking Centre in York, and more recently for the York Museums Trust. Whilst with the Trust, Jane increased sales income by just under 300 percent during her four years there. Jane comments, “My proudest achievement was to be awarded the 2006 Tourism Award in Customer Care.”

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News - Awards

Hospitality in Partnership takes home the ISEMS Commercial and Sponsor Hospitality Award Hospitality in Partnership (HiP) has won the International Sports Event Management and Security (ISEMS) Award for Commercial and Sponsor Hospitality. The ceremony took place at Wembley Stadium and was attended by the world leaders in many of the Industry Sectors. HiP, the global wing of parent company Cavendish Consultancy Ltd., was awarded for the implementation of a successful hospitality programme at ICC Cricket World Cup West Indies 2007. The global event took place in nine different countries in the Caribbean region earlier this year.

With an experienced management team from the UK reinforced by local staff, Hospitality in Partnership's staff navigated the complexities of the tournament, providing hospitality at each of the 51 matches and welcoming over 20,000 guests.

Dr Chris Bruton, CEO of Hospitality in Partnership who headed the team in the Caribbean stated “Everyone involved in every aspect of this Tournament agrees that it was the most complex and challenging international sporting event ever staged. Using the fundamental principles of Hospitality in Partnership - engaging with and working with the local communities – Cricket Hospitality had its Head Office in Barbados and 70 percent of the full time staff was Caribbean nationals. Local suppliers were used wherever possible and in the build up period alone over $1 million were spent in the local economies. Corporate hospitality was a completely new concept in the countries that we were operating in. We know that we have laid the foundations for a new market at sporting events in the Caribbean and we are all proud of this legacy.”

Top scores in mystery shopper survey for Warwick Conferences Warwick Conferences, the umbrella organisation for the three purpose built training and conference centres and the conference park at The University of Warwick, is one of the UK’s leading academic venues according to a national mystery shopper survey.

The research, conducted by meetings industry research consultancy BDRC, placed Warwick

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Conferences second, in a three month mystery shopper programme investigating 16 leading academic venues across the UK. The average service performance score in the survey was 53.4 percent. Warwick Conferences scored 74 percent, narrowly being beaten to the top spot by less than one percent. The different categories for analysis were broken down into ‘manner and approach of staff’, ‘service delivery’ and ‘post enquiry follow up’; the Warwick Conferences team being placed as leaders in the latter of these categories, scoring 21.3 points out of a maximum allowable 25.

Comments Amanda Simpson, marketing and communications manager at Warwick Conferences: “These results represent a highly successful year for Warwick Conferences, and demonstrate just how much the teams’ training and dedication has impacted client services. With continued dedication to customer service and to becoming the UK’s leading academic venue, we look forward to a successful 2008.

It’s different, it’s exclusive and it’s full of possibilities.

It’s an unforgettable venue for a totally memorable event.

Tel: 0151 522 2922 Fax: 0151 522 2950 Email: aintreeconference@jockeyclubracecourses.com

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News - Ideas & Products

londonlaunch.com creates Event Planner on Facebook®

Barbican and Trinity Conferences team up

londonlaunch.com has announced an Event Planner application built on Facebook Platform, a platform that enables companies and developers to build applications for the Facebook website which allows Facebook users worldwide to plan corporate or private events online. It provides access to the best of London’s venues, restaurants, hotels, caterers and other event suppliers.

Barbican, Europe’s largest combined conference and arts venue has teamed up with Trinity Conferences to provide a total event solution. Trinity Conferences, the Lincolnshire-based venue-finding agency has been selected by the venue to act as the preferred accommodation provider for all Barbican events. All future bookings will benefit from the close working relationship between the two companies, allowing them to source accommodation at the same time as placing their meeting space requirements with Barbican.

“Our application allows Facebook users to access to our directory of top London venues and event suppliers from directly within their profiles.”, said Mark Westguard, IT Director of londonlaunch.com, “The events industry is all about networking, making Facebook a perfect platform for us. We will continue to develop our application on Facebook to ensure we maintain our reputation as the premier event management resource online.”

A bespoke website has been created by Trinity Conferences as part of the partnership, allowing organisers and attendees a quick, easily accessible means to find their accommodation requirements. See www.trinityconferences.co.uk/barbican/

Photographs: Benedict Johnson

londonlaunch.com plan to expand their Facebook application to cover their other directories which cover cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Toronto. To install the Event Planner application search for ‘event planner’ on Facebook.

Barbican head of corporate sales, Anthony Hyde (pictured): “The team at Trinity Conferences are industry renowned experts and their knowledge and skills will add huge value to our service, whilst ensuring we continue to provide a total event solution. The immediate creation of their professional bespoke website has demonstrated their commitment to our agreement and we look forward to a long and fruitful partnership.”

space At the British Museum Clore Education Centre you are assured of outstanding personal service, from site visit, administration and pre-planning, right through to the event itself.

The venue has two state-of-the-art theatre spaces for up to 323 and 142 delegates, each with its own elegant foyer area and several breakout seminar rooms. As such, it is perfect for presentations, screenings, AGMs, product launches and press conferences.

Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Russell Square Telephone +44 (0)20 7323 8136 corporate@britishmuseum.org www.britishmuseum.org

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

Photograph: Dudley Hubbard

Come to the British Museum for real free-thinking and an unforgettable event.

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News - Teambuilding

‘Orchestrate’ teaches the event industry to ‘play a different tune’ The challenge ‘Orchestrate’, conceptualised by teambuilding pioneers Catalyst, has been billed as a world first in corporate training. It’s a unique exercise that uses the symphony orchestra as a metaphor for the workplace, allowing non musicians access to real instruments, a conductor and an especially composed piece of music. Orchestrate reflects the idea of going beyond perceived limitations and has seen 130 novices taking to the stage at the barbican to play a symphony in the space of 90 minutes! Both Eventia members and Catalyst clients immersed themselves in a challenge that seemed unrealistic at the outset but resulted in a full performance on the world famous stage of the Barbican Hall, home to the London Symphony Orchestra. After the initial briefing by the conductor, participants were split into instrument ‘sectionals’ and trained in a variety of the breakout areas available. The finale performance was electrifying with many people genuinely surprising themselves at finding hidden talents.

For more information see catalystglobal.com and barbican.org.uk.

Prepare for the future... by meeting in the past.

Lifeguards Go Ape! Over 70 Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeguards have completed the Go Ape high ropes adventure course in Moors Valley, Dorset, as part of an RNLI leadership development programme for senior lifeguards and lifeguard supervisors.

Go Ape is a multi-award winning provider of high ropes adventure courses, now located in twelve UK forest locations. Taking a fresh look at customary team building exercises, Go Ape now offers bespoke corporate packages providing an opportunity for camaraderie, challenge, team growth, and a deep sense of personal achievement for those who experience it.

• • • • • • •

Confidential meetings Off-site training Teambuilding events Conferences up to 150 people Videoconferencing and meetings Exhibitions Corporate events and dinners Take a virtual tour at www.farnhamcastle.com Contact Barbara Milam on 01252 720403 or email bmilam@farnhamcastle.com

Brett Shepherd, RNLI Beach Lifeguard Manager (Training & Development) explains. “The course improves the ability of lifeguards to work in teams and as leaders, and we have nothing but positive feedback from our lifeguards about the ‘Go Ape’ training.’ www.goape.co.uk and click on corporate packages.

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News

Longleat’s website wonder Longleat’s new website now has a ‘new look’ hospitality section. The website now provides a comprehensive view of all that Longleat has to offer to the corporate market. From gala dinners in the 16th century Great Hall of Longleat House to conferences in Lord Bath’s private apartments – where a visit from his Lordship and Boudicca (his faithful Labrador) is never out of the question! “Our aim is that the website provides a comprehensive but easy to use guide to the many corporate opportunities available at Longleat� explained Roz Smith, Marketing and Events Coordinator. “You will be able to browse through a variety of event concepts, such as company fun days and product promotions, or check out conference ideas which offer that little bit extra with the addition of VIP Safari Tours.�

Longleat has been at the forefront of British tourism for nearly 60 years. It was the first stately home to open to the public as a commercial venture in 1949 and also the location for the first drive-through Safari Park in 1966. Today the Park provides spacious, mixed species enclosures for a whole host of exotic animals including giraffes, rhinos, lions, tigers and wolves.

Longleat has been offering corporate hospitality and conferencing venues for many years and has welcomed a range of clients including Peugeot, Virgin Mobile, IBM and Pfizer.

To check out the Longleat website, see www.longleat.co.uk And for more information on corporate hospitality at Longleat please contact Roz Smith on 01985 845435 / email: roz.smith@longleat.co.uk

Brighton Dome launches a new Corporate Brochure and Website

“We want to provide our clients with something special that is able to capture the unique and very exciting experience that is Longleat. It is all about that ‘wow factor’,� Roz added.

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Brighton Dome is delighted to announce the launch of a brand new conference and events website www.brightondomeevents.org which includes a link to download a new corporate brochure.

With three historic spaces, Brighton Dome provides a unique and versatile venue for a variety of corporate functions. The Dome reopened in 2002 following a ÂŁ22 million refurbishment. Clients include Microsoft, American Express, Unilever, Bupa and Barclays to name but a few.

Built for the Prince of Wales (later to become George IV) and steeped in Regency history, it is part of the glorious Royal Pavilion Estate located in the heart of Britain’s cosmopolitan city-by-the-sea and within a short walking distance from Brighton Train Station with direct links to London in only 45 minutes. From Conferences to Exhibitions, Gala Dinners to Fashion Shows, there is no limit to the events that can be staged at Brighton Dome offering a truly memorable experience for every event.

'An attractive and unusual venue with wonderfully helpful staff'. – Louise Trudgian ASB Law

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Corporate Venues & Entertainment

For further information on Conferencing and Events at Brighton Dome please contact Donna Miller, Conference and Events Manager 01273 261524 / donna.miller@brightondome.org

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Corporate entertainment - Exclusive interview already stretch to over three million words spread across fourteen volumes, and he has only recently reached the 1980s). He is a conservationist, an innovator, a spiritualist, a sensualist, a showman and a would-be semi-recluse. A contradiction, an eccentric and an intriguing enigma, he is, in sum, a bona fide one-off.

Born Alexander George Thynne (the ‘e’ was dropped legally at a later date) in London on 6 May 1932, he spent most of his childhood at Sturford Mead, near the family seat of Longleat in Wiltshire, before embarking on an education that encompassed Eton and Oxford as well as a spell spent as an art student at the Academie Ranson on the Left Bank in Paris.

As he advanced into adulthood, he acquired a broad but singular worldview that somehow came to accommodate strong beliefs about personal liberty, regional diversity (with a special interest in the revival of a semi-autonomous Wessex), European federalism, ecology, polygyny and pantheism.

Lord Bath Painter, poet, novelist, songwriter, conservationist, innovator, showman… Graham McCann discovers that Lord Bath is all those things and more. Indeed, corporate hospitality is an integral part of today’s burgeoning Longleat experience.

‘The Stately Homes of England in valley, dale and glen,’ Noel Coward sang, ‘Produce a race of charming, innocuous young men’.

He was right – up to a point. In the case, however, of the tall and broad Sir Alexander George Thynn, the 7th Marquess of Bath, a stately home of England has produced a man who is certainly rather charming, and relatively innocuous, but is also a strikingly

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distinctive, unpredictable, passionate and tirelessly enterprising individual.

He is a painter, a poet, a novelist and a songwriter (the bronzed crooner Des O’Connor, of all people, once produced an album of him performing his own material).

He is the most assiduous of autobiographers (his on-going memoirs – entitled Strictly Private –

His practical involvement in the running of not only the Longleat estate itself but also Longleat Enterprises – the company set up to manage its various commercial concerns - began in 1956, from which point on responsibilities were divided between himself and his father until the latter’s death in 1992, when he inherited the title of Marquessate of Bath and assumed sole control of what by this stage was a very large and increasingly complex organisation.

Now part custodian of familial and local heritage and part catalyst of cultural and commercial initiatives, the current Lord Bath has likened himself, in his inimitable style, to an ‘individual polyp dedicated to the task of embellishing my particular corner of this coral reef’. The most evident and admirable example of this embellishment, as far as us outsiders are concerned, is his promotion of the core Longleat experience.

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Corporate entertainment - Exclusive interview The Longleat estate has long been a major attraction for leisure and corporate visitors, boasting as it does a rich and highly distinctive mixture of tradition, modernity and intriguing English idiosyncrasy. Longleat House – one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture to be found today in Britain, as well as one of the most aesthetically captivating stately homes now open regularly to the public – is well worth the trip on its own. Positioned in the midst of 3,200 hectares of wellkept woodland, lakes and farmland, this elegant three-storey building contains a vast array of priceless heirlooms and striking features.

Each room is a marvel of 16th to 19th century furnishings and art: the 11m-high Great Hall, for example, is Elizabethan and decorated with wood panels, tapestries and paintings; the Red Library is one of seven reading rooms on the site, and contains 4,803 of the total 40,000 books in the house, spanning over five centuries of history; the State Dining Room has received such distinguished guests as Queen Elizabeth I (in 1574) and Queen Elizabeth II (in 1980), was re-decorated by Crace in 1870 and is endowed with many great portraits; the 17th-century Saloon, also known as the Long Gallery, is reminiscent of an Renaissance Italian palazzo, with supplemental Flemish tapestries; and the red-and-gold State Drawing Room houses the 4th Marquess of Bath’s collection of Italian paintings. Other notable rooms on view include the Grand Staircase, which was remodelled in the 19th century, and the Dress Corridor, with its colourful collection of 18th and 19th-century dresses.

There is even more to see and experience outside. Among the many purpose-built attractions which surround this remarkable house are the world’s largest hedge maze (which covers an area of around 1.48 acres with a total pathway length of 1.69 miles), a miniature steam railway, a petting zoo, a hitech motion simulator, a tropical Butterfly Garden, a Postman Pat

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

“Corporate hospitality is also an integral part of today’s burgeoning Longleat experience” Village, King Arthur’s Mirror Maze, a bat cave called ‘Old Joe’s Mine’ and an Adventure Castle. The place of honour, however, goes to the enduringly popular Safari Park.

Opened in 1966, it was the first location outside of Africa to provide people with a drive-through safari experience, allowing close encounters with the world’s most magnificent animals, including lions, tigers, llamas, camels, rhino and giraffe.

The profile of the park has been greatly heightened worldwide in recent years by its being featured in seven series of the BBC’s Animal

Park programme, which has won a large and loyal following not only in Britain but also in countless other countries. ‘Over the past eight years,’ Lord Bath remarks, ‘we have built up a great working relationship [with the production team].

Animal Park is always sympathetic to Longleat’s needs and has dealt with a number of momentous events, such as the foot and mouth outbreak back in 2001 and the transfer of our elephant herd to France, with great sensitivity and compassion’. An eighth series, due to be shown in the summer of 2008, is currently being filmed.

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Corporate entertainment - Exclusive interview

‘ I am very keen to promote our Company Fun Day packages, with a limitless capacity and scope at Longleat from VIP Safari Tours to bespoke major open air events’.

Corporate hospitality is also an integral part of today’s burgeoning Longleat experience, with a range of facilities and functions that include gala dinners and conferences (held, depending on needs and numbers, in such places as the Great Hall, the Green Library or the Banqueting Suite), company fun days (with no fewer than eleven attractions to explore), ‘ride-‘n’-drives (through 900 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland and beyond into a further 8,000 acres of forests, farms

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designed for me and very much reflect my personality respecting the heritage of Longleat whilst maintaining a modern outlook. The walls are blue, the doors silver and you sit at a Makepeace table surrounded by my artwork, the “Ancestral Heads” portraits’. Outside events are regarded by him as another fine source of excitement and satisfaction: ‘I am very keen to promote our Company Fun Day packages, with a limitless capacity and scope at Longleat from VIP Safari Tours to bespoke major open air events’.

Such varied elements add up to an admirably impressive leisure package, but, as Lord Bath himself is keen to stress, there is much more still to come: ‘We are very fortunate that we have some extremely good visitor satisfaction ratings at Longleat. However, we cannot rest on our laurels and are always looking for new projects to improve the visitor experience. Introductions such as the Safari Guide CD, and, most recently, the Kid’s Activity Book offer fantastic added value to our visitors and hopefully make a great day out just that little bit more special. We currently have a planning application in place for a new animal attraction with an investment of £2 million - so watch this space!’

One further tourist attraction already overseen by Longleat Enterprises are the very popular Cheddar Caves & Gorge in Somerset, which not only attract more than half a million visitors to the area each year, but also serve as one of its major employers. Such an achievement underlines the commitment adumbrated by Lord Bath in his

and lakes) and a variety of marqueebased events. Unforgettably romantic weddings are welcomed in the Orangery, set amidst the rose-filled gardens of the Love Labyrinth and Secret Garden, where guests can sip champagne while drinking in the vintage views.

Lord Bath is particularly proud of what corporate visitors will experience in the sumptuous Banqueting Suite, which is situated within his private apartments: ‘The rooms were

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Corporate entertainment - Exclusive interview

1999 speech to the House of Lords to urge the leisure industry to promote and enhance the special culture and industry of each tourist region within Europe. Returning to the theme eight years on, he says: ‘My concerns remain the same and I adhere to the content of my speech. I would like to see the tourist enterprises of Wessex at large put forward a joint image of their hopes and aspirations so that this is seen as distinct from the rest of the country’.

As for the Longleat estate in particular, Lord Bath looks forward to using its history, diversity and beauty to charm and inspire countless more generations of guests, not just for a day but also, he hopes, for a lifetime: ‘I believe that Longleat has a duty to inform and educate our visitors especially with regard to environmental concerns. We have a fantastic historic house and a Safari Park with over 75 species of animals, many of which are threatened within their natural habitats. It is up to us to get our visitors to “think” about what they want from the world and how they as individuals can play a part in its future’. That, for any stately home of England, seems a genuinely noble goal.

Fact Panel Contact: The Estate Office, Longleat, Warminster Wiltshire BA12 7NW Email : corporate@longleat.co.uk or Telephone : 01985 845400

‘I believe that Longleat has a duty to inform and educate our visitors especially with regard to environmental concerns.’

Web: www.longleat.co.uk

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News

Eventia and BACD in discussion about a possible merger The Boards of Eventia and BACD - the British Association of Conference Destinations - are discussing the possibility of a merger which has the potential to create a powerful organisation that would benefit the entire industry.

Each Board is working on a proposition which will be put forward to members for voting shortly.

Combining the resources of these two major industry bodies would mean greater benefits for both sets of members. Eventia and BACD already offer a range of training and support options through a variety of educational and networking events – benefits that would be greatly enhanced if offered through a single major industry group. Each association also has strong ties to Government. Speaking with a united voice would only strengthen the impact of messages put forward, raising the profile and the voice of the industry as a whole.

Eventia grew from the merger of the ITMA and the CEA in January 2006 and its creation reflected the broadening of industry activities and responsibilities which now include multi-faceted meetings and conferences, live events, production and reward programmes as well as the more traditional corporate hospitality events, consumer events and B2B activities. Eventia supports its wide membership and offers a variety of networking opportunities, education options, social events, good practice guidance and benchmarks.

a leading role in the future development of the conference industry.

“The possibility of a merger between Eventia and BACD is a natural progression for us and offers enormous potential.”

Izania Downie, Executive Director of Eventia, adds: “There is a real synergy in terms of what our two organisations do. Both Eventia and BACD have dedicated memberships and committed Boards which are both forward-looking and flexible, and our individual skills also complement each other well. I am looking forward to working with BACD to create a united, trusted and influential industry association. Joining these two unique groups together presents amazing possibilities.”

Combining the talents of these two organisations would offer the highest level of support to a growing industry now encompassing an ever–widening sphere of activities, clients, agencies and technologies. The Eventia and BACD Directors and Boards are committed to continuing the dialogue and to maximising the potential of working together.

Comments Nigel Cooper, Eventia Board member and Divisional Managing Director for the Travel & Events Division within Motivcom plc: “This is a great opportunity for the industry. I’m looking forward to finalising our discussions and to creating a new and powerful group that will really raise our voice and profile not only to our community of events, meetings and travel professionals but also to businesses in the UK and the rest of the world.”

Currently BACD exists to help British destinations generate conference business through a range of marketing activities, information sharing, collaboration and education. With a higher proportion of UK-managed events remaining in the UK, a joining of the two groups would mean that British destinations in particular can be promoted even more positively to the wider business community.

Comments BACD Chairman Hamish Reid (pictured): “One of BACD’s major roles is to build business for Britain, increasing the volume and value of business being won by members. Another important aim is to act as a cohesive force and clear voice within business tourism, forging strategic alliances with like-minded organisations nationally and internationally and playing

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ACTIVITY DAYS | MEETINGS & CONFERENCES | TEAM BUILDING TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT | PRODUCT LAUNCHES | PRIVATE PARTIES

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Venues - Conference Centres and Hotels

A Dream in Lutyens Blue says Ella Salt any ‘Venues’ readers will be familiar with the famous Berkeley Hotel in Wilton Place Knightsbridge. But you may not have seen the completely refurbished ‘Blue Bar’ yet.

is the striking colour of the room, which he has termed 'Lutyens Blue'. The white onyx bar and a black crocodile print leather floor add to the sumptuous, individual feel.

Designed by David Collins to create a strikingly different 50-seat bar, its most outstanding feature

Madonna has already been spotted here, presumably browsing the list of more than 50 different

M

whiskies, a wide range of champagnes and the original and classic cocktails.

The Blue Bar is open throughout the evening and guests can order savoury and sweet tapas-style dishes.

Fact panel: The Berkeley Wilton Place Knightsbridge London SW1X 7RL Tel: 020 7235 6000 Web: www.berkeleyhotellondon.com Events and Groups Manager Mr Mark Tucker Telephone: +44 (0)20 7201 1634 Fax: +44 (0)20 7201 1660 Email: mtucker@the-berkeley.co.uk

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Purpose-built venues

The right tool for the job Adam Baggs sups a pint and considers his “local” conference centre.

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y local pub is really rather pleasant: good service, good beer and excellent food. But more recently they have started to offer conference and meeting rooms. The cash flow reasons are fairly obvious and they are ploughing the extra revenue back into the building and services, benefiting all visitors. However, I find myself sitting there wondering if I would ever recommend it as a venue.

For a meal or party absolutely, for a conference – I am not so sure. And I certainly wouldn’t start recommending the Judo club down the road or another local pub, neither of which offer food but are somehow advertising “conference rooms”.

Lane End Conference Centre’s Kathryn Mais: “There is a unique atmosphere in a purpose-built centre.

Rather like a library there is an aura of calm, free from noisy children and loud bars. The facilities, staff and layout are all dedicated to a businessfocused environment, which leads to more successful events as the delegates are able to concentrate better, free from interruptions. We are also more often available for an exclusive booking, with absolutely no one other than the event’s attendees allowed on site.”

The purpose-built conference centre is a slightly odd experience for the uninitiated, but the experienced conference attendee knows and feels the benefits from the moment they walk in the doors. It is ultimately that sense that you are in a space dedicated to, and created for conferencing,

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free from distraction. This can include, conference centres, training venues and more. As long as the MICE market is a primary source of income you can consider it a dedicated, and often purpose built centre.

Mais continues: “Whilst some argue that hotels are dedicated conference venues I believe it a matter of balance, if they have the facilities, a focus on the MICE market and little reliance on leisure there is an argument to say they are more conference venue than hotel but they still lack dedication to the market. Every part of our property has been designed with the delegate in mind – there is no compromise, even our bedrooms are a little different, offering a good nights rest, with modern hotel like conveniences but adding larger workspaces and free broadband – usually extra in hotels.”

But remember to think differently, purpose built venues come in all shapes and sizes. The Barbican’s Anthony Hyde: “Few people remember that we were opened as a combined arts and conference centre, not just another theatre, and for those that don’t believe me - it says so on the plaque unveiled by the Queen 25 years ago! Venues such as ours are able to take the skills and technology used in our arts productions and extend them into our conferencing business, we cannot deny the fact that our business comes from two revenue streams but the centre can be taken over exclusively for corporate business and we are

dedicated to the production of world class live events.”

One of London’s other landmark buildings and dedicated conference centre’s is the QEII Conference Centre, complete with high-tech security and space for thousands it is a venue that re-invests its income to ensure it continues to provide the city with a world class venue, perfect for events, away from the prying eyes of the public. Their focus on conferences means they can dedicate their investment to the facilities requested by their clients. This includes the recent 30 percent expansion in capacity on the third floor. QEIICC’s, Stephen Norcliffe: “This additional meeting space will allow us to offer an increased scope for future meetings and events, improving flexibility for whole centre bookings and enabling us to help those clients that are looking to grow their events.”

Dedicated and purpose built venues clearly have an appeal all of their own, their facilities are designed to make a conference efficient, businesslike and successful. The librarylike atmospheres are certainly conducive to study, learning and business. Would I recommend the local pub over such a venue – certainly not for larger events where the logistical challenges are unassailable. Nor would I for the smaller events, they just lack the experience – but on the off-chance I have missed something I think I should head down the road and consider the idea over a pint.

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Opinion

From the Chair Consolidation: A Threat or An Opportunity?

Hamish Reid, chair of BACD

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orking for an offshore destination (the island of Jersey) helps to give me a different perspective on the UK’s conference and business events industry. I can stand back a little, literally and metaphorically, and survey the UK scene and it’s very apparent to me that one of the trends having a major impact in many sectors of our industry is consolidation.

For example, we read regular reports of mergers and acquisitions among the leading event management agencies, creating fewer but better resourced entities. In September 2007, Grass Roots Group announced its purchase of communications and events company MMM, while November saw the £15 million purchase of Zibrant by Motivcom, described by Motivcom’s executive director, Nigel Cooper, as “the most significant deal in the industry’s history”. One of the benefits for clients from such deals is the greater purchasing power accruing to agencies, enabling them, in turn, to negotiate better deals for their clients.

Among corporations the trend for procurement departments to play a much greater role in the booking of event venues and related services represents another form of consolidation: concentrating purchasing in the hands of profes-

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

sional buyers and thus away from those with direct responsibility for delivering successful events. Many in the industry have expressed concerns that the constraints imposed by procurement departments limit the scope for creativity and impact adversely on the delivery of successful events. But Mike Ford, managing director of event management company Universal CIT, argues that: The process of procurement has moved the more traditional ‘relationship’ driven way of doing business, one that frankly had little strategy or transparency in budget or cost management, into something more solid: a far more level and honest playing field which guarantees business and cuts down on the practice of buying events in on an ad hoc basis.

promoted separately. Destination consolidation is being driven by devolution and regionalisation, with de-centralised political and economic decision-making. New organisations based on public and private sector partnerships are being created to weld the strategic planning and longer term perspectives of the public sector with the entrepreneurial and commercial flair of the private sector, for the benefit of both local and regional economies.

Whether you view consolidation as a threat or an opportunity will, of course, depend on your own perspective and your individual situation. But, as an industry, we must seek to ensure that we retain a client-driven, market-centred focus as we build our new commercial entities and marketing structures.

At a destination level we’ve been witnessing, over several years, a re-structuring of tourism marketing organisations at national, regional, and sometimes local level across the UK. In many cases this has meant the consolidation of destination marketing or management organisations (DMOs), as exemplified by the recent launch of ‘Conference Leeds’, representing no fewer than five discrete destinations (Bradford, Halifax, Huddersfield, Leeds, and Wakefield) which were previously

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Venues - Retro

Shell launches exciting global ‘retro venues’ concept Retailing giant Shell has chosen the UK to pilot a planned global roll out of its retro venues concept.

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hell’s motoring archive represents a century of art, film, automobilia and motorsport heritage. Shell – through its international brand guardians ‘MagicofMotoring.com’ (heritage retailing) and ‘WoadCorner.com’ (retro venues) created an art-deco Shell station at last year’s Goodwood Revival’ and the concept created an international sensation, being visited by 125,000 people and televised around the world.

As a direct result of the Goodwood trial, Mick Pacey - who heads up the retro concept team for Shell - has identified Japan, Italy, France, Germany and the USA as initial countries for the roll-out as soon as UK is underway. In total, 25 similar

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venues are planned to open in the 16 countries where Shell is a major retailer, typically in locations of major historic motoring significance.

Mick Pacey says: “The venue will comprise a 14,000 sq.ft. art-deco complex with classic car showroom, offices, retail space, bar, restaurant and a filling station complete with 1950’sstyle Shell pumps. We shall retain some retail space for our MagicofMotoring.com collection and while we could easily pre-let the balance of the retail immediately I would rather give preferential options to retailers who fit our profile for international luxury brands

wishing to be part of the roll-out as more venues are opened.”

Construction of the first venue – close to Aston Martin in Newport Pagnell Milton Keynes and to be known as Shell Woad Corner – is already underway and is due to open later this year.

See www.MagicofMotoring.com and www.WoadCorner.com

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Sustainability

A fully eco friendly conference venue?

Sarah Evans speaks to Russell Downing to find out how....

Green is the new black of the 21st century with battery powered cars, organic produce and recycled goods making their way firmly into the commercial market. As reported by Adam Baggs in our last issue, venues are no exception to the rule with everyone pulling together in an attempt to reduce their carbon footprint. Avid soap viewers may remember the amusing Corrie episode with Roy Cropper attempting to do as much with ‘Roy’s Rolls’, causing much distress to his staff.

Any issue that is deemed to merit inclusion within the script of a prime-time TV soap is indication of just how important the issue of sustainability has become to us all.

To discover how venues are tackling the issue I contacted Russell Downing, the new centre manager of Sheepdrove Eco Conference Centre, surely a man who knows more than most about how the concept of sustainability is translated to a commercial venues environment.

What exactly merits a venue being worthy of the description ‘Eco’, Russell?: ‘At Sheepdrove, carbon emissions have been reduced through energy efficiency and responsible use of materials. The impact of the building’s structure on the environment has been minimised by using recycled, renewable and local materials -as well as minimum water consumption.’

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I am already impressed, and this is just the beginning! Russell goes on to explain that the building has been designed to make the most of natural ventilation, light and passive solar heating, and is partly cut into the ground to increase its thermal mass and reduce heat loss. The centre only needs two small gas-fired boilers to heat the whole of the building due to its high levels of insulation. All waste water is treated ecologically on site and they even have the technology to be able to shut down any areas of the building which aren’t in use.

Nothing is thrown away; everything is recycled. Even the materials from the demolition of the redundant buildings on the centre site were reused in the new build. They haven’t even used a scrap of PVC in the centre’s construction, and I think it’s fab that the toilet cubicle partitions are made from recycled toothpaste tubes, with the washbasins made from recycled CDs! OK, so there are a few organic centres throughout the UK; so what justifies Sheepdrove’s claim to be so different from the rest? ‘Well, we are not just a series of beautiful rooms with state-of-the-art technology’, Russell comments, ‘We are set at the heart of a working organic farm along a rich belt of outstanding natural beauty, and we offer a haven for healthy thinking and creativity in a relaxed environment.’

Just to cap it all off the menus are

all based on what is in season in both the garden and on the farm, and all the meat is used -for example you will quite often find mutton on the menu. Bread is freshly made from wheat grown on the farm milled daily! If delegates can get up on time they are even welcomed to watch the process!

With a field dedicated to outdoor team building activities as well as reed-bed rambles and the famous farm tours, there is certainly plenty going on here to keep your delegates occupied in an environmentally friendly manor.

But despite all this impressive catalogue of achievements, Russell and his team still have more ambitions: ‘We are now well underway with our next phase which includes our plans to install a ground source heat pump’ Russell tells me with pride.

Between the team of Russell, Allison Cook the front of house manager and Melissa Eggleton the centre cook, they run a splendid forwardlooking eco centre which cleverly combines education, farm, and a sound business model for sustainability.

To experience sustainable conferencing for yourself contact Russell Downing, Centre Manager Sheepdrove Eco Conference Centre, Lambourn, Berkshire RG17 7UU T: 01488 674 748 www.sheepdrove.com

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Venues - Sporting

The Stadium Experience Sports hospitality expert Nadeem Ansari investigates

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rom the earliest football international in 1872 between Scotland and England to the 2006 FIFA World Cup, football and hospitality have always had a close relationship. And today, more than ever, hospitality continues to gain importance as a central marketing avenue at sporting events.

Official hospitality programs are currently available for every major domestic and international event, from the Heineken Cup to the Wimbledon Championships, a PGA Tour event or the UEFA Champions League. Many of today’s corporate guests have a “been there, done that” outlook as far as stadium hospitality is concerned. And as the popularity of corporate hospitality increases and it secures a stronger position within the marketing and PR budget, it has become more apparent to the venues that there is an ever growing demand to give corporations and their guests a value for money experience.

The boom in new stadiums and cutting-edge sports facilities is a great indication of how rights holders are providing better tools in order to create a better fan experience.

A recent visit to newly launched Wembley Stadium in London showed that the stadiums of the future will incorporate larger hospitality facilities for corporate entertaining. Wembley Stadium is

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one of the biggest catering sites in Europe and includes the 950-cover Atrium restaurant, the great hall and banquet space for up to 1,500 people, and four signature restaurants of 650 covers each. It also features two Champagne and seafood bars and two large, freeflow public catering areas, 162 private boxes, two super boxes and a royal suite for up to 400 people.

After a hunt lasting more than six months, the catering company which has a 25-year contract with Wembley - appointed Frank Coughlan to oversee the food offering at the stadium. Having been responsible for tennis championships at Wimbledon and Ryder Cup at the K Club in Ireland, the Irish-born chef oversees a team of 39 full-time staff, boosted by up to 3,000 casual workers during major events.

Another recent example of the quality of stadium hospitality is Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium in acquiring one of the hottest talents in the gastronomical game, Raymond Blanc. Two Michelin starred Blanc - who is a keen Gunners fan - became Chef Director for the restaurant at Diamond Club - the most luxurious offering in football.

ence hospitality at 21 UK clubs over a period of six months and apply a strict point scoring criteria from parking access, signage and welcome to the food quality and standards of service in nominating a range of awards.

With the increasing sophistication of fans, events and stadiums, it’s clear the face of corporate entertainment at major sports events is changing and will continue to change. We all know that a happy client is a client who will keep coming back for more. And a client who keeps coming back for more is a client willing pay the price of admission.

However, regardless of the level of service, the culinary experiences, the state of the art, décor and so on, the ultimate client satisfaction can only be achieved with a good and ideally winning game of football - especially if your clients feel the same way towards the teams involved in the game as you do!

Nadeem Ansari is a Chartered Marketer and Chief Executive Officer of SportsHospitality.com Nadeem is also one of the visionaries behind DubaiCorporateHospitality.com, the first corporate hospitality agency in UAE.

The ever growing race amongst the football stadia has lead to ‘The Stadium Experience’ Official Football Hospitality Awards where professional chef judges experi-

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Venues - Sporting

The Winning Place to do Business The thrill of a live football game is simply an unbeatable experience. Here at Aston Villa we pride ourselves on delivering outstanding match-day hospitality with exceptional service, whether it be in one of our 105 executive boxes or one of our stylish restaurants. We also have a wealth of sponsorship opportunities available for businesses to showcase their brand.

We can assist you with: Executive Boxes Restaurant Hospitality Corporate Entertainment Sponsorship Opportunities Supporter Packages

Find out what we can do for your business T: 0800 612 0960 F: 0800 612 0966 E: enquiries@businessvilla.co.uk W: www.businessvilla.co.uk

Sellers Hospitality releases 2008 events dates

David Mackinnon brings an events focus to Sandown Park

Cheltenham National Hunt Festival 11 – 14 March 2008: Luxury triple-decker marquee with balconies offering panoramic views of the whole course and excellent dining facilities. Prices start at £359.00 per person plus vat.

Sandown Park has appointed David Mackinnon, formerly of the Royal Windsor racecourse, as the venue’s new Managing Director. David has already met some famous faces at Sandown Park, including George Bush, although Mr Bush was in the shape of impersonator Rory Bremner. An avid fan of racing, funnyman Rory Bremner was filming a sketch for his series Bremner, Bird and Fortune in the Esher Hall.

Grand National Meeting 3-5 April 2008: Private suites are available for numbers exceeding 24 and reserved tables for smaller numbers in an atmospheric facility in the heart of the action. Prices start at £229.00 per person plus vat.

Santander British Grand Prix 4-6 July 2008: With Lewis Hamilton riding high in the Drivers Championship demand is sure to be high. Trackside facilities will include Vale Terrace Restaurant, Vale Restaurant, Copse and Brooklands Prices start at £149.00 per person plus vat.

The Open Golf Championship, Royal Birkdale 17-20 July 2008: The 2008 Open returns to Royal Birkdale thought by many to be the best English venue to host the Championship. Sellers hospitality offers the Executive Restaurant and Private Chalets situated within the tented village with exclusive Sky Boxes and Championship Club viewing at the 1st Hole. Prices start at £295.00 per person plus vat

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

Sandown Park has immense indoor and outdoor space available for events of all kinds. David said “The scope of our business with only 30 racedays a year leaves significant days for the Events business. Currently Events contribute over 40 percent of Sandown’s business and I am looking forward to increasing occupancy and usage of our facilities”.

David was impressed by the amount of on-site facilities available at Sandown Park which include golf, karting and dry-skiing which are a distinct advantage in today’s business climate. These facilities are also widely utilised for training and team building activities. www.sandown.co.uk/events

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Venues - Academia

Reading Room of the British Library (now the British Museum). The Octagon, with its high domed ceiling and famous literati busts, has been magnificently restored and is suitable for a range of different functions including meetings, conferences, formal dinners and receptions.

Masters of venue-finding Academic venues can range from traditional buildings with history and character to state-of-the-art developments. We look at the special role they play in the corporate world. long with competitive rates and a choice of more than 50 UK locations, academic venues have the benefit of being able to offer an increasing amount of facilities at any time of the year, and more than 50 percent of venues now have dedicated year round centres for use by event organisers.

city’s most historic buildings such as McEwan Hall, Talbot Rice Gallery, St Cecelia’s Hall and the Playfair Library Hall. In contrast, Appleton Tower has had extensive refurbishments and now boasts two 300 seat lecture theatres and three 200 seat theatres, containing advanced AV systems.

The venues can offer a range of facilities from traditional buildings with history and character, to stateof-the-art developments, and many can offer a combination of facilities on campus.

Programmes of refurbishments and developments are regularly taking place at academic venues, and this helps to ensure that they can offer modern facilities, whilst also carrying out work to maintain listed buildings and traditional facilities.

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One example is Edinburgh First at the University of Edinburgh, which was established over 400 years ago.

The University includes some of the

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In addition to buildings with history and character, academic venues can also offer new award winning developments. The Windsor Building at Royal Holloway, University of London won an award for its design at the 2006 Runnymede Design Awards. The £8 million building features state-of-the-art technical features and has received an excellent welcome from commercial clients.

VENUEMASTERS Marketing Executive, Julie Wright says; “Academic venues can offer an excellent range of facilities for a variety of events. Buildings with history and character are proving extremely popular for organisers looking for unique venues, especially with their complement of modern amenities.”

VENUEMASTERS represent over 80 academic venues, promoting their facilities for a wide range of events.

For more details about the consortium and the venues mentioned above, please use one of the contact methods below. You can also carry out a quick and easy venue search online.

Web: www.venuemasters.co.uk E-mail: info@venuemasters.co.uk Tel: 0114 249 3090

The Octagon at Queen Mary, University of London was built in 1888, and was modelled on the

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Venues - Academia

University of Manchester Conference Centre’s Karl Buxton achieves lifetime ambition Karl Buxton, Conference Coordinator at Manchester Conference Centre, has taken part in yet another international marathon! His passion for marathon running has sent Karl globetrotting to Paris, Chicago, Rio, and his latest marathon has seen him travel to Germany to take part in the annual Berlin Marathon, which he successfully completed in 4 hours 27 minutes. Karl’s first run was the Manchester 10k, and the exhilarating experience left him hungry for more. Since, he has been taking part in marathons across the world.

Twenty nine year old Karl, from Great Moor, Stockport, commented;“ I get so much fulfillment out of running marathons. Not only have I been fortunate enough to see some fascinating countries, but more importantly, I have raised hundreds of pounds for a number of charities.”

Richard Handscombe, Sales & Marketing Manager for conference venues at The University of Manchester added; “We are all constantly amazed

by Karl’s energy and enthusiasm. Speaking on behalf of all his colleagues, we wish him all the best in his next gruelling challenge.”

His time in Berlin meant that Karl has successfully qualified to fulfil one of his lifetime ambitions, to run the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in South Africa; one of the most beautiful marathons held annually in the coastal city of Cape Town.

Where the Best of Both Worlds Meet Whether you want to meet in comfort and style in the elegant surrounding of a country house, or in one of the most exciting and versatile conference venues in the UK, we can promise you a venue to meet your needs.

Chancellors Hotel and Conference Centre, set in five stunning acres of landscaped grounds: I A relaxing and rural setting just three miles from the city centre.

I An opportunity to meet in peaceful and stress free surroundings.

I 75 hotel bedrooms, stylish meeting facilities and free parking.

Manchester Conference Centre and Days Hotel, set in the heart of the city: I Close to Piccadilly station with ample parking adjacent.

I Modern and professional facilities.

I 117 hotel bedrooms, 2 theatres and 18 meeting rooms.

www.meeting.co.uk email: meeting@manchester.ac.uk

Conferences at Reading

Food for thought Great conference and catering facilities set in 320 acres of parkland Our facilities include • • • • • •

A range of over 200 meeting rooms Over 2500 ensuite and standard bedrooms Great transport links by road, rail and air Catering to suit all occasions Excellent value for money Conference team dedicated to your event

Tel (0118) 378 8427

www.reading.ac.uk/ conference

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Venues - Academia

The University of Leeds opens £4.5 m Refectory

The newly refurbished state-of-the-art refectory has officially opened with a mouth watering new-look and a wide variety of fine dining for up to 600 delegates at a time. The facilities have modern lifestyle food offers, including a newly developed Hot Wok and Noodle Bar concept serving international cuisine. The refectory now includes a Grab and Go service where you can choose from fresh salads, soups, sandwiches, jacket potatoes and oriental style dishes including Sushi.

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Catering Operations Manager at the University of Leeds, Ian Addy said: “As well as offering a range of meals and snacks to suit all tastes, we will attempt to ‘touch a nerve’ with all visitors, taking into consideration health and wellbeing, current nutritional trends, environmental issues, sustainability and fair trade.”

The stylish, refectory will open seven days a week including Sundays where you can expect to find traditional food choices such as the Full English Breakfast or Roast Beef and Yorkshire Puddings. In the evenings the venue can be miraculously transformed to provide fine dining for large conference dinners, awards ceremonies or themed events.

Assistant Director, Beverley Kenny said “The refurbished refectory will create a destination which will offer an exceptional dining experience to all delegates, taking the catering at the University of Leeds to a whole new level.”

The University of Leeds conference & events team offers a wide range of services from day meeting rooms for groups as small as four to large conferences for up to 550 delegates. The team can also offer residential events, exhibition halls with over 1800sqm of exhibition space, hospitality and fine dining, as well as a comprehensive conference management service.

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Venues - Academia

Confex Keynote Speakers confirmed!

Rohit Talwar Tues 12th Feb, 13:00 - 14:00 What is the future of conferences, exhibitions and events? External factors and industry trends are forcing us to rethink every aspect of how we deliver live events.

In this thought provoking and practical session, events industry futurist and award winning speaker, Rohit Talwar will highlight the critical challenges and present practical ideas on how we can respond in innovative ways.

Jean-Christophe Novelli

CONFERENCE SELECTION Durham University offers you a wide choice of venues ranging from modern purpose-built conference facilities to the Historic Durham Castle.

To make a booking for a particular date, arrange a visit or request further information on any of our conference venues, call the Sales Office on: 0800 28 99 70 or e-mail: event@durham.ac.uk www.durham.ac.uk/event.durham

Wed 13th Feb, 13:00 - 14:00 Novelli is a Michelin and 5AA Rosette award winning chef, AA Chef’s Chef of the Year, European Chef of the Year and several times winner of restaurant of the year. The Hell's Kitchen star also appears regularly on catering programmes and prime-time TV shows.

In an increasingly competitive environment, catering could give your event the edge you need. Hear an inspirational view on how food can deliver success from one of the world’s greatest chefs.

THE R.S. HISPANIOLA Function Rooms Stunning Views Weddings Restaurant/Bar

Sahar Hashemi Thurs 14th Feb, 13:00 - 14:00 Sahar Hashemi founded Coffee Republic and built it into one of our most recognised high street brands This is a fascinating tale of the ups and downs of following your dream - demonstrating how every one of us can achieve our professional goals!

Sahar has been named one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Britain 2003, has written a book called “Anyone can do it” and has now launched “Skinny Candy” amongst many other achievements.

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

FOR BOOKINGS 02078393011 or info@hispaniola.co.uk Winter 2008

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Venues - Conference Centres and Hotels All members also benefit from the fact that CCE offers free venue finding services to conference agents and to conference organisers. It’s a one stop shop that is increasingly popular with those audiences, and reinforces and extends the sales effort of every individual member.

Working together gives all-round benefits!

Michael Kennedy investigates the advantages of marketing consortia

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hile there’s a significant amount of consolidation going on within the venues sector, there are still many providers that operate in ‘splendid isolation’. Most are medium-sized independent venues, and it’s probable that the great majority of those would benefit from becoming part of a consortium.

A consortium is a like minded group of organisations that see benefits in working together. Within the venues business, there are several such groups, and one of the most progressive is Conference Centres of Excellence.

CCE currently has 35 members spread from Sussex to Scotland. They are all independent venues, with the common factor of being dedicated centres for conferences and meetings. ‘Dedicated’ means that their facilities, services and staff have no other focus than the conference business. Though most are residential, they aren’t hotels, and they

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don’t handle transient tourist business. Their conference facilities are precisely targeted -- furniture, presentation equipment, acoustics, and lighting have all been specifically created to optimise the environment for conferences. Staff support is similarly highly focused.

All CCE members are successful in their own right – they must be, because otherwise they wouldn’t be accepted into membership. But they all see benefits in being part of a marketing consortium. Let’s look at those benefits.

More business No venue wants to turn away an inquiry, but sometimes it’s inevitable.

If a CCE member has to do so, it contacts the consortium, which then refers the business opportunity to other members. That way there’s an expanded opportunity for all – and, equally important, the business is referred on to providers who will match the same consistent standards of facility and delivery.

Wider awareness CCE is highly active in terms of marketing. It communicates to the market the advantages of dedicated meetings facilities, doing so nationally across all relevant sectors. That’s another benefit to every member, though it must be remembered that it’s based on one vital message – sector-leading standards.

CCE only accepts applications from would-be members if they meet stringent criteria for the quality of facilities, service and support, and every applicant is vetted by a quality committee drawn from current members. There are also requirements in terms of all-inclusive pricing. All members adhere to a policy of complete transparency, conscious that many conference customers can be alienated by the process of unforeseen add-ons in the final invoice.

Common bond These are concrete, tangible benefits. But there’s one more thing that’s less tangible in terms of business, but which venues – or more specifically the people who work in them – value at least as much.

It’s the simple process of talking together – exchanging experiences, learning from the example of others, understanding and sharing best practice, providing mutual support and encouragement.

Though in principle every member is competing for business, in practice there’s a great camaraderie between members, precisely because they share so much common ground.

Michael Kennedy is a PR and marketing adviser in the conference sector.

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Venues - Conference Centres and Hotels

£3m Health club makes splash on opening in Southampton

The stunning new £3m health club at Chilworth Manor has been opened by ex-Saints legend Francis Benali.

Chilworth resident Francis, who held his wedding ceremony at the hotel 16 years ago, was only too delighted to be asked to help out with the celebrations. He said: “It’s a fantastic club and just what the area needed. I’m sure it will be a huge success. I can’t wait to use it myself!” The eagerly awaited complex, called theclub@chilworth-manor, has taken just over seven months to build and had already signed up over 300 members before the doors officially opened.

“We’ve had an incredible response to the club from local residents and businesses,” said Gavin Elliott, director and hotel manager at Chilworth Manor hotel. “This stunning new complex will offer the hotel a much needed leisure facility which will include the provision of the latest state-of-the-art Nautilus Nitro Plus gym equipment. It’s very exciting to see it finally open!”

Gavin added: “theclub@chilworth-manor will make a significant contribution to our hotel and is set to take our leisure breaks and conference facilities to a new dimension. Having a quality leisure option will be a tremendous boost to business.”

Members and guests can now enjoy a leisurely swim in a luxurious, heated swimming pool or relax in a spa bath, poolside sauna or steam room as well as use the hightech gym or spinning studio. For those who wish to indulge in more relaxing pursuits, the hotel is offering a variety of holistic and beauty treatments and has selected Comfort Zone beauty products - which recently won Best Spa Cosmetic Product at the 2006 European Spa Exhibition - for its four fully equipped treatment rooms.

Treatments will include Aromatherapy massages, Hot Stone treatments, manicures, pedicures and wraps.

Club manager Kris Hillary said: “We have a great team and an offering second to none in the region. We are receiving hundreds of enquiries every week and membership has been set at a realistic level to appeal to a wider range of health and fitness users.”

The club is run by a 15 strong dedicated team of health and fitness experts. www.chilworth-manor.co.uk.

Photo shows Manager Kris Hillary making a splash on opening day ‘helped’ by hotel director Gavin Elliott and Francis Benali.

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

Cherkley Court Launch Exclusive Rooms for Corporate Hire

Following a stunning refurbishment under the direction of renowned designer David Mlinaric, responsible for projects including Asprey’s and the Royal Opera House, Cherkley Court & Gardens in Surrey has launched its exclusive rooms for private hire to the corporate market.

Cherkley Court hosted among others, Rudyard Kipling, Harold Macmillan and Winston Churchill during in its heyday as the former home of MP and newspaper proprietor, the 1st Lord Beaverbrook.

Anna Nelson, Cherkley Court’s House Manager, said: “Cherkley Court offers a spectacular and exclusive setting to host a corporate board meeting or small conference.

Our position close to central London, the M25, Gatwick and Heathrow makes us an ideal place for those who want an inspirational venue in an idyllic setting.”

The House has six individual rooms available for hire including the double aspect dining room which can seat 22; the Saloon, a long drawing room opening onto a terrace which can hold up to 70 theatre style; and The Orangery, positioned next to the main house which can host 110 cabaret and 86 theatre style. www.cherkleycourt.com

Shoot4goal launches Entrance Arch Here’s an interesting product that’s ideal for giving an event a really professional focus. The ‘entrance arch’ from Shoot4Goal Sports Entertainment is equally suitable as a start/finish line marker. The width can be adjusted from four to eight metres and the height – five metres – is apparently tall enough to drive a bus through should you need to! The arch can carry your own branding on both sides, vertically and horizontally. More info from www.shoot4goal.com

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Destination Report - Yorkshire South

‘An event organiser’s dream with something for everyone’ says Sarah Evans

F

ancy a quiz? Name an area which combines a multitude of conference and event venues along with all the sporting and leisure facilities your delegates could possibly want. But to make it harder, factor in a requirement for ample accommodation, city centre history, culture and amenities right on hand. Oh yes, you need easy access to the countryside for those all important team building activities.

Ideally you’ll want excellent road, air, train and tram links too. ..

Well, this event organiser’s dream does exist – it’s Yorkshire South!

Encompassing Doncaster, Rotherham Barnsley and Sheffield, this lively county is home to stainless steel, the country's oldest football club Sheffield United - and the St. Leger Festival which had its triumphant return to its rightful place at Doncaster Racecourse in September last year. Steeped in industrial history reflected in the magnificent rooms of the Cutlers Hall and the stainless steel wave which greets you stepping out of the railway station, conversely Sheffield is also the greenest city in the country, nestling in the borders of the Peak District, and it quickly becomes apparent why as you make your way round this startlingly beautiful location.

Following 18 months and a £32 million pound investment, Doncaster Racecourse is re-born, and believe me it was worth the wait. Making our way into the racecourse by road I am rendered speechless by the sheer size and scale of the venue. Pulling into

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Destination Report - Yorkshire South

one of the 3,000 free car parking spaces you can see the whole course clearly, including all three stands:- The Family Stand, the renovated traditional Clock Tower Stand and the brand new Urban-i stand which towers over everything else at an impressive five story’s high. This is one of the busiest tracks in the country, with hospitality facilities to match. With its

brand new purpose built exhibition hall, extensive grounds with plenty of scope for team building activities, broadband available through most floors, a networked press room available for training sessions and a reception/drinks terrace offering fabulous views of the course, there is something on offer for everyone. With their unique computerised turnstile system, you

can even find out lots of useful information from your visitors as they scan themselves in. Carl Ramsden sales manager tells me there is nothing they can't do, and they have the added bonus of being able to hold multiple functions at once. Who uses the racecourse? Everyone from Jaguar for a product launch to potentially an Accordion Conference next year!

There is even a fabulous hotel conveniently situated right opposite the racecourse suitably named The Grand St. Leger. Following its recent refurbishment this Grade II listed building is now one of the most desirable hotels in Doncaster.

Sport is certainly a theme at the venues in Doncaster, with the New Keep Moat Stadium another top destination. Driving into the home of Doncaster Rovers I am surrounded by plenty of greenery and a gorgeous lake. Added to this, Sarah Macalister tells me if you are having an evening event here, the

KEEPMOAT STADIUM

for a conference

and delegates youyour will remember The Keepmoat Stadium has excellent facilities with ample free parking for you and your guests.

Range of Banqueting Suites for 10 - 400 guests Dedicated Banqueting Event Co-ordinator CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Contact the team on 01302 762 590 for details Email: events@keepmoatstadium.com

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MAKE A BIG

IMPRESSION AN EVENT AT MAGNA IS ONE NOBODY CAN EVER FORGET. OUR UNIQUE FACILITIES HAVE ALREADY MADE US OFFICIALLY THE BEST EVENTS VENUE IN THE COUNTRY, AND OUR RECENT £2.7M INVESTMENT MEANS THAT THIS YEAR, WE'RE EVEN BIGGER AND BETTER. ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE SO, WHETHER IT’S A QUIET LUNCH FOR 2 OR A PARTY FOR 3000 WITH FIREWORKS, LASERS AND TOWERING VIDEO SCREENS, ONLY MAGNA HAS THE SPACE, THE IMAGINATION AND THE FLEXIBILITY TO GIVE YOU WHAT YOU WANT.

FOR A LASTING IMPRESSION CALL OUR TEAM ON 01709 723 118 EMAIL EVENTS@MAGNATRUST.CO.UK OR VISIT WWW.VISITMAGNA.COM

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Destination Report - Yorkshire South floodlights can be put on as the guests arrive-what a magnificent way to start your event! All the rooms here have natural light, and with the main rooms and executive boxes overlooking the pitch it’s a very relaxing and welcoming environment to be in. Heading to floor level, there is a huge concourse which can be used for exhibitions, and because of the nature of the building-a football ground-they are more than used to a bit of mess so there are no real restrictions as to how you choose to utilise this fantastic space. You will find a surprise here with a very amenable chef who is willing to try anything regarding your catering requirements, and is often found cooking up concoctions so the client can have tasting sessions to make sure the food is just right-after all get the food right and you are two thirds of the way there!

So what about all you energetic people who fancy a bit of a physi-

cal workout a well as a mental one? Or even for all the mildly sadistic company directors who find it amusing to put your staff through their paces? Yes, we know who you are! The place for you is The Dome in Doncaster, where if you are using their huge exhibition space, conference rooms or the magnificent Forum for a dinner their full range of facilities are available to you. How about some team building on the ice rink, challenges on the climbing wall, a work out in the gym or even just relaxing in the pool? On my visit the main hall was in the process of being set up for none other than Mr. Jim Davidson, but as Andy O’Grady tells me the hall is a blank canvas and you can pretty well do what you like. In fact, he goes on to tell me The British Juggler Association are using the land at the back for camping when they hold their conference here later this year. It is however, the stunning Forum which demands your

The Holiday Inn Royal Victoria Sheffield Victoria Station Road, Sheffield, S4 7YE t: 0114 252 6510 f: 0114 252 6526 e: conferences@holidayinnsheffield.co.uk w: www.holidayinnsheffield.co.uk

The Grand St. Leger Hotel The hotel has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment and great care has been taken to sympathetically upgrade the facilities without overwhelming the traditional character of the building.

The result is a triumphant example of traditional and modern. Open fireplaces and crystal chandeliers sit comfortably alongside superior conference facilities, luxurious en-suite accommodation and Complimentary WIFI throughout the hotel.

Our Sellinger Suite is the ideal space to hold exclusive meetings and conferences for up to 65 delegates. With our onsite event managers on hand you can rest assured that you are in the best possible hands. www.grandstleger.com

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

This historic and elegant hotel is ideally located in the city centre of Sheffield. Just half a mile from Sheffield Railway Station, Bus Station and the Sheffield Supertram network. For those guests travelling to the hotel by car, the hotel is easy accessible from junction 33 of the M1 Motorway and is situated at the end of its’ own private drive. The hotel has over 200 car parking spaces.

One of the most striking features of this Grade 2 listed building is the elegant Ballroom which can accommodate up to 300 people for a banquet / dinner and also boasts a further 15 meeting rooms. Our maximum capacity for conferencing is 400 Theatre Style or 220 Cabaret Style. The Esperanto Health Suite is open 24 hours and features a fully equipped multi gym, dance studio and saunas.

To place a booking or to make an enquiry please contact the Conference Sales Team on 0114 252 6510

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Destination Report - Yorkshire South going to need somewhere for your delegates to rest their weary heads after all that exhausting exercise and fabulous banquets!

Once again Sheffield does not disappoint with a range of bespoke hotels ready for your every need.

Try out the Mecure St Paul’s for an ideal city centre location, brand new fabulous spa facilities and rooms over looking the peace gardens. The food is exquisite, the surroundings luxurious, the staff warm and welcoming-you even get a rather smart concierge, what a delightful way to make an impression on your guests.

full attention with its high arched ceilings, magnificent colonnades and fabulous black and white chequered floor.

For the traditionalists out there a dinner set in the walls of Sheffield’s Cutlers Hall will certainly make a lasting impression. The entrance to the home of the Master Cutlers is easily overlooked, yet as you step onto the beautiful mosaic floor surrounded by ornate carvings and beautiful examples of the craft Sheffield is well known for, you could be forgiven for thinking you have stepped into a different era.

Entrance to the banqueting halls is via a grand staircase with plenty of room for a drinks reception before heading in for the main event. There is a variety of rooms which can be used for a multitude of purposes, each one bursting with sumptuous décor and old fashioned elegance.

twin Olympic size ice pads or even an Olympic size swimming pool this is the place to come. Ranging from the old school grandeur of the Town Hall to the modern and unusual EIS, there really is something to suit all tastes.

All this is fantastic, but if you are coming from out of town, you are

If you fancy something with a bit of history, why not try Sheffield’s first boutique hotel, The Leopold.

Part of the Prem Group, this old Boy’s Grammar School is filled with remnants of the boys and teachers themselves mixing the charm of the past with the clean and modern twist of the present. You will find quirky features throughout the hotel, including the old coat

With so much to offer, the group Sheffield International Venues has been formed, bringing together the top venues in the region including Ice Sheffield, Sheffield City Hall, English Institute of Sport Sheffield and Ponds Forge International Sports Centre among others. Each has its own distinct features, but if you are looking for a banqueting venue with capacity of 1200, an indoor athletic arena,

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Destination Report - Yorkshire South hooks by reception, and all the signs have been written as a copy of the old headmaster’s hand.

Looking out on Leopold Square full of classy bars and restaurants, five minutes from Sheffield Town Hall, this is a beautifully restored building, and I can personally recommend the house champagne cocktail!

Both hotels have their own meeting rooms in keeping with the style of each, very comfortable and have everything you need should you choose to hold your meetings there. Out of town? The beautiful Aston Hall has been restored to its former glory whilst retaining many of its original features. Set in 55 acres of woodland, and only minutes from junction 31 of the M1, it really is possible to escape to the country whilst on the doorstep of the city.

Now, finally, there is one more venue which I think everyone must visit even if just for leisure, and

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

that is the ‘ore inspiring’ building that is Magna. A former steel works, it has been transformed into an exploration of science and technology but with all the original trappings intact. They even have one furnace remaining which has been developed into a display with fireworks and sound demonstrating what it once would have been like working with steel. From the world’s largest indoor bungee jump, the underground in the earth section and the airship suspended above the ground, Magna can accommodate pretty much anyone for anything. With the new conference facilities, new ‘Fuel’ restaurant and the ability to allow you to place fairground rides inside for your event, Magna thoroughly deserved its Enjoy England 2006 award for Business Tourism. It has to be seen to be believed, it does - quite literally - take your breath away.

rants, a bustling nightlife, great shopping, incredible range of sporting facilities - everything one could want from a city and more, and yet with the added bonus of having the country right in the doorstep. Take your conference here in 2008, and I’m certain it will exceed your expectations.

Conference Yorkshire South, Don Valley Stadium, Worksop Road, Sheffield S9 3TL Tel 0871 700 2214 Web: www.yorkshiresouth.com

So, South Yorkshire then, is a lively hub bursting with superb restau-

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Confex - Preview

Working together gives all-round benefits!

International Confex is here again, and following last year’s makeover – which was rewarded with a 16 percent increase in visitors – 2008 promises us yet more new features.

I

nternational Confex is here again, and following last year’s makeover – which was rewarded with a 16 percent increase in visitors – 2008 promises us yet more new features.

The Confex Knowledge educational programme proved to be popular last time, so it’s back again to spearhead the show’s educational remit with another strong line-up of keynote and educational speakers. The programme includes 45 free seminars – plus three keynote sessions – run across four seminar theatres.

Another feature that’s back again is The Secret Garden. The area will provide an exciting spa area for visitors to enjoy massages and other free treatments, taking time out from the busy show floor.

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As usual, the show will be split into five easily navigational sectors: UK Venues & Destinations will form the backbone of the show and a key draw for the domestic visitors. New and unusual venues will be in abundance - Cardiff Conference Bureau, Folio Hotels, East of England Tourist Board, Experience Nottinghamshire and Blenheim Palace - as well a welcome return of some of the most high profile venues in the UK. The Corporate Events & Parties sector is one of the most visual areas of the show will showcase some of the most innovative creative, theatrical and inspiring businesses. Set alongside Exhibiting & Events Live, the two sections will provide visitors all the back up they need to maximise the potential of their event.

The London Area will once again be looking to the nation’s capital, this time focusing on promoting the most unique and unusual venues London has to offer. A hub of networking, the London Bar will hold events hosted by Barbican, Visit London and ISES on Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 13th February.

Finally the renamed International Venues, Destinations & Travel sector will provide some new and established international destinations and venues from all across the globe. This includes many returning big name destinations after a long absence including Brazil and Germany. This is indeed a welcome sign that the events industry is continuing to spread its influence across the globe. Even more choice for buyers!

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Merlin claims research shows buyers not willing to pay for carbon neutral packages The Merlin Entertainments Group survey of 500 corporate event organisers has concluded that whilst they’re aware of environmental issues, they’re simply not willing to pay to make a difference. Only 39 percent felt that such ‘hot topic’ issues were important with only 8 percent feeling they were very important.

However 76 percent of corporate buyers feel the events industry as a whole is not doing enough to tackle climate change, “showing that they are failing to recognise that the responsibility lies with them,” comments Merlin, the name behind famous venues such as Alton Towers, Warwick Castle, LEGOLAND, British Airways London Eye, SEA LIFE, Dungeons, Gardaland, Heide-Park, Chessington World of Adventures & Zoo and Thorpe Park.

Interestingly, when organisers were asked if they felt environmental issues would affect their buying in the future, 34 percent said yes. Whilst this is a hot industry topic at the moment, the reality, says Merlin, is that people are not reacting in a way that will currently promote positive results for the environment. With just 45 percent of corporates willing to pay extra for carbon neutral packages, with 2 percent willing to pay up to £15 more, it seems tight corporate budgets are holding the industry back from addressing this pressing environmental debate.

The simple fact, says Merlin, is that to have an environmentally friendly outlook does cost more money which businesses will have to allocate if they want to be seen to be green.

Michael Aldridge, Events General Manager for the Merlin Entertainments Group says “It’s apparent from the results that awareness of climate change is very much out there; however, the budget is not! At Madame Tussauds, we’re transforming the site into a “green” venue, replacing halogen with L.E.D. lighting, a new air-conditioning system for 2008 that consumes 40 percent less energy and we are currently sourcing ‘green’ energy suppliers. Plus anyone undertaking a new contract with us will have to show the same commitment to green issues, such as caterers to keep their food miles down.

We also have a ‘green team’ comprised of, one person from each department. Their objective is to make the attraction even more carbon friendly on a day to day basis and in January, Madame Tussauds was proud to host a dinner for 250 members of the Green Council.

Venues still need to be proactive in their approach to tackling climate change and offer affordable “green” packages and hopefully the extra budget will follow” www.merlinvenues.com

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

Honour for National Trust Property Ickworth House

The West Wing at Ickworth struck gold at the Anglian Business Awards winning The Outstanding Customer Service award. This prestigious award was collected by Ickworth Sales Manager, Mary Myers and General Manager, Richard Wheeler. Ickworth House is a National Trust property situated in the village of Horringer, near Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk. The 18th Century Georgian house stands in 1800 acres of gardens and pleasure grounds, and was the home to the Hervey family from 1928 to 1996.

Sodexho Prestige joined forces with the National Trust in 2005 following the extensive redevelopment of the West Wing at Ickworth House. The West Wing now boasts a range of wonderful facilities including a fully licensed public restaurant, conference and banqueting facilities and external event space for unlimited numbers. More than 175 functions were held in the West Wing last year including conferences, meetings and weddings.

The Anglian Business Awards is one of the top dates in the regional business calendar, recognising excellence and achievement in the local business community.

Judges were looking for entrants in this award to demonstrate a high standard of customer service in their organisation including innovative and measurable approaches to customer services with evidence of their success.

Richard Wheeler, General Manager of The West Wing at Ickworth House commented, “We are all totally committed to the high standards at The West Wing and are passionate about our service where the customer is at the heart of our business.

There are many factors we feel assist our great customer service from our dedicated team who are trained to the highest standard to ‘Success Guaranteed’ an initiative used by conference and banqueting guests with the aim to further improve customer services, operating standards and food quality. Winning the Outstanding Customer Service award means an enormous amount to the team and we look forward to another successful year in 2008”.

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Venues - Unusual

Sarah Evans gets her heart jumping when she investigates the world of Theme Park Venues!

E

xciting, invigorating, exhilarating, adrenalin pumping… not words you would normally associate with your annual sales conference. We’ve all been there - struggling to stay awake through endless presentations while speakers pull all sorts of gimmicks in an attempt to keep you motivated. What if, then, instead of this well-known scenario, you could lift everyone up and place them in the middle of a theme park or zoo? Instead of staring at four walls, for example, take a trip to Blackpool Pleasure Beach where their conference room has panoramic views across South Beach Promenade. Or to Bristol Zoo and Gardens where the elegant Clifton Pavilion nestles in the heart of the zoo. Or perhaps to Alton Towers, which sits within 500 acres of landscaped grounds.

Due to the nature of their main business, theme parks and zoos have huge amounts of space, and are, for me, like stepping into a new and magical world. I don’t care how old you are, these are some of the few attractions that still have the ability to excite and amaze the adult mind.

So it’s accepted that theme parks are set in beautiful and often awe inspiring surroundings; but there are many out there who will argue this is nothing new!

‘There are several venues out there which offer such breathtaking scenery’ the cynics will cry… But reflect upon the huge amounts of space and great variety of entertainment offered by theme parks. Of course, this is an area where Blackpool particularly excels, with Stageworks Worldwide Productions enabling them to put on a bespoke full scale theatrical production for any type of client.

All theme parks have plenty of on-site car parking, their own excellent catering facilities, and often their

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Venues - Unusual own accommodation too! Alton Towers even has two hotels - one of them with 175 themed bedrooms…

Beat that for standing out from the crowd!

Visitors will discover that there is not much they can’t offer a professional organiser, but there is one particular area where I feel that theme parks really excel, and that is team building.

A psychologist will tell us that here is nothing that bonds people more than a terrifying experience, and if the press is to be believed that is exactly what you will get at Alton Towers or Drayton Manor, or even on Europe’s highest rollercoaster at Blackpool pleasure beach. These are all available to you when you book a corporate package, and individual experiences can be incorporated into the team building experience itself.

With activities like paint balling, go karting and the high wires becoming more and more commonplace, using a theme park and really utilising all it has to offer is a fantastic way to motivate your staff. What’s that? You don’t fancy dangling upside down several feet up in the air? Then try Bristol Zoo where they offer activities such as producing a five minute movie or advert, a back to school style sports day or even planning and hosting a day out for disadvantaged children. Now that’s the caring person’s teambuilding event and an experience that will surely last a lifetime. Or for a more gentle activity you can take a personal guided tour and meet some of the smaller members of the zoo.

Even if you choose a theme park or zoo not for the teambuilding opportunities but simply because you’re seeking somewhere different, I think it’s the ideal setting to keep your staff motivated and awake. Who could fail to pay attention when you know in an hour you will be either lurching around on a pirate ship or having a one on one encounter with a meerkat? Your team will be relaxed and enjoying themselves, which will make them far more productive. Hey - go on! Throw caution to the wind and release that inner child!

Facilities available FOR BOOKING all year round

Corporate Venues & Entertainment

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Events Calendar Feb

Event

Venue

Type

24

Six Nations: France v England

Stade de France

Rugby

24

The League Cup Final

Wembley Stadium

Football

Mar

Event

Venue

Type

8

Tosca

The Royal Albert Hall

Cultural Events

9

Six Nations: Ireland v Wales

Croke Park

Rugby

9

Six Nations: Ireland v Wales

Murrayfield

Rugby

14-16

The Cheltenham National Hunt Festival

Cheltenham Racecourse

Horse Racing

15

Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix

Melbourne

Motor Racing

15

Six Nations: England v Ireland

Twickenham

Rugby

21-23

Six Nations: Wales v France

Millennium Stadium

Rugby

25-31

Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix

Sepang

Motor Racing

28-30

France v England International Friendly

Stade de France Paris

Football

Apr

Event

Venue

Type

5

Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix

Sakhir

Motor Racing

5-6

The Grand National

Aintree

Horse Racing

10-13

The FA Cup Semi Finals

Wembley Stadium

Football

12

The Masters Golf

Augusta - Georgia USA

Golf

25-27

The EDF Energy Cup Final

Twickenham

Rugby

Sponsored by Friday’s - the first name in PR for the venues, conferences and meetings industries. www.fridays-group.co.uk | Tel: 020 7268 3794

Image: www.actionplus.co.uk

Image: www.actionplus.co.uk

Image: www.actionplus.co.uk

Information courtesy of www.paragonsportsmanagement.com | Please check dates with organisers before visiting any venue

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all the venues you could wish for...

...the possibilities are endless at confex

THE PERFECT EVENT FOR ANY EVENT

register for free entry at www.international-confex.com

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In any event, we do things differently

At Mottram Hall, saying we do things differently isn’t just a flimsy proposition. Everything from our banqueting suites for meetings to outdoor activities such as football on our FA approved pitch, clay pigeon shooting and of course golf all bear testimony to that. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. At Mottram Hall De Vere Collection we offer you everything from top end conferences to dedicated training environments plus excellent facilities including free WiFi and Internet, all organised by people who know everything about being different. So the next time you need to arrange a team management course, we have just the thing to hone those leadership skills – an intensive session of duck herding.

For more information please call Mottram Hall on 01625 828 135 or visit www.devere.co.uk