2 017 St. Charl es C o n v en tio n Cen ter
Annual Report
table of
Contents INTRODUCTION 3 4 5 6 7
Statement of Purpose Message from Sally Faith, Mayor of City of St. Charles Message from Tom Wapelhorst, Chairman of SCCC&SFA Message from Joe Ward, Director of GSCCVB Message from Al Beltranena, GM of SCCC
Accomplishments & Events 8 Summary of Accomplishments 10 Signature Events
Facility 12 Capital Improvements 13 Mission & Sustainability 14 Facility Overview & Occupancy Reports
At the SCCC 15 Organizational Chart 16 2017 In Review 18 Our Partners 20 Client Experience Program 21 Client Surveys
Finance 22 Financial Performance 23 Summary of Market Segments
Marketing 24 25 26 27 28 30
Sales & Marketing The National Marketing Plan Community Involvement Customer Comments Client Testimonials Future Outlook
statem en t of
Purpose “The St. Charles Convention Center is dedicated to exceptional customer service, delivered with a warm and innovative approach.”
The customer is the most important visitor on our premises. Customers are not dependent on us; we are dependent on them. They are not an interruption of our work; but rather the purpose of it. They are not an outsider in our business; they are vital to it. We are not doing them a favor by serving them; they are doing us a favor by allowing us an opportunity to do so. At the St. Charles Convention Center we promise to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations. We will: •
Be Passionate
•
Elevate Experiences
•
Build Loyalty
•
Drive Success
•
Collaborate
message from the mayor “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.� Henry Ford This quote is a great representation of the teamwork and cooperation that makes the Saint Charles Convention Center the first-class facility it is for our area. As Mayor of St. Charles, I recognize and value the dedication from everyone involved that makes this success a reality year after year. Thank you to Spectra Venue Management and the Saint Charles County Convention and Sports Facility Authority for your continued dedication to our great City. Of course, no organization can be successful without the hard work and dedication of its employees. Thank you to all of the staff that, throughout the entire year, demonstrates hard work, dedication and outstanding customer service. It is evident when you look at the full calendar of events, many that return year after year and some that are new to our area, that you are providing a wonderful experience for all who visit the Saint Charles Convention Center. The future is bright for our area and I look forward to the growth that we will all experience together. On behalf of the citizens and the City Council of Saint Charles, I want to congratulate you on another successful year, and thank you for your hard work, dedication and love of what you do for the City of Saint Charles. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership for many years to come, and to the continued success of the Convention Center.
Sincerely,
Sally A. Faith Mayor City of St. Charles, Missouri
4
message from the chairman As this annual report will indicate, 2017 was once again a year for record breaking revenues and business levels that were well beyond expectations. The convention center management staff and Spectra have perfected the ability to secure space for clients even though we are operating at a 63% occupancy level. Furthermore, Spectra management continues to scrutinize and convert potential business leads that capture more revenue per each client. This effort has created the platform for exceeding budgeted revenues, even though we have limited availability. This past year has been spent preparing for a potential expansion of the facility. The Saint Charles Convention and Sports Facilities Authority and the City of Saint Charles have completed research on the feasibility of expanding the convention center as well as the potential for securing a new hotel adjacent to the existing facility. The studies have indicated a need to expand and further outlined a very positive pro forma from an operating and debt service perspective. We proceed on to develop financial strategies and architectural designs in order to pursue a contractor to begin construction. It is anticipated that the construction will begin at the end of 2018 or early 2019, assuming that all parties agree to the expansion. Our future lies with growing our economic impact and sustainability through an expanded facility and adhering to new industry trends. Our effectiveness and success continues to grow with recognizing opportunity and taking advantage of those opportunities. Sincerely,
Tom Wapelhorst Chairman St. Charles County Convention & Sports Facility Authority
5
message from the director Once again, it has been a uniquely historic year of achievement for the Saint Charles Convention Center (SCCC) and the team at Spectra Venue Management, led by general manager, Al Beltranena. As one of the most successful event venues in the nation, The Saint Charles Convention Center continues to not only set the gold standard in the conference management industry, but set new standards for others to follow. This reputation is well deserved and accomplished through the hard work, dedication and commitment to first-class hospitality that the Spectra team displays each and every day. The Saint Charles Convention Center plays a central role in delivering the entire Saint Charles experience to our guests and extends an open invitation to visitors from around the world as it serves as a wonderful gathering place to celebrate, learn, and Discover all that Saint Charles has to offer. We sincerely appreciate Spectra’s on-going partnership and look forward to reaching new heights together. It is our pleasure at the Greater Saint Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau to partner with you in our shared pursuit of excellence.
Sincerely,
Joseph Ward Director Greater Saint Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau
6
message from the
general manager I am pleased to report that 2017 was yet another successful year at the Saint Charles Convention Center. For the seventh year in a row, Spectra has surpassed budgeted revenue while operating at a net profit. Hosting 32 conventions during 2017 was instrumental in generating 68% of the 23,856 room nights contributed to the City of St. Charles as a result of events at the facility. Occupancy levels peaked at 90% in March, finishing strong with 65% for the year. Repeat business generated 70% of the venue’s revenue. Our overall customer satisfaction rating was 4.82 out of a possible 5.0. In summary, it was a fantastic year. None of these accomplishments would be possible without the talented and devoted staff at the St. Charles Convention Center. The team functions as one unit, driven by a passion for elevating experiences and exceeding expectations. From selling to the event, to cleaning and maintaining the building, to serving gourmet cuisine, outstanding staff is what raises the bar of excellence at the Convention Center. Our staff is never satisfied with the status quo, and is constantly searching for innovative ideas to keep us relevant in the industry. On behalf of Spectra Venue Management, thank you to the St. Charles County Convention and Sports Facilities Authority, the City of St. Charles, and the Conventions and Visitor’s Bureau for the support and trust placed with Spectra in managing the Saint Charles Convention Center. We look forward to a prosperous 2018.
Sincerely,
Al Beltranena General Manager St. Charles Convention Center
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Summ a ry of
Accomplishments In 2017, the St. Charles Convention Center Sales Team
Breaking Records
continued to focus on booking smarter by maximizing
•
Most Conventions Held: The facility hosted 32
space and securing events at the Convention Center with
conventions in 2017, beating 2015’s record by four
the greatest impact. By targeting large, high attendance,
conventions.
and high revenue events, Spectra exceeded the operating
•
Highest Food & Beverage Revenue: The venue food &
budget set for the year by $208,270. Also notable, 2017
beverage total was the highest in the venue’s history,
marked the seventh year in a row the facility operated at a
with a total of $3,995,028 in revenue.
net profit.
•
Highest Management/Facility Staff Survey Score: The Center received a 4.9 average rating for the Management/Facility Staff Survey Score, the highest average score ever received for any category.
Staff Achievements
Julie
d av i n r o y, cm p
Jason
givens, cmp
Angie
Earned her Certified Meeting
Earned his Certified Meeting Planner
Selected for Comcast Spectacor’s
Planner (CMP) Designation from the
(CMP) Designation from the Events
Leadership Institute High Potential
Events Industry Council (EIC)
Industry Council (EIC)
Development Program
8
teel, c mp
President Trump’s Visit at the St. Charles Convention Center
Notable Events •
President of the United States: President Trump’s
•
visit brought over 1,000 attendees to the Convention
Grand Ballroom, Junior Ballroom, Exhibit Hall and more
Center. It took over 500 man hours from management
in order to provide our current and potential out-of-
to prepare and over 1,000 man hours from support
town clients the ability to tour the facility without
staff. During President Trump’s visit 16 data lines and
ever stepping foot in the venue. 3600 Tour users can
over 400 wifi connections for media were used. At least
look around the a room with multiple room sets. For
10 satellite media trucks and three canine units were
example, the Grand Ballroom has classroom, crecent
present. Security support for this event included Secret
rounds, and banquet views. •
Service, FBI, SWAT, St. Charles City Police Department •
360 Tours: The Center had 3600 photos taken of the
Staff Training: The facility hosted a May and December
and St. Charles Convention Center’s Security Team.
All Staff Training in 2017. An evening training session
Venue Awards: The Convention Center celebrated its
was added to capture employees who are unable to
third year in a row as one of St. Louis’ Top Workplaces,
attend the afternoon session. The May training had a
tenth year in a row as a Facilities & Destinations Prime
passport theme and covered topics ranging from team
Site Award winner, and was awarded “Best Revenue
building to setting a room for an event. The December
Generating Idea” at the International Box Office,
training focused on situational awareness and ended
Sales and Marketing Conference by Spectra Venue
with Clue-themed game in order to discover the
Management.
venue’s first ever “General Manager Award” Winner.
9
sign at ure
Events Conventions In 2017, the Convention Center hosted 32 conventions, generating over $2.4 million in revenue. This market segment contributed to 69% of the total room nights and 35% of the total gross revenue for the facility. The Center hosted both new and repeat conventions in 2017. •
•
Anime St. Louis: Anime returned in 2017 for the third
•
time. This fun-loving group had over 4,000 attendees
teens, this Convention is held prior to Easter every year.
with 550 room nights. The group is definite through
The group brings in 2,500 attendees with a total of 600
2019 with space on hold for 2020.
room nights. Missouri District Youth is booked through
BHS Central States Conference: The Barbershop
2019, with space on hold through 2023. •
Harmony Society, Central States District hosted their
•
•
Missouri District Youth: A conference geared toward
Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and
conference at the venue in October 2017, bringing in
Surgeons: MAOPS held their convention for the second
1,335 room nights and 1,500 attendees. BHS Central
year in a row at the Center in 2017. The group brought
States is also definite for 2018.
in 712 room nights and 300 attendees.
Helena Chemical Company: This group has hosted their
•
National
Postsecondary
Agricultural
Students
event at the Convention Center for eight years with
Organization: This group hosted thier event in March
future years on hold. In 2017, the convention hosted
2017, garnering 745 room nights and hosting over 600
700 attendees and garnered nearly 450 room nights.
attendees.
METC:
•
EducationPlus’ METC returned for the
Solution Tree: PLC unites educators with keynotes
ninth year in 2017. The event attracted over 1,600
and breakout sessions. In their seventh year at the
attendees and 425 room nights. They are booked
Convention Center, the event brought in 1,600 attendees
through 2020 and have space on hold until 2022.
with 2,100 room nights. PLC is definite until 2019 with space on hold for 2022.
•
Anime St. Louis
10
Lake of the Ozarks Boat Show
World Wide Technology
Consumer Shows
Special Events
Consumer shows are the main contributor to event
•
World Wide Technology: One of our premier holiday
attendance totals at the Center. In 2017, consumer shows
party clients, WWT returned for the sixth year in a row.
accounted for 111,398 attendees, resulting in 42% of the
Their event transformed the Expanded Exhibit Hall in
overall building attendance. Some of the highly attended
holiday movie theme, utilizing our ability to decorate
2017 consumer shows include:
the space with carpeting, drape, props, and more. This
•
upscale event had various food and drink stations, a
The Home Builders Association Home Shows: With
band, DJ, and lounging areas for 1,500 people.
shows in April and September, the Home Shows hosted
•
over 8,200 people in the spring and 4,700 people in the
Center, hosting their competitions at the facility since
fall. These events give visitors the opportunity to see,
2011. Talent on Parade is definite through 2019 and
learn about, and buy the latest products and services
has space on hold until 2023. Their regional (spring)
for the home from 200 companies in one place. •
and national (summer) competitions brought in over
Jurassic Quest: This dinosaur themed event returned
3,000 attendees with nearly 1,200 room nights total
to the venue for the second year in a row, bringing a dinosaur adventure for the whole family.
between the two events.
Jurassic
•
Quest attracted nearly 20,000 attendees and featured
“Steppin” and has been at the Convention Center since
interact with, learn about, and in some cases even ride!
2014. The group brought in nearly 1,700 people and
Lake of the Ozarks Boat Show: Hosted by the Marine
700 room nights over Memorial Day weekend in 2017.
Dealers Association, the Lake of the Ozarks Boat Show
•
brings boats, other watercraft, and in 2017, over 6,000
Taste of St. Charles: The Rotary Club of St. Charles held the annual Taste of St. Charles at the Convention Center
attendees to the facility for the event. Attendance in
for the fourth year in a row in 2017. The event benefits
2017 saw a 13% increase over the previous year. •
Stepaganza: This event is an annual awards celebration weekend that honors the legends of Chicago-style
realistic, life-size animatronic dinosaurs that visitors can •
Talent on Parade: TOP is a mainstay at the Convention
adult charities located in St. Charles and features some
The St. Louis Working Women’s Survival Show:
of the finest food and wine St. Charles has to offer,
Promoted as the “Ultimate Girls’ Day Out,” the show
provided by over 30 of its top restaurants.
uses the entire Convention Center. Samantha Harris, from Dancing with the Stars and Entertainment Tonight, was the show’s Celebrity Guest. Working Women’s Survival Show fis a one-stop-shop for food, fashion, fitness, and fun. 11
c a pita l
Improvements Event Services •
Projectors: Upgraded to high definition projectors, increasing resolution and picture quality.
•
Microphones: Replaced microphones with the newest advanced technology.
•
Lighting: Purchased a variety of uplighting to enhance event experience with additional in-house options.
Food & Beverage •
Concessions Facelift: The facility renamed both concessions outlets and branded the Compass Café (formerly known as Cyber Café) and St. Charles Grill (formerly known as St. Charles Café). The front of the Grill counters were wrapped in the St. Charles Grill logo and a new awning was purchased. Two additional screens were purchased for each location to display images of menu items and entice attendees to purchase food while attending events.
Operations •
Wood flooring: The facility updated the wood flooring in Grand Ballroom prefunction to match the look and historic feel of the building.
•
Lighting: LED lighting was purchased to help reduce the venues energy footprint.
12
mission &
Sustainability Mission
dedicated to supporting efforts and management practices for the long term benefit of the environment so people can
The Spectra Team at the St. Charles Convention Center is
work, play, and live in healthy, ecologically-friendly facilities.
committed to promoting environmental responsibility and sustainability. Our goal is to offer outstanding quality of
Green Initiatives
service and mitigate impact on the natural environment.
The St. Charles Convention Center staff is dedicated to By creating awareness of environmental impacts, we strive
reducing its environmental impact by saving energy,
to minimize waste through programs designed to reduce
reducing, reusing, and recycling. In 2017, the facility
and ultimately recycle the consumable materials we utilize
recycled a total of 31.13 tons of materials that would have
at our facility. Through Spectra’s company-wide STEP UP
otherwise gone to a landfill. In addition, 31,985 pounds
Program, the St. Charles Convention Center has become
were composted, diverting 13.2 tons in CO2 emisisons.
a leader in employing and promoting environmentally responsible, equitable, and sustainable practices. Spectra is
New lighting in the Grand Ballroom
13
fa cilit y o vervi ew & o c c u pa n c y
Reports
Occupancy Reports
The St. Charles Convention Center is the finest full-service convention venue in the Greater St. Louis metro area. With
Exhibit Hall Grand Ballroom Junior Ballroom Meeting Rooms Overall
154,000 square feet of space and over 83,000 square feet of flexible event space, the Center is an ideal choice for groups ranging from 10 to 3,000.
71% 57% 62% 46% 63%
PRE-FUNCTION ROOM SOUTH LOWER DOCK
UPPER DOCK
SOUTH EXHIBIT HALL PRE-FUNCTION
UPPER LEVEL
CONFERENCE ROOM
105
104 BOX OFFICE
ADMIN OFFICES
D3
A
GRAND BALLROOM B
D2
C
NORTH EXHIBIT HALL PRE-FUNCTION ROOM NORTH
PRE-FUNCTION
D1
A
HOTEL ENTRANCE
BOARD ROOM
COMPASS CAFÉ
PRE-FUNCTION
LOBBY
PRE-FUNCTION
JUNIOR BALLROOM C B D
101
102
HOTEL ENTRANCE
103
MAIN ENTRANCE
LOWER LEVEL
PORTE COCHÈRE
Upper Level
Lower Level
•
•
Grand Ballroom: An elegant 16,200 square foot
Exhibit Hall: Boasts 27,600 square feet capable of
ballroom with the capability to be configured into six
expanding into the Junior Ballroom, creating 35,700
separate breakouts
square feet of contiguous space
•
Conference Room: Seating for up to 18 people
•
Executive Board Room: Seating for up to 22 people
•
Junior Ballroom: 6,025 square feet capable of configuration into four separate breakouts
14
•
Seven Meeting Rooms
•
Guest and Business Services Center
Or g an i z atio n a l Org a niz ational
Chart Chart
St. Charles County Convention & Sports Facility Authority
City of St. Charles
St. Charles Convention Center Oversight Committee
Joseph Ward
Contract Administrator
Sarah Plate
Administrative Assistant
Tennille Wanner
Kristin Bowen
Event Manager
Jarek Main
Sales Manager
Courtney Greene
Connie Barber
Katie Walton-Russell
Pamela Sanders Catering Manager
Aaron Hall, CTS Media Services Coordinator
Christine Kelly
Loc Thanh Nguyen
David Klein
Sharon Robertson
Nick Forgione
Sta Accountant
1st Cook
Stanley Walker Food & Beverage Manager
Scott Condor
Mark Kandlbinder
Jake Von Till
Mike Middendorf
Media Services Technician
Receptionist
Luke Taylor
Lead Facility Specialist
Andrew Herbert, CTS
Sous Chef
Operations Manager
Event Services Coordinator
Media Services Manager
Executive Chef
Paul Dunning
Maintenance Technician
Maintenance Technician
Lindsey Helland
Catering Manager
Roland Scheller
HR Coordinator & F&B Accountant
Chief Engineer
Event Manager
Jennifer Nowack
Nancy Hunt
Travis Casteel
Chardean Olsen, CMP Event Manager Exhibitor Services/ Event Manager
Catering Manager
Diane Sutton
Administrative Assistant
Technology Manager
Sales Manager
Director of Finance
Director of Operations
Archie Carty
Event Manager
Amy Dunning
Neil Sandage
Director of Event Experiences
Jason Givens, CMP
Julie Davinroy, CMP
General Manager
Angie Teel, CMP
Director of Sales & Marketing
Marketing Manager
Alvaro Beltranena
Security Lead
Fred Carslick
IT Services Technician
15
Debbie Woods Housekeeping Supervisor
Tulio Cruz
Facility Specialist
Ken Kasper
Assistant Food & Beverage Manager
Banquet Captain
Cathy Wise
Debbie Johnson
Banquet Captain
Banquet Captain
Robin Chase
Facility Specialist
Updated 3.1.2018
Easter Egg Hunt
2017
In Review
Stanley working OPAA!
Play afte
Jennifer Schonhoff’s Bab
tural disaster “Posing ” as a na
M
pe the Ro aining | Esca ay All Staff Tr
May All Staff
om Winners
r work at
Venue
y Shower
Representing SCCC at the
Child Center Golf Tour
Training
May All Staff Training | Cooking with Nick Forgion
Hard Hat Tour at Drury Hotel, Streets of St. Charles
16
Connie & Je
n at Caters
ource
Staff on the roof for the total solar eclipse
eConnect
Courtney &
Hallowee
Julie repres
enting SCCC
at MME
n
Yoga!
rnament Client Appreciation Cele
Winning Clue team with General Manager Award Winner Jason Givens
bration
w Kristin Bo
osie the en aka: R
Riveter
Nancy pose
s with a da
nce trophy
ne
Posing in front of the Presidential motorcade
Voluntee
nds for the Ho ring at Helping Ha
lidays
Debbie, Nancy, and Dian
17
e
o ur
Partners
Greater St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau
Embassy Suites St. Louis St. Charles Hotel
Spectra and the Greater St. Charles Convention and Visitors
The attached Embassy Suites Hotel is an all-suite, 296 room
Bureau constantly work in tandem to solicit the best business
facility managed by John Q. Hammons and is connected to
for the facility. Together their goals are to earn revenues for
the Convention Center on both the upper and lower levels.
the Center, bring in out-of-town guests to generate room
This attached property has proven valuable in attracting
nights for local hotels, and maximize the overall economic
groups needing large, flexible meeting space with an
impact to the City of St. Charles.
adjacent full-service hotel. Spectra and the Embassy Suites staff work jointly in securing business that utilizes space at
Both CVB and Convention Center representatives commonly
both properties.
attend trade shows and events together and are both involved in FAM trips and site tours of the facility for long-term business prospecting and booking. Clients can coordinate with the CVB to explore Historic Main Street and the thriving tourism community here in St. Charles.
18
Hospitality Partners The St. Charles hospitality industry consists of 16 limited-service hotels and three full-service hotels with a total of over 2,400 rooms in inventory. Of the 19 area hotels, eight are within one mile of the Convention Center. The staff at the facility continue to foster relationships with these hospitality partners to secure pieces of business for the facility and surrounding industry partners.
Sponsors, Advertisers, & Other Partners In an effort to better serve our clients, relationships have been forged with a variety of business partners. In addition to a vested business interest within the facility through direct product offerings, signage, and exposure, many of these sponsors also exist to provide additional marketing support for the facility and events.
19
clie nt e xperience
Program
Our Promise is a client experience and employee recognition initiative that creates a culture driven by success, collaboration, passion, loyalty, and elevating experiences. The program empowers staff to maximize the experience of clients and coworkers alike and recognizes stellar staff for their commitment to the Our Promise principles.
2017 Employee of the Year
Mark Kandlbinder
Both clients and employees receive Our Promise nomination cards to recognize employees for their commitment to Our Promise. The nominations are reviewed, and monthly and quarterly winners are selected by the executive team. Over 70 awards were earned by Convention Center staff in 2017.
Be Passionate • Work with enthusiasm • Encourage and inspire others • Believe in your work
2017 General Manager Award
Jason Givens, CMP
Elevate Experiences • Utilize cutting-edge industry trends • Anticipate need • Innovate creative solutions Build Loyalty • Be a trusted advisor • Act with integrity and respect • Express gratitude • Encourage feedback Drive Success • Develop efficient processes • Identify and create opportunities for profit • Maximized the experience • Execute “Win! Win!” strategies
2017 Quarterly Winners
2017 Monthly Winners
Connie Barber
January: Chardean Olsen
Paul Dunning
February: Bob Eades
Luke Taylor
March: Debbie Woods
Krystal Bryson
April: Azebe Megene
Jennifer Nowack
May: Jessica Showers
Floye Dawson
June: Henry Wills
Travis Casteel
July: Peter Aftayev
Azeb Megene
August: Antjuan Potts September: Lynn Hall October: Katie Walton-Russel
Collaborate • Employ a team approach • Communicate effectively • Deliver on commitments
November: Julie Davinroy December: Archie Cartie
20
clie nt
Surveys key: Facility Management & Facility Staff Food & Beverage Audio/Visual IT & Telecom Overall
Space Met Your Needs Environment Comfortable Space Set in Manner Requested Public Space/Restroom Clean Sales Manager Event Manager Security Staff Professional Housekeeping Professional
The St. Charles Convention Center distributes surveys seeking feedback on clients’ event experiences at the conclusion of each event. On a scale
Overall Impression of Staff Catering Manager F&B Service Staff
of 1 to 5, the facility achieved a 4.80
Overall F&B Quality
overall survey average across all
Overall F&B Presentation
categories.
Overall F&B Service A/V Staff Professional
Average Score
Per category on a scale of 1 to 5 4.86 Facility 4.90 Management & Facility Staff 4.74 Food & Beverage 4.68 Audio/Visual 4.59 IT & Telecom 4.84 Overall Satisfaction 4.81 Client Survey Total
A/V Staff Responsive Quality of A/V Equipment Telecom Contact Professional Telecom Staff Professional Quality of Telecom Equipment Overall Satisfaction Overall Rating of Facility Experience 4.0
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5.0
j an ua ry 1, 20 17 - decem ber 31, 2017
Financial Performance Actual
Budget
Variance
Rental Revenue
$1,346,761
$1,377,122
($30,361)
Service Revenue
$853,339
$752,092
$101,247
Ancillary Revenue
$4,820,648
$4,705,692
$114,956
$69,428
$47,000
$22,428
$7,090,176
$6,881,906
$208,270
Event Expenses
$1,855,170
$1,943,445
$88,275
Personnel
$3,300,261
$3,298,353
($1,909)
Operating Expenses
$1,686,552
$1,690,953
$4,401
$6,664,549
$6,548,337
($116,212)
$248,193
($50,845)
$299,038
Income
Other Revenue
Total Gross Operating Revenue Expenses
Total Expenses Net Income (Loss)
Spectra’s trend of surpassing budget and feasibility expectations continued in 2017. For the seventh year in a row Spectra operated the St. Charles Convention Center at a net profit.
22
s umm a ry of
Market Segments Event Type
events by type
Banquet
63
26%
●
Consumer Show
24
10%
●
Convention
32
13%
●
Meeting
85
35%
●
Special Event
19
8%
●
Trade Show
18
8%
Event Type
Percentage
22,296
9%
●
Consumer Show
111,398
42%
●
Convention
68,595
26%
●
Meeting
18,516
7%
●
Special Event
29,083
11%
●
Trade Show
12,617
5%
262,505 Room Nights
Percentage
898
4%
●
Banquet
●
Consumer Show
1,595
7%
●
Convention
16,298
69%
●
Meeting
1,171
5%
●
Special Event
2,805
12%
●
Trade Show
828
3%
Total: Event Type
23,595 Gross Revenue
Percentage
●
Banquet
$1,557,958
22%
●
Consumer Show
$1,068,492
15%
●
Convention
$2,463,880
35%
●
Meeting
$742,010
11%
●
Special Event
$635,008
9%
●
Trade Show
$553,400
8%
Total:
23
Attendance #
Banquet
Event Type
event gross revenue
241
●
Total:
room nights by type
Percentage
●
Total:
attendance by type
# of Events
$7,092,535
s a les &
Marketing Advertising
Online Marketing
The Convention Center’s advertising exists on three
The Convention Center implemented 3600 Tours in 2017, as
platforms: facility advertising, event advertising, and
an additional online selling tool. The Tours allow prospective
Spectra’s National Marketing Plan. In 2017, the Convention
clients to “look” around a room as if they were standing in
Center continued to work with the CVB to complement their
it. Multiple sets were photographed for each room. For
marketing strategies in terms of meetings, conventions,
example, the Grand Ballroom views include empty, classroom
conferences, trade shows, etc.
seating, crescent rounds, and banquet seating. This tool has been especially useful for out-of-town prospective clients,
The Convention Center Advertising Program, enables show
allowing them to feel as if they’re visiting the Convention
promoters to select from four unique program options
Center via their computer or phone.
ranging from Bronze (free), Silver ($500), Gold ($1,000), and Platinum ($1,500). The program includes varying levels
Google Reviews saw another dramatic increase in 2017,
of advertising on the marquee, social media, website and
with 315 total reviews at year end, a 325% increase over the
more.
previous year. Also notable, the star rating earned increased from 4.3 stars to 4.4 stars.
SALES
The Convention Center continues to utilize Social Media to
The Sales Packets were overhauled in early 2017, resulting
connect with our patrons. Likes on our Facebook page saw a 12% increase in 2017, Twitter followers saw a 7% increase,
in a new folder, redesigned brochure and menu, and for the
and Instram followers saw a 103% increase.
first time, incorporated Advertising Program collateral. The sales department participated in multiple trade shows and sales blitzes, delivering information to targeted markets and clients. Sales blitzes included a Girl Scout themed blitz, handing out boxes of Thin Mints creatively wrapped in information about the Convention Center and a Back to School themed blitz which included a “new student orientation” booklet with information about the facility and the Sales Team, a branded backpack, notepad, pen, 20 Year Planner, trail mix, and bottled water. Trade shows attended include MPI Mid America Conference, Direct Selling Association, ASAE, and Connect Missouri.
24
the n ational
Marketing Plan The National Marketing Plan is Spectra’s corporate-based advertising initiative that allows the Convention Center to have advertising exposure at a national level for a reduced cost. The total value of the program in 2017 was $230,000 and the Convention Center was represented in all components for an annual investment of only $9,300.
Advertising
Communications
The St. Charles Convention Center receives exposure in
The Center receives exposure in the reoccurring eNews blast
the cooperative advertising program, which is valued at
to industry contacts, including meeting and event planners.
$57,000 annually. This includes venue listings in two page
It allows us to promote our hot dates and discounted
spreads and/or full page ads in publications such as Trade
rates and feature our venue in regional spotlights. This
Show Executive, Small Market Meetings, and Facilities and
also includes our venue listing in the digital and printed
Destinations, plus the ability to purchase exclusive SCCC ads
Convention Center brochure, which is distributed at industry
at reduced costs.
trade show events and promoted interactively online.
GPS Database
Trade Shows
Spectra sales staff at the venue have access to the GPS
St. Charles is represented in the National Trade Show
database of over 20,000 contacts for prospecting and lead
Program, which is valued at over $50,000. For relevant
sharing. If another Spectra venue has a piece of business
shows in certain markets, sales staff at the SCCC have the
that would work well in our market, the lead is routed
ability to attend shows in the Spectra booth. This year SCCC
properly through this system to be prospected here locally.
was represented at ASAE and Connect Marketplace.
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c o mmunit y
Involvement Great Committee The St. Charles Convention Center’s GREAT Committee
Helping Hands for the Holidays
organizes the Center’s community efforts. The GREAT
The tenth annual Helping Hands for the Holidays (HHH)
Committee encourages staff to participate in, or donate to,
charity event was hosted on December 14, 2017. This
charitable events including Helping Hands for the Holidays,
community outreach event is one of the largest in the
Casual Days, and more.
area and is designed to assist those in-need within our community. In 2017, nearly 1,400 meals were served and
Fundraisers
over 400 coats were given away.
In 2017, the Charity Committee continued to implement Casual Days as a means to raise funds for charities, including We Love St. Charles and Helping Hands for the Holidays. Through employee donations and building matched contributions, $1,200 was donated to We Love St. Charles and a total of $2,440 was raised throughout the year.
We Love St. Charles Donation Check 2017 26
c ustomer
Comments “Can’t wait for my next event at SCCC!!!!!!”
Christopher Ortwerth St. Louis Best Bridal
“It’s hard to give an MVP to just one person as everyone at the venue makes it a great place.”
Jeremy Johnson Anime St. Louis
“Always great to work with this group of people-they all make the event go as smoothly as possible.”
Mike Kenagy St. Charles Boat Show
Shannon Santamaria PLC “We were told the wedding and reception was the best people have ever attended.”
Kathy Hummert Hummert/Robon Wedding
“Very pleased again with the St. Charles Convention Center!”
Karen Kroupa A Day with Medicare
“Everyone was very pleased with the location and all food provided during the day.”
Sima Schappe
“The staff at SCCC did an excellent job for my daughter’s wedding. Everything was done and carried out the way we wanted it to be. There were only positive comments from our guests about the venue, food, and service. Thank you!”
Mary Kaye Kernen Kernen/O’Hare Wedding
BOA Spring Regional
“It was a dream come true! I loved everything about it!”
“I cannot say enough good things about the venue and the staff. You all made our event that much more successful.”
Hiwot Woldgeorgis
Chrisopher Miofsky
Woldgeorgis/Menje Wedding
“It’s always great to be back in St Charles, we have been hosting our PLC conference there for many years and will continue to do so. The staff is very accommodating and attentive. Thank you!”
Lindenwood Sorority Recruitment
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“The convention center is a top notch facility. The staff is great and my compliments to the chef-the food was outstanding!”
Lisa Emrich
Emrich/Murphy Wedding
“...the general hospitality shown to the Host and participants of STEPAGANZA for the past several years has been nothing less than impeccable and each year the working relationships gets better because of familiarity and consistency.”
Iary Isaiah Israel Stepaganza
clie nt
Testimonials
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f u t ure
Outlook DESIRED STATE
Future Outlook
The Convention Center began 2018 with $765,000 more
With space at premium this year and hard to come by, the sales team will focus on booking the best pieces of business
on the books than 2017. Our revenue goal for 2018 has
for the building, not their market. This will require everyone
increased to $7,117,000, an increase of $282,000 from 2017’s revenue goal of $6,835,000.
working together as a team and communicating. The sales
For 2018, we are estimating total revenues on the following
entertain contacts with local corporate, association, and
team will continue to solicit business through sales calls and specialty markets. The SCCC team plans to go on monthly
event mix: •
33% Conventions
•
21% Banquets
•
16% Consumer Shows
•
13% Meetings
•
10% Special Events
•
7% Trade Shows
local sales calls and quarterly sales missions with the CVB and meet monthly with their counterparts There are 28 conventions definite for 2018 with 14,860 room nights; 11 definite for 2019 (11,000 rooms); and five (5) definite for 2020 (3,240 rooms). One (1) is firm for 2018 (200 rooms) and three (3) is firm for 2019 (1,120 rooms). From 2019 and on, we are working several large conventions in tentative status with a total of 20,000 rooms.
As of February 2018, we have over 23,000 definite room nights with another 4,300 in tentative and firm status.
2018 is going to be another record-setting year for the
Conventions are and will continue to be a focus for future
Center as projections are higher than ever. With limited
years, which allows us to better saturate our calendar with
space available, the sales team will continue to focus on
larger business associated with room nights. We can then
“booking smarter” to find the right events to fill the open
place all the other pieces of business into our available
dates. This means during an empty week we no longer book
space, focusing on mid-week trade shows and short-term
an event mid-week and we have shortened our booking
business to fill the Exhibit Hall in hopes of increasing our
window for single day events.
occupancy.
All departments will continue to provide outstanding customer service to assist in creating strong client relationships to help build our repeat client base. We can achieve success in meeting our goals for the year through a systematic approach in finding the right events for the available dates we have as well as how strategic the sales team continues to book future years.
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One Convention Center Plaza St. Charles, MO 63303 Local: 636.669.3000 Toll Free: 877.896.SCCC StCharlesConventionCenter.com
@StCharlesConven
SpectraExperiences.com