2012 and its ramifications for the UK events industry were at the forefront on the first day of the Event Production Show and the inaugural UK Venue Show.
Europe’s pre-eminent showcase for live events kicked off today (Wednesday 1st February) at London Olympia, running over Thursday 2nd February and including tonight’s Event Production Awards at the Hilton Park Lane.
At respected thought leadership programme, the Access Sessions, Stuart Cornish, head of the Metropolitan Police Olympic and Paralympic Planning Team, stressed his force’s priority to “protect the venues, events, infrastructure and those attending and using them”. His presentation highlighted the involvement of all bodies involved in the “military manoeuvre as large as Afghanistan”.
Cornish highlighted the force’s determination to avoid any “reputational risk” facing the country during a globally significant event such as the Olympic Games, pinpointing the riots which swept the country in 2011 as leading to a “dip in public confidence”. He also addressed the challenge posed by the hosting of 205 nations during the Games, explaining that they “all have the same values, but with slightly different expectations”.
Mike Kershaw, Chairman of The Concerto Group, detailed how corporate buyers looking for Olympic and Paralympic opportunities were set to book last minute due to the impression that better rates could be achieved at shorter lead in times. He explained that by booking late, venues may be less likely to have the staff and ancillary services in place to be able to service such events.
Away from the sessions, an overwhelmingly positive response came from exhibitors at the first trade exhibition of 2012 for the UK events industry.
Phil Ion, director at exhibitor Core Lighting said: “We are delighted with our first day at the show, and have been very impressed at the quality of the leads. We are sharing our stand with Whitelight and we have met a range of visitors from owner managers to representatives of multinationals and corporates.”
Sarah Brownlee, Event Manager of the Event Production Show said: “All the indications from the show floor are that both exhibitors and visitors have had a rewarding first day at the show. The addition of the inaugural UK Venue Show, the different sessions on offer and the vibrancy of Live at the Grand have given this year’s show a feel good factor which will also be in evidence at tonight’s Awards.”
