Kempton Park Racecourse has reported a dramatic increase in conference and events profits and attendance levels for the period between January 2011 and January 2012.
The Jockey Club Venues racecourse, based in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, has cultivated a reputation for event excellence and flexibility, and is a popular venue for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, private events and live music evenings. This is reflected in the reported increase in C&E profits of 33% from 2011 to 2012, meaning sales from conferences and events alone now contribute to 50% of the racecourse’s overall profits.
Following a number of initiatives to encourage the sale of DDR packages, including ‘Meetings with Fizz’ (a free Champagne reception for meetings with over 10 delegates and complimentary entry to that day’s racing), discounted top tier DDR packages, and a New Year Sale of 20% off event bookings, which took place in 2011 and is ongoing in 2012, Kempton Park Racecourse has experienced an increase in DDR package sales. Between January 2010 and January 2011, just 2,516 DDR packages were sold, compared with 5,375 in the same time period for the following year – an increase of 213%.
Kempton Park Racecourse’s Christmas parties exploded in popularity in 2012; following a huge number of enquiries, the racecourse offered an additional shared party night for its renowned Reindeer Racing Nights in December 2012. This resulted in an increase in Christmas party covers of 323%, from 485 covers to 1,567 covers.
Rupert Trevelyan, Regional Director – London, commented: “It’s great to see that Kempton Park Racecourse’s reputation for event excellence has been reflected in C&E sales and attendance. We’re looking forward to continuing to develop this standing throughout 2013, and hope to see similar statistics this time next year.”
Kempton Park Racecourse offers a range of suites and spaces for up to 700 delegates, with a dedicated event manager on hand to assist in event planning and execution. The venue’s Grandstand underwent extensive renovations throughout the summer of 2011, including internal and external development of the ground floor, with investment made in modernising and improving the materials and appearance of the public areas, seating, bars and food outlets.
