Month: July 2024

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EDGE Venues at miaConnect, International Planner Sentiment Report, Elevate NewGen, and more

This month’s news round-up brings you some of the industry and association news from July 2024, including EDGE Venues at miaConnect, International Planner Sentiment Report, Elevate NewGen, and more.  

EDGE Venues and ESG highlights of miaConnect Day agenda

The Meetings Industry Association’s miaConnect Day took place at Cloth Hall Court – University of Leeds, on 9 July.

Event Highlights include:

  • A business insights presentation from EDGE Venues’ CEO, Jacqui Kavanagh. This session provided a deep dive into the latest business trends and strategic approaches within the events industry.

“As predicted at the beginning of our EDGE Venues journey, digital tools to support the procurement of venues are really gaining popularity, as we move forward with a generation of people who are digital natives. Our industry needs to lead the way on this otherwise we will be left behind.”

Jacqui Kavanagh, CEO, EDGE Venues
  • An insightful case study, presented by University of Leeds’ Chelsea Rolfe. This focused on the challenges and successes of Cloth Hall’s efforts toward achieving net zero targets. Its particularly emphasised the challenge of using geothermal energy.
  • A panel discussion on ESG. Here, experts such as Nteractive’s Kerrin Honey and The Brighton Centre’s Emma Thurlow stressed the importance of measurement. They also looked at involving everyone in sustainability initiatives.
  • A panel discussion sharing best practices for fam trips and site visits. The panel highlighted the importance of effective communication and relationship-building with clients.
  • An ask the agents table session gave attendees the opportunity to engage directly with booking agents. Guests gained valuable insights into current industry trends and client expectations.
  • A team building event by ClueGo UK offered an interactive icebreaker session. This engaging start to the day set the tone for collaborative learning.

Read more.

The Business of Events publishes latest International Planner Sentiment Report 2024

The Business of Events has published its latest annual International Planner Sentiment Report for 2024. The annual report is in partnership with Meet in Ireland and IBTM World.

First published in 2020, the report uses desk-based research to track planner sentiments in ten specific areas. This is used to determine the key factors influencing their choice of destination. The audiences surveyed include planners from corporate, association, agency and incentive & reward across the UK, Europe and North America.

Key findings in this year’s report include:

  • Cost and value for money all tracked one point higher in every region surveyed. This reflects increased event costs and pressure on overall budgets through higher inflation.
  • The increase in importance of Destination Brand is up one point overall. This also reflects the need for a more personalised experience for brands and delegates.
  • Equity and Diversity, is tracking higher, more so across the UK and Europe. This reflects an increase in the wider conversation around DEI issues.

“Our International Planner Sentiment Report continues to be used by marketers and sales teams across the world to fine tune strategies and messaging and to increase competitive advantage. Once again, the report has shone a strong light on those factors that are influencing destination choice. While cost, brand and diversity have all increased in importance, it is becoming clear that sustainability, while still an extremely important topic, is becoming much more of an expected requirement rather than something which is seen as value added.”

Martin Fullard, Director of News & Content, The Business of Events

The study took place between 22nd April –10th May 2024. It covers three key geographical territories of the United Kingdom, Europe and North America.

Download The Business of Events’ 2024 International Planner Sentiment Report, here.

AEO (Association of Event Organisers) launches working group for independent event organisers

According to Meetings and Incentive Travel, AEO has a new working group for independent event organisers.

The private independent entrepreneur (PIE) working group will meet for the first time ahead of the AEO Conference.

“The launch of the PIE working group recognises the increasingly important part independently-owned organisers play in AEO membership and the broader industry. Connecting this community to encourage collaboration and sharing of best practice will help support their growth and create a strong foundation for these organisers to thrive.”

Chris Skeith OBE, Chief Executive, AEO

Read more.

CHS Birmingham Announces 2024 Educational Theme

CHS Birmingham has announced the theme of its award-winning educational content, with a focus on ‘How to be an Event Organiser’. Following CHS Leeds’ ‘How to Organise an Event’ theme, the content will continue the show’s back-to-basics approach. It also continues a commitment to support organisers’ professional and personal growth.

The programme will move slightly away from the more practical CHS Leeds sessions. It will look to how event organisers need to go about their work in 2024 and 2025. The approach considers how to safeguard event organisers roles, and how this supports better delegate outcomes. 

CHS Birmingham can already confirm keynotes, with more speakers and sessions to come throughout the summer. These include an Event Psychologist, and Intimacy Coordinator with insight from some of the biggest Hollywood film sets. Both sessions will share how event organisers can create positive cultures and environments for themselves, their teams, and their guests. 

“We’re so proud of our educational content, it’s one of the many reasons our visitors come to our show and we’re once again looking forward to introducing them to some really exciting, unique, and insightful sessions.”

Lou Hindley, Commercial Director, CHS Birmingham

Read more.

UKEVENTS appoints Tom Clements as Executive Committee & Outdoor Events Working Group Chair

UKEVENTS has announced the appointment of Tom Clements as Vice Chair and Chair of the Outdoor Events Working Group.

Tom brings a wealth of experience, as President of the National Outdoor Event Association and member of the Event Industry Advisory Group. He is a key voice behind the importance of retaining and growing talent and skills within the industry.

“We are delighted to welcome Tom Clements to the Executive Committee and as Chair of the Outdoor Events Group. Tom’s extensive experience and passion for the events industry will be invaluable as we tackle the challenges and opportunities ahead. His leadership will play a crucial role in driving forward our mission to support and grow the outdoor events sector.”

Chris Skeith OBE, Chair, UKEVENTS

Read more.

Elevate launches NewGen

According to Conference News, Elevate, the not-for-profit mentorship programme, has announced the launch of Elevate NewGen. The new initiative will ‘provide equal access to the events industry for underrepresented talent aged 18-25’. Read more…

https://www.conference-news.co.uk/news/elevate-mentoring-opening-doors-with-newgen-initiative/

View from the EDGE

EDGE Venues’ Commercial Director, Scott Ford, summed up this July’s monthly Insights:

“It’s great to see that net zero and sustainability remain high on the agenda within the meetings and events industry. Corporate clients often have carbon budgets they must not exceed in the meetings space. With many organisations now taking firm action to address this important area, it is becoming expected rather than a ‘nice to have’ for many professional meeting procurement teams. This view is reflected in the 2024 Business of Events report, so venues offering robust data on carbon impacts will lead the way.

“Something else we are passionate about at EDGE Venues is helping up-and-coming talent in the meetings and events industry. So it’s fantastic that when CHS Birmingham returns in October, its focus on education continues with sessions on how event organisers can effectively go about their work in 2024 and 2025. We also applaud Elevate for launching its NewGen, which provides much-needed equal access to the events industry for underrepresented talent aged 18-25.”

Scott Ford, Commercial Director, EDGE Venues

Missed June’s news round-up? Check it out here!

Book your next meeting or event venue on EDGEVenues.com

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Liverpool venues for meetings and events

Located in the county of Merseyside in Northwest England, Liverpool is a vibrant city, known all over the world for its music scene, football teams, maritime history, culture, friendly faces, and so much more.

Let’s take a closer look, and check out some Liverpool venues…

Did you know?

Liverpool is one of the most filmed locations outside of London, with many TV shows and films using this diverse city as a backdrop.

Recently we have seen the city transformed into Gotham City for The Batman film featuring Robert Pattison. The Birkenhead Tunnel was used as a filming location for Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows.

And there’s more! Other filming sights which have taken place in this city include The Fantastic Beasts film shooting at Martins Bank, Captain America: The First Avenger filming at Stanley Dock as well as The Peaky Blinders being filmed at St. George’s Hall.

Liverpool Venues

Looking for Liverpool venues? Below is just a small sample of the spaces on offer for your next meeting or event.

Radisson Blu Liverpool

Right in the heart of the business district, but a short stroll from all of Liverpool’s main attractions is Radisson Blu Liverpool. The hotel is home to 194 smart and stylish rooms, free Wi-Fi, and Collage Restaurant where guests can experience a unique twist on the classic British Brasserie.

With a streamlined, minimalistic aesthetic, the hotel has nine conference rooms with everything you need for a successful event. The city centre location offers transportation links to the airport only 15km away, and parking is available within walking distance at NCP car park.

Read more.

Hilton Liverpool City Centre

Situated in the centre of the Liverpool ONE retail and leisure complex, this Liverpool hotel’s location provides easy access to transport links and cultural attractions. From contemporary accommodations to numerous meetings and events opportunities, guests can easily get the most out of their experience. There are 11 air-conditioned function rooms available.

Its situated 20 minutes from Liverpool’s John Lennon airport, 45 minutes from Manchester International airport and just shy of one mile from Liverpool Lime Street station with services to all major cities in the UK.

Read more.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Liverpool City Centre

Delta is home to 146 large bedrooms and suites benefitting from luxurious bedding, with Egyptian cotton linens, to ensure all guests have the best start to their day. Guests also have full use of the hotel’s 24/7 fitness facilities.

Delta’s Merchant Suite is one of nine well-appointed meeting spaces and can cater for up to 240 guests in a theatre style layout. The suite is spacious and pillar free and has floor-to-ceiling windows offering natural daylight. The balcony terrace attached is also the perfect setting for pre-dinner drinks or BBQ themed events in the summer and overlooks the vibrant Queen Square.

Read more.

Pullman Liverpool Hotel

Stylish, elegant, and sophisticated, Pullman Liverpool is much more than a place to stay. Pullman is located on King’s Dock onsite with M&S Bank Arena, ACC Liverpool & Exhibition Centre Liverpool, making it a perfect spot to stay after an event at these venues. The hotel also has the Pullman Restaurant, Bar, and stunning lobby onsite, providing the perfect backdrop to connect with people.

Pullman Liverpool has 216 bedrooms, three flexible meeting rooms, fitness lounge as well as on-site baby grand piano and restaurant. At Pullman Liverpool there are several fully flexible meeting spaces, all including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi with capacity for 2 – 100 delegates.

Read more.

Crabwall Manor Hotel and Spa

Crabwall Manor Hotel and Spa is a historic 17th Century manor house just a short drive from Chester city centre and a stone’s throw from Liverpool. The Manor is a four star country house hotel, just two miles north of historical Chester and 25 miles from bustling Liverpool.

Crabwall Manor has 55 bedrooms and four air-conditioned meeting rooms, all with ground floor access and which can accommodate from 2 to 100 delegates.

Read more.

Interested in any of these venues? Check them out via the links underneath their introductions above. And if you would like to find out more about Liverpool venues or spaces in other locations, please get in touch.

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Sensory-friendly events – are your events inclusive and welcoming?

Inclusivity is a crucial commitment to ensuring each individual can enjoy and participate in your events regardless of their unique needs. And it means your attendees benefit from the ideas and input of those who may otherwise avoid your events!

Here, we explore the concept of sensory-friendly events and share the importance of ensuring events are welcoming for everyone.

Understanding sensory sensitivities

Sensory sensitivities can affect individuals on various levels. For some, loud noises may be overwhelming. For others, bright lights might be distressing. 

People with autism, sensory processing disorder, or anxiety often experience these sensitivities. By recognising and addressing them, we can create an environment where all attendees feel comfortable and valued.

The importance of sensory-friendly events

Hosting sensory-friendly events goes beyond being accommodating to creating an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance. Such events cater to those with sensory sensitivities and demonstrate your commitment to creating inclusive spaces for everyone. 

Embracing diversity and actively working to create sensory-friendly experiences, you send a powerful message that you value each attendee’s contributions.

EDGE Venues spoke to Daniel Brooke, Director of Neurodiversity Specialists, for her thoughts on the importance of sensory-friendly events:

“Incorporating inclusivity and sensory-friendly activities holds paramount importance in the meetings and events industry, particularly for neurodivergent individuals.

“By designing events that consider a wide range of sensory sensitivities and preferences, we ensure that neurodivergent participants can fully engage and contribute.

“Creating an environment that minimises sensory overload and respects individual needs fosters a sense of acceptance and empowerment. Such inclusive practices enhance the event experience for neurodiverse attendees and set a progressive precedent for the industry.

“Through embracing neurodiversity, we drive innovation and lead the way in creating truly accessible and enriching event spaces.”

Daniel Brooke, Director, Neurodiversity Specialists

Creating sensory-friendly events

1. Communication

Clearly communicate to attendees that your event is sensory-friendly. Provide information about the event’s sensory-friendly features, such as lower noise levels, dimmed lighting, and designated quiet spaces. This will help set expectations and reassure attendees that their comfort is a priority.

2. Venue Considerations

When selecting a venue, opt for spaces that offer flexibility in terms of lighting and sound. The ability to adjust these factors can greatly contribute to creating a sensory-friendly environment. Additionally, ensure your venue is easily accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.

3. Lighting

Use soft, diffused lighting to create a comfortable ambience. Avoid harsh spotlights or flashing lights that could cause discomfort. Consider incorporating natural light, as it tends to be gentler on the senses.

4. Sound

Control noise levels by utilising sound-absorbing materials such as carpets, drapes, and panels. Implement a quiet hour or designated quiet zones where attendees can retreat if they need a break from sensory stimulation.

5. Sensory breaks

This goes hand-in-hand with sound management. Designate quiet, comfortable spaces where attendees can take a break if they get overwhelmed.

6. Visual aids

Provide visual schedules or guides outlining the event’s timeline and activities. Visual aids can help individuals with sensory sensitivities better understand what to expect, reducing anxiety and uncertainty.

Some examples

An example of a brand that does sensory-friendly events well is Cineworld. At selected branches across the UK, they hold autism-friendly screenings with low lights and reduced volume. Individuals are welcome to bring their own food and drink and can move around the cinema if they like.

Cineworld has options to host a private screening for just you and your delegates. What’s more, with their sensory-friendly facilities, every delegate can enjoy the experience.

Many UK museums also have facilities to host neurodiverse individuals, whether they are just visiting or attending an event. 

The V&A Museum, National Galleries of Scotland, Dynamic Earth, National Museums Liverpool, and the Natural History Museum to name a few, all have facilities to reduce lighting and volume, hand out sensory packs. And some have quiet rooms. These venues all hold regular sensory-friendly days for those just visiting – they’re a good way to check out the facilities before booking an event.

Improvement

After hosting a sensory-friendly event, seek feedback from attendees to gain insights into their experiences. This information can be invaluable in refining your approach and making future events even more inclusive. Remember, the goal is not perfection but an ongoing commitment to learning and adapting.

Creating sensory-friendly events indicates commitment to, and understanding of, diversity – and prioritising the comfort and enjoyment of all your event attendees. And thoughtful strategies to accommodate sensory sensitivities creates memorable experiences while developing inclusivity that resonates long after the event ends. 

We take pride in supporting those hosting more accessible and welcoming events for everyone. If you would like to find out more, please get in touch.

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The New Era of EDGE Venues

On Thursday 4th July, once everyone had voted in the general election, we held our ever-popular annual EDGE Venues Summer Party. It was bigger and better than ever before.

This year, we hosted the event at the beautiful Haycock Manor Hotel. Relocating to Haycock was crucial for us as it enabled a more significant and impressive event experience, setting the standard for our vision of EDGE Venues’ future and introducing the new era of EDGE Venues.

It was a day full of insight. We shared the EDGE Venues journey and our plans for success. We discussed our future technology roadmap and provided insights into the developments of EDGE Venues, which is designed by the industry for the industry.

We welcomed guest panellists Kevin Harrison (Director – Good Travel Management), Stephen Flynn (Head of Events & Production – Allianz), and Chris Lester (Event Director – Bauer Media Group) for a fantastic session focused on business insights and opportunities from key buyers.

We received such positive feedback on this session. The audiences valued the input, as it’s so important that we hear from buyers first-hand what they are experiencing, as this shapes the way we develop future technology.

In fact, we’ve had overwhelmingly positive feedback about the entire afternoon, flooded with LinkedIn posts and messages, and initial post-event survey results already showing 100% satisfaction with the event experience and its organisation (excellent or very good).

Early results also show that attendees found the content extremely relevant and useful, including our round tables and data analysis session, and enjoyed the discussions around sharing best practices.

One area highlighted during the discussion was that venues should share terms and conditions at the RFP stage, not the contract stage. Sending them at the contract stage can often cause delays with legal departments – sharing them earlier reduces the risk of losing potential business.

The event was well-attended by a diverse mix of our EDGE Venues users – it was wonderful to welcome buyers, alongside representatives from agencies and venues. It’s a real testament to the fantastic community we’re building.

The atmosphere was incredible, with so many networking opportunities. We feel we’re building a strong community, and this event demonstrated that EDGE truly is Technology with Personality. We’re excited about the new era of EDGE Venues!

“The event was great, it was so insightful – by far one of the best panel discussions I’ve been to. It was great to see buyers on the panel as opposed to just other venues talking about trends – it was good to get the buyers reasonings behind all the trends we are seeing.

We will definitely look at attending the January event in London too!”

Treehouse Manchester

With that in mind, we want to ensure that you don’t miss our next event:

Look forward to seeing you there!

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New venues for your next event

What is more exclusive than a new venue to host your next event in? We have created a list of some of the more recent new venue openings, along with a couple that are opening their doors soon.

Radisson Blu Sheffield – Opened June 2024

Overlooking the Town Centre and The Peace Gardens, Radisson Blu Sheffield features a restored Victorian façade with 154 contemporary bedrooms.

The hotel also has a rooftop speakeasy-style Indian restaurant and bar, flexible meeting and event spaces with an outdoor terrace, a fully equipped fitness centre, and a convenient location, our hotel is the perfect base for your stay, whether traveling on business or leisure.

The hotel’s meetings and events space can host up to 280 attendees in their six meeting rooms. The space comes with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment as standard, and all attendees can keep connected with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.

Find out more

Tynecastle Park Hotel: Opened February 2024

A unique hotel at an instantly iconic destination – Tynecastle Park, the home of Heart of Midlothian FC – sits in the heart of Edinburgh. With two vast outdoor spaces Tynecastle Park can easily manage larger displays, stands and product demonstrations.

The Main Stand lounges offer additional space for catering, production areas or as presentation or sponsor rooms. Having recently undergone redevelopment, Tynecastle Park currently offers nine event spaces with a combined capacity of up to 1200 delegates.

Find out more

Hotel Indigo Coventry: Opened January 2024

Situated in the heart of Coventry’s vibrant city centre, the boutique hotel captures the essence of this dynamic city, blending modern comforts with a nod to its rich heritage.

Hotel Indigo Coventry has a modern and contemporary design boardroom, with all mod cons and plenty of natural daylight, the meeting room is perfect for small meetings for up to ten people. The hotel offers catering, meeting registration services, creative meeting and event concept consultation, and Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

Find out more

Park Hyatt London River Thames: Opening Late 2024

The hotel is conveniently located near the bustling Sloane Square and Kings Road, globally renowned art gallery Tate Britain, the charming 200-acre Battersea Park and popular tourist attractions like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and London Eye.

At Park Hyatt London River Thames, their 203 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, including the Two ambassador suites and the distinguished presidential suite, have been meticulously designed to cater to the needs of their guests.

The hotel offers seven meeting spaces with breakout foyers and one ballroom with a pre-function area that can host up to 850 guests. The dedicated team offers carefully curated and personalised experiences and flexible catering options for your special event.

Find out more

The Reach Manchester Piccadilly: Opening Late 2024

The Reach at Piccadilly a Tribute Portfolio Hotel stands out for its incredible location in the heart of the bustling city, yet it rests adjacent to the calm of the Rochdale Canal. A new opening scheduled for 2024 guests will be able to wine and dine whilst watching boats pass through Lock 84. Only 90 seconds walk to Piccadilly Train Station and easy access to Manchester’s main attractions.

The hotel also will be home to The Reach at Piccadilly Restaurant and Bar serving an eclectic mix of small plates and larger plates along with quality drinks. Perfect for either a pre-event cocktail and bite to eat, or something more formal and substantial.

Find out more

Keep up-to-date with all the latest hotel openings by subscribing to EDGE Venues.