September 2024 - EDGE Venues

30th September 202430th September 2024

beam State of the Nation, CN Agency Leaders Summit, booking offers research, isla membership, and more

This month’s news round-up brings you industry and association news and views from September 2024, including beam State of the Nation event, CN Agency Leaders Summit, booking offers research, isla new-look membership, and more.

beam State of the Nation event highlights value of sector to MPs

SIC codes and the value of business events were the main discussion topics with MPs at the beam State of the Nation event at Cliveden House.

Senior representatives of beam agency and venue members, as well as Windsor MP Jack Rankin and shadow business minister Mike Wood, were joined at the invitation-only event by multiple guest speakers who showcased the events industry’s contribution to the UK economy.

Julie Shorrock, beam chair and managing director of Hotel and Travel Solutions, said: “We collectively impressed upon them the industry’s benefits and the need for updated SIC codes to accurately reflect its value. Furthermore, we shared the need for an easier visa scheme for all and an event tax credit scheme to attract new events.

“We also shared an industry requirement for increased support in attracting international events, including practical support for competitiveness and increased national and regional convention bureau funding. Finally, we discussed leveraging events to help deliver government policies and create a legacy.”

CN Agency Leaders Summit brought together 70+ agency community leaders

On 18-19 September, the inaugural CN Agency Leaders Summit successfully brought together event agency directors for two days of insightful expertise-sharing, learning, and valuable networking with key industry professionals.

Amid an ever-evolving agency landscape, the summit gathered senior leaders from across the community to tackle strategy-focused challenges associated with running an events business. With a balanced program of engaging content sessions and networking opportunities, the summit empowered agency leaders to pursue best practices and strengthen the sector as a whole.

EDGE Venues’ CEO, Jacqui Kavanagh, spoke at the event on a panel discussing mergers and acquisitions among agencies.

Jacqui commented: “I had the pleasure of joining Simon Hambley, Rick Stainton and Simon Quarendon on the mergers and acquisitions panel at the CN Agency Leaders Summit. It was great to share our journey honestly with a great group of people who may be considering mergers and acquisitions. I hope that by sharing, we have helped a few people prepare and manage their expectations of the process and the journey ahead so they can achieve a successful result.”

95 per cent of event bookers say exclusive offers and booking incentives would make them consider a venue for their event

Research by The Delegate Wranglers and CUSTARD has revealed the thoughts of event buyers and venues on the topic of offers and incentives and provides an insight into booking behaviours.

It also reveals buyers are likely to get frustrated by:

Venues failing to tailor offers and incentives, and providing limited availability when they promote offers.
Hidden terms and conditions and unclear additional fees with venue booking offers and incentives.

isla announces new-look membership with tailored offerings for organisations, no matter where they are on their sustainability journey

isla, the non-profit organisation heading-up the charge towards a sustainable future for events, have unveiled a new membership offering, designed to provide more tailored sustainability solutions for agencies, brands, associations, venues and supply chain businesses.

Anna Abdelnoor, CEO and founder of isla reflects; “with evolving legislation and incoming regulations across the EU and beyond, isla recognises the need to stay at the forefront of these changes, translating these into impacts on the event industry and ensuring the sector is equipped to respond and act on climate and legislative change.

Designed to instil confidence within the events community and support members to make progress and take action in a changing sustainability landscape, the new offering focuses on providing expert guidance, practical tools and building a community of action-taking changemakers.

M&IT Awards partnership gives Meeting Needs £24,000 boost

Event industry charity foundation Meeting Needs raised more than £24,000 during and in the run-up to the M&IT Awards 2024.

Partnering annually with organisers Northstar Meetings Group to raise cash at the event delivers positive results for Meeting Needs as well providing a valuable platform to present details of its projects around the world.

In the online auction, £9,940 was raised while a raffle on the night delivered £14,450.

Why no-one should ever put agents in the corner

beam, the association for the business events, accommodation and meetings industry, recently shared thoughts on the crucial role of agents in the realm of venue booking:

Agents and their suppliers have some of the strongest relationships, forged on years of trust, secured volume, agreements and rates that mutually benefit both parties. However, being the industry we are, these relationships can extend out to the travellers and the agents’ bookers – which is great – until the lines get blurred and bookers cut out the agent to book directly. This is when relationships get a bit murky and the issue around booking ethics comes to the fore.

So, what should a venue do when a booker approaches direct for business? At beam, we believe in ethical booking standards that value the agent’s role in the booking process. While we encourage relationships to be positively maintained all-round, suppliers must be transparent with agents, keeping them informed of any ongoing conversations. At the end of the day, both supplier and agent have the same goal: to deliver what the booker wants and generate long-term repeat business.

Read it in full, here.

Skift asks if DEI becoming a “Dirty Word” in the Meetings Industry

Skift’s Andrea Doyle has covered a Skift Meetings Forum session which considers DEI in meetings and events. ‘From changing terminology to debates about the effectiveness of Employee Resource Groups, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is a hot-button issue.

Skift Meetings Forum featured a conversation between Dr. Brandi Baldwin, an organisational and leadership psychologist and CEO of Millennial Ventures, and social purpose consultant Bea Boccalandro, highlighting the need for more authentic, values-driven inclusion efforts — without tokenism or haste.’

Read it here.

Seth Godin shares strong advice for planners’ at Skift Meetings Forum

According to a report on Skift Meetings, Seth – American entrepreneur, best-selling author, and speaker – told the audience:

“What people need are the kinds of interactions they had when they would bump into someone in the hall at work. So how do you create that environment?
“What if we imagine that the conference doesn’t last 72 hours? What happens instead is that a month before it starts, you get a dossier of 12 people you need to meet while you are there. What happens is that instead of saying, ‘Please download our app,’ there’s a good reason to stay in it?”

Read the full feature.

View from the EDGE

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

“It’s great to see MPs and lawmakers engaging with the industry at beam State of the Nation to help promote the huge benefits the sector can bring to the economy.

“With the new government’s focus on growth and the economy, this can only help support the industry as a whole, and with regular engagement like this, beam can make sure that meetings and events stay high on the agenda.

“Our industry is well known for its generosity in supporting worthwhile causes, so it’s wonderful to see the impact of the recent Meetings Needs charity activity in and around the M&IT awards. I was lucky enough to be there on the night to witness first-hand some of the life-changing impacts Meeting Needs has day in and day out to those less fortunate than us.

“‘The Delegate Wranglers and CUSTARD have highlighted an interesting trend on the impact that tailored, targeted and transparent incentive offers can have in leveraging event buyers’ decisions on where to place their events. Although it seems this could be a double-edged sword if the incentive has overly burdensome T&Cs, it could just as easily be seen as negative, so it’s important to be as transparent as possible to have the greatest effect.”

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

Book your next meeting or event venue on EDGEVenues.com

25th September 202419th September 2025

Building high performing teams in the events industry through apprenticeships

What do you know about apprenticeships? You probably know it’s paid on-the-job training where employees gain valuable experiences while completing academic training, leading to nationally recognised qualifications.

Did you know that for 2023-24 the total apprenticeship levy came to £3.9 billion but due to underspend because of lack of take up, £5 billion between 2017 -21 went unspent. Last year alone 2022-23, £96 million, or four per cent, of England’s ring-fenced apprenticeships budget went unused.

This blog seeks to address some of the misconceptions about apprenticeships and identifies the huge opportunity and potential for the meetings and events industry to take advantage of its potential to upskill staff and attract new talent into the sector by using the apprenticeship levy.

Dispelling common misconceptions of apprenticeships

In recent years, apprenticeships have become an increasingly valuable route for career development across various industries, including the events sector.

In the 2022/23 academic year, there were 752,150 people participating in an apprenticeship in England (source: House of Commons Library) but each year some of the levy is unused.
The number of starts fell in 2022/23 by 12,100, or 3%, from the number of starts in the previous academic year.
Over 500 Event Assistant apprentices between 2017-2021 (IFATE, 2022)

Despite their growing relevance, many misconceptions persist, limiting apprentices’ potential to revolutionise learning and development. These myths often stem from outdated perceptions of them limited to entry-level, youth-focused training programmes. In reality, apprenticeships today are broad, dynamic, and applicable to professionals of all ages and stages of their careers.

We caught up with Lynn Manir-Jolley, CEO of Potential Realised to unravel the misconceptions of apprenticeships and why businesses should take full advantage of what’s available.

The myth of apprenticeships being just for school leavers

Prevalent misconceptions include them being solely for young people coming out of school or college. This is far from the truth. Apprenticeships are accessible to individuals at any stage in life. There are people on apprenticeships who are in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and even their 50s. There is no age barrier when it comes to furthering education and skills development, yet the belief that apprenticeships are only for the younger generation still lingers.

This partly stems from branding issues or outdated assumptions about apprenticeships. While the term may evoke images of school leavers or early-career trainees, modern apprenticeships cater to professionals across a wide range of industries and experience levels, offering opportunities for both young individuals starting their careers and seasoned professionals looking to upskill or transition into new roles.

One route into the events workforce has traditionally been through UK Higher Education providers of event-related undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. This route has seen a decline in applications and acceptances over the last 5 years (HESA, 2022). There are now approximately 2,000 graduates entering the workforce from event degrees each year.

Apprenticeships are not just for large companies

Another common misconception surrounds apprenticeships being primarily for large corporations with substantial payrolls. In reality, businesses of all sizes can benefit from these programmes.

For small companies, the primary requirement is having a line manager to support the apprentice throughout their training. This is important because training providers meet with both the learner and their line manager every quarter to ensure steady progress. Even if your company doesn’t pay into the apprenticeship levy – typically for organisations with a payroll under £3 million – you can still access apprenticeship training by covering just 5% of the course cost.

For example, if an apprenticeship costs £4,000, a small business will only need to pay £200, making it a cost-effective investment in long-term staff development.

For larger companies with payrolls over £3 million who automatically contribute 0.05% of their wage bill to the apprenticeship levy, the opportunities expand even further. Large organisations often have considerable unused levy funds, which can be redirected to support other areas of their business or even transfer to smaller companies within their supply chain.

This creates a strategic advantage, particularly in industries like events, where partnerships between agencies, hotels, AV companies, and other suppliers are critical to delivering successful events. Levy transfers enable larger businesses to support their smaller partners, ensuring employees receive the necessary training and skills development.

Collaboration and strategic use of the levy

For large businesses, levy underutilisation is a common issue. Even companies that are aware of the levy may not be fully tapping into the potential benefits. Organisations can allocate these funds to upskill staff in key areas, such as leadership, human resources, or industry-specific skills. For example, in other sectors such as construction they use the levy to develop their HR and leadership teams as well as technical experts, maximising the value across multiple departments.

Not well known is that the apprenticeship levy’s unused funds can be transferred to smaller businesses. This opens up significant opportunities for strategic partnerships within sectors like meetings and events, where collaboration is essential. Large agencies, for example, can support smaller partners by transferring their unused levy to fund apprenticeship training. This adds value to the entire supply chain, ensuring all partners are equipped with the skills necessary to succeed.

The lifelong learning mindset

There is still the challenge to address outdated beliefs that learning stops after formal education or at a certain age. Continuous development has become essential for everyone. Education is for everybody, forever. You don’t stop learning. This lifelong learning approach is essential for businesses that want to remain competitive and innovative.

In the events industry, for instance, apprenticeships are not limited to event management alone. They can encompass fields like marketing, finance, research and development, and even gastronomy! The breadth of opportunities available through apprenticeships makes them highly adaptable to a company’s specific needs, while also contributing to individual career growth.

It’s not just about entry-level roles. Apprenticeships can be designed to develop senior leadership, marketing, HR, finance, and many other functions critical to business success. However, the untapped potential of the Apprenticeship Levy suggests that there is still a knowledge gap within many organisations about how best to utilise these funds to develop their teams.

Strategic integration and continuous learning

There is a need for strategic planning when implementing apprenticeships. Successful programmes require a clear vision and partnership between employers, training providers, and learners. If you get that three-way relationship right, then it really does work.

Investing in employee development through apprenticeships can improve staff retention, employee satisfaction, and brand reputation.

It also helps businesses stay agile and competitive in industries requiring continuous learning and adaptation to new trends.

Supporting apprenticeships, especially in collaborative ways, can strengthen companies’ ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) credentials, showing a commitment to workforce development and sustainability.

Long-term benefits for businesses and learners

Apprenticeships offer a clear advantage for both businesses and learners. For the meetings and events sector, investing in apprenticeships contributes to talent development, succession planning, and overall staff retention. Apprenticeships provide an opportunity for employees to gain practical, hands-on experience, apply their learning directly in the workplace, and advance through levels of certification that can align with their career goals—whether they’re pursuing level 3, level 5, or even level 7 qualifications.

For learners, apprenticeships provide a structured pathway to developing new skills and gaining qualifications without the burden of student debt. Many young people are opting for apprenticeships over traditional university routes, attracted by the opportunity to earn while they learn and gain valuable experience. This trend is growing, particularly as the cost of higher education rises and the desire for practical work experience increases.

How can you access events apprenticeships?

Events Apprenticeships (EA) is a not-for-profit, CIC (Community Interest Company) organisation helping to develop and provide recognised routes into events, to allow people from all backgrounds and ages to gain experience and relevant professional qualifications within the industry. It aims to break down barriers to entry and progression with the aim of attracting a broader pipeline of potential talent.

The Events Apprenticeship Framework (EAF) brings together those apprenticeships that are recognised as supporting the wider event ecosystem. It identifies gaps and aims to fill these, initially highlighting those whose core work is in events:

Event Assistant
Production Technician and Live Event Rigger.

It will aim to influence and sign-post related apprenticeships, such as:

Print Technician
Electrician
Carpentry & Joinery
Security First Line Manager
Hospitality Supervisor
Hospitality Manager

As within the events industry, they inspire the way apprenticeships are perceived and drive forward innovative and creative work in England to ensure more individuals and businesses can access the benefits of event apprenticeships.

The future of apprenticeships in the events industry

The meetings and events industry is rapidly evolving, and apprenticeships can play a crucial role in keeping pace with changes. As technology, such as AI, continues to influence event planning and execution, businesses need to stay on top of these advancements. Continuous training is essential, and apprenticeships offer a structured way to ensure staff remain agile and responsive to emerging trends.

Moreover, the government’s focus on skills development suggests that apprenticeships will continue to grow. Political changes may bring shifts to the levy system, potentially expanding how businesses can use levy funds. This could open the door to shorter, targeted training programmes or “skills boot camps” to address immediate needs in the workforce.

Final words from Lynn

“Apprenticeships present an excellent opportunity for businesses of all sizes in the meetings and events industry. From upskilling current employees to developing future leaders, the apprenticeship levy and its associated programs provide a pathway to growth and success. By collaborating with partners, making strategic use of levy transfers, and keeping an eye on future trends, companies can ensure they are well-positioned to thrive in this fast-paced and ever-evolving sector.

The key to success is education — both for businesses and learners. Understanding how apprenticeships work, the funding available, and the potential long-term benefits can unlock a world of opportunities for businesses looking to invest in their most important asset: their people.”

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16th September 202418th September 2024

Vine Hotels & Dan Wilson – get to know us!

Inside a meeting room at Vine Hotels' Kenwood Hall

With his role overseeing nine properties across England, from Sheffield to Southampton, Dan Wilson, Regional General Manager of Vine Hotels, has lots of conference and meetings insight for EDGE Venues users.

Dan’s expertise in all things Vine Hotels is clear from our interview: read all about the group in Dan’s words here, including the group’s pipeline projects and refurbishment plans.

Tell our meetings and event bookers about Vine Hotels

Vine Hotels owns, manages, and operates a portfolio of eleven uniquely individual hotels and venues in the UK. Each is distinctively different in style. All focussed on delivering a consistently high standard of guest experience.

The portfolio spans the length of the UK and includes an eclectic blend of heritage hotels and modern properties, plus rural locations, and urban venues.

We have a collection of venues in the South Yorkshire/ Sheffield/ Peak District area, including the DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park and Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa. Plus, two properties in the south Manchester area, and the remaining hotels are in the south of the country, including the Clarion Hotel Charlecote Pheasant (Stratford-upon-Avon).

Our venues operate as a mix of unbranded properties and we also work with key brands such as Accor, Best Western, Hilton, and Choice Hotels to offer hotels under the Best Western, DoubleTree by Hilton, Mercure and Clarion brands.

The style of our hotels and venues varies too from heritage locations such as Clarion Hotel Charlecote Pheasant to modern hotels such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park. It allows us to offer a range of small, intimate meeting spaces for one-to-one meetings, to larger event spaces accommodating up to 500 people theatre style.

A number of our venues also offer self-contained event rooms, for additional privacy, and extensive outdoor event space for team building or al fresco meetings.

Vine Hotels is owned by Greg Dyke (chairman), the former director general of the BBC and former chairman of the FA, and Garin Davies (chief executive), former divisional director of BDL Management and former main board director of Best Western UK.

Can Vine Hotels support all event types?

Yes, there’s not much that we can’t offer—anything from a small meeting for two people to training facilities to large conferences and events with break-out space. A number of our hotels and venues offer access to acres of landscaped grounds, perfect for outdoor events in marquees/tipis, team building days, outdoor dining, and more.

We offer maximum flexibility in how we plan an event with you, so pretty much anything can be delivered. Because we have hotels clustered in some areas, such as Sheffield, we can also provide cross-venue options allowing you to hold a meeting at one venue, and an evening event or team building at another. Many of our venues are hotels, and so can meet accommodation needs, but we also offer non-residential venues.

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park guest room

What trends are the team at Vine Hotels seeing that you can share with EDGE Venues users?

We are seeing a renewed growth in conferences and meetings in our Sheffield properties. Historically, this business may have bypassed the city for other northern locations such as Manchester. However, they are seeing the great value, accessibility, and attraction of the location – which blends the best of city amenities on the doorstep of the Peak District countryside.

We are seeing growth in two areas – day delegate business and team building. The post-pandemic shift to homeworking has eased and we are seeing companies wanting to return to face-to-face meetings and, in particular, training. As teams are more dispersed, many see this gathering of employees as an opportunity to add building activities to meetings, to help bond remote workers.

Have you seen any change in seasonal events, like corporate Christmas?

Post covid, Christmas events were shrinking in size, but not this year. The enquiries are strongest for larger corporate Christmas parties. They are looking for innovative ideas on menu and décor, steering away from the normal turkey dinner. So, our creative chefs are collaborating with clients to develop food stations, sharing platters, and more.

We are also seeing a growth in more interactive Christmas events. A party where guests get involved – so part team build/part celebration. For example, mixology masterclasses. Painting a festive ‘graffiti wall.’ Quizzes with great prizes. Interactive food stations such as taco stands or hot dog stalls – where you personalise your food by serving your toppings and sauces.

And what about Vine Hotel’s approach to sustainability?

Vine Hotels is dedicated to sustainable growth and recognise that our business has an environmental and social impact on local, national, and global communities. Our sustainable approach means building strong relationships with our customers, employees, suppliers, regulators, investors, and the wider communities we serve, considering the issues that matter to them.

To ensure our business delivers integrity and compassion towards both people and the planet, we focus our strategy on the three key areas of Environment, Social, and Governance.

Our policies are consistently reviewed, and we work collaboratively with all our stakeholders and franchise partners to ensure that we are as effective as possible in addressing our responsibilities.

Environment

We commit to:

Lessening our negative impact on the environment.
Reducing carbon and working towards Government-defined net-zero targets.
Effective waste management, including a reduction in single-use plastics.

Environmental sustainability is at the top of the agenda for our customers, team members, local communities, and investors. Our policy is therefore to approach every element of our business with a view to how we can lessen our impact on the environment. We consider the environment in our everyday decision-making and our supply chain has been subject to scrutiny, with the aim of developing strong relationships with like-minded suppliers.

With sustainability in mind, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint year-on-year by minimising our use of natural resources, and reducing the waste we generate and ensuring it is disposed of in a way that causes minimal harm. Where possible and viable, we aim to use local goods and suppliers to reduce our carbon footprint further whilst striving to continue to obtain the best value in terms of cost, quality, service, and innovation.

We have pledged to significantly reduce our consumption of single-use plastics across all areas of the company, and we are working towards increasing energy efficiency across the entire business. Vine Hotels has been awarded the MIA Green Meetings Standard. Visit: https://www.mia-uk.org/Green-Meetings

Some of our Best Western properties are also working towards the REST accreditation, a quality grading scheme for tourism and hospitality businesses that measures the responsibility, ethics, and sustainability of our practices. The scheme is designed to objectively quantify our hotel’s commitment to the environment, visitors, staff, and suppliers.

Social

We commit to:

Positively impacting communities by encouraging our staff to support national and local charities.
Upholding the highest standards for human rights and labour.
Nurturing talent from within by providing ongoing staff development opportunities.

We actively encourage our staff to support local and national charities, through charitable giving, fundraising, and volunteering.

Vine Hotels operates a no-ceiling policy, it is the company’s aim to be fully inclusive, encouraging diversity at all management levels. We continually strive to provide a safe, inclusive, and healthy workplace that supports employee safety and physical and emotional well-being. The company operates a fair pay policy with additional rewards for team members.

At Vine Hotels we recognise that investment in people is one of the most important elements that can help a business to grow exponentially. Our commitment to building the skills and confidence of our workforce is evident in several internal development programmes that aim to help our staff accelerate their professional growth, develop new skills, and progress along their chosen career path.

Governance

We commit to:

Adhering to the correct legislation and governance to protect our staff and communities.
Delivering first-class service
Ensuring our facilities meet the highest standards and are safe, healthy, and hygienic.

Vine Hotels aims to be a fair and trusted business that upholds the highest professional, ethical, and quality standards. We strive to promote best practice and comply with the relevant legislation and standards of the locations in which we operate.

As many of our venues are MIA-accredited, we have the recognition and endorsement from the sector’s leading trade association for business meetings and events. This qualification recognises first-class service, excellent facilities, and a total commitment to upholding legal compliance and health and hygiene protocols.

A number of our hotels have achieved customer service awards, and we continually invest in training and development of teams, to ensure the highest standards of service.

We have clear business policies that ensure we take a professional approach to business and offer an environment that is healthy, hygienic, and safe. We aim to do the absolute best for customers and staff and are aware of social, political, and environmental issues that could affect them negatively ensuring we have stringent policies set out for their protection.

Brand Partnerships and ESG

Vine Hotels operates hotels across the UK with a number of international brand partners. Where our properties operate as a franchise to a wider group, we will embrace and support the specific brand’s ESG charter to ensure consistency and focus on our ESG principles. Examples of these policies can be found at the links below:

Hilton
Best Western
IHG

Does the group have any plans on the horizon that we are allowed to talk about?

Pipeline projects include the 216-bedroom Gateshead Novotel and the 140-bedroom Gateshead ibis. This is a £48m hotel spanning nine storeys at a major quayside development. The 344-room hotel will be built at the Baltic Quarter in Gateshead with more than 100 jobs being created when it opens. Vine Hotels is involved in the planning of the Hotel and will operate it once open.

We are also working on soft refurbishment plans at the Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel, Clarion Hotel Charlecote Pheasant, and Best Western Cresta Court Hotel.

What do you think sells Vine Hotels to meetings and events bookers?

Most importantly, the team cares about the business and the bookings. We have a team dedicated to finding solutions for clients. Flexibility is the key, and the team takes the extra time needed to ensure that each booking meets the needs and expectations of the booker.

Tell our readers a little about you and your role

I am the Regional General Manager at Vine Hotels, overseeing nine properties across England, from Stockport to Canterbury and Southampton.

My role involves supervising the general managers at each location, supporting them in developing their hotels, ensuring smooth operational structures, and delivering excellent guest service. This often requires traveling across the country to visit each property and collaborate with the on-site operational and management teams.

Additionally, I maintain close communication with the hotel owners, keeping them informed about the progress and future development plans for their properties.

Do you have a favourite event that took place at one of your properties?

Yes, there was a particularly memorable event at one of our properties in Sheffield. We hosted a large event where the booker decided to have a blend of event elements, split between our beautiful garden, and our Event Suite. They had a live jazz band, a gourmet dinner, and spectacular fireworks display to end the night.

The entire event was flawlessly executed by our team, and the feedback from the guests was overwhelmingly positive. It was truly a standout occasion that showcased the versatility and elegance of our venue.

And another one of my favourite events that took place at one of our properties was a charity gala held at our Southampton location. The event brought together community leaders, local celebrities, and our wonderful guests to raise funds for a local cancer charity. The hotel was transformed into a glamorous venue, complete with live music, a silent auction, and a four-course dinner prepared by our talented chefs.

The evening was a resounding success, not only raising a significant amount of money for a great cause but also showcasing the exceptional teamwork and dedication of our staff. It was truly a memorable night that highlighted the positive impact our hotels can have on the community.

Vine Hotels on EDGE Venues

Let’s take a quick look at some of Vine Hotels properties:

**Clarion Charlecote Pheasant Hotel**
– 70 bedrooms
– 6 meetings rooms
– 160 delegates
Learn more / Book

**Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hall & Spa**
– 114 bedrooms
– 8 meetings rooms
– 200 delegates
Learn more / Book

**DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park**
– 131 bedrooms
– 11 meetings rooms
– 500 delegates
Learn more / Book

Let EDGE Venues, your global venue sourcing solution, take the stress out of finding the right venue for you. Register today for free access!

9th September 202412th September 2024

Awards Season 2024: Our pick of the perfect venues for award ceremonies

It’s that time of the year again – awards season is upon us, and with it comes a flurry of spectacular ceremonies celebrating the best in meetings, events, business travel, and beyond.

From the M&IT Awards and C&IT Awards to the EVCOM Awards and the Business Travel People Awards (to name only a few), there are plenty of opportunities to see us celebrate the best our pretty awesome industry has to offer.

At EDGE, we’ve been thinking about what makes a venue perfect for a glamorous awards ceremony, and our team has shared their favourite picks. From opulent hotels steeped in history to sleek and contemporary spaces, these venues have the ideal setting for unforgettable evenings.

So, ahead of this exciting awards season, let’s take a look at our team’s top choices…

Kimpton Fitzroy – London

The Kimpton Fitzroy, nestled in the heart of Bloomsbury, London, is a masterpiece of grandeur. This hotel, with its stunning Edwardian architecture, exudes luxury at every corner. The exquisite ballroom, with its intricate detailing and soaring ceilings, offers the perfect setting for an awards dinner that demands nothing short of excellence. From the moment guests step into the lobby, they’re greeted by an atmosphere of luxury, making this venue ideal for a truly glamorous evening.

Voco Central Grand – Glasgow

For a venue that combines grandeur with history, Voco Central Grand in Glasgow is a standout choice. Housed within the stunning 19th-century train station, this hotel offers an atmosphere of grandeur with a touch of historic charm. The architecture alone will wow your guests, while the versatile event spaces ensure your awards dinner or gala is as memorable as the venue itself. The perfect blend of elegance and history makes Voco Central Grand a top contender for your next event in Scotland.

The Met Hotel – Leeds

Leeds’ Met Hotel is the essence of magnitude with its iconic ‘Met Suite.’ Tall ceilings, grand pillars, and striking architecture give this space a personality that’s perfect for a black-tie affair. Add to that the creative lighting and you’ve got an atmosphere of luxury that enhances any event. This venue is perfect for those looking for a space that combines tradition with a touch of modern elegance, ensuring your awards ceremony is both stylish and sophisticated.

Hampshire Court Hotel – Basingstoke

The Hampshire Court Hotel’s ‘Arena’ is a true gem for those seeking an elegant setting for their awards dinner. With dramatic curtain walls and stunning chandeliers, this venue lends itself perfectly to evening events where glamour is essential. Whether it’s a formal gala or an intimate awards ceremony, Hampshire Court provides an exceptional backdrop that will make your guests feel like stars.

The Cumberland – London

Formerly known as the Hard Rock Café, The Cumberland in London is a venue with a rock ‘n’ roll soul and a glamorous heart. The reception area, with its sleek design, sets the tone for a star-studded event, while the backstage lounge adds a touch of glitz and glamour. The Arena, with its stylish and colourful backdrop, is a perfect space for awards ceremonies that want to make an impact. Music lovers will also appreciate the musical influences throughout the hotel, adding a unique twist to your event.

Crown Hotel – Harrogate

The Crown Hotel in Harrogate offers a slice of historic elegance for your awards ceremony. This stunning venue features a grand suite with oak-panelled walls, stained glass windows, and an ornate ceiling that creates a breath-taking backdrop for any event. Whether it’s a dinner or a formal awards ceremony, the Crown Hotel provides an atmosphere of timeless sophistication, making it the perfect place to celebrate success.

University Arms Hotel – Cambridge

For those looking for a venue with a touch of academic grandeur, the University Arms Hotel in Cambridge is a top pick. Located in the heart of the city, this historic hotel boasts lovely meeting spaces that are ideal for more intimate awards ceremonies. The hotel’s traditional yet modern feel gives it a unique charm, and its central location makes it convenient for guests coming from near and far. A perfect venue for a sophisticated event in one of the UK’s most iconic cities.

Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre – Birmingham

Located in the vibrant city of Birmingham, the Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre offers a sleek and contemporary option for awards events. With its large, bright spaces and contemporary design, this venue is perfect for those looking for a modern setting with all the amenities. Plus, its location near Birmingham’s city centre means that your guests will have easy access to everything the city has to offer.

Whether you’re planning a black-tie affair in the heart of London or a more intimate gathering in Cambridge, the right venue can make all the difference.

At EDGE, we’re always on the lookout for spaces that exude glamour, sophistication, and that perfect “wow” factor. These venues are just a few of our favourites – each one offering something unique and special for awards season.

Are you ready to make your awards ceremony one to remember? Start planning today see the amazing venues available through EDGE.

Register today for free access, or contact Scott or Kirsty to see how our platform can help your agency or business.

2nd September 20245th September 2024

A guide to making your Corporate Christmas party one to remember

As the summer holiday draw to an end, it’s time to turn your thoughts to the festive season. For businesses, this time of year presents the perfect opportunity to bring employees together, celebrate achievements, and build camaraderie.

A well-planned corporate Christmas party can leave a lasting impression on staff, making it vital to plan ahead to ensure a memorable experience.

To make things easier, we’ve highlighted some fantastic offers and venues that are sure to make your corporate Christmas party one to remember!

It’s all about the planning

The key to a successful corporate Christmas party is early planning. December is one of the busiest months for events, and the best venues and dates fill up fast. By securing your venue early, you not only guarantee your preferred date but also open up a wider selection of options. This is especially important if your guest list is large or if you have specific requirements, such as catering, entertainment, or bespoke theming.

Many venues offer early booking incentives, so getting ahead of the curve could even save you money. Keep reading on for some of the best offers currently available via EDGE.

Choose the perfect venue

Selecting the right venue is essential for creating the atmosphere you want for your event. Whether you’re aiming for an elegant dinner, a casual get-together, or a full-scale party, there are fantastic venues across the UK with exceptional offers this Christmas season.

Here are some standout venues offering something special for your corporate celebrations available when you book through EDGE Venues:

1. Hilton Cobham

Hilton Cobham is renowned for its enchanting Christmas events. Whether you’re hosting a large corporate gathering or an intimate office party, their 2024 Christmas Brochure is filled with enticing options that will make your holiday season unforgettable. The venue offers a magical setting perfect for festive fun with colleagues. Booking is now open, so don’t miss your chance to secure a spot! Click here to find out more.

2. Events @ No. 6

Looking for a sophisticated space with a festive twist? Events @ No. 6 has just unveiled its 2024 Christmas Packages, available from 11th November to 20th December. Their packages cater to a variety of needs, from elegant dinners to cocktail receptions. Make sure to book early to ensure your preferred space is available. Get inspired here.

3. Edgbaston Stadium

Step into Christmas at Edgbaston Stadium, one of the most iconic sporting venues in the UK. Whether it’s a get-together with friends or a full office party, Edgbaston has a range of Christmas packages to suit your needs. From exquisite catering to stylish event spaces, your celebration is sure to be a hit. Click here for more info.

4. Whittlebury Park

Whittlebury Park offers more than just a party venue; it provides a complete Christmas experience. Their extensive facilities include a leisure club, spa, restaurants, and beautiful guest rooms — making it easy to extend your celebration with an overnight stay. Combine luxurious surroundings with exceptional service and food for an event that will leave a lasting impression. Check out their own Christmas planning tips.

5. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

For a venue that promises to impress, look no further than Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Known for its world-class facilities, the stadium offers spectacular spaces, bespoke dining options, and live entertainment. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale event, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will exceed your expectations. Click here to find out more.

6. Park Plaza

Their hotels are all about flexibility and style. Whether your occasion is big or small, they have options to suit your needs — from intimate dinner parties to large galas. With locations in UK city centres, it’s convenient for all your guests, ensuring a night to remember. Explore their offers here.

7. BMA House

Looking for a sustainable option? BMA House offers a unique ‘Greenest Christmas Dinner’ package, featuring a two-course set menu with a dessert station. With hand-selected dishes to reduce your carbon footprint, vegan wine, and eco-friendly décor, this is a great choice for those who want to combine festive fun with a commitment to sustainability. Click here for the offer.

Consider your guests

It’s important to consider your guests’ needs and preferences. Factors such as location, accessibility, and dietary requirements should all play a role in your decision-making process. For larger events, offering accommodation or transportation options can make the night more enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

Don’t forget the extras

It’s the little details that often make the biggest impact. Beyond the venue and catering, think about entertainment options that will set the mood for the evening. Whether it’s a live band, DJ, photo booth, or festive games, these extra touches can elevate your event from good to great.

Finally, ensure that you communicate clearly with your employees or guests in the lead-up to the event. Send out invitations well in advance, and keep everyone informed of any important details such as dress code, start times, and travel arrangements.

Planning a corporate Christmas party requires careful thought and preparation, but the payoff is well worth the effort. By starting early, choosing the right venue, and considering all the details, you can create an event that will be talked about for months to come.

Start planning today and see how EDGE can help make your corporate Christmas party one to remember!

Register today for free access, or contact Scott or Kirsty to see how our platform can help your agency or business.