Event UK 2009 Press Release

EVENT UK STILL STRONG DESPITE DOWNTURN : DUNCAN REID COMMENT

The second edition of Event UK took place 22nd – 23rd September amidst the deepest recession for decades. Duncan Reid, Event Director, reflects on the shows progress:
 
“We’re delighted with Event UK 2009, a product that mirrors the aspirations of both ourselves and our exhibitors. The content we have brought to the show – in terms of free education, developing popular features, increasing marketing support and progressing the new identity – have all contributed to create another enjoyable and atmospheric show that is conducive to people doing business.

“In terms of figures we are 7% up on visitors to the event (organiser's statement subject to audit), which is a great achievement in these times; total attendance including exhibitors this year hit 3,688 (organiser's statement subject to audit). Although we maintained our exhibitor number, at around 300 companies, we saw less exhibitor personnel on the stands, reflective perhaps of the reduced workforce in the industry. We feel we have created a product that can continue to grow in the long term and bring people back in 2010 and beyond as we improve the event in line with Confex Group standards. 

The figures place Event UK as the biggest show outside of London – and the primary show for the UK events industry. 

“Event UK has shown that the industry is resilient and the audience is committed to maintaining high standards and continues to innovate come what may” commented Reid. “Despite depleting budgets events remain high on the business agenda as one of the most sure ways to gain ROI, staff engagement and brand awareness.
 
“Other positive news from the show was another first class education programme which filled the seminar rooms for each session, including Harvey Goldsmith's enthralling keynote address. This further underlines the importance of quality education and the strength of our Confex Knowledge brand. The Next Big Thing was bigger and better this year with a very high calibre acts which added to the show atmosphere and showcased some real stars of the future.
 
“Our exhibitors have helped us create a high quality show the industry believes in and we have an expanding base of visitors that will help deliver big returns on this support year after year.”

Pictures from the show will be available on Friday morning.  The ABC wll be available in a few weeks.

The 2010 dates are September 21st to 22nd at the NEC. The show will be co-located with Leisure Industry Week, Call Centre Expo, SME and Group Leisure Travel Trade Show again as well as the new Incentive and Promotional Marketing show.