Positive Outlook for 2014
There seems to be a positive attitude among event professionals as we head in to 2014. Many venues have been reporting an increase in event bookings for the Christmas season against 2012 figures and within the meetings industry, professionals are predicting a 3.6% increase in business for 2014.
There are numerous ongoing plans for redevelopment and expansion of venues in the UK. Birmingham is undergoing massive regeneration plans with the £6m redevelopment of Conference Aston, the £150 million integrated leisure and entertainment complex Resorts World Birmingham which will open at the NEC site in 2015, the recently completed Library of Birmingham and the £26 million renovation of golfing resort The Belfry. Telford has also unveiled plans for a long-term strategy to transform itself into one of the UK’s leading Convention Quarters and Cardiff is looking into plans for building an International Convention Centre in the city.
These development plans show a determination to keep the UK relevant and competitive within the global events industry.
The Britain for Events campaign is gaining momentum and has just created two new member groups to strengthen its support programme ahead of the first ever All Party Parliamentary Group Inquiry into the international competitiveness of the UK events industry. The findings are due to be reported on Monday 16th December in London and will be the first unveiling of its recommendations to government.
Many shows have reported growth in both visitor and exhibitor numbers this year. Ocean Media recently reported a rise of 13% for exhibitor numbers at their Earls Court National Wedding Show and a 6% rise at their NEC show. Media 10 also reported that the eighth Grand Designs Live Birmingham was the most successful edition to date with 64,356 visitors (subject to ABC audit); 14,300 more than in 2012. The award winning Cake & Bake Show announced a sell-out success in London, with the show attracting 30,508 baking fans over the weekend (unaudited), which is a 45% rise in visitors, up from 21,000 (unaudited) at the first show in 2012.
These factors all demonstrate a positive change within the events industry this year, and suggest promising prospects as we head into 2014.
The Exhibitions team are very hopeful that next year will deliver great results for the industry. We hope that all of you have exciting plans for the holidays and are also looking forward to what 2014 could bring?
The Exhibitions office will be closed from 5pm on the 23rd December right through until 2nd January 2014. We are excited about celebrating the season with family and friends and are looking forward to recharging our batteries ready for the New Year. We would like to wish you all Seasons Greetings and happy holidays. See you in 2014!