19.12 - Major venue investment after media scrutiny; Amex GBT issues advice on UK travel authorisation changes

??? Conference News Newsletter

In this edition, we dive into seven of the latest stories shaping the UK MICE industry, from a major venue’s ￡7m investment to reforms within the APPG for Events. Discover expert insights, innovative technologies, and key takeaways from the industry’s leading voices. If you’re new to our community and want to stay ahead of the curve with industry insights, innovative strategies, and expert commentary, hit the "Subscribe" button.

? Major venue pushes ahead with ￡7m investment after media scrutiny

Contributors: Paula Lorimer , Harrogate Convention Centre

The Overview: Despite media scrutiny over financial figures, Harrogate Convention Centre (HCC) has announced a ￡7m investment in Studio Two to enhance its offering and attract larger conferences.

Highlights:

• Economic Growth: HCC’s lettings income for the year ending March 2024 was the highest recorded since 2014, marking a 19% increase from 2022/23 and 14% above pre-Covid levels.
• Strategic Investment: Studio Two’s redevelopment includes versatile breakout spaces designed to host conferences for up to 1,800 delegates, with flexible layouts to accommodate exhibitions, gala dinners, and product launches.
• Leadership Insight: Paula Lorimer, Director of HCC, commented, "The investment in Studio Two will allow us to attract larger conferences, drive higher revenues, and reinvest in the venue’s future."

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?? Amex GBT issues advice on UK travel authorisation changes

Contributors: American Express Global Business Travel , Holger Luikenga

The Overview: Amex Global Business Travel (GBT) has responded to upcoming changes to UK travel authorisation requirements, advising businesses and travellers to prepare for the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.

Highlights:

• New Requirements: From January 2025, eligible non-European visitors, including those from the US, Canada, and Australia, will need an ETA to travel to the UK. By April 2025, all visitors who don’t need a visa for short stays will require an ETA.
• Application Process: The ETA requires a ￡10 fee, valid passport, and trip details. Approvals are typically granted within three business days, with digital linkage to the traveller’s passport.
• Expert Advice: Holger Luikenga, VP of Amex GBT Global Services, stated, "Applicants should apply online for ETAs well in advance of planned trips to avoid delays."

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?? ISIC codes fail to record events industry value, says TBOE report

Contributors: The Business of Events , Martin Fullard

The Overview: A new White Paper by The Business of Events (TBOE) highlights the limitations of current economic classification systems like ISIC codes in capturing the true value of the global events economy.

Highlights:

• Outdated Metrics: The UN’s ISIC codes, updated in 2023, fail to reflect the modern practices and scale of the events industry.
• Advocacy Challenge: These limitations hinder the sector’s ability to secure policy recognition and financial support from governments.
• Call to Action: Martin Fullard, TBOE Director, stated, "This white paper is a call to action for the industry to unite and push for meaningful change in how we measure and advocate for the events economy."

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?? APPG for Events reforms with first meeting in Parliament

Contributors: All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events , Shaun Davies

The Overview: The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Events was officially reconstituted during a meeting in Parliament on 17 December 2024.

Highlights:

• New Leadership: Shaun Davies, MP for Telford, was elected chair, alongside Jack Rankin (Conservative MP for Windsor), Tom Gordon (Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough), and Chris Webb (Labour MP for Blackpool South).
• Comprehensive Representation: The 11-member committee includes MPs from across the UK, reflecting diverse perspectives on supporting the events sector.
• Future Focus: Robert Wright, Managing Director of Davies Tanner, stated, "We will begin planning the activities of the new APPG, which will focus on helping to grow the UK event economy."

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?? World-renowned equestrian event to remain at London venue until at least 2026

Contributors: London International Horse Show , Excel London , Simon Mills

The Overview: Organisers of the London International Horse Show have announced a multi-year agreement to keep the prestigious event at Excel London until at least 2026.

Highlights:

• Sporting Excellence: The event will feature elite international competition, including FEI World Cup events in dressage, show jumping, and driving.
• Celebratory Moments: Highlights include the Team GB Medal Parade and live coverage of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup presented by Agria on BBC Two.
• Venue Success: Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director, commented, "Since moving to Excel London in 2021, we’ve been able to successfully adapt and grow the London International Horse Show both from a sporting and visitor perspective."

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?? Creative communications agency expands US operations

Contributors: Brands at Work , Zane Manaa , Joanna R. , Karen Kadin , James Shepheard-Walwyn

The Overview: Creative communications agency Brands at Work has announced key hires and a new office location to support the growth of its North American operations.

Highlights:

• Team Growth: Zane Manaa joined as director of business development in November 2024, based in New York, focusing on building client relationships and driving new business opportunities across the US.
• Relocation: Jo Reid, an experienced event producer with seven years at Brands at Work, has moved from the London office to strengthen the local team in New York.
• New Office: The agency has relocated from Montclair, New Jersey, to a larger office in TriBeCa, New York City, offering space for its expanding multi-disciplinary team.

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?? B2B travel-tech company launches AI ‘Trainer’ for multilingual support

Contributors: HBX Group , Xabier Zabala

The Overview: B2B travel-tech company HBX Group has unveiled an AI-driven solution to revolutionise the training of customer service agents by simulating realistic customer interactions.

Highlights:

• Multilingual Capability: The AI trainer supports 13 languages and adapts to hundreds of customer service scenarios, offering scalable and personalised training.
• Enhanced Efficiency: Four levels of difficulty help agents build confidence and deliver better customer experiences while trainers focus on tasks like data analysis.
• Strategic Vision: Xabi Zabala, COO of HBX Group, stated, "The AI trainer is a game-changer for customer service. It helps agents simulate a multitude of realistic situations and gain confidence much faster."

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