Much like the chicken and egg dilemma, who organises events for events professionals? Thankfully, the answer is lots of people! There are numerous events both in the UK and in Europe that look to share the industry’s success, highlight innovation and allow people to connect. As event organisers know all too well, this is where some of the best conversations are had. If you operate within this industry, then networking can be a great way to build your own portfolio of connections that will likely come in handy further down the line. It also gives you a great chance to scope out new ideas and understand how you can implement them within your business.
International Confex
Described as the UK’s leading events industry exhibition, the International Confex is one of the largest gatherings of event professionals in the UK. The event presents a prime opportunity for both newcomers and experts to learn more about their industry and get a first-hand look at innovation within the sector. Expect to see over 300 exhibitors and thousands of attendees from the length and breadth of the events field. There are also numerous presentations, workshops and talks throughout the two days that should not be missed.
Date: 25th & 26th February
Location: ExCel London
Events Events
A much smaller event than the Confex, Events Events is a great networking occasion that allows you to have conversations with people from across the industry. There is also a service that allows attendees to organise meetings between themselves ahead of time so that they can maximise their time at the event. From inspirational speakers to innovative insights into the industry, what the event lacks in size, it more than makes up for in quality. This year’s agenda will be focussing on four key aspects; these are:
Supporting younger employees within the work environment | Gender equality and diversity | Incorporating sustainability into events | Achieving more without sacrificing the bottom line | Regardless of your role within the industry, this is an event that you’ll walk away from with plenty of new ideas.
The Meetings Show
Having only launched in 2013, The Meetings Show has firmly established itself within the events industry’s calendar. When attending, you can expect to see over 700 exhibitors from various areas of the industry, both from the UK and across the world. The events industry is very much built on face to face conversations, and The Meetings Show brings this to the forefront of its agenda. Supporting people in organising and holding meetings with potential new suppliers, the event is a great place to rub shoulders with people from across the industry.
Date: 24th & 25th June
Location: Olympia, London
Event Organisers Summit
Bringing together a range of event professionals and suppliers, the Event Organisers Summit is a fantastic opportunity for networking and meetings. A wide range of suppliers will be in attendance, meaning that you can have a range of meetings with no pressure of a hard sell. There will also be a range of speakers at this event to provide insightful and inspirational talks to attendees. This event is slightly different than others on the list as the attendance is limited to just 75 people, meaning you’ll receive a personal service from the organisers.
Date: 19th & 20th October
Location: Leonardo Royal Hotel, London
AEO Conference
Organised by the Association of Event Organisers (AEO), this event is a smaller occasion that typically pulls in professionals from across the sector. With the focus of networking and provoking conversations between professionals, the conference is a prime time to build new relationships with suppliers and business partners. Often attended by a high calibre of professionals, many holding senior roles within event businesses, for new people within the industry, this event can provide a real insight into the workings of the industry. Although 2020’s event has not been announced yet, this annual event is surely one to keep your eye on!
Date: TBC
Location: TBC
Will you be planning on attending any of these events? If you’re in the market for building new relationships with suppliers, why not get in touch? We are premium suppliers of event crew in the UK and have decades of experience within the industry. For more information, check out our blog here and our About Us page here.
