AS THE Olympic Games loom large on the horizon, event bookers and venues alike wait and see how the industry will shape up across the country this summer and beyond.
Among those predicting a long-term boost for the capital is ATP Event Experts, whose head of UK event operations, Neil Pace, says, “London will always be an iconic events city, and 2012 simply elevates its appeal even more. There are plenty of businesses who will focus their events in and around Olympic venues for years to come.”
He continues, “The good news for the rest of the UK is that events taking place during 2012 not associated with the Games are looking for first class venues outside of the Capital. This is great for destinations with good facilities and infrastructure and this will be a chance to really put them on the events map.”
But he also urges caution, citing tight cost controls as very much standard practice during tough times. “In this tough economic climate even tighter management of meeting and event spend is a primary concern for all involved during 2012,” says Pace.
“The peak of excitement around the Olympics is great for demand, but the industry is very aware that delivering against this hype requires careful management and budgeting.”
