AEV sees it clearly with another sell out annual conference.

The AEV brought together over 240 event professionals for another sell out year of their annual conference last week, 14 November 2024, at the ICC Birmingham for a content rich and engaging programme on the theme “20:20 vision. Experience. Educate. Engage.”

Shonali Devereaux, atex, returned as conference host, welcoming the delegates with an overview of the day ahead and introducing Floyd Woodrow, an inspiring keynote speaker who engaged with the guests encouraging them to find their super north star in becoming their most authentic selves and leaving a legacy they can be proud of.

The remaining morning session addressed the role of technology and AI in the visitor experience with a panel of member venue speakers.

The afternoon sessions kicked off with an update on the political landscape from Emma Barnes, Cavendish, followed by a session on sustainability, keeping our venues safe and secure and a hot topic review on transforming venue safety.

Chris Burr, managing director, G4S commented on joining forces with AEV as co-headline sponsors of the event, “We are delighted to sponsor the conference. From our perspective it is imperative that we get the message across about safety and security. Ultimately, we see it as an opportunity to understand more about the member venues particularly in the service element. Safety, security and service all complement each other and it is important we understand the latest trends and important elements across the industry.”

Following a short networking and refreshment break, Dean van Leeuwen helped the gathering visualise where we might be in 20 years’ time, before AEV chair and NEC managing director of exhibitions, Ian Taylor, looked back over the last 20 years of AEV and the events industry before Helen Helliwell, CEO Invictus Games Birmingham UK 2027 closed the day.

Matthew Wilson, chief revenue officer, Iventis, explained why they chose to co-headline sponsor the AEV annual conference “We wanted to ensure that we were working with an association that understands the needs of their members and the AEV is loved by the industry. As a visual venue and event planning platform we help venues to sell the art of the possible and showcase their venue. We wanted to come along, listen, learn and help forge and change our products to ensure they meet venue requirements. A great tie in with the conference theme.”

Rachel Parker, director, AEV, said, “It is always a pleasure to see the venue community come together and even more rewarding to see so many colleagues getting stuck in with the programme we have planned so carefully to ensure the event is worthy of their time.  I think this year’s programme has certainly sent them away that little bit more experienced, educated and engaged.”

Several university students and lecturers also attended the event as part of the AEV Academic Associate programme.

Parker continued, “We have had incredible support this year. Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, partners and exhibitors, our annual event would not be possible without them. I’d like to extend special thanks to the ICC Birmingham for hosting us.”

After the conference, AEV invited guests to celebrate the AEV’s 20th birthday party at The Jam House, Birmingham for food, dancing, live entertainment and a drink or two including the party sponsors Full Circle Events & Exhibitions and Voyage Control mocktail “Full Control”.  Here’s to the next 20 years of empowerment, collaboration and events enthusiasm.